Is February a good time to visit Fes? Having visited Fes in winter, I think it’s truly one of the most enchanting times in the city. Yes, the temperatures are chilly (think mid-teens Celsius during the day) but there are open fireplaces to warm up beside and a much more relaxed atmosphere than in the busy summer months. With fewer visitors, February is the perfect time to visit Fes if you prefer a crowd-free experience, which is exactly what I seek out.
In February, Fes el Bali (the city’s UNESCO-listed medina) is much quieter than during the busy spring and autumn seasons. This allows for a more peaceful exploration of its winding alleys, artisan souks and historic madrasas, as well as greater opportunities to connect with the locals you meet along the way. Not only is the winter light gorgeous for photography but you don’t have to compete with endless crowds to capture the perfect shots.
Although January experiences slightly more rainfall than other months, the showers are typically short-lived and you’re never far from an awning to duck under if the skies do open. Due to the reduced demand, you may benefit from lower prices on accommodations and flights, making a winter visit to Fes an ideal choice for those craving an authentic Moroccan experience on a budget.
In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Fes in February, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Fes in February to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
Planning a longer Moroccan winter escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in February here.
To learn more about things to see and do in the medina and beyond, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Fes.
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Fes weather in February
Fes in winter can be chilly and while February isn’t the coldest month (that’s January), it’s still definitely not warm! Temperatures hover around 11°C (52°F) throughout the month, with daily highs climbing to around 17°C (62°F) in the afternoon. Mornings and evenings are usually crisp, as the mercury dips to an average low of 7°C (44°F) during the night.
Although Fes is relatively dry compared to Morocco’s coastal cities, February does bring some rain, with an average of 60.55 mm (2.38 in) of precipitation across the month. So not only should you bring warm layers for exploring medina but also a waterproof jacket in case you get caught in the rain. Alternatively, you can brave it without and simply duck into a cafe for a steaming hot glass of mint tea if the skies open up!
Top tip: If I’m visiting Fes in winter, I always opt to stay at a riad with a fireplace as cosying up beside them is one of my favourite pastimes. Check out Riad Al Bartal, Riad Tizwa or Riad Semlalia if you’d like to do the same.
Visiting Fes in February
Views across Fes from the terrace of Riad Semlalia (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Is February a busy time in Fes?
February tends to be a quieter month for tourism in Fes, especially when compared to the busy summer and autumn seasons. That being said, there is often an uptick in the number of families visiting due to the mid-term school break in some European countries.
This serene atmosphere makes it an ideal time to discover the city, provided you're comfortable with cooler temperatures. If you’re happy to rug up and brave the cold, you’ll enjoy reduced crowds while wandering the medina and visiting the city’s most popular sites. This also enables more opportunities to connect with locals and chat with artisans as they won’t be so pressed for time.
With fewer tourists heading to Fes in winter, accommodation prices may be slightly reduced, allowing for a more affordable stay. That being said, you should be aware that some restaurants may have reduced hours or even close during the month (there will be enough open, however, that you won't starve!)
Overall, if you're looking for a tranquil experience in this historic city, visiting Fes in January can provide a unique and memorable off-season adventure.
Winter in Fes
What’s on in Fes in February
February is a relatively quiet month in Fes, with few events taking place across the city. There are no public holidays in February in Morocco and it’s too cold for the music festivals that ignite the city in the warmer months. In my opinion, one of the best things to do in Fes in January is to take a cooking class, with these culinary workshops held throughout the month (rain, hail or shine) at cooking schools and riads across the city.
Cooking classes
As the "Culinary Capital of Morocco", Fes is a must-visit destination for foodies and the perfect place to do a cooking class. Not only will you learn the secrets of traditional Moroccan cuisine but also the Fassi specialties of Fes. Under the guidance of skilled local chefs, you'll have the opportunity to create authentic dishes like aromatic tagines, fluffy couscous and hearty harira soup using fresh, seasonal ingredients. The hands-on experience is not only educational but also deeply satisfying, as you get to savour the delicious fruits of your labour at the end of the class.
Is February a good time to visit Fes?
Best things to do in Fes in January
With fewer tourists and a lack of heat in the air, January is a great time to explore Fes el Bali, the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina. In its winding streets, you'll find everything from artisan workshops to enticing food stalls, as well as impressive mosques, palaces and madrasas. Highlights include the University of Al Quaraouiyine and the Al Attarine Madrasa, as well as the Bou Inania Madrasa and the Choura Tannery (one of the longest-operating tanneries in the world).
For a deeper understanding of Fes' multicultural heritage, consider taking a guided tour of the Mellah, the city's historic Jewish quarter. Here, you'll find well-preserved synagogues, a cemetery and a museum dedicated to the history of the Jewish community in Fes. Alternatively, you can embark on a day trip to the Imperial city of Meknes and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, including a visit to the holy town of Moulay Idriss.
The cold January weather in Fes makes this the ideal time of year to enjoy a traditional hammam steam bath, a cherished practice for cleansing and rejuvenation in Morocco. You can choose to visit a local hammam (find out more here) or treat yourself to a spa-like hammam, many of which provide body scrubs and massages as part of their service offerings.
Is February a good time to visit Fes?
Is February a good time to visit Fes?
In my opinion, February can be a fantastic time to visit Fes, especially if you don't mind the chilly weather like me! With fewer tourists around, you can enjoy a far more relaxed experience in the medina and take in the city sites without swarms of other people. For photographers, the winter light is really atmospheric and you can capture images without so many interruptions.
Additionally, planning a winter trip to Fes in February might reward you with lower prices on flights and accommodations, provided you book early. While some restaurants may close up shop during the month due to reduced demand, you’ll still find plenty of places to eat. And there’s something really enchanting about cosying up beside a fireplace at night - something you can easily do in Fes in winter.
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About the author
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 majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.