Visiting Fes in October: Weather + Festivals + Things to Do

Is October a good time to visit Fes? If you’re looking for mild weather and fewer tourists, October is a fantastic time to explore Fes.

The intense summer heat has faded, leaving behind warm autumn days that are perfect for sightseeing, without the need for heavy layers. This is Morocco’s shoulder season at its best!

Visiting Fes in October is perfect for wandering through the narrow streets of the ancient medina and hunting for handcrafted goods in the souks and artisan workshops. The cooler climate also makes it a great time to visit the city’s stunning palaces, madrasas and mosques. However, you should be prepared for the occasional shower.

With less demand for places to stay, you may find better deals at some of the best hotels and riads in Fes. This means visiting Fes in October can translate to a budget-friendly vacation. 

In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Fes in October, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Fes in October to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary. 

Planning a longer Moroccan escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in October here.

For more information about visiting this ancient, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Fes.

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Fes weather in October

In October, Fes experiences mild temperatures averaging around 27°C (80°F) during the day. It’s absolutely perfect for sightseeing!

In the evening, the mercury drops to around 14°C (57°F). So I’d recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater to layer up for nighttime outings. 

Compared to September, you can expect a slight increase in rainfall, with moderate precipitation throughout October. It’s wise to bring a waterproof or an umbrella if you have space in your luggage. That being said, there are plenty of awnings to duck under if you do get caught in a surprise shower. 

Is October a busy time in Fes?

By October, things are starting to quieten down in Fes. Although I wouldn’t say it’s crowd-free.

October forms part of the shoulder season in Morocco, making it an ideal time to visit for those seeking a more relaxed experience. While the city remains lively, the throngs of tourists that descend upon Fes during the peak summer months and early autumn have largely dissipated.

As demand for accommodations and tours decreases, you may find more competitive hotel/riad rates and a wider range of options available.

That being said, I wouldn’t leave your bookings until the last minute. This is particularly true if you’re looking to stay at one of Fes’ most sought-after riads. These boutique properties usually have very limited rooms!

What’s on in Fes in October

October tends to be a quiet month for large-scale events in Fes. At the time of writing, there were no major celebrations or festivals on the calendar.

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t things happening in the city. You just might need to keep an ear to the ground (or an eye on posters) to discover pop-up exhibitions and live music nights taking place.

I’d also recommend asking the staff at your riad or hotel if they know of any local events that are scheduled during your October trip to Fes. 

Best things to do in Fes in October

One of the best things to do in Fes in October is wander through Fes el-Bali and get lost among the bustling souks. Here you’ll find everything from colourful textiles to aromatic spices and handcrafted ceramics. The shopping in Fes really is incredible!

Even the tiniest hole-in-the-wall places can reveal beautifully crafted goods. Fes is an incredible place to shop if you’re after one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts.

If you don’t want to go it alone, you can find guided shopping experiences. These access hidden workshops and artisan stores where you can connect with local craftspeople. 

While exploring the medina, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Bou Inania Madrasa. This 14th-century religious school is adorned with elaborate zellije tiles, carved cedar and stucco work.

Also of note is Al Attarine Madrasa, a newly restored religious school near Al Quaraouiyine Mosque.

The Chouara Tannery is another must-see. Here you can observe the centuries-old craft of leather tanning in action and browse high-quality leather goods.

If you’re interested in Moroccan artistry, consider visiting the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts. Alternatively, head to Dar Batha, a beautifully restored palace with an Andalusian-style garden.

In my opinion, Fes is one of the best places in Morocco to take a cooking class. Why? The city boasts a cuisine all its own – Fassi. You can opt for a laid-back, family-run experience or enrol in one of the professionally led cooking classes at Palais Amani.

Aside from cooking classes, there are numerous other food tours and experiences available in Fes. These don’t require you to get your hands dirty in the kitchen. Check out my article here to learn more.

In the late afternoon, make your way to the Merenid Tombs. Here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city bathed in a golden glow as the sun sets over Fes. These crumbling ruins once formed part of the royal necropolis of a dynasty that ruled Morocco from the 13th to 15th centuries. 

If you only have one day to explore Fes, check out my suggested itinerary here.

Is October a good time to visit Fes?

If you’re seeking mild temperatures and fewer crowds, visiting October in Fes is ideal. While the sweltering heat of summer has passed, the days are still warm enough for comfortable sightseeing (without having to layer up). Plus, there’s only the occasional rain shower expected.

In my opinion, the weather in October is ideal for getting lost in the winding lanes of the ancient medina and shopping for handcrafted treasures in the souks. You can also explore the city’s magnificent palaces, madrasas and mosques without building up a sweat. These are (for me) a highlight of visiting Fes in October.

With reduced demand for accommodation in October, there’s also the opportunity to score better rates at hotels and riads. All of this adds up to a more relaxed and affordable Moroccan escape. 

About Me

I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.

Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.

I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.