Exploring the Rich Heritage of Fes with Friends

Saying Goodbye to Fes

Our final day in Fes was bittersweet. After ten incredible days of exploring this ancient city with my friends, it was time to soak in the last moments and bid farewell. While I was excited to return to Hans and share my stories, I knew I would miss the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of Morocco.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Clock. I decided to try the Berber eggs, a delicious mix of tomatoes, j'ben cheese, and herbs. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our last day of exploration. My friends opted for pancakes and avocado toast, and of course, we all enjoyed a steaming glass of traditional mint tea. I'm already looking forward to trying to recreate the Berber eggs back in Heidelberg; I think it would be a nice addition to our weekend brunches.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Cafe Clock in Fes - where tradition meets contemporary dining in a vibrant atmosphere.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we ventured out to explore Talaa Kebira, one of the main streets in the Fes el Bali. This bustling thoroughfare is a feast for the senses, lined with shops selling everything from colorful textiles and leather goods to spices and traditional ceramics. I was on the hunt for a few last-minute souvenirs, hoping to find something special to remind me of our time here. The energy of the street was infectious, and I loved haggling with the shopkeepers, a skill I feel like I've finally started to master! I ended up buying a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl and a few small leather pouches as gifts.


Discover the vibrant Talaa Kebira market in Fes, where local culture, artisan crafts, and Moroccan cuisine come together in a bustling atmosphere.

The journey may end, but the memories and lessons learned will last a lifetime.

Next, we made our way to Bab Riafa, also known as the Gate of the Rifians. This gate, located in the southern wall that connects Fes el-Jdid with Fes el-Bali, has an interesting history. It once served as a garrison post for troops from the Rif mountain region. Today, a modern gateway stands in its place, allowing passage for the Avenue de l'UNESCO. It was fascinating to imagine the soldiers who once guarded this gate and to reflect on the changes the city has undergone over the centuries. We took some photos and admired the architecture, trying to capture the essence of this historical landmark.


Explore the historic Bab Riafa, a stunning gateway in Fes, Morocco, that embodies the city's rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.

For lunch, we decided to try Fez & Friends, a restaurant known for its international cuisine with a Moroccan twist. I opted for a traditional tagine, while my friends tried the pizza and falafel. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. It was the perfect spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the medina and enjoy a leisurely meal together.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Fez & Friends - a culinary oasis in Fes where tradition meets hospitality.

After lunch, we did some more shopping at Gift Box, a charming shop in Ville Nouvelle. I found a beautiful silver teapot and some small trinkets to bring back home. It’s always nice to find unique, handcrafted items that tell a story. Remembering my promise to Hans, I made sure to get him a special little something. I finally settled on a beautifully crafted wooden box, hoping he'd appreciate the intricate designs as much as I did.


Discover unique Moroccan souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at Gift Box, a charming shop in the heart of Fes's Ville Nouvelle district.

Our final stop of the day was the Marinid Tombs. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, these tombs offer a panoramic view of the Fes Medina. Although the tombs themselves are in ruins, the vista is breathtaking. We arrived just as the sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the city. It was the perfect moment to reflect on our time in Fes and to appreciate the beauty of this ancient place. As the call to prayer echoed through the valley, I felt a sense of peace and gratitude for the experiences we had shared.


Explore the Marinid Tombs in Fes, a historical landmark showcasing intricate architecture and breathtaking views of the ancient city.

For our last dinner in Fes, we chose Restaurant-Bar Le voyageur. We wanted a place where we could relax, enjoy good food, and reminisce about our adventures. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Moroccan dishes. I ordered couscous, savoring each bite and trying to imprint the flavors on my memory. We spent the evening sharing stories, laughing, and toasting to our unforgettable trip. It was a perfect ending to our time in Fes.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Fes at Restaurant-Bar Le Voyageur, where local culture meets a lively atmosphere and a diverse drink menu.

As I packed my bags, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. Ten days had flown by, and I was already longing for the sights, sounds, and smells of Fes. But I knew that I would carry the memories of this trip with me always. From the bustling souks and ancient mosques to the warm hospitality of the locals, Fes had captured my heart.

I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have experienced this amazing city with my friends. We explored, we laughed, we learned, and we created memories that will last a lifetime. As I drifted off to sleep, I thought about all the wonderful things I would tell Hans about our adventure. I knew he would be just as captivated by Fes as I was, and I couldn't wait to share my stories with him.

And with that, our Moroccan adventure comes to an end. There’s no itinerary for tomorrow, since it’s time to head back to Germany. I'm already looking forward to planning our next trip together! Until then, au revoir Fes, and thank you for the memories.

I will definitely try to come back to Morocco in the near future, and perhaps explore other cities in this beautiful country. Maybe Marrakesh will be next on my list!

Safe travels and see you soon!