Family-Friendly Adventures in Fez, Morocco!

Medina of Fez (Fes el-Bali)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Discover the Historical Heart

Start your family adventure in Fez at the iconic Bab Boujloud, the main gate leading into the medina. Its stunning blue and green tiles make for perfect family photos. Just inside, you"ll find the Medersa Bou Inania, an architectural gem that beautifully illustrates Moroccan craftsmanship. It"s one of the few religious buildings in Morocco open to non-Muslims, offering a peek into Islamic art and history.

Next, take a short walk to the nearby Dar Batha Museum. Housed in a former palace, it offers a kid-friendly introduction to Moroccan arts with its collection of traditional ceramics, woodcarving, and embroidery. The gardens are lovely for a stroll and a break from the bustling medina.

Day 2: Explore Craftsmanship and Markets

Dive into the heart of Moroccan crafts at the Chouara Tannery, where you can witness the fascinating, ancient process of leather dyeing. View from one of the surrounding terraces to avoid the strong smells at ground level, which might be more suitable for older kids.

Just a few minutes" walk from the tannery, explore the vibrant Souk Al Attarine, famous for its array of spices and perfumes. It"s a sensory delight and a great place for kids to learn about local flavors and scents.

Lunch Break: Grab a bite at a nearby café, trying some local dishes like tagine or couscous.

Day 3: Cultural Insights and Relaxation

Begin your day at the Al-Attarine Madrasa, near the perfume market. This spot offers insights into the rich history of education in Islamic culture.

Finish your medina exploration with a visit to the serene Jnan Sbil Gardens, just outside the medina walls. With its spacious paths and beautiful fountains, it"s perfect for a relaxed family afternoon.

Throughout your visit, consider hiring a local guide for insightful stories and navigating the maze-like streets smoothly. Enjoy the rich tapestry of history, culture, and craftsmanship that Fez has to offer!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Meknes

Why Visit?

Meknes, a city steeped in history and grandeur, offers a delightful experience for families exploring its rich culture and architecture. Here’s a one-day itinerary tailored for a family visit:

Morning

Start your day at the heart of Meknes, the Bab Mansour Gate. Located right next to Place El Hedim, this gate is one of the most beautiful in Morocco and provides a picturesque entry point to the old city. It"s a great spot for family photos! Just through the gate, you’ll find yourself in the bustling market square where you can grab some local breakfast treats like harira (Moroccan soup) and freshly baked bread.

Mid-Morning

Take a short walk to the Dar Jamai Museum, which is about a 10-minute walk from Bab Mansour, through the lively market streets. Originally a palace, this museum now displays Moroccan arts and crafts giving insights into the local culture and history. It"s engaging for kids with its colorful exhibits and spacious gardens.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Moroccan cuisine. Try dishes like tagine or couscous, which are both hearty and flavorful, perfect for recharging after a morning of exploration.

Afternoon

Post-lunch, head over to the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. It’s a short taxi ride from the restaurant area. This beautifully decorated tomb honors one of Morocco’s greatest rulers and offers a peaceful retreat with its serene atmosphere and impressive Islamic architecture.

Late Afternoon

Conclude your day with a visit to the Royal Stables and Granaries, about a 15-minute walk from the Mausoleum. These massive structures were built to house over 12,000 horses. The sheer scale and historical significance of the site are sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

Each site is rich in history and offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Meknes’ past. Enjoy your family trip as you step back in time in this lesser-known Moroccan gem!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Al-Attarine Madrasa

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Al-Attarine Madrasa, Fes, Morocco

Morning Arrival at Al-Attarine Madrasa

Begin your day in the enchanting city of Fes by arriving at Al-Attarine Madrasa around 9 AM to avoid the crowds. Situated near the perfume and spice market, this stunning Islamic school is a jewel of Marinid architecture. You can easily reach it by taxi or a short walk from nearby landmarks like the Qarawiyyin Mosque.

Exploring Al-Attarine Madrasa

As you step inside, prepare to be captivated by the intricate Islamic art and architecture. The Madrasa, built in 1325 by Sultan Uthman II Abu Said, features exquisite zellij tile work and carved wood that tell tales of a rich, scholarly past. Engage the kids by playing a "spot the detail" game—ask them to find different geometric patterns or Arabic inscriptions.

