What to do in Fes for couples
Last updated on February 4th, 2026.
A fascinating blend of history and culture, booking a weekend in Fes is a great option for a romantic getaway.
Located in the north of Morocco, Fes is around 3.5 hours by car if coming from Marrakech. From Rabat or Casablanca, it’s around 1.5 hours. Even for someone who's not the biggest romantic, you find yourself feeling a little more starry-eyed in Fes.
If you're planning a visit to the city, this post details what to do in Fes for couples in 2 days.
Fes — a brief background
Fes was originally the capital city of modern Morocco until 1912, before handing over the title to Rabat. Today, it’s the capital of the Fes-Meknes administrative region.
There are two old Medina quarters in Fes: Fes el-Bali and al-Aliya.
Both quarters lend their heritage and history to the first inhabitants to Fes. These were the Arab and Andalusian families of Berber descent.
What's the weather like in Fes?
The climate in Fes, and neighboring cities in northern Morocco, follows a continental trend. This means colder, rainier days in the winter, and a dry, sticky climate throughout summer.
Traveling in Morocco in October is pretty much a perfect time to visit. The month has the right amount of heat and with a light breeze too.
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What to do in Fes for couples
Explore the Old Medina
If the thought of getting lost in narrow, winding streets sounds romantic, you’ll enjoy Fes. Instagram photo opportunities are endless, and there's something to capture around every corner.
The labyrinth of the Old Medina is the main place most people first visit. As you step inside you’re immediately transported to a bygone era.
The ancient city walls tower above you, casting a shadow over the busy streets below. In the air is the thick scent of spices and the sound of vendors calling out to potential customers. A busy and buzzing opera of a scene, it's a market that's full of color and activity.
Shopping in Morocco, and in Fes, is a lot of fun. From Moroccan spices to leather goods, it’s a good place to buy a few mementos.
Get haggling
Don’t be afraid to bargain for a better price as some places are willing to reduce it by 50%. This may sound a lot, but many locals will tell you it’s normal.
Another Morocco travel tip is for the woman to look unhappy during the bartering of the price. We were given this advice by a local but it's one I didn't try for myself.
A little underhanded maybe, but if the stall owner sees an unhappy woman, he may just lower the price.
If the noise of the marketplace sounds too much, the Medina has plenty of quiet lanes to escape the crowds. Getting lost in the Medina gives you a chance to explore the streets while also getting in some alone time.
Fes' oldest university
The University of Al Quaraouiyine was founded in 859 CE. Considered to be the oldest continually operating university in the world, it's one of the Old Medina's main attractions.
Within the site is an ancient mosque with a towering minaret. Also here is the library with vaulted ceilings and walls lined with rare historic manuscripts.
University of Al Quaraouiyine, 327G+XMC
Spend time at Dar Batha Museum
We were quite surprised, though happy, to not find many people inside this grand museum in Fes.
The first thing you notice is the grandeur of the museum's building. Housed in a 19th century summer palace it's a prime example of Moroccan architecture.
As you explore the interiors and surroundings, take note of the intricate stuccoes, carved cedarwood ceilings and colorful tile work.
Dar Batha Museum is a treasure trove of Moroccan arts and crafts. The exhibits are curated and arranged in a way to show the best of their traditional textiles, ceramics and metalwork.
One thing to note is that during our visit, all the descriptions were in Arabic or French. Unless you speak these languages, I suggest coming prepared with the Google Translate.
Get outdoors
If I've to be completely honest, my favorite aspect of Dar Batha Museum are the gardens outside.
The palace's tranquil courtyard, with its orange trees and bubbling fountain, provides a welcome respite from the busy medina.
Enjoy the ambience as you walk hand in hand along the tiled paths, admiring the colorful foliage and trees.
Dar Batha Museum, Oued Fejjaline، 5 Ave du Batha
Map: what to do in Fes in 2 days
Have lunch at Cafe Clock
Finding a good place to eat in Fes can be difficult as there's so much to choose from. But after carefully considering our options, we opted for Cafe Clock.
