Fez el Bali: exploring the streets and alleys of the old medina is top of most people’s lists when they visit Fez. The complex network of small lanes is too narrow for motor vehicles and getting lost is part of the experience. Watch out for the donkeys and carts laden with goods that try to push past the crowds.

The market is full of overwhelming smells, sights and noises that make it so unique. The famous tanneries have been around since the Middle Ages, and the large vats of colourful dyes and water creeks are not to be missed. If you don't want to risk getting lost then it's best to organise a guide from your hotel. They can quickly show you the main sites so that you don't miss anything.

Some of the items worth looking out for are the rugs and carpets, leather goods, copper and brassware. The cobalt-blue ceramics can be purchased from the Les potteries de Fez factory. It's worth a trip to see how they make these beautiful pieces. There are some good shops along avenue Mohammed V that have numerous artefacts at fixed prices. They are useful if you don't want to haggle with the normal outlets, or to give you a good idea of prices.