Old Medina - a red barn with trees in front of it
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Old Medina

4.1
·4k reviews·Casablanca, Morocco

A vibrant, lived-in labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with colorful stalls, local life, and unique treasures.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Full of life and colors

CrowdMedium
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Old Medina - a red barn with trees in front of it

Old Medina

Best Time

Evenings

Full of life and colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant, lived-in labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with colorful stalls, local life, and unique treasures.

4.1
(4k reviews)

"Full of life and colours even in the night. Some very good places to have some great Moroccan delicacies or Tea."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace the Maze

Don't fear getting lost! It's part of the Old Medina experience. Look for hexagonal signs to avoid dead ends.

🛍️ Shop Smart

Find colorful clothing, toys, footwear, and imitation jewelry. Prices are often reasonable.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Market Alleys

Vibrant Market Alleys

Immerse yourself in a sensory overload of colors, sounds, and smells. A true taste of local life.

Argan Oil Boutiques

Argan Oil Boutiques

Find pure argan oil, celebrated for its culinary and cosmetic benefits. A must-try local treasure.

Local Delicacies & Tea

Local Delicacies & Tea

Savor delicious Moroccan sandwiches and refreshing juices in small, welcoming eateries.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Labyrinth

The Old Medina is a maze! Locals advise looking for hexagonal street signs to avoid dead ends. Embrace getting lost; it's part of the adventure. Keep an eye out for motorcycles weaving through narrow lanes.

Authentic Finds & Local Flavors

Discover vibrant stalls selling everything from argan oil to imitation jewelry. While tempting, some reviewers caution against street food unless you have a strong stomach. Look for friendly vendors and reasonable prices.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Full of life and colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime
Why
Explore shops and find treasures
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Come inside the Medina of Fes, Morocco

🎯 Embrace the Maze

Don't fear getting lost! It's part of the Old Medina experience. Look for hexagonal signs to avoid dead ends. Reddit

🛍️ Shop Smart

Find colorful clothing, toys, footwear, and imitation jewelry. Prices are often reasonable. Reddit

reddit.com

Fes medina on our own?

💧 Argan Oil Gems

Seek out shops selling pure argan oil for culinary and cosmetic uses. High quality is widely available. Reddit

🛵 Watch for Bikes

Motorcycles weave through narrow lanes, so stay alert while exploring. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace the Maze

Don't fear getting lost! It's part of the Old Medina experience. Look for hexagonal signs to avoid dead ends. Reddit

🛍️ Shop Smart

Find colorful clothing, toys, footwear, and imitation jewelry. Prices are often reasonable. Reddit

💧 Argan Oil Gems

Seek out shops selling pure argan oil for culinary and cosmetic uses. High quality is widely available. Reddit

🛵 Watch for Bikes

Motorcycles weave through narrow lanes, so stay alert while exploring. Reddit

☕ Take a Break

Small restaurants offer delicious sandwiches and refreshing juices for a welcome rest. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Old Medina is a vibrant, lived-in market with a lively atmosphere, offering a wide array of goods from argan oil to clothing. Visitors appreciate the friendly people, reasonable prices, and the sensory experience. However, some find it messy and dirty, with a less enjoyable atmosphere compared to other Moroccan medinas, and caution is advised regarding street food.

"The old Medina market just as any other Medina except this is a little modern and looks new. Nevertheless, full of life and colours even in the night. Some very good places to have some great Moroccan delicacies or Tea."

Shaik Masood

"Medina Market is a vibrant and expansive marketplace that captures the essence of local culture and commerce. Spanning narrow alleys and bustling pathways, it can be easy to lose one’s way amid the myriad of shops and stalls. The market offers a diverse array of goods, from colorful clothing and handcrafted toys to stylish footwear and intricate imitation jewelry. Each corner reveals unique treasures that reflect the rich heritage of the region.
Shoppers can explore various vendors offering pure argan oil, celebrated for its culinary and cosmetic benefits. This high-quality oil is available in multiple shops, making it a must-try for visitors.

Amid the shopping frenzy, small restaurants serve delicious sandwiches and refreshing juices, providing a welcome break for weary explorers. However, navigating the market requires some caution, as motorcycles often weave through the narrow lanes, adding to the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking souvenirs, indulging in local flavors, or simply soaking in the sights and sounds, Medina Market promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit."