Along with serving delicious, and quite healthy, food, it’s also a short walk from the famous Blue Gate in Fes. All the locals are familiar with this landmark meaning there's little chance of getting lost.
A great view
The restaurant itself has a chilled atmosphere, something that’s clear from the relaxed seating arrangements. Café Clock may look tiny from the outside, but it actually has 3 floors.
While this does mean a fair amount of stairs to climb it's worth it to get to the rooftop terrace. Find an intimate corner table and enjoy traditional or international favorites while taking in the sights of Fes from above.
Cafe Clock, 7 Derb el Magana، 252 Rue Talaa Kebira
Ready your senses at the Chaouwara Tanneries
Seeing an outdoor leather factory that has a strong smell of cow urine and pigeon manure doesn't exactly scream romance.
But, you can’t visit Fes without stopping to see its famous tannery.
Dating to the 11th century, Chaouwara Tanneries is one of the oldest tanneries in the world.
Producing high-quality leather goods, the workers use the same methods that date to medieval times. Once finished, the goods are then sold in the souks.
The best place to see the Chaouwara Tanneries
We saw the Chaouwara Tanneries from the balcony of a shop selling leather goods. Considering there's no charge to visit, they were kind enough to let my husband and I see it from their terrace.
Upon leaving they did try to sell us something but they weren't at all pushy or aggressive.
An unbelievable smell
It doesn't take long for the overwhelming smell of animal hides and chemicals to hit you upon seeing the tannery. Pungent and overpowering it's not a scene that many can stomach for long.
Thankfully, the shop owners kindly gave us a sprig of mint to hold under our noses. It worked wonders and we were able to stay at the Chaouwara Tanneries much longer.
The products are beautiful, well made, and can be much cheaper than buying in western countries.
As I mentioned above, don't be shy to haggle for a good price. The sellers want your custom as much as you want that leather bag.
Chaouwara Tanneries, 21 Rue chouara
A romantic rendezvous in the Ruined Garden
The Ruined Garden is romance personified.
As its name suggests, this Fes restaurant has a romantic garden setting, also complete with outdoor seating and soft lighting. Surrounded by the ruins of an ancient palace, it's a sweet spot to enjoy the quiet vibes and great views.
The café/restaurant is a firm Fes favorite. Dinner reservations fill up very quickly here, so book early to avoid disappointment.
It’s not only the scenic garden that’s a draw for visitors, but the food too. One of the restaurant's specialties is the dark chocolate and espresso mousse.
It comes with the added Moroccan twist — a pinch of the local spice, Ras el Hanout.
The Ruined Garden, 15 Derb Idrissy Sidi Ahmed Chaoui Medina 30110, Siaj
Hammam and spa at Riad Laaroussa
If you’ve never had a private hammam before, trust me, your body will thank you for it after. Riad Laaroussa offers the ultimate spa day, and is also ideal after experiencing the smells of Chouara Tannery.
Made for couples - what to do in Fes
Riad Laaroussa provides guests a private spa experience followed by an authentic hammam and massage. Unwind in a Carrara marble Moroccan steam room, and treat yourself to a couples’ massage and body scrub.
Set in a 17th century palace, this riad is one that also brings out the romantic vibes. Have a glass of wine at the hotel bar and try some of the finest local cuisine in Fes.
Riad Laaroussa, 3 Derb Bechara
A romantic dinner at Palais AMANI
I’ve saved the best till last, because this is how every romantic city break should end. Wind up your time in Fes by booking a table for two at the exquisite Palais AMANI.
This stunning 5-star hotel is also home to one of the best restaurants in Fes. Do your tastebuds a favor by ordering the entire 3 courses.
The food’s exquisite, particularly the chicken pastilla, the wine’s superb, and the atmosphere’s dining perfection.
On top of this, you get to dine among a mini orchard of orange trees, and the backdrop of a trickling fountain. You'll leave feeling as stuffed as the chicken pastilla, but believe me, it's worth every calorie.
