Having guided countless visitors through Fes’s labyrinthine medina, I can confidently say that this ancient city is far safer than most travelers imagine.
I’ve watched nervous tourists transform into relaxed explorers once they experience our strong police presence, helpful locals, and welcoming atmosphere firsthand.
As someone who leads solo travelers, families, and groups through these historic streets daily, I understand the initial concerns; those winding alleyways can seem intimidating at first!
Yes, like any tourist destination, Fes has its share of hassles. You might encounter persistent vendors in the souks (trust me, I’ve mastered the art of the polite “no, thanks”) or face the occasional attempt at overcharging.
But violent crime against tourists? That’s about as rare as finding a straight street in our medieval medina! Let me share some insider knowledge about staying street-smart in Fes, tricks I’ve learned from years of guiding visitors through every corner of this magnificent city.
Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the famous tanneries or losing yourself in the spice markets, I’ll show you exactly how to experience the magic of Fes while keeping your peace of mind intact…
Is It Safe to Travel to Fes, Morocco | The Short Answer
Having worked as a guide in Fes for years, I can tell you that YES, this beautiful city is absolutely safe for tourists!
When it comes to travel safety in Fes, Morocco, you’ll find it’s just like any other major city. I’ve guided countless solo female travelers through our winding medina, and they’ve had wonderful experiences!
Sure, you’ll want to follow common safety tips, keep your belongings close, stay aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts.
As a local guide, I always tell my visitors that exploring the medina is MUCH easier (and safer!) with someone who knows the area.
While you might encounter the occasional pushy vendor or unwanted attention, remember that most Fessis are incredibly welcoming and protective of the guests.
We want you to love the city as much as we do!
Safety Tips for Fes, Morocco
As your local guide in Fes, I’ve seen SO many tourists get into tricky situations that could’ve been easily avoided, especially in our maze-like medina.
When you’re exploring this beautiful city, you’ll need to follow some CRUCIAL safety tips that I share with all my tour groups, like never accepting “help” from strangers who approach you (trust me, they’ll want money), and ALWAYS using navigation apps or licensed guides to find your way around.
Whether you’re a solo female traveler or part of a group, I absolutely insist that you stick together after dark, dress modestly, and check with your riad or hotel staff about which areas to avoid; they know the city’s current situation better than any guidebook.
1. Do NOT Accept Unsolicited Help
Let me tell you why unsolicited help in Fes makes me CRINGE as a local guide!
After years of guiding tourists, I’ve seen SO many visitors fall for this common scam.
Here’s the truth: if someone rushes up to offer directions or escort you through the Medina without you asking, just walk away!
Real Moroccan hospitality ONLY comes when YOU ask for help first.
Those overly friendly “helpers” who insist on showing you around? They’ll demand CRAZY amounts of money later!
Even those “sweet” kids offering directions are usually in on it. Trust me, I’ve rescued countless tourists from these situations.
Remember my golden rule: if you didn’t ASK for help in the Medina, don’t accept it.
Period! (Your wallet will thank me later.)
2. Use an App to Navigate the Medina
The winding alleyways of Fes’s ancient Medina used to TERRIFY my tourists before I discovered this game-changing tip!
As a local guide, I’ll tell you my secret to safely navigate the maze-like streets: download Maps.me before you arrive.
Here’s why I love using this app to navigate the Medina in Fes: it works OFFLINE (no data needed), and it’s surprisingly accurate in the narrow alleyways.
Plus, I’ve noticed it’s easier to explore Fes than Marrakech because the entire Medina sits on a hill.
Just remember: going uphill leads to the Blue Gate (your exit), while downhill takes you deeper toward the tanneries.
Trust me, having Maps.me on your phone will save you from getting lost and help you stay safe without relying on strangers’ directions!
3. Do Not Walk Around at Night Alone
While I absolutely love showing tourists around this beautiful city during the day, I need to be SUPER clear about something important: you should NOT walk alone in Fes’s Medina after dark!
