When was the last time you explored a city without dodging cars or tuning out the constant blare of horns? In Fes, Morocco, that kind of peace isn’t a luxury—it’s everyday life. Officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the World’s Most Pedestrian-Friendly place, this ancient city reminds you what travel once felt like: slow, intimate, and wonderfully unpredictable.
Inside its medieval medina, cars don’t exist. Instead, you’ll wander through a labyrinth of more than 9,000 alleys, sharing the cobbled paths with locals carrying shopping, shopkeepers calling out their wares, and the occasional donkey hauling goods just as it has for centuries. More than 11,00,000 people live within these car-free walls, making it the largest pedestrian-only urban area anywhere in the world.
The result? A city that feels alive in every sense—vibrant markets heavy with the scent of spices, workshops where artisans hammer copper or dye leather by hand, and hidden courtyards where time seems to stand still. In Fes, walking isn’t just how you get around; it’s how you truly connect with the soul of the place.
The World’s Largest Car-Free Urban Zone
At the heart of Fes lies its legendary medina, a UNESCO-listed walled city that dates back to the 13th century. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in the largest car-free urban area on Earth, home to over 156,000 people. Forget traffic lights—here, narrow cobbled alleys wind through a maze of souks, mosques, workshops, and hidden courtyards.
Instead of engines, you’ll encounter donkeys hauling goods, locals weaving through the crowd, and travelers soaking in the city’s timeless energy. It’s as if someone pressed pause on the modern world.
Why Walking in Fes Feels Magical
1. A Time Capsule of History: Strolling here feels like stepping back centuries, with architecture and traditions preserved in their purest form.
2. Souks Full of Surprises: From rainbow-colored textiles to fragrant piles of saffron and cumin, every turn is a feast for the senses.
3. Cultural Powerhouse: Fes is Morocco’s beating cultural heart, home to landmarks like the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest continuously operating university in the world.
4. A Photographer’s Paradise: Every arched doorway, tiled fountain, and sunlit alley offers a frame-worthy shot.
Tips for Travelers on Foot
- Wear comfy shoes—the cobblestones aren’t forgiving.
- Hire a local guide if you want to unlock the secrets of its 9,000+ alleys.
- Visit early mornings for quieter, more authentic moments before the souks wake up.
- Pause for a glass of refreshing mint tea at a traditional café—it’s practically a ritual here.
The charm doesn’t end at the medina walls. Don’t miss the golden gates of the Royal Palace, the panoramic views from the Merenid Tombs, or the serene Jnan Sbil Gardens—perfect for a slow walk surrounded by nature.
Why Fes Should Be on Your Bucket List
In a world where cities are often built for cars, Fes flips the script. It proves that a city designed for people—walkers, artisans, storytellers—can thrive in the modern age. It’s not just a destination; it’s an experience that redefines what travel should feel like.
So if you’re craving a journey where your feet are the best mode of transport, pack your walking shoes—Fes, Morocco, is calling.
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