Palais AMANI, 12 Derb El Miter
Other things to do in Fes for couples
Given Fes' location in northern Morocco, planning a day trip is a feasible and fun way to see more of the region.
If this option sounds appealing, here are some excellent Fes day tours that might pique your interest.
Where to stay in Fes
Riad Anata
Make your time in Fes even more memorable, and romantic, by booking in at Riad Anata. This gorgeous boutique hotel's in a quieter part of the old Medina, and was made for relaxation.
As well as offering individually-designed rooms, Riad Anata has a bar on the terrace. Grab a glass of wine, chill out on the upstairs terrace and watch the sun set over the rooftops of Fes.
Riad Anata, Derb El-Hamia
What do you think of this guide on what to do in Fes? Are you inspired to book a romantic getaway with your significant other? Let me know in the comments section below.
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What a beautiful city. I’m actually planning on going with my daughter for a few days.
Amazing! I hope you have a wonderful trip there!
I have never been to Fes but it looks so beautiful, just perfect to relax and refresh. Thanks for showing me another great place to add to my bucket list.
You're welcome! I hope you get to visit one day 🙂
Never been to this place but that place looks very vibrant to relax and unwind. Looks like you had a great time there!
Fes is a great city with a lot going on!
I would love to visit Morocco; I bet the shopping is awesome there! It's good to know you can negotiate and that it's normal so as not to cause any disrespect.
Bartering is actually encouraged, you just need to get going!
Morocco sounds like a great destination to vacation! Definitely moving it up on the bucket list of my places to visit!
Perfect, and Fez is a fun destination to see
Morocco seems like a place to take it all in, the sights, the sounds, the culture altogether. I would love to go shopping there, and such a great tip on bartering.
Thanks Deanna, Fez is an amazing city and so vibrant too
What beautiful buildings and the architecture so incredible. Great tip about taking a piece of mint and holding it under your nose. I can't wait to visit Fez one day. Thanks.
Don't forget it, it's a huge help!
Beautiful place and you shared good information about that place. Its really enjoyable and stunning photos you shared.
Thank you!
Fes and Casablanca areas are pretty high on my travel list. I have not had it over to Africa, yet. The Old Medina and museums look so rich in history. Great tips on bartering, I am always uncomfortable in the haggling process.
Trust me, haggling there is so normal and welcome! I hope you visit one day, Fes is stunning.
I would LOVE to go to Morocco. Fes sounds like a great place for a romantic break as well. Fantastic that you found the museum empty when you visited, what a treat. Palais Amani sounds like a great place for dinner as well.
Palais Amani is so romantic! And I couldn't believe there was no one in the museum either, so lucky 😀
I've heard so much about Morocco lately and your post has definitely inspired me to visit this country as soon as possible. I would definitely love to try out one of the hammams in Morocco which seem to be extremely popular. Where would you recommend visiting, though - Marrakech or Fes? I've heard so much about both.
For a first-timer, I would recommend Marrakech. Simply because there are more things to see and do. Fes is a great city too, but much smaller.
From your photographs, Fes seems to have quite a bit of an Arabian Nights-esque look and feel to it. The romance of the place seems quite palpable. The tannery, even if it smelled quite bad, seems to have given you some really nice photographs and memories. The sprig of mint tip will be useful to anyone visiting the place.
I'd definitely advise people to take some mint when visiting this place! I could just about stomach the smell, but I couldn't stay longer than 5 minutes!
Morocco is love!! My friend is there right now on a solo trip and I am just sad I couldn't make it. Lovely post!
Thank you!
I haven't been to Fes, but I know it's where the first university in the world was established by a woman - how awesome. I've heard about how great hammams in Morocco are so I would pay a visit to Riad Laroussa. You posts make me a realize my trip to Morocco is long over-due haha.
Oh wow, thanks I never knew that! It's a great place to visit, and lots of history too!
Oh the sounds amazing! Such a gorgeous city!
