Step into the heart of Morocco’s cultural and culinary soul with a visit to Fez, home to Africa’s largest car-free medina and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, labyrinthine souks brim with centuries-old traditions, where the scent of saffron mingles with freshly baked bread, and the rhythmic clang of coppersmiths echoes through narrow alleys.
Fez is not only Morocco’s artisanal capital—renowned for its weavers, potters, and leather tanners—it’s also the country’s premier foodie destination. From bustling markets to hidden tea houses, every corner offers a taste of authentic Moroccan life.
A Journey Through the Souks
Exploring the souks of Fez is a sensory adventure. Highlights include:
- Boujloud Souk – Near the Blue Gate, alive with vibrant produce, spices, and traditional foods.
- Tanner’s Souk – Famous for its centuries-old leather dye pits.
- Attarine Souk – Overflowing with aromatic spices, herbs, and perfumes.
- Seffarine Square – Where coppersmiths craft exquisite pots and decorative pieces.
- Henna Souk – A treasure trove of natural cosmetics and Moroccan beauty products.
Along the way, food lovers can indulge in khobz (warm bread from communal ovens), msemmen (pan-fried flatbread with honey), maakouda (crispy potato fritters), chebakia (sesame-honey pastries), and a refreshing glass of mint tea at the legendary Ba Abdellah’s tea shop.
Palais Amani: An Oasis in the Medina
To fully immerse in the magic of Fez, a stay in a traditional riad is essential—and Palais Amani offers one of the city’s most enchanting escapes. Hidden behind imposing wooden doors, the riad opens into a tranquil courtyard filled with citrus trees and the sound of birdsong. Guests enjoy 21 individually designed rooms and suites, the Eden restaurant with alfresco dining, a rooftop bar, a library, an underground hammam, and daily Moroccan tea ceremonies in the garden.
Cooking with the Locals
For those eager to dive deeper into Moroccan flavors, The Fez Cooking School—located on Palais Amani’s rooftop terrace—offers an unforgettable culinary experience. The four-hour workshop begins with a guided tasting tour of the souks, followed by a hands-on cooking class using market-fresh ingredients. Guests prepare and enjoy their signature Moroccan dishes, with prices starting at €176 per person.
A Celebration of Heritage
Palais Amani isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a story of restoration and legacy. Once the home of a prominent Fez family, the riad was lovingly restored in 2006 by Jemima and Abdelali Mann-Baha, reviving its 1930s art déco features and historic grandeur. Today, the property serves as a bridge between Fez’s rich past and its vibrant present, offering visitors a unique blend of luxury, authenticity, and cultural immersion.
Why Visit Fez Now
Recognized by UNESCO as Morocco’s cultural, spiritual, and culinary center, Fez is like nowhere else in the world. Whether you’re wandering the souks, sipping tea in Palais Amani’s garden, or learning to cook tagines on a rooftop terrace, the city offers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with Moroccan traditions.
Discover Morocco through its flavors, history, and hospitality—starting in Fez.
👉 Learn more at www.palaisamani.com and www.fezcookingschool.com.
