Fes

Where to shoot

• Chouara Tannery — overlook the centuries-old leather dyeing pits from surrounding rooftop viewing terraces.
• Bab Bou Jeloud (The Blue Gate) — the monumental tiled gateway leading into the heart of medieval Fes el-Bali.
• Bou Inania Madrasa — a 14th-century theological college featuring masterwork cedar woodwork and stucco arabesques.
• Place Seffarine — a historic square echoing with the melodic rhythmic hammering of artisan coppersmiths.
• Marinid Tombs Lookout — hike to the hilltop ruins at sunset for panoramic vistas across the entire bowl of the medina.
• Chouara Tannery — medieval stone dye-pits seen from the leather shops above, most colorful in strong midday light
• Bou Inania Madrasa — a 14th-century Marinid school noted for its carved cedar, marble and zellige
• Bab Bou Jeloud — the ornate blue-tiled gate framing the minaret of the Bou Inania beyond
• Al-Qarawiyyin — the courtyard and fountains of the world's oldest university, founded in 859

When to go

March to May (spring) or October to November (autumn), when temperatures are comfortable for walking the enclosed medina and wildflowers or crisp mountain breezes freshen the valley.

What to eat

Pastilla (crisp, layered warqa pastry filled with tender spiced pigeon or chicken, crushed almonds, cinnamon, and powdered sugar) and slow-cooked lamb tagine with prunes.

Where to stay

Book an authentic restored riad inside Fes el-Bali near Bab Bou Jeloud or Batha for tranquil inner courtyards with fountains, carved plasterwork, and rooftop terrace breakfast views.