Fez was founded by Moulay Idriss I more than 1,200 years ago and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited medieval settlements in the world. Morocco's second largest city is divided into distinct parts, including the typical old walled city (Fes-el-Bali) and a French-built new town area (Ville Nouvelle). There is also a Royal city area and the world's first example of a 'Mellah' - a walled Jewish quarter - called Fes-Jdid.

Fes-el-Bali enjoys UNESCO World Heritage status and has an entirely car-free Medina. Rather than having been designated as a pedestrianised area, the twisting streets and alleys are simply too narrow for cars to pass; even horse-drawn carriages are too wide. You are likely to see pack mules carrying goods - the only viable transportation system in this part of the city, which hasn't changed for centuries.