The city looks beautiful and I like the history part also. Your pictures are great too!
Such a beautiful city. Morocco is high on our list of places to go and visit. Your post has made me want to go even more
That's great to read, hope you go one day.
Traveling always gets me starry-eyed -- solo and with my loved ones! It's time where I really reflect on my life and where I'm at. It's also an opportunity to count my blessings and be thankful for my everyday privileges. But, back to Fes, I definitely got the starry-eyed feeling you described. The architecture feeds into that and obviously the food. I would love to escape the crowds by immersing myself in a museum like you suggested. That's such an intimate activity to do -- great suggestions!
Thank you! It's definitely the type of city to make you feel starry-eyed and you'll really enjoy getting away from it all!
Lovely photos you've shared. I would love to spend holiday in Morocco. I am saving this for future planning. Thanks for sharing!
You're welcome, hope you get to visit soon.
Fes looks romantic place and I was not knowing it. This city if perfect blend of culture, beauty and history. Walking away from crowds and visiting Dar batha museum must be great as it has lovely foliage and hand made tiles. I would also love to experience Moroccan hamam
It's beautiful here, and I can recommend it to anyone that likes taking in some culture, and exploring historic towns!
This has always been on my bucket list. I just hope I get the chance to do it next year. This is a great post.
That's great to read and I hope you visit soon!
I am hooked completely. Fes is absolutely my type of city to take a break. The narrow lanes , museums , gardens, those stunning architectures to the best dinning options, I am in love with this Moroccan city. You have covered Morocco really well.
Thank you, that makes me very happy to read! We loved our time in Morocco, and I'm happy to share it with you all!
so when i plan a trip to morocco this is the page i will be referring to..so many crazy info u bring to ur reader..i luv this Fes area and would luv to explore..what did u like the most in Morocco?
Thank you! Honestly, we enjoyed our luxury desert stay the most. It was a really magical experience!
Fes seems like a beautiful romantic place to visit! I love the idea of going to Casablanca then heading over to Fes for a couple of days. Also, I'm really into talking street vendors down on price, so I can definitely look unhappy while I do so, if it allows me to pay less!
Ha, I'm glad you're planning to try it. I didn't see anything I really wanted, so didn't try for myself!
Riad Anata looks so cute! I'm planning to visit Morocco next year but only thought about Marrakech and Chefchaouen. Will have to add Fes to my list too. And great tip about looking unhappy for price bartering hahaa!
You should try it! It's a great tip one of the locals gave us, but I didn't try it myself.
Marocco seems like such a beautiful place. I have a friend from there and he was telling me some of the things you had in your post. The city looks so beautiful. Fes definitely looks romantic, I only thought about visiting for adventure. Now a romantic destination is added to the list.
That's brilliant to read Danie, I hope you get to experience a romantic trip there one day soon!
Fes does indeed look like a great romantic getaway - all of Morocco seems to be so photogenic - I hope to visit there someday!
I hope so too, it's a great city and country!
The tannery would be so great to see in person. I also love your tips for food. Palais Amani sound very classy and we love some high brow food experiences.
Palais Amani is so gorgeous and perfect for a special dinner. And yes, the food is very good!
This is awesome! I love your blog so much. We're hoping to travel to Morocco soon, my Husband and my baby. `Theres so many tips and such great inspiration, I cant wait to go now. Love your photography style too
Thanks Emma, that's so kind of you to say! We had a wonderful time in Fes, and I'm sure you and your family will enjoy it too!
This was a nice reminder for me of my own visit to Fez last year! Such a magical place! I also loved getting lost there! And, I agree, definitely take the mint when visiting the tannery! The smell is rather unfortunate! 🙂 🙂 Hope I get to return sometime soon!
I'm glad to hear you agree with me! The tannery is interesting, but yes, the smell is unbearable! I hope you return soon too!
Interesting. Your pictures present Fes to me in a more modern view point which I wasnt expecting. It has been on my bucket list to explore Morocco and I know Darcee wants to visit Casablanca but I had some friends go to Fez and they loved it, so we may add it to the list cause it would be a blend of old and new world for the both of us.
