Fes el-Jdid (New Fes)

Fes el-Jdid is calmer than Fes el-Bali, with the Jewish Quarter and Royal Palace exterior. Less touristy means fewer services but less harassment too. Worth a half-day visit.

Fes el-Jdid dates to 1276 - 'new city' when it was built, now over 700 years old but the name stuck. It centers on the Royal Palace with its golden gates (can't go inside, just exterior viewing). The main thing here is the Mellah, Morocco's oldest Jewish quarter from 1438. Most Jewish residents left for Israel, but the architecture stayed - buildings with wrought iron balconies facing the street instead of the inward-facing courtyards you see in Muslim homes. The Ibn Danan Synagogue and Jewish cemetery are well maintained. It's calmer than Fes el-Bali. Wider streets, fewer tourists, less chaos. Traditional jewelers here continue the craft the Jewish community started centuries back. Café Calairis does good breakfast 7-11:30 AM with a local feel. Police are around the Royal Palace during the day. You'll deal with fewer fake guides and pushy vendors than in the main medina. Still, head to Ville Nouvelle or your accommodation once evening hits rather than walking around in the dark. Less touristy means even less English than Fes el-Bali.