MEKNES: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Welcome to Meknes, a city that doesn’t always get the spotlight like Fes or Marrakech - but that’s part of its charm. If you love history, you’re in for a treat. Meknes has this laid-back feel, yet it’s packed with fascinating stories, from the grandeur of Sultan Moulay Ismail’s rule to the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis (which are absolutely worth the short trip). The medina is calmer, the architecture is stunning, and the history is incredible.
To help you make the most of your trip, this detailed guide covers everything you need for an unforgettable visit.
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MEKNES HIGHLIGHTS
Visiting Meknes? These are the spots you definitely don’t want to miss:
Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail – The final resting place of the sultan who made Meknes an imperial city. The zellij tiles, the grand arches, the peaceful courtyards - every detail here is mesmerizing.
Bab Mansour & El Hedim Square – One of Morocco’s most striking gates leading into a lively square. Grab a mint tea and watch the world go by - sunset here is magical.
Heri es-Souani & Royal Stables – Built to store grain and house 12,000 horses, these ruins are massive. Even in their current state, the scale is mind-blowing.
Volubilis – Ancient Roman ruins just outside Meknes, and one of the best-preserved in North Africa. The mosaics alone make it worth the trip, but the whole place feels like stepping into another era.
Moulay Idriss – A peaceful hilltop town with whitewashed buildings and a sacred history.
GETTING TO AND AROUND MEKNES
Getting to and around Meknes is simple. Here’s what you need to know:
Petit Taxis – Super affordable and easy to find. They’re great for getting around the city, but always check if the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand.
Grand Taxis – The best way to get to Volubilis or Moulay Idriss. If you’re on a budget, a shared taxi is the way to go, but if you prefer more flexibility, you can pay extra for a private ride.
Car rental – Worth considering if you’re planning a bigger trip, like heading into the Middle Atlas Mountains.
Train Travel – Meknes is well-connected, with direct trains from Rabat (2.5 hours), Casablanca (3 hours), and Fes (45 minutes), making it easy to reach from major cities.
Airport Transfers – The nearest airport is Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ), about an hour’s drive away. Taxis and private transfers are the best options for getting to Meknes from there.
Day Trip from Fes? If you're short on time, just join a guided tour and explore Meknes, Volubilis, and Moulay Idriss in one unforgettable day. With transport and logistics handled, all you have to do is enjoy.
MEKNES ITINERARY
Most people stop in Meknes for a quick visit, and while a lot can be seen in a day, there's much more to discover. Day 1 covers the must-see highlights, while additional options are included in Day 2 if you have more time to explore.
DAY 1
Morning: Head out to Volubilis, about 30 minutes from Meknes, and get ready for some serious time travel. This ancient Roman city is one of the best-preserved in North Africa, with stunning mosaics, towering columns, and remnants of grand villas.
If you can, hire a guide - they’ll bring the history to life with stories of Roman life in Morocco.
Lunch: Make your way to Moulay Idriss, just 10 minutes away - a picturesque hilltop town and one of Morocco’s most sacred sites. It’s much quieter than Meknes, with whitewashed buildings cascading down the hillside. Take a little time to explore before heading to lunch.
For a memorable lunch, head to Scorpion House - this private home-turned-restaurant, owned by Mike Richardson (the founder of Café Clock), has incredible panoramic views and serves up Moroccan flavors with a modern touch. The setting? Absolutely stunning. Just make sure to book ahead - this spot is reservation-only.
Afternoon: Back in Meknes, it’s time to visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail - the final resting place of the sultan who turned Meknes into an imperial city. The architecture is breathtaking - every detail here is mesmerizing. And since it’s one of the rare religious sites open to non-Muslims, it’s a must-visit.
Then, head to Heri es-Souani & the Royal Stables, a massive granary and stable complex once built to house 12,000 horses. Even in ruins, the sheer scale is jaw-dropping and a true testament to Meknes’ imperial past.
Evening: Head to Bab Mansour, one of Morocco’s grandest gates, then step into El Hedim Square, where you’ll find lively cafés and market stalls. Grab a seat at Café Restaurant Place Lahdim and order a cup of mint tea - watching the sunset here feels magical.
DAY 2
Staying longer? Here are some extra activities you can pick and choose from:
Descend into Kara Prison – A mysterious underground prison said to have once held thousands of captives. With its dimly lit corridors and endless chambers, it’s an eerie yet fascinating piece of Meknes’ history.
Get lost in the Meknes Medina – The souks here are more relaxed than in Fes or Marrakech, but still full of charm. Explore the stalls, shop for unique handicrafts, and take in the local atmosphere.
Admire Medersa Bou Inania – A small but beautiful madrasa with intricate tilework and carved cedar wood. It’s not as grand as the ones in Fes or Marrakech, but it’s a peaceful spot worth stepping into.