Interactive Learning

Head to the central courtyard, a perfect spot for a family photo with its reflective pool and radiant designs. Explain to the kids how students once used this serene area for study and reflection. Don"t miss the upper floor, which offers a glimpse into the student dormitories, providing a real sense of how scholars lived centuries ago.

Lunch and Local Flavors

Around noon, step out to the nearby local eateries for some Moroccan delicacies. Try some traditional dishes like tagine or couscous, which are family-friendly and a great way to introduce the kids to new flavors.

Afternoon Stroll and Souvenir Shopping

Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets of Fes to the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts, just a 10-minute walk away. It"s a great way to show the kids Moroccan craftsmanship. End your day by picking up some unique souvenirs like miniature brass astrolabes or colorful pottery, ensuring the whole family has a memento from their cultural journey.

This itinerary will leave you enriched with culture, history, and cherished family memories from the heart of Morocco.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Moulay Idriss

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary in Moulay Idriss, Morocco

Day 1: Discover the Spiritual Heart of Morocco

- Morning: Arrival and Volubilis Exploration

Arrive in Moulay Idriss via Meknes, which is accessible by train or car from major cities like Casablanca or Fez. Start your adventure with a morning trip to the nearby ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Just a 15-minute drive from Moulay Idriss, you can take a local taxi or drive if you"ve rented a car. Explore the well-preserved mosaics and marvel at the grand columns, learning about Roman history in North Africa. This archaeological wonder is not only educational but also offers spectacular photographic opportunities.

- Lunch: Picnic Amongst Ruins

Enjoy a family picnic on the lush grounds of Volubilis, basking in the historical ambiance and beautiful landscapes.

- Afternoon: Town Exploration

Head back to Moulay Idriss for an immersive walk through the town. Despite its compact size, the town is steeped in cultural significance, being the burial place of Morocco’s most revered saint, Moulay Idriss I. Visit the town square to interact with friendly locals and sample some local pastries.

- Evening: Cooking Class

Participate in a family-friendly Moroccan cooking class, a fun and delicious way to end your day. Learn how to make traditional dishes like tagine and couscous which you can enjoy for dinner.

Day 2: Nature and Culture

- Morning: Zerhoune Mountain Hike

After breakfast, embark on a guided hike up Mount Zerhoune. Enjoy panoramic views and possibly spot some local wildlife. The hike is moderate, suitable for families, and offers an educational glimpse into the local flora and fauna.

- Afternoon: Souk Shopping

Spend your afternoon wandering through the local souk. It’s a great place for kids to practice bargaining and to pick up unique souvenirs like handcrafted leather goods or spices.

- Departure

Return to Meknes or your next destination in the late afternoon, enriched with the cultural and natural beauty of Moulay Idriss.

This two-day itinerary balances historical exploration with engaging activities, making Moulay Idriss a memorable stop for any family trip to Morocco.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Volubilis

Why Visit?

### Family-Friendly Itinerary to Volubilis, Morocco

Morning Arrival

Start your journey to Volubilis early in the morning to make the most of the day. The ancient Roman city is located about a 30-minute drive from Meknes, accessible via taxi or rental car. If staying in Fez, expect around an hour’s travel time. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst the scenic views of the Moroccan countryside.

Exploring Volubilis

Upon arrival, consider hiring a local guide at the entrance for an enriching experience. They can provide fascinating insights into the history of the site, tailored to engage children with stories of Roman warriors and ancient legends.

Key Attractions

1. Basilica and the Capitoline Temple: Start at these impressive ruins where children can learn about Roman architecture and the judicial and religious life of the city.

2. Triumphal Arch: Capture family photos at this iconic spot. Discuss its historical significance as a symbol of victory.

3. House of Orpheus: Delight in the beautiful mosaics, perfect to spark conversations about Roman mythology, especially the tales of Orpheus.

4. Decumanus Maximus: Walk this main street where chariots once roamed, and imagine the bustling market scenes that would have occurred here.

Lunch Break

Enjoy your packed lunch at the picnic areas near the site, offering great views and a chance for kids to play.

Interactive Activities

Engage the kids with a scavanger hunt through the ruins, looking for specific symbols in mosaics or counting columns in the basilica, making history fun and interactive.

Departure

Wrap up your visit by late afternoon, heading back to your accommodation. Stop by the local market in Meknes to pick up some traditional Moroccan treats as souvenirs, offering a taste of local life.

This day trip to Volubilis will be an unforgettable adventure into the past, filled with learning and fun for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.