What is the best walking tour Fes offers for nightlife?

The best self-guided route focuses on the transition from the New City (Avenue Hassan II) to the Medina (Bab Boujloud). This 90-120 minute walk captures the lively atmosphere of local cafes and night markets.

How long does it take to walk from the New City to the Medina?

Walking from the heart of the Ville Nouvelle (Avenue Hassan II) to the Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud) takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Most people prefer a slow stroll to enjoy the fountains and cafes along the way.

Are the night markets in Fes open every day?

Yes, the markets around Bab Boujloud and Place Rcif are active every night. While some artisanal shops close early, food stalls and produce vendors usually stay open until at least 9 or 10 PM.

Can I find alcohol on this walking route?

Alcohol is served in specific licensed venues in the Ville Nouvelle, such as La Villa and Mezzanine. It is not served in the traditional cafes within the Medina or in public squares.

What should I wear for an evening walk in Fes?

Modest dress is recommended to respect local customs, especially when entering the Medina. A light jacket is useful as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, even in summer.

Is the Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud) lit up at night?

Yes, Bab Boujloud is beautifully illuminated with floodlights, making it a perfect spot for evening photography. The surrounding cafes also provide a glow that adds to the ambiance.

How do I get back to my hotel after the walk?

Petit Taxis (the small red cars) are the most convenient way to travel. They are metered and very common near major stops like Place Rcif, Bab Boujloud, and the Marjane shopping centers.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

As the sun sets over the ancient city of Fes, a different world awakens. The heat of the Moroccan day gives way to a cool breeze, and the labyrinthine streets of the Medina and the wide boulevards of the Ville Nouvelle transform under the glow of amber streetlights. This self-guided walk invites you to experience the dual soul of Fes at night. You will begin in the modern heart of the city, where French colonial architecture meets contemporary Moroccan nightlife, before journeying toward the legendary gates of the old Medina. This route captures the essence of Fes after dark, from upscale lounges and bustling cafes to the timeless energy of the night markets. Discover the local tradition of the evening stroll along Avenue Hassan II, where families and friends gather near illuminated fountains. As you move toward the medieval walls, the atmosphere shifts from the cosmopolitan to the historic. The iconic Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud) serves as your portal into a world of sensory delights. Here, the air is thick with the aroma of spiced meats and fresh mint tea. This walking route Fes provides is not just about the landmarks, but about the rhythm of life after the call to prayer has echoed through the valley. Whether you are looking for a sophisticated rooftop view or a humble seat at a street-side stall, this neighborhood stroll offers a comprehensive look at how Fes celebrates the night. You will explore popular local hangouts and hidden gems that only reveal their true character under the stars. By the time you reach the bustling Place Rcif or the modern shopping hubs of the outskirts, you will have experienced the full spectrum of Fes's nocturnal charm. This walking tour Fes offers is designed for those who want to see the city as the locals do—vibrant, communal, and steeped in history. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Tour Stops (15)

LA VILLA

Start your evening at La Villa, a sophisticated cornerstone of the Fes New City (Ville Nouvelle) nightlife. This venue exemplifies the modern Moroccan lifestyle, blending French colonial elegance with contemporary luxury. As the evening begins, the garden and interior spaces here offer a glimpse into the city's upscale social scene. It is a popular spot for locals looking for a refined atmosphere before heading deeper into the city. Observe the architectural blend of the surrounding neighborhood, which was designed during the French Protectorate era, featuring wide streets and villa-style buildings that stand in stark contrast to the ancient medina you will explore later.

PAUL

A short walk brings you to PAUL, a name synonymous with French baking traditions but with a distinct Moroccan flair in this setting. In Fes, this cafe serves as a social hub where the city’s international influences are on full display. At night, the terrace is often filled with people enjoying the cooler air. While it is a global brand, the Fes location is a prime spot for people-watching in the Ville Nouvelle. Notice how the French 'art de vivre' has been integrated into the local culture, making it a favorite for an evening coffee or a late-night pastry before continuing your stroll.

Assouan أسوان

As you continue, you reach Assouan, a local favorite that offers a more traditional and grounded cafe experience compared to the upscale lounges. This is where you can see the everyday rhythm of Fes nightlife. Men often gather here for tea and conversation, a staple of Moroccan social life. The atmosphere is casual and lively, providing a transition point between the high-end villas and the more commercial districts of the New City. It is a great place to appreciate the communal nature of the city, where the night is a time for connection and shared stories.

Duplex Steakhouse

Duplex Steakhouse represents the evolving culinary landscape of Fes. As the city grows, modern dining concepts like this are becoming increasingly popular among the younger generation and professionals. The lighting and modern design here reflect the cosmopolitan ambitions of the Ville Nouvelle. While Fes is famous for its traditional tagines, places like Duplex show the city's appetite for international flavors and contemporary dining experiences. It serves as a reminder that Fes is a living, breathing city that honors its past while embracing the trends of the present.

Avenue Hassan II

Step onto Avenue Hassan II, the grandest boulevard in Fes. At night, this street is the heart of the city's social life. Lined with palm trees and featuring a central pedestrian promenade, it is the site of the nightly 'passeggiata.' You will see families, couples, and groups of friends strolling past the illuminated fountains and manicured gardens. The avenue was designed to be the centerpiece of the modern city, and at night, with the lights reflecting off the water features, it is undeniably the most romantic and vibrant public space in the Ville Nouvelle.

