Fez is more than just a city to explore on foot through its covered alleyways. To truly understand it, you also need to get a bird’s-eye view: from the hills that surround it, the medina unfolds like a mosaic of ochre rooftops punctuated by minarets, with the rolling hills bordering the Saïss Plain visible in the distance. We’ve explored these viewpoints—both on foot and by car—to bring you our very best selection!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. The medina as seen from the Merinid Tombs
This is undoubtedly the most iconic view of Fez, and for good reason: from these Merinid ruins perched on the northern hill, the entire medina lies spread out before you. You can clearly make out the green-tiled roof of the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, the countless minarets, and the incredible density of the medieval urban fabric. We recommend visiting in the late afternoon, when the low-angled light sculpts the contours of the rooftops and brings out the city’s ochre and terracotta hues.
2. Bab Jdid, Fès el-Bali, and the Modern City
From Borj Sud, if you turn slightly, you’ll discover a different view of the New City from the promontory—a legacy of the French protectorate with its wide avenues. In the foreground, you’ll see Bab Jdid, one of the southern gates of Fès el-Bali, while the modern city stretches out beyond it. The contrast between the dense fabric of the medina and the newer neighborhoods provides a clearer picture of the different stages in Fès’s development.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN MOROCCO
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Not too wide
- A good engine
- For more choice, book early.
3. The Mountains and the Hinterland as Seen from the Tombs of the Merinids
On a clear day, across from the Merinid Tombs higher up the hill, your gaze will extend far beyond the city’s rooftops, all the way to the first foothills of the Middle Atlas Mountains that mark the southeastern horizon. This third aspect of the site, often overlooked by visitors in a hurry, is worth spending a few extra minutes to appreciate. Above all, this view highlights the unique geographical location of Fes, where the Saïss Plain meets the surrounding hills. Please exercise caution during your visit, as there are no safety barriers on site and the road is very steep with hairpin turns.
4. The view from Borj Sud
Across from the Merinid Tombs, on the other side of the medina, the Borj Sud offers an equally impressive view, though from a different angle. This 16th-century fortress overlooks the city from the south and allows you to take in the entire urban basin at a glance. We recommend visiting in the late morning, when the morning mist has cleared but the heat hasn’t yet caused the light haze of dust typical of the hottest part of the day. This Saadian structure, recently restored and converted into a museum of fortifications, overlooks the city from the south.
Take a moment to look closely beyond the thousands of rooftops in the medina. You’ll see the Merinid Tombs with the mountainous landscape in the background. Can you see them?
5. The view of the South Tower from Fès-Jdid
Just outside the Fès-Jdid neighborhood, another vantage point will allow you to frame the fortress itself on the left, with the surrounding hills and the monumental Bab-Jdid gate—on the southern flank of Fès-El-Bali—in the background. This viewpoint is less frequently photographed than the one overlooking the medina itself, but it offers an interesting perspective on the city’s defensive topography. From this angle, you’ll clearly see how Fez was built at the bottom of a valley, surrounded by strategic high ground. Here, we photographed this unique landscape from the parking lot of the Palais Faraj Suites & Spa Hotel, where we were staying.
WHERE TO STAY IN FES
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
In Fès El-Bali (old medina)
Hotel Riad Dar Lys – See prices, photos and availability
Hotel Riad Dar Laura – See prices, photos and availability
Fès El-Jdid (near the Royal Palace)
Palais Faraj Suites & Spa Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
6. From the terrace of the Nejjarine Museum
Unlike the two previous hills, this viewpoint is well worth the effort—it’s located right in the heart of the medina, on the terrace of this former 18th-century fondouk dedicated to the art of woodworking. The view here is more intimate, almost at roof level, offering a close-up view of the neighboring terraces and the surrounding minarets, notably that of the Al Quaraouiyne Mosque. We recommend experiencing this contrast after the hustle and bustle of the souks below: the terrace offers a quiet respite and a different perspective on life in the medina.
7. The unique landscapes between Fez and Volubilis
For those extending their stay with a trip to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the road itself holds some lovely surprises. You’ll travel through rolling countryside dotted with olive groves and grain fields, with occasional unobstructed views of the Saïss plains. Feel free to stop at one of the open or designated rest areas when conditions permit. We were lucky enough to have clear weather to admire the reservoir at the Sidi Chahed Dam and the surrounding mountains. An idyllic landscape straight out of a postcard!
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8. The View of Jbel Zalagh
From the second, higher section of the Merinid Tombs, you’ll see the imposing Mount Zalagh, which you can hike in a day when the weather is nice. This hill, which rises to over 900 meters north of Fez, offers one of the most comprehensive panoramic views of the region. There are several hiking routes to choose from, with durations that vary widely depending on the starting point. From the summit, your gaze will take in the medina, the new city, the Saïss Plain, and the foothills of the Middle Atlas. You will no doubt be surprised, as we were, by the tranquility that reigns there, barely disturbed by the distant echo of the calls to prayer rising from the city.
DISCOVER Fez
9. The scenic route between Fez and Meknes
Connecting the two imperial cities, this road also winds through the open farmland typical of the Saïss region. You’ll also pass through a region with a winemaking tradition dating back to Roman times, where production expanded significantly and became more organized during the 20th century. We recommend taking this trip during the day so you can fully enjoy these rural views before arriving in bustling Meknes.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Morocco
- Best of
Top Destinations
Must-See Places in Morocco
Most Beautiful Riads
Most Beautiful Cities
Most Beautiful Medinas
Morocco’s Most Beautiful Landscapes
Most Beautiful Gardens
Best Museums
Morocco’s Most Beautiful Beaches
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Morocco
Driving tips
- The must-dos
Marrakech
Casablanca
Fez
Meknes
Chefchaouen
Essaouira
Rabat
Tangier
Tetouan
Agadir
The Sahara Desert
