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

Is November a good time to visit Fes? If you’re someone who loves mild weather and a quieter atmosphere, November is an ideal month to visit Fes.

The warmth of early autumn is giving way to cooler temperatures as the season transitions into winter. And the chilly nights are perfect for cosying up beside a fireplace at your hotel or riad – something I absolutely love to do!

November is a wonderful time to stroll through the historic medina and search for handcrafted items in the souks and artisan workshops. The reduced crowds make it perfect for visiting the city’s palaces, madrasas and mosques, with less jostling for space or waiting for others to take photographers.

Fewer other tourists also opens up the potential for more affordable hotel and riad rates. This makes visiting Fes in November a little easier on the wallet.

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

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

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

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Fes weather in November

In November, Fes enjoys pleasant daytime temperatures that hover around 21°C (70°F). It’s an ideal time for exploring the city. You can probably get away with single layers when the sun is out. Although I’d recommend something extra to wear in the cooler morning hours.

As night falls, temperatures can dip to around 9°C (48°F). So it’s a good idea to pack a jumper or sweater for your evening adventures.

Fes tends to receive quite a bit of precipitation in November, with around 69 mm of rainfall spread across the month. If you have space in your luggage, I’d suggest packing a waterproof or an umbrella to be on the safe side. That being said, many Fes hotels will provide umbrellas for their guests to use.

Is November a busy time in Fes?

November in Fes is a relatively quiet time. The city settles into a slower pace as the peak tourist season wanes and autumn transitions into winter. The medina, normally buzzing with activity, takes on a more relaxed ambiance, with the narrow lanes and the souks less crowded.

There’s more room to move at the city’s major architectural sites, meaning you can appreciate them without lots of people (and cameras) in the way.

With fewer tourists comes a reduced demand for accommodation. This is a great time to visit Fes if you want to benefit from slightly lower hotel and riad rates. That being said, I wouldn’t leave your bookings until the last minute, particularly if you have your heart set on a particular property. 

What’s on in Fes in November

Moroccan Independence Day 

Each year on November 18, the Kingdom of Morocco celebrates its independence from French colonial rule. This national holiday, known as Fête de l’Indépendance, is marked across the country. Some neighbourhoods host patriotic celebrations, with families and friends gathering for a shared meal while enjoying the day off school and work. 

Best things to do in Fes in November

Exploring the ancient medina of Fes el-Bali is an undisputed highlight of visiting Fes in November. With the mild temperatures, you can wander through the streets and souks for hours. You might just find yourself delightfully lost…and that’s all part of the Fes experience!

Colourful textiles, handcrafted leather goods and gorgeous ceramics decorate the stall fronts, creating scenes that are not just heaven for shoppers but also photographers.

For those who prefer a little company and guidance while they shop, there are dedicated shopping tours available. These take you to hidden workshops and artisan stalls where you can meet the city’s talented craftspeople.

As you wander through the medina, be sure to check out the Bou Inania Madrasa. This 14th-century religious school features stunning zellije tilework, beautifully carved cedar wood and delicate stucco details. Also of note is Al Attarine Madrasa, a newly restored Islamic school near Al Quaraouiyine Mosque.

Another highlight is the Chouara Tannery, where you can witness the age-old art of leather tanning firsthand.

Also worth adding to your self-guided walking tour of Fes is the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts. I also love Dar Batha, a beautifully restored palace that houses an impressive collection of Islamic arts.

Fes is definitely one of the best places in Morocco to take a cooking class. If you find yourself with a rainy day on the horizon, it’s the perfect indoor activity. Aside from family-run experiences in local homes, you can participate in professionally led cooking classes at Palais Amani (they also offer Moroccan baking classes).

With its unique Fassi cuisine, Fes boasts a wide variety of additional tours and experiences designed specifically for foodies. These are great if you don’t necessarily want to get your hands dirty in the kitchen.

As the afternoon begins to fade, climb to the Merenid Tombs for a breathtaking view of the city illuminated by the golden glow of sunset. These ancient ruins were once part of a royal burial site belonging to a dynasty that governed Morocco from the 13th to the 15th centuries.

The Merenid Tombs are a short walk from the Borj Nord Museum. It houses a fascinating collection of European and Middle Eastern weaponry. 

Is November a good time to visit Fes?

November can be a wonderful time to visit Fes, with comfortable daytime temperatures that are perfect for sightseeing. The evenings and early mornings can be chilly. But the crisp air is refreshing and ideal for exploring the city’s medieval architecture, souks and UNESCO-listed medina. 

November also sees fewer tourist crowds compared to the peak summer months. This allows for a more relaxed and authentic experience. You can wander the labyrinthine laneways of the old city at a more leisurely pace and enjoy genuine interactions with locals.

With a decrease in demand for accommodation, you may also be able to take advantage of lower rates at the city’s hotels and riads. Visiting Fes in November can translate into a more budget-friendly Moroccan getaway.

Keep in mind that November does experience some rainfall, so packing a light rain jacket or umbrella is advisable. However, the occasional showers do little to dampen the allure and enchantment of Fes in November. 

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.