Fes Palais Royal (Dar El Makhzen) – Visiting the Fez Royal Palace Doors

Before my visit to Fez, my Pinterest boards and Instagram were filled with incredible Moroccan architecture. 

I lusted after those gorgeous tiles, beautiful patterns, archways, and streets filled with colourful buildings and bazaars. 

However, the one place I was most excited to see was the famous golden Fez Royal Palace doors.

Although you cannot go inside the palace, it is still worth a visit to see that spectacular set of arched doors in all different sizes at Place des Alaouites.

The architecture, including the brass details and tiles, will take your breath away and make a fantastic photo opportunity.

Here’s a complete guide for visiting Fes Palais Royal and the famous golden palace doors. 

What is Palais Royal Fes?

Dar al-Makhzen in Fes translates in Arabic to the ‘House of the Makhzen’. It is the official Royal residence of the King of Morocco. 

It is surrounded by high walls to protect the Moroccan Royal family and, if you can believe it, spans an area of 195 acres!

Inside the palace, you’ll find a mosque, a cookery school, accommodation for the Moroccan Royal Guard, a library, and the College Royal.

You’ll also find a huge planned garden inspired by both Arabic and French influences.  

Fes Palais Royal history

The Royal Palace of Fez was built in the 13th century in the Fes el Jadid quarter of the city. 

This area was established as the “New Fez” with the rise of the Marinid dynasty, which took over the throne in 1276.

However, most of what we see today is a palace constructed from the 17th to the 20th century by the Alouite Sultans.

The main reconstruction was in 1864, when Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah replaced the old palace created by Sultan Muhamad IV. 

This was when France controlled Morocco. Therefore, they wanted the Sultan to move into the palace in support of the new alliance. 

After Morocco gained independence in 1956, Fes Palais Royal remained the official royal residence of the King of Morocco.

Shortly afterwards, King Hassan II restored the entranceways and built a new grand square or Mechouar. 

This was called Place des Alaouites, and the fabulous golden gates were constructed here in 1969 – 71. 

Who lives in Fez Royal Palace?

The palace still serves as the residence of the Moroccan Royal Family. Therefore, it is an extremely important symbol in the country. 

It was the birthplace of the late King Hassan II and also the location of the royal wedding between King Mohammed VI and Princess Lalla Salma. 

King Mohammed VI of Morocco has lived in the palace with his family since 1999.

The Moroccan Royal family includes Princess Consort Lalla Salma. The first wife of a Moroccan King to be publicly acknowledged and given a royal title.

However, she hasn’t been seen in public since 2017. So, many people call her the “ghost princess”.

Also in the Royal family are the Crown Prince of Morocco, Moulay Hassan, and Princess Lalla Khadija. 

Can you go inside Fes Royal Palace? 

No, unfortunately, the palace is strictly closed off to visitors at this time. Even when the Royal Family is not in residence. 

However, many people make a quick stop outside the palace to see the fabulous Fez Royal Palace doors in Place des Alaouites.

Even if you’re not on a guided tour, I’d still recommend stopping at Palais Royal on your Fez itinerary, as no visit would be complete without it. 

Fez Royal Palace doors

Unless you have a special invite to go inside the palace, the closest that tourists can ever get is the grand gateway outside. 

In the 1960s, King Hassan II decided to move the Royal Palace entrance from the Old Mechouar. This used to be in the North by the Ville Nouvelle.

He built a new grand square (New Mechouar) called Place des Alaouites in the south, and the ornate gates to the palace were constructed in 1969. 

This lavish gateway is considered one of the finest pieces of Moroccan architecture and showcases traditional craftwork.

You’ll find the huge gilt brass doors (Ormulu) decorated with geometric patterns and intricate brass door handles.

Beautiful blue mosaic tiles (Zellige) surround them, along with carved Cedarwood.

There are seven gates in total, in all different sizes, with different tiles and designs. But most people focus on the three largest in the central gate.

These are by far the most impressive of all seven doors, and you’ll be amazed that they are humongous in real life.

Best time to visit

• You’ll find lots of tourists in front of the gates all day. If you want photos without the crowds, I’d get here as early as possible.

• This place is patrolled by Royal Guards 24 hours a day, every day. They may shout at you if you get too close to the doors.

• Don’t take photos of anything other than the doors, especially the Royal Guards.

• If you do arrive and the square is really busy, there are more doors than just the main three.

Opening times and entry fee

Fes Palais Royal is open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

There are no restrictions on visiting the doors unless the Royal Guards specify otherwise. 

It’s also completely free to visit the gates.

Where is the Fes Palais Royal?

The Royal Palace is located a little further out of the Old Medina in the Fes el Jadid quarter.

Since most hotels and riads are in and around the Old City, it will be a bit of a walk to get there. 

Also, keep in mind that the royal palace covers 195 acres. Fes Palais Royal has two entrance gates.

The one with the huge golden gates is the Place des Alouites, on the south side of the palace.

How to get there

The cheapest way to get to the Fez Royal Palace would be to walk. But, as before, it will take you around 30-45 minutes to get there. 

Since I knew I wanted to take photos early in the morning, I opted for a taxi to the royal palace. 

You can easily hop into any of the red taxis outside of the Old Medina, and they can take you there. Just remember to confirm a price.

Things to do in Fes

Fes isn’t as glamorous as Marrakesh, but it is richer in so many ways, and you can get far more cultural experiences like this one. 

Plenty of attractions are hidden away in the Medina like Bou Inania Madrassa, Chouara Tannery, and the Marinid Tombs. 

If you’re looking for some amazing places to eat, you can start off at the famous Café Clock, which is known for its camel burgers.

Where to stay in Fes

Fes is full of riads and hotels, and it can be hard to know what to book, as it seems like there’s an endless choice.

But there are a few I would highly recommend you check out:

• Dar Seffarine –  This family-run property used to be a palace that fell into ruin. Now, it’s been restored. Click here to read my full review.

• Riad Fes – This 5* property has jaw-dropping decor and another incredible view from the rooftop. Click here to read my review.

Read my Morocco guides

The ultimate 2 weeks in Morocco itinerary

The top things I wish I knew before travelling to Morocco

What to wear in Morocco as a woman

Solo female travel tips for Morocco

Top things to do in Essaouira

Taking a Sahara Desert Tour from Marrakesh

Top places to visit in Chefchaouen

Save Fez Royal Palace doors for later