Nomadic Tales My perception of small countries is that the chances of finding a secluded spot to pitch a tent without being seen are very low. The land tends to be expensive and fully utilized, and I imagined that landowners wouldn’t appreciate tents on property they’ve paid dearly for. I resisted the temptation to try even a single night of wild camping in Switzerland, fearing a hefty fine. However, I did camp in Luxembourg, not one, but two nights. In Kehl, Germany, just across the river from Strasbourg, I managed one night of wild camping, but it was far from comfortable. Two men walking in the distance kept watching me for about half an hour. Despite my green tent blending into the grassy ground with a forested backdrop, and being 400 meters from the road, they appeared suspicious, stepping left and right, perhaps trying to get a better view. Since wild camping is generally frowned upon in Germany, I usually avoid it, but I wanted to try anyway. I had spent a full week near ...
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| An elderly man rides a donkey past the Royal Palace gate in Fez |
Top Things to Do in Fez and How to Avoid Tourist Prices While Exploring
Fez, Morocco’s oldest imperial city, is a dream destination for travelers looking to step back in time. Exploring the labyrinth-like medina, centuries-old tanneries, and vibrant souks are just a few of the unforgettable things to do in Fez. But for many tourists, there’s a hidden anxiety that comes with exploring this historic city—how do you enjoy shopping and sightseeing without falling into the “tourist trap” of overpaying?
It’s a common dilemma: you want to respect local vendors, but you also don’t want to walk away feeling like you’ve been charged double the local rate. Whether you’re buying fresh oranges at the market or haggling for a handcrafted rug, the fear of offending someone—or worse, getting scammed—can take away from an otherwise incredible experience.
The good news? Bargaining is part of daily life in Fez. Locals expect it, and with a little preparation, you can feel more confident, avoid overspending, and fully enjoy everything the city has to offer. In this guide, we’ll walk through some of the best things to do in Fez and show you how to master the art of smart bargaining along the way.
Get Lost in the Fez Medina—and Learn to Shop Like a Local
The Fez medina (Fes el-Bali) is one of the world’s largest car-free urban zones and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s easy to get lost—and that’s part of the charm. But when it comes to navigating the markets and stalls, it’s also where knowing how to bargain smartly can save you money and stress.
Tips for Bargaining Confidently:
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Do your homework first. Take a quick look online or ask your hotel for a ballpark price before buying anything.
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Start lower than you're willing to pay. It’s a game. The vendor names a high price, you counter with a lower one, and you meet somewhere in the middle.
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Smile and stay polite. Being friendly goes a long way and helps create a relaxed atmosphere for negotiation.
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Know when to walk away. Often, this is when the best price is suddenly offered.
To get better at this, try using tools like Bargain – Travel Smart. It’s an interactive way to train your instincts around pricing and understand how much everyday items should cost locally—so you feel more in control when it counts.
Visit the Chouara Tannery—One of the Iconic Things to Do in Fez—Without Overpaying for Leather Goods
The Chouara Tannery is a must-see—and it’s also one of the most notorious spots for price markups on leather bags, jackets, and slippers. Vendors here are persuasive, and while many sell high-quality products, the first price you hear is rarely the best one.
How to Shop Smart at the Tannery:
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Skip the guide unless you’ve arranged one beforehand. Unofficial “guides” may lead you to specific shops expecting commission.
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Compare before buying. Look at multiple stores to get a sense of pricing. You’ll notice that similar items vary in cost.
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Use local currency. This helps you understand the value better—and can reduce the price just by showing you’re not a total novice.
With a bit of prep, including practice estimating fair prices with something like Bargain – Travel Smart, you’ll be more confident in knowing what’s worth paying for.
Explore the Bou Inania Madrasa and Other Cultural Gems
Not everything in Fez needs to be bargained for—entrance to sites like the Bou Inania Madrasa, Dar Batha Museum, or Al-Qarawiyyin University is usually fixed. But understanding fair costs for things like taxi rides, refreshments, or souvenirs nearby can make the entire experience smoother.
Examples of What Locals Pay vs. Tourists:
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Mint tea at a local café: Locals may pay 5–7 MAD; tourists might be asked for 15–20 MAD.
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Taxi from the medina to the train station: Locals pay around 15–20 MAD; tourists often pay 30+ MAD if they don’t ask for the meter.
Learning local pricing helps you politely push back and ask for what’s fair—without creating tension.
Practical Tips to Avoid Paying Tourist Prices in Fez
If you're worried about overpaying, here are practical, everyday strategies you can use during your trip:
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Carry small bills. This makes it easier to stick to your price when bargaining.
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Use local language basics. Even a few words in Arabic or French like shukran (thank you) or kam thamano? (how much is it?) show you’ve made an effort.
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Watch locals. See how they shop, how long they negotiate, and how they walk away when prices are too high.
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Take your time. Don’t feel rushed to buy on the spot. Vendors expect some hesitation.
And again, if you're someone who prefers to practice beforehand, Bargain – Travel Smart offers simulations that help you learn how to gauge prices based on location, product type, and currency. It’s a low-pressure way to build your instincts before you ever set foot in a market.
Why Bargaining Isn’t Rude in Fez—It’s Expected
In Western culture, haggling might feel awkward or even rude. But in Fez, it’s all part of the game. Vendors enjoy the back-and-forth, and it’s how many make their living. Think of it like a friendly exchange rather than a confrontation.
Here’s how to bargain respectfully:
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Don’t get angry or accuse someone of scamming you.
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Respect their final price if they’ve clearly said they can’t go lower.
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If you feel unsure, walk away—there are usually more options around the corner.
By preparing in advance and approaching it with the right mindset, you’ll enjoy shopping in Fez more and feel less like a walking target.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Best Things to Do in Fez—Like a Local
Fez is a city that invites exploration—through its alleys, souks, historic sites, and sensory-rich experiences. But to fully enjoy your time here, understanding how to handle money matters and bargaining culture is key.
By using tools like Bargain – Travel Smart, learning about local prices, and practicing polite, confident negotiation, you can experience Fez on your terms—without fear of overpaying or offending anyone.
Want to learn more about how to travel smarter around the world? Take a few minutes to explore other tips and tools that can help you feel more confident in any culture. After all, travel is better when you feel prepared.
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