Fez

Fez is Morocco's oldest imperial city and is considered the cultural and spiritual heart of the country. The city is especially known for Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina and one of the world's largest car-free urban areas, where more than 9,000 narrow alleys form a vibrant labyrinth filled with madrasas, mosques, palaces, and traditional artisans' workshops. Here lies Al-Qarawiyyin University, founded in 859 and recognized as the world's oldest continually operating university. Fez is famous for its historic tanneries, particularly Chouara Tanneries, where leather is still dyed in open vats using medieval techniques—an iconic and unforgettable sight. The city is also a gastronomic hub, renowned for sophisticated dishes like pastilla, slow-simmered tagines, and complex spice blends reflecting Fez's role as a trading city over the centuries. Without modern polish, Fez appears authentic, intense, and deeply rooted in traditions, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking historical depth, genuine cultural encounters, and an insight into Morocco's soul.