Best Markets in Fes

Fes, is a city steeped in history and culture, renowned for its vibrant markets that offer an array of goods ranging from traditional crafts to fresh produce. For expats and digital nomads who have made Fes their temporary home, exploring these markets can be a delightful sensory experience and a chance to immerse themselves in the local way of life. Here are some of the best markets in Fes that are a must-visit for anyone looking to capture the essence of this ancient city.

Medina of Fes

Location: Central Fes
Type of Market: Traditional Market
Open: Daily, hours may vary

The Medina of Fes, also known as Fes el Bali, is not just a single market but a labyrinth of thousands of winding streets filled with shops and stalls. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart of the city and offers everything from leather goods to spices. The energy here is palpable, with artisans practicing their crafts just as their ancestors did centuries ago.

We Recommend: Visit the tanneries to witness the traditional leather-dyeing process and perhaps purchase a handcrafted leather bag or jacket as a unique souvenir.

Souk el Henna

Location: Near the Nejjarine Fountain in the Medina
Type of Market: Specialty Market
Open: Daily, best in the morning

Souk el Henna is known for its natural beauty products, including the namesake henna, as well as kohl, argan oil, and various herbs. It's a great place for expats and digital nomads to discover traditional Moroccan beauty secrets and take home some natural wellness products.

We Recommend: Pick up some pure argan oil, which is not only great for your skin and hair but also supports the local women's cooperatives that produce it.

Bab Boujloud Market

Location: Outside Bab Boujloud (The Blue Gate)
Type of Market: Street Market
Open: Daily, throughout the day

Just outside the iconic Blue Gate, this market is a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike come to shop for a variety of goods. From fresh fruits and vegetables to clothing and household items, Bab Boujloud Market is a convenient stop for everyday needs.

We Recommend: Try some of the local street food delicacies like maakouda (potato fritters) or freshly squeezed orange juice from one of the vendors.

Marche Central

Location: Ville Nouvelle (New City)
Type of Market: Food Market
Open: Daily, morning to early evening

Located in the newer part of Fes, Marche Central is a clean and organized market where expats can find a wide range of produce, meats, and seafood. It's a contrast to the medina's markets and offers a more relaxed shopping experience.

We Recommend: Sample some of the local cheeses and olives, which are perfect for a picnic or to complement a home-cooked meal.

Seffarine Square

Location: Near the Kairaouine Mosque in the Medina
Type of Market: Craft Market
Open: Daily, best in the morning

Seffarine Square is where the copper beaters of Fes work their magic, creating everything from pots to intricate decorative pieces. The sound of hammers hitting copper is the soundtrack to this market, and the craftsmanship on display is truly remarkable.

We Recommend: Commission a custom-made copper piece as a lasting memento of your time in Fes or as a unique gift.

Place R'cif

Location: Accessible via the R'cif gate in the Medina
Type of Market: Local Market
Open: Daily, best in the morning and early evening

Place R'cif is a local market that offers a more authentic glimpse into the daily life of Fes residents. Here, you can find a variety of goods, including fresh produce, spices, and household items, often at lower prices than in the more tourist-centric areas.

We Recommend: Explore the spice stalls for exotic flavors to add to your cooking, such as ras el hanout, a blend of the best spices a merchant has to offer.

Joutiya de Fes

Location: Outside the Medina walls
Type of Market: Flea Market
Open: Sundays, early morning to late afternoon

Joutiya de Fes is the city's flea market, where second-hand goods, antiques, and all sorts of treasures can be found. It's a place where bargaining is expected, and the thrill of the hunt makes for an exciting shopping experience.

We Recommend: Keep an eye out for vintage Moroccan rugs or brassware, which can often be found at a fraction of the price you'd pay in the tourist shops.

Nejjarine Souk

Location: Near the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts in the Medina
Type of Market: Woodcraft Market
Open: Daily, best in the morning

Nejjarine Souk is a specialized market focusing on woodcraft. It's a place where skilled artisans create and sell beautifully carved wooden items, from furniture to intricate decorative boxes.

We Recommend: Purchase a hand-carved cedarwood box, which is not only a work of art but also a practical item for storing your keepsakes.

Whether you're looking for fresh food, traditional crafts, or unique antiques, Fes's markets offer a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells. Each market has its own charm and specialties, making them all worth a visit for a truly immersive Moroccan experience.