Morocco’s timeless city takes global spotlight in Condé Nast Traveller ranking
Photo by Matt Dany on Unsplash
The Moroccan city of Fès has been officially listed among the best travel destinations for 2026 by Condé Nast Traveller, one of the world’s leading travel magazines. The ranking places Fès in the top six, alongside destinations such as Arusha in Tanzania and Brussels in Belgium, a sign that Morocco’s heritage capital continues to fascinate global travelers.
A Living Museum of Heritage and Craftsmanship
Fès earned its spot thanks to its unmatched cultural depth and architectural revival projects. The city is home to the University of al-Qarawiyyin, recognized as the oldest operating university in the world, and a number of recently restored landmarks including Place Lalla Yeddouna, shortlisted for the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture.
Beyond monuments, the heartbeat of Fès lies in its living crafts, traditional leatherwork, brass engraving, and zellige artistry, all practiced in the medina’s labyrinthine lanes. Staying in a riad here feels like stepping back in time, yet wrapped in genuine Moroccan warmth.
A Boost for Tourism and Cultural Preservation
The recognition by Condé Nast Traveller is expected to strengthen Morocco’s international image as a destination where heritage and modern travel intersect. As travelers increasingly seek meaningful experiences, Fès offers authenticity and depth rather than spectacle.
According to Morocco’s Tourism Observatory, the country attracted 8.9 million visitors in the first half of 2025, a 19 percent rise compared to 2024, proof that Morocco’s tourism strategy is delivering results. This new spotlight on Fès will likely accelerate cultural investments, support local artisans, and bring more life into restored historical districts.
A Win for Moroccan Tourism and Cultural Identity
For Morocco, the selection of Fès among the world’s best destinations goes far beyond travel trends, it reflects a renewed global appreciation for cultural identity. It confirms that Morocco’s future as a tourism powerhouse lies not only in its beaches or luxury resorts but also in its medinas, history, and people.
This recognition also aligns with national efforts to diversify tourism in anticipation of major global events such as AFCON 2025 and the 2030 World Cup, where Morocco will welcome millions of international visitors.
Fès, the “city of knowledge,” thus becomes a symbol of how Morocco blends tradition and transformation, offering travelers a journey through the past that feels remarkably alive today.
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