That's great to read, as I'm sure you will enjoy Fes. Casablanca sounds more romantic than it is, but still worth a visit if in the area!
Sounds like a nice visit for a couple! It is funny that women can barter for a better price there, I experienced the same in Dubai. Shop owners tended to give a better price to women, one of the perks of the finer gender.
Yes, us ladies get a better deal it seems when trying for a bargain! I didn't try it myself but I may try next time.
I know exactly where to go when I am planning my trip to Morocco (your blog, of course). I love all your recommended hotels, they’re amazing. And also the recommendations you give for the eating places, cafes and restaurants because it can be overwhelming to find the right place in a sea of recommendations. Morocco is in my list of places to visit, hopefully I will in 2018. Fes will obviously be one of the cities I will go to 🙂 Thabks for all your recommendations, they’ll be pretty handy for me when I need them 🙂
I'm so encouraged to read this Medha, and I really hope you have a wonderful time when you go! I'm more than happy to help with any places, restaurants and hotels you may like when there!
As you know very well by now, I'll be heading to Marrakech next week, the friends I'm meeting are a couple and they are heading to Fes after I return home to England so I will be passing this onto the, (would do it today but they are heading into the Sahara to spend Xmas there) unfortunately I'm not going to be able to experience Fes myself. However just going from all your posts on Morocco I think if I enjoy Morocco next week I'm going to have to plan to go back for a longer trip :d - Another great post Lisa - Merry Christmas 😀
You really must go for longer, and I'm sure you'll have an awesome time in Marrakech! Please do contact me if you need any advice on Morocco, I'd be more than happy to help!
Lovely post and a very different outlook to Fes. I love the shopping tip about hoping to get a better deal if the woman looks unhappy. The small streets, the architecture, the beautiful colourful setting definitely make for a romantic getaway. As for the Hammam and Spa, that sounds magical.
It's a great tip to get a bit more of a bargain! The streets are great to photograph and explore, a real must see!
I have been wanting to check out Fes! I'm surprised to hear that it is hard to find good food there, though. This is a bummer. Good to know about Cafe Clock, though! I especially like that it is healthy. Thanks for sharing!
You're welcome! It's a great city, and if you're in a couple, it's pretty special.
What a beautifully exotic and adventurous place to explore with your partner. It would make for such fabulous memories and I would try to get some wonderful photos, similar to the lovely ones you have shared here. I think it would be as romantic as it would be fascinating. Everything I have heard about Morocco overall sounds like it would be such an unforgettable experience.
It's a wonderful country to photograph and travel around, and yes Fes is a nice destination for some alone couple time!
Fes seems like such a lovely place to go with my husband for a long weekend. I can see myself and him getting lost in narrow, winding streets taking everything in 🙂 I would love to see all the colour at the Chouara Tannery, I think it would be such an amazing site too. Definitely on the list.
That's great to hear Mel! It's really lovely for couples, especially all the beautiful Moroccan designed restaurants 😀
The food looks so delicious right now. This would be a wonderful getaway for my husband and I... looks romantic for sure!
It's a wonderful place, I hope you get to visit one day!
I would love to visit Fes! We didn't have time this year but hope to visit in the near future. Does Fes have the same hustle and bustle like in Marrakech? Oh I do love a hammam - your skin is so soft afterwards! A romantic dinner at Palai Armani sounds perfect. The chicken pastilla is divine!
Ah that's a shame, so you need to go back then! The hammam is fantastic, and yes, your skin is babysoft after! The pastilla is incredible too!
So nice impressions from such a beautiful place. The Chouara Tannery looks absolutely impressive with this blue leather,I haven't seen anything like that before, even though it might be better to hold your breath while being there, hehe
But also the Ruined Garden sounds and looks so inviting. I like how you describe it as such a lovely and intimate place. Fes seems to me like an absolute great ti, almost a hidden jewel to be discovered.