F K

"We visited the market and were pleasantly surprised. So many friendly people, reasonable prices, delicious street food, and lots of beautiful things to see. The atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming – a perfect place to stroll around, explore, and enjoy the local vibe. Love from Norway 🇳🇴"

Henriette Korsvold

What People Like

Vibrant atmosphere
Friendly people
Variety of goods

What People Dislike

Messy and dirty
Can be overwhelming
Street food caution

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Accessing the Old Medina is generally straightforward. Many visitors arrive by taxi or ride-sharing services, which can drop you off near the main gates. Parking is often available nearby, even on sandy areas behind bus stops. Reddit

The Old Medina is famously a labyrinth. Locals suggest looking for hexagonal street signs, as these indicate dead ends. Embrace the possibility of getting lost as part of the authentic experience. Reddit

While motorcycles are common within the narrow lanes, driving a car directly through the main parts of the Old Medina is generally not advised or feasible due to the tight spaces. Reddit

The best way to explore is on foot, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking through winding alleys. Reddit

Guided tours can be a great way to navigate the complex layout and learn about the history and culture of the Old Medina. They can help you avoid getting too lost and discover hidden gems. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no admission fee to enter the Old Medina itself. It's a living, breathing city quarter. However, specific attractions or historical sites within the Medina might have their own entrance fees. Reddit

The Old Medina is typically open 24/7 as it's a residential and commercial area. However, individual shops and stalls will have their own operating hours, usually opening in the morning and closing in the late evening. Reddit

To avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting during weekday mornings or late evenings. Weekends and peak tourist hours can be quite busy. Reddit

While photography is generally allowed, it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially shopkeepers or residents. Reddit

Haggling is a common practice in the Old Medina markets. Be prepared to negotiate prices, but always do so respectfully and with a smile. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find a wide variety of goods, including colorful clothing, handcrafted toys, stylish footwear, intricate imitation jewelry, and authentic argan oil. Reddit

Argan oil is widely available in many shops throughout the Old Medina. Look for vendors specializing in pure, high-quality argan oil for both culinary and cosmetic purposes. Reddit

Yes, prices are generally negotiable. It's expected to haggle respectfully to reach a mutually agreeable price. Start with an offer lower than the asking price. Reddit

Consider handcrafted leather goods, traditional textiles, intricate metalwork, pottery, or local spices. Argan oil is also a popular and practical souvenir. Reddit

While you can find electronics and copies of popular brands, quality can vary greatly. Be cautious and inspect items thoroughly. Many reviewers suggest focusing on traditional crafts for more reliable purchases. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You can find delicious Moroccan delicacies, including sandwiches and refreshing juices. Small restaurants offer a welcome break for shoppers. Reddit

Some reviewers advise caution with street food due to hygiene concerns, suggesting it's best for those with a 'stomach of steel.' Opt for established small restaurants for a safer bet. Reddit

Many places offer traditional Moroccan tea. Look for small cafes or restaurants that serve it as a refreshing accompaniment to your meal or shopping. Reddit

Many traditional Moroccan dishes are naturally vegetarian or can be made so, such as tagines with vegetables or couscous. Fresh juices are also widely available. Reddit

Try local sandwiches and fresh juices. If you're adventurous, explore other traditional Moroccan snacks and dishes offered by vendors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The narrow, winding alleys filled with colorful stalls, vibrant textiles, and bustling activity offer endless photographic opportunities. The main gate often presents a grand entrance shot. Reddit

It's always best practice to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially shopkeepers or residents. Respect their privacy. Reddit

Early mornings or late evenings can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more atmospheric shots. Evenings also bring a lively glow to the market. Reddit

Look for intricate doorways, traditional tilework (zellige), and the unique architecture of the old buildings that line the alleys. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wide alleyways and details. A smaller, discreet camera can be less intrusive. Ensure your phone is fully charged for spontaneous shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Exploring the Old Medina can be an exciting adventure for families, offering a vibrant sensory experience. The colorful stalls and bustling atmosphere are sure to capture children's attention. However, the labyrinthine nature of the Medina can be challenging with very young children, so consider using a stroller or carrier if needed. Reddit

