The Medina of Fes, Officially Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s Most Pedestrian-Friendly Place

Medina Fes Artistic Realistic Image

Why the World Loves Morocco and the Medina of Fes !

A decade ago, Fes was a city of mystique—a spiritual and cultural heart known to insiders and a stop on the grand Moroccan tour. Tourists would pass through, drawn by the allure of the yearly Festival of World Sacred Music, but the city itself remained a beautiful, complex enigma. Its medieval medina was the stuff of legend, a labyrinth of winding alleys that felt more like a movie set from the distant past than a living, breathing urban center.

But something has shifted. Fes has come into its own as a destination in its own right, no longer just a layover on the way to the desert or a day trip to the Blue City. Flights have increased, and so have the visitors. In recent years, while Morocco as a whole has seen tourist arrivals surge, Fes has carved out its own remarkable story. Overnight stays in the city have seen significant growth, with reports from the National Tourism Observatory showing increases of over 16% in some periods, a testament to its growing appeal.

You might think this new popularity is due to its perfect location—a gateway to the stunning natural beauty of Ifrane, a short drive from the imperial city of Meknes, or a jumping-off point for a desert adventure. While its rich hinterland certainly adds to the appeal, the true reason for Fes's rise is the very thing that has always made it special to insiders: its medina.

This is a place of profound purity. The river that flows through it, the Oued Fes, is its very lifeline. For centuries, this river has powered the tanneries and brought water to the city's ancient fountains and public baths. Even today, though much of it is channeled through canals, its presence is deeply felt, and recent efforts to uncover and restore parts of it are a powerful symbol of the city’s commitment to its heritage.

This is a place where donkeys, not cars, are the primary form of transport. The medina's designation by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest car-free urban area is not just a simple fact; it’s a validation of its unique soul.

For centuries, this car-free design has preserved the medina’s soul, protecting its vibrant souks, its ancient crafts, and the daily routines of its people. The peace and quiet allow you to hear the sounds of artisans at work, the rustle of textiles, and the call of merchants—sounds that would be drowned out by the noise of traffic.

For those who visit Fes, there are plenty of options for a place to stay. More and more international brands like Marriott and Barceló are finding their way to this mystique city, but for a true immersion into the medina's historic scenery, there is no better place than the Riad Fès. This Relais & Châteaux property, with its 30 elegant rooms, fits perfectly within the ancient walls. Here you will be truly pampered after your long, leisurely strolls through the city's labyrinthine streets.

And if I may, for those who love a sip of the "drank of the gods," the region next door to Fes, Meknes, is known for its excellent wines. You can find a beautiful Syrah or a crisp, refreshing Volubilia Gris.

The fact that Fes has been officially nominated and celebrated for its authenticity is a moment to be cherished. It confirms what those who have always loved it have known: that its heart, its un-spoiled, car-free medina, is not just a historical relic but a thriving, living testament to a better, more humane way to live and travel. When a city’s most authentic quality becomes the reason for its fame, we can only be happy.

If you haven't already, it's time to put this World’s most pedestrian-friendly place on your bucket list. Plan a visit to the Medina of Fes and experience its soul for yourself.

Time for a Volubilia Gris.

Peter