Look, the Medina is generally safe during daylight hours, but those narrow, dimly lit streets become quite different at night.
As your local guide, I’ve seen sketchy people try to take advantage of tourists after sunset, especially in those winding alleyways.
If you’re a solo traveler, PLEASE return to your Fes riad before it gets too dark! And if you absolutely must go out (like for dinner), stick to the well-lit main roads, and always travel with a group.
Trust me, I’ve traveled here a lot, these safety precautions aren’t just suggestions, they’re essential!
4. Solo Female Travelers Should Travel in Groups
As a female tour guide who’s lived near Fes my entire life, I need to tell you something REALLY important about solo female travel here: you’ll get a LOT of unwanted male attention, especially in the Medina!
While walking alone, you might get approached up to 20 times daily (I’ve seen it happen countless times with my clients).
Don’t let this stop you from experiencing the city’s rich history! Instead, I strongly recommend either joining a guided tour or crewing together with other travelers from your hotel.
Trust me, exploring the Medina is SO much more enjoyable when you’re not constantly dealing with unwanted attention. My female guests always tell me they’re grateful they didn’t go solo.
Safety concerns aside, you’ll also learn more about the culture and hidden gems when you’re with a knowledgeable local or group!
5. Ask Your Hotel/Hostel for Advice
Beyond traveling in groups, one of my absolute FAVORITE safety tips comes from something I do with every single guest, making the most of that initial check-in chat at your hotel!
When you arrive, don’t rush through that welcome mint tea moment.
As a local guide, I know hotel staff LOVE sharing Fes safety tips and discussing local customs with guests.
They’ll tell you about common scams to watch for, which areas feel safe at night, and any recent issues other travelers have faced.
Trust me, they want you to have an amazing time traveling to Fes (happy guests = great reviews!). Plus, they’re talking to tourists daily, so they know EXACTLY what’s happening in the city.
It’s such a simple way to stay informed and secure!
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Say “No
Since I’ve guided hundreds of tourists through Fes’s bustling medina, I can’t stress this enough: you absolutely MUST feel comfortable saying “no” to persistent vendors!
While Fes is generally safe for solo travelers, you’ll need street smarts when simply exploring the markets. Keep an eye out for pushy sellers who won’t take a polite “no” for an answer.
Trust me, I’ve seen too many tourists get trapped in lengthy conversations because they’re trying to be nice! Just say “La, shukran” (No, thank you) firmly and walk away.
There’s no need to engage further; it’s not rude, it’s setting boundaries.
Avoid accepting “free gifts” or guides who approach you, as they’ll expect payment.
7. Don’t Forget to Haggle
While showing tourists around the vibrant souks of Fes, I’ve learned that haggling isn’t just a shopping strategy, it’s an essential SURVIVAL skill!
When planning a trip to this safe city, keep in mind that haggling is common in Fes, especially in the medina. I always tell my guests to start at 50% of the asking price (trust me on this)!
Though Fes is generally safe for shopping, you’ll want to protect your wallet by mastering the art of negotiation.
Remember, fixed prices are typically found in supermarkets, restaurants, and brand-name stores; you’ll know by the price tags.
But for everything else, from beautiful carpets to guided tours, don’t be shy about negotiating until the price feels right. It’s one of the most exciting things to do in Fes!
8. Trust Your Gut
You know what’s one of the MOST important safety tips I share with my tour groups in Fes? Trust your gut instinct, always!
As someone who’s been guiding tours here for years, I can tell you Fes is generally a safe city, but you’ve got to stay aware of your surroundings.
If something feels off, keep moving!
I’ve had solo travel clients who ignored their instincts, trying to be “polite,” and ended up in a little uncomfortable situations.
Don’t make that mistake! You can always go to the police if needed, but it’s better to avoid unwanted attention in the first place.
9. Don’t Accept the First Price Offered by Taxis
Speaking of staying safe, let’s talk about one of my biggest pet peeves, taxi prices in Fes!