I really hope you get to visit one day with your wife! It's so pretty in so many ways, and yes, the tannery is something to be desired!
I like how you narrowed in on how to have a romantic break in Fez. Having experienced the madness of Cairo, I can only imagine the hubbub of this Moroccan city. How brave of you to visit the tannery although for me, I'm not so sure one sprig of mint will do the trick. I think I might need a whole branch! 🙂
Ha, yes, I totally understand. It's not the sweetest of smells I'll give you that!
Fes looks charming, love the old world feel. Love the romantic feel of the architecture you have shown. I guess the bargaining part is common in every tourist y place, requires some skill though. Oh! The tannery experience I can completely relate to that… comparable to fish market in many ways.
Oh wow, that must be some strong smelling fish! I love fish, but the tannery definitely doesn't smell like a fish market! It's a great city to explore however!
I was in Fes only once and if it hadn't been for my guide I would have gotten so lost in the medina. I kind of loved it though 😉 Also, seeing the tanneries was so fascinating albeit stinky. I have yet to eat at Cafe Clock, they have a restaurant in Marrakech too where I travel to quite often - camel burger!!
Yes, I heard about the Marrakech one, it looks like a good choice too! Ha, yes the tannery is stinky but worth looking when in Fes.
Well I am a single so I might not go there as a couple but the place looks too good to be missed. I won’t mind walking through the labyrinth of streets and dine at Palais Amani.
Trust me, you'll still have a good time, and of course you can enjoy these places solo or with friends and family too!
I have always wanted to visit Morocco. Fes seems like a great city to explore for couples. I would love to try out the private hammam spa 🙂
It's a great city especially for couples wanting some alone time together!
I haven't heard about Fes but now I'm in love with the city thanks to your post. This city looks so beautiful with old medina and Chouara Tannery. I would love to stop by Café Clock to try those tasty dishes too! Having a spa day at Riad Laroussa sounds so perfect to me 🙂
It's a wonderful city, and Cafe CLock has really good food! Highly recommend.
Fes definitely looks as promising as you describe it to be! I love the romantic feel of the architecture, which is why I've always wanted to go to Morocco. While Marrakesh might be the number one choice for those who visit Morocco, I think this one is worthy to be on the top of the list too!
It's a wonderful little city, with lots to see and do. Marrakech is interesting for so many things, but Fes is pretty special too.
I agree that Fes is a good city for a romantic break. A private hammam sounds very romantic, especially with the luxury you get in Morocco. Dinner at Palais Amani too would be romantic, good food and service is always romantic. I'm not sure I would take my partner to the Chouara Tannery though!
The tannery and its smells are definitely not romantic! Saying that, it's so interesting to see the men at work, and in an industry dating back to the medieval times!
I love everything about Morocco and can't wait to actually make it there! Nice to hear about something other than Marrakech. The food looks amazing, I love the spices they use and would probably end up eating all day if I went! This looks like the perfect romantic getaway.
The food is really great, and very flavoursome too! It's very romantic, and an ideal city break.
Fes is so gorgeous. Almost as nice as Marrakech. I liked the sound of the museum - Dar Batha - it is kind of what I would want to do. Nice tip on the bargaining bit. I need to practice getting my crocodile tears to well out more often ...ha ha . Lovely pictures as usual
Thanks Ami! Yes, a sad looking lady may just land you the bargain you're looking for! Hope you get to visit one day 😀
Ohhh Fes does looks very romantic! I could imagine myself walking and holding hands with my husband and get lost in the small alleys and quite lanes! Beautiful! My husband says I am a drama-queen so I think I would be able to shed some tears while bargain the price!
Ha, then you will really love Fes and bargaining in all the souks! It's really romantic, and great city to visit.
October seems to be the best time to be here. I might as well plan a trip for myself to Fes. I didn’t know it was the former capital of Morocco. I like visiting places like Old Medina. So much so see there.
It's a great city to visit, with someone, or solo too!