La gare

The Fes Railway Station, or La Gare, is more than just a transit hub; it is an architectural landmark. The building features a beautiful blend of modern glass and traditional Moorish patterns, particularly striking when lit up at night. The station area is a hive of activity, representing the gateway between Fes and the rest of Morocco. Even if you aren't catching a train, the square in front of the station offers a wide-angle view of the city's movement. It’s a place where the ancient heritage of the city meets the mechanical pulse of the 21st century.

Mezzanine

Moving toward the edge of the old city, Mezzanine offers a chic, lounge-style atmosphere with a view. Located near the entrance to the Medina, it acts as a bridge between the old and the new. From its elevated position, you can watch the transition in architecture and energy as the wide streets of the Ville Nouvelle narrow into the historic gates. It is a popular spot for a drink or a light snack, offering a more globalized nightlife experience right on the doorstep of the medieval Fes el Bali. The vibe here is relaxed and trendy, making it a perfect spot to pause before entering the Medina.

Bab Boujloud

You have arrived at Bab Boujloud, famously known as the Blue Gate. This is the main entrance to Fes el Bali and one of the most photographed landmarks in Morocco. At night, the gate is beautifully illuminated, highlighting its intricate zellij tilework—blue on the exterior and green on the interior. The square around the gate remains bustling long after dark, with street performers, vendors, and the constant flow of people entering and exiting the Medina. Passing through this gate is like stepping back in time; the sounds of the modern city fade, replaced by the echoes of the ancient alleyways.

Cafe Clock

A few minutes' walk inside the gate leads you to Cafe Clock, a cross-cultural institution in Fes. Famous for its camel burgers and storytelling nights, this cafe is a hub for both travelers and locals. The atmosphere is eclectic and welcoming, often hosting live traditional music or calligraphy workshops. At night, the rooftop terrace offers a stunning view over the rooftops of the Medina, with the minarets of nearby mosques silhouetted against the dark sky. It is a place that celebrates Moroccan heritage while fostering a modern, inclusive community spirit.

Place Rcif

Deeper into the Medina lies Place Rcif, a vast square that serves as a major transit and market point. While many parts of the Medina get quiet at night, Rcif remains intensely alive. This is where you can experience the true 'night market' vibe. Stalls selling everything from fresh produce to traditional snacks line the edges, and the square is often filled with local children playing and residents finishing their evening shopping. The scale of the square is impressive, providing a rare open space within the dense fabric of the old city. It is the perfect place to witness the enduring communal spirit of Fes.

Arizona

Heading toward the southern districts, Arizona is a local cafe that captures the spirit of the newer residential neighborhoods. These areas offer a different perspective on Fes, away from the tourist-heavy Medina and the colonial Ville Nouvelle. Here, the nightlife is centered around local community hubs where residents gather for tea and juice. It is a more understated side of the city, showing how the culture of the evening stroll and social gathering extends into every corner of Fes. The atmosphere is friendly and authentic, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of the city's residents.

Café Blanco

Café Blanco is another example of the modern, stylish cafes popping up in the newer parts of Fes. Its name and decor suggest a Mediterranean influence, reflecting Morocco's close ties to Southern Europe. At night, these cafes are brightly lit and serve as beacons of modern social life. They are particularly popular with students and young professionals. As you explore this area, notice how the city continues to expand and modernize, creating new spaces for leisure and social interaction that complement the traditional tea houses of the old city.

Café L’unica 2

Further south in the Saiss district, Café L’unica 2 is a bustling spot that shows the energy of the city's outskirts. This area is home to many of the city's universities and newer developments. The cafe culture here is vibrant and youthful. Even late into the evening, you will find these spots full of life. It’s a testament to the fact that in Fes, the night is never truly quiet; the location of the social center simply shifts. This stop highlights the geographic diversity of Fes, from the medieval core to the thriving modern suburbs.

Marjane Fès Saiss

Marjane is Morocco's major supermarket chain, and the Saiss location is more than just a store; it's a destination. In the evenings, families often visit these large shopping centers as part of their night out. It represents the modern consumer culture of Morocco. While it might seem like a standard supermarket, observing the interactions and the products—from traditional spices to international brands—offers a fascinating look at contemporary Moroccan life. The surrounding area is a hub for the southern part of the city, bustling with activity well into the night.

Marjane Fès I (Agdal)

Your journey ends at the Marjane in the Agdal district. This area is another key commercial heart of modern Fes. Like its counterpart in Saiss, this location is a center for evening activity. Finishing here allows you to see the full loop of the city's development. From the upscale lounges where you started to the ancient gates of the Medina, and finally to these modern commercial hubs, you have traversed centuries of history and multiple layers of culture. The Agdal district is well-connected, making it an easy point from which to return to your accommodation or find a final late-night snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Fes is generally safe at night, especially in the Ville Nouvelle and main Medina thoroughfares like Tala'a Kebira. Stick to well-lit areas where locals are present, and avoid deep, unlit alleys in the Medina after 10 PM.