As a local guide, I’ve seen WAY too many taxi drivers try to overcharge tourists, and it drives me crazy.
Here’s my best travel tip: before hopping into any taxi, ask your hotel about the normal fare for your destination.
Listen, I ALWAYS tell my clients to insist that drivers use the meter, it’s actually required by law!
If they refuse, just casually mention the word “police” and watch how quickly they change their tune.
Trust me, Fes is generally a safe destination, but you’ll enjoy exploring our beautiful city much more when you’re not overpaying for rides.
10. Don’t Carry Anything Valuable Around the Medina
Walking through Fes’s winding medina feels magical, but trust me, those narrow, bustling alleyways are a pickpocket’s paradise!
As a local guide, I’ve seen too many tourists walking alone in crowded areas with valuables dangling from their pockets. Big mistake!
Here’s what I tell my solo travelers: keep your belongings safe in an anti-theft backpack (I swear by my Pacsafe, it’s TOTALLY worth the investment).
Leave extra cash and cards in your hotel room safe, and only carry what you need for the day.
While Fes is generally safe at night, theft can happen anytime in the medina’s maze-like streets.
My Pacsafe has protected my stuff for years, and though it’s a bit pricey, the peace of mind is priceless!
11. Don’t Enter a Mosque if You Are Not a Muslim
When touring the stunning mosques of Fes, it’s absolutely crucial to understand one important rule: non-Muslims aren’t allowed inside most of them!
As your local guide, I’ve seen many disappointed foreigners trying to visit the beautiful mosques in Fes, but these sacred spaces are strictly open to Muslims only.
Trust me, I know it’s frustrating! While you can admire the magnificent architecture from the outside, the city’s mosque interiors remain off-limits to non-Muslim visitors.
There are only TWO exceptions in all of Morocco where foreigners can enter: the Grand Mosque of Meknes and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca (and even then, ONLY outside prayer times).
That’s why I always recommend spending just one day in Fes, since several major attractions have limited access.
Don’t worry, though, there’s still plenty to see from the exterior!
12. Dress Conservatively and Blend In
Since Fes is more conservative than other Moroccan cities, dressing appropriately here is SUPER important!
As a local guide, I’ve seen too many tourists make the mistake of wearing shorts and tank tops, trust me, that’s a NO-GO in the ancient medina.
Ladies, you’ll want to focus on covering your knees and shoulders (I know it’s hot, but it’s worth it!).
Loose pants and flowing tops in light fabrics are your best friends here, especially when it’s 31°C!
While men can get away with shorts, I’d still recommend longer pants to blend in with the locals.
The more modestly you dress, the less attention you’ll attract from scammers, and the more respect you’ll receive from Fes residents.
BONUS TIP: This dress code especially applies if you’re planning to visit areas near the mosques!
13. Avoid PDA (Public Displays of Affection)
Just like dressing conservatively, understanding PDA rules in Fes is a MUST for couples visiting this beautiful city!
As your local guide, I can’t stress enough how important it is to avoid pda while exploring the vibrant culture.
You’ll want to be super mindful of local customs, no kissing or making out in public (trust me, I once had to ask a couple to stop!).
While it’s perfectly fine to hold hands or briefly put your arm around your partner, anything more is considered disrespectful.
Whether you’re taking public transportation or walking through our ancient medina, keeping displays of affection minimal shows respect for our traditions.
Just like dressing modestly and being aware of safe travel practices, following these PDA guidelines will help you blend in seamlessly, especially if you’re a solo woman traveler in Morocco.
Is Fes Safe to Visit | FAQs
How Safe is Morocco for Tourists?
While many visitors ask me about safety in Morocco, I can confidently tell you that this beautiful country, especially Fes, welcomes thousands of tourists every year who enjoy safe, memorable experiences.
As a local guide, I’ve seen firsthand how the major cities in Morocco are great destinations for travelers who feel adventurous.
While you might hear stories about pickpockets (trust me, they exist everywhere!), you can easily avoid trouble by always keeping your belongings secure.
