Is Fez safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Fez is generally safe, and serious crime against tourists is rare. The realistic problems are persistent unofficial guides and sellers, getting lost in the medina, and pickpocketing in crowded lanes. Most visitors have no trouble beyond the hassle.
The real risks
Unofficial guides
Men may offer to show you the way, say a street is closed or lead you to shops for commission. Say a polite no thank you, keep walking and use the main gates as landmarks.
Getting lost
Fes el-Bali has thousands of lanes and phone maps are not always accurate. Use an offline map, note the nearest gate and ask shopkeepers rather than people who approach you.
Pickpocketing
Possible in crowded lanes such as Talaa Kebira. Keep valuables in a front pocket or zipped bag.
Shop pressure
At the tannery and craft shops, sellers can be persistent. Buying is never compulsory; agree a price before any service.
Heat
Summer often reaches 38–39°C. Rest in the afternoon, carry water and visit Volubilis early, as there is almost no shade.
Areas and times to take care
The medina is busy and safe by day. After dark, many lanes are empty and poorly lit, so walk with your riad's directions or a guide and take a taxi between the medina and the hills, such as the Marinid Tombs and Borj Nord, rather than walking back in the dark.
Getting around safely
Red petit taxis run on the meter within the city, usually 10–25 MAD a ride; insist on the meter. The medina is car-free, so porters with carts take luggage to riads for about 20–50 MAD. ONCF trains are a safe way to Meknes, Rabat, Casablanca and Marrakech. Arrange airport pick-ups through your riad if you arrive late.
Solo and women travellers
Solo women may receive comments in the street; a firm no and ignoring them usually works. Fez is more conservative than Marrakech, so covering shoulders and knees attracts less attention. An official guide on the first day helps, and it is best to take taxis rather than walk through empty lanes after dark.
Health, water and heat
Most visitors drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water. Summer heat is the main issue, with highs around 38–39°C in July and August. Winter nights are cold and riads can be chilly. Wear closed shoes, as lanes are uneven and sometimes wet. Pharmacies are common in the Ville Nouvelle and near the medina gates.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Fez safe for tourists?
Yes, in general. The main issues are unofficial guides, getting lost and pickpocketing in crowded lanes.
Is it safe to walk in the Fez medina at night?
The main lanes are fine early in the evening, but many are empty and dark later; take a taxi or ask your riad to guide you.
How do I deal with fake guides?
Say a polite no thank you, keep walking and do not believe that a street is closed. Use an offline map and the gates as landmarks.