Keep an eye out for handcrafted toys and unique souvenirs that might delight younger visitors. While the variety of food is appealing, parents might want to stick to established small restaurants for meals to ensure food safety for their children. The sheer energy of the Medina can be tiring, so plan for breaks and stay hydrated with the readily available fresh juices. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Old Medina is a fantastic destination for budget travelers, offering a wealth of experiences without significant entry fees. The main attraction is the atmosphere and the opportunity to explore the winding streets. Haggling is key when shopping; don't be afraid to negotiate prices respectfully to get the best deals on souvenirs and goods. Reddit

For affordable eats, look for small local eateries serving sandwiches and juices. While some street food might be tempting, sticking to these smaller establishments can offer a good balance of taste and value while mitigating potential risks. The sheer act of wandering and observing the daily life is a free and enriching activity. Reddit

couples

The Old Medina offers a romantic and immersive experience for couples. Wandering hand-in-hand through the narrow, atmospheric alleys, discovering hidden courtyards, and browsing unique artisan shops can be a memorable adventure. The vibrant evening atmosphere, with its colorful lights and lively sounds, creates a magical setting. Reddit

Enjoying a quiet cup of Moroccan tea or a shared meal at a small, intimate restaurant can be a perfect way to connect. The sensory richness of the Medina, from the scents of spices to the visual feast of textiles, provides ample conversation starters and shared discoveries. Remember to be respectful of local customs and enjoy the authentic cultural immersion together. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Medina Maze

The Old Medina is renowned for its labyrinthine layout, a characteristic that both charms and challenges visitors. Unlike modern cities, its streets are a complex network of narrow alleys, winding passages, and hidden courtyards. Locals often advise paying attention to hexagonal street signs, which typically indicate a dead end, helping you avoid getting too disoriented. Embracing the possibility of getting lost is part of the authentic experience, leading to unexpected discoveries and a deeper immersion into the local life. Reddit

While getting lost is part of the adventure, it's also wise to be aware of your surroundings. Motorcycles frequently navigate these tight spaces, so maintaining situational awareness is crucial for safety. For those who prefer a more structured exploration, consider hiring a local guide. They can expertly navigate the maze, share historical insights, and point out hidden gems you might otherwise miss. Reddit

Parking is generally available near the entrances of the Old Medina, with some reviewers mentioning spaces even on sandy areas behind bus stops. This makes it accessible for those arriving by car, though once inside, walking is the only way to truly experience its charm. Reddit

Shopping and Treasures

The Old Medina is a vibrant marketplace, offering a diverse array of goods that reflect the region's rich heritage. Visitors can expect to find everything from colorful clothing and handcrafted toys to stylish footwear and intricate imitation jewelry. The sheer volume and variety of items can be overwhelming, making it a treasure trove for souvenir hunters. Reddit

A particular highlight for many is the availability of pure argan oil, celebrated for its culinary and cosmetic benefits. Numerous shops offer this high-quality product, making it a sought-after item for visitors. When shopping, remember that haggling is a common practice. Approach negotiations respectfully and with a friendly demeanor to secure the best prices. Reddit

While the market is full of enticing items, some reviewers offer a word of caution regarding the quality of certain goods, particularly electronics and branded copies. It's advisable to inspect items thoroughly. For a more authentic and reliable experience, focus on traditional crafts, textiles, and local specialties like argan oil. Reddit

Culinary Delights and Caution

Amidst the bustling shopping, the Old Medina offers opportunities to sample local flavors. Small restaurants and food stalls serve delicious Moroccan delicacies, including popular sandwiches and refreshing juices. These eateries provide a welcome respite for weary explorers, allowing them to refuel and soak in the lively atmosphere. Reddit

However, when it comes to street food, some visitors express caution. Reviews suggest that while tempting, the hygiene standards can be questionable, and it's recommended for those with a particularly robust digestive system. For a safer culinary experience, opting for established small restaurants is often advised. Reddit

Enjoying a traditional Moroccan tea is also a quintessential part of the experience. Many establishments offer this refreshing beverage, perfect for a moment of relaxation while people-watching. Exploring the food offerings is an integral part of understanding the local culture and daily life within the Medina. Reddit