When visiting Fes, I recommend staying in well-lit areas and avoiding walking alone at night, just like you’d do in ANY big city.
The tourist areas are heavily patrolled, and I’m proud to say that serious crimes against visitors are EXTREMELY rare in this welcoming community.
What is the Safest City in Morocco for Tourists?
When tourists ask me about the safest cities in Morocco, I’m thrilled to recommend Essaouira and Chefchaouen right away!
As a local guide, I can tell you these two gems are ABSOLUTELY the best choices for worry-free exploring, especially if you’re new to Morocco.
While Fes, Morocco, is safe too, along with Marrakech, Rabat, and Tangier, you’ll need to be a bit more careful in their maze-like streets and old city areas.
I always tell my guests it’s common in Morocco for some vendors to try to overcharge tourists, particularly in poorly lit or quiet areas.
Casablanca’s the only place where I’m extra cautious, even my fellow Moroccans agree it’s always a good idea to keep a closer eye on your belongings there!
Is Morocco Safer than Italy?
Yes, as someone who’s experienced both countries firsthand, I can confidently tell you that Morocco, especially Fes, is a safe and welcoming destination.
Throughout the country, including those maze-like streets of Fes’s medina, you’ll find lower crime rates than in many Italian cities.
I’ve guided countless tourists through Fes’s narrow alleys, and while it’s essential to plan your trip to Morocco wisely, I’ve seen fewer incidents here than during my visits to Italy.
Sure, Fes is a big tourist destination, but our strong police presence and community-focused culture make it especially safe for visitors.
Is Morocco Safer than Turkey?
As a local guide who’s lived in both countries, I can tell you that the Moroccan people are always incredibly welcoming and protective of tourists.
When I take visitors on a day trip from Fes around the medina, I try to choose routes that aren’t easy for thieves, even though petty crime is quite rare here.
While bargaining for leather goods on a tight budget, you’ll notice our strong police presence keeps everyone safe.
From my experience guiding in both nations, Morocco feels notably safer.
Though both countries are generally secure for tourists, I’ve found that my clients consistently express feeling more at ease here in Morocco, especially when exploring markets and historical sites.
The genuine warmth of locals makes a real difference!
What is the Most Common Crime in Morocco?
As a local guide in Fes, I’m often asked about crime in Morocco, and honestly, it’s mostly limited to minor incidents that you’d find in ANY tourist destination.
When you take a day trip through our city’s rich medina, the worst case scenario is usually dealing with persistent vendors or getting lost in the medina (which isn’t really a crime, just part of the adventure!).
The most common issues you’ll encounter are harassment of women, aggressive sellers, and pickpocketing, especially near the blue gate.
To help keep yourself safe, don’t flash expensive items, and stay alert in crowded areas.
You’re less likely to have problems if you dress modestly and use common sense.
Trust me, after years of guiding visitors, I can say that serious crime is quite rare here.
What to be Careful About in Morocco?
While Fes remains one of Morocco’s safest cities, I’ve spent years guiding tourists through its vibrant streets and learned EXACTLY what you need to watch out for!
Listen carefully, NEVER walk alone at night, especially in quiet parts of the medina near Moulay Idriss.
When someone offers to “help” you find your way, they’ll often try to take advantage of your kindness (and wallet!).
I’ve seen too many tourists get scammed at ATMs, so always shield your PIN and preferably use credit cards at reputable shops.
Ladies, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be, but you’ll need extra awareness when traveling solo – stick to busy areas and dress modestly.
And please, keep your belongings close, I once had a client lose their camera because they set it down for just ONE second!
Final Words
As your local guide in Fes, I’ll tell you, you’re going to love this vibrant city!
While it’s generally safe, you’ll want to stay smart about it. I’ve led thousands of tourists through these ancient streets, and they’ve all had wonderful experiences when following basic precautions.
Remember what I always say: stick to well-lit areas, trust your instincts, and NEVER accept help from unofficial guides. You’ve got this, and Fes is waiting to welcome you!