Visit Dar Jamai Museum – If you love traditional Moroccan crafts, this is a great stop. The woodwork, ceramics, and textiles here give a real sense of Meknes’ artistry.
Escape to the Middle Atlas towns – Head into the mountains and explore Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland”, the Berber town of Azrou, and the peaceful charm of Imouzer - a perfect break from the city. Prefer a private tour? You can find out more here.
Climb up to Borj Belkari – One of Meknes’ old watchtowers, offering sweeping views over the city. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path spot with great photo opportunities, this is it.
WHERE TO STAY
Riads are an essential part of the Moroccan experience, offering charm and authenticity in every detail. Here are a few that stand out:
Riad La Maison D'à Côté – A stylish boutique riad with a rooftop perfect for evening views. It’s small, intimate, and has just the right balance of comfort and character.
Riad Yacout – A charming riad with a rooftop terrace and warm hospitality right in the heart of the medina. If you want to be close to everything and still have a peaceful retreat, this is a great pick.
Riad El Ma – A peaceful riad with beautiful interiors and a lush courtyard garden. If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing stay with a touch of traditional charm, this is a solid choice.
For a different kind of stay, just outside the city:
Château Roslane Boutique Hotel & Spa – If you’re looking for an elegant escape just outside the city, this place is a great choice. It’s set in a vineyard, has a spa, and offers a peaceful retreat away from the bustle of Meknes.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Why is Meknes famous?
Meknes is one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, shaped by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. He turned it into a grand capital, leaving behind Bab Mansour (one of Morocco’s most beautiful gates), the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the vast Royal Stables. But what makes Meknes special isn’t just its history - it’s the laid-back atmosphere. Unlike Fes or Marrakech, the medina here is quieter, less overwhelming, and easier to explore. Plus, it’s the perfect gateway to Volubilis, one of North Africa’s best-preserved Roman ruins.
Is Meknes, Morocco worth visiting?
If you love history, there’s plenty to uncover - from imperial palaces to Roman ruins. But even if history isn’t your thing, Meknes is a great place to experience Morocco without the crowds. The medina is smaller, more relaxed, and still packed with traditional souks, beautiful riads, and stunning architecture. It’s also more affordable than Fes or Marrakech, making it a great spot to slow down and enjoy the local vibe. Plus, if you're in Fes, Meknes is just an hour away by train, so it’s an easy addition to your itinerary.
How many days to visit Meknes?
You can see the highlights in a day, but if you want to slow down and take it all in, two days is ideal - that way, you can wander the medina at a relaxed pace and visit more historic sites. Have extra time? A third day is perfect for a trip to the Middle Atlas towns, where you can explore Ifrane, Azrou, and Imouzer. Many travelers visit Meknes as a day trip from Fes, but staying overnight offers a chance to experience the city when it’s quieter and more atmospheric - that’s when Meknes is at its best.
How much is a taxi from Meknes to Volubilis?
A grand taxi (shared taxi) costs around 30-50 MAD ($3-$5 USD) per person one way and departs from Meknes’ grand taxi station when full. If you prefer a private taxi, expect to pay 200-300 MAD ($20-$30 USD) for a round trip, depending on your negotiation skills. Most drivers will wait while you explore before driving you back. Want a more in-depth experience? Some guided tours include a stop in Moulay Idriss and usually cost 400-600 MAD ($40-$60 USD) per person. The drive to Volubilis takes about 40 minutes, making a taxi or tour the easiest option.
For reference, 1 MAD is roughly equivalent to $0.10 USD, so you can quickly estimate costs while exploring Morocco.
BEYOND MEKNES
Meknes has plenty to explore, but if you have extra time, there are some amazing places nearby that are well worth the trip.
Fes – Walking through Fes el-Bali feels like stepping into another era. This medieval city is home to Al Quaraouiyine, the world’s oldest university, and the famous tanneries, where leather is still dyed the traditional way. The maze-like streets, historic madrasas, and endless artisan shops make it a place you could get lost in for hours. If you're planning a trip, we’ve put together a full guide to help you explore.
Rabat – Often overlooked, Rabat is a breath of fresh air. From the striking Hassan Tower to the serene Andalusian Gardens and the cliffside Kasbah of the Udayas, this coastal capital has a quieter, more laid-back vibe than Morocco’s bigger cities. We’ve created a detailed guide with everything you need to know before you go.
Chefchaouen – There’s something almost surreal about Chefchaouen. The winding blue-washed streets, stunning mountain backdrop, and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the most unique places in Morocco. If this magical town is on your list, we’ve got a full guide to help you make the most of your visit.
Casablanca – More than just Morocco’s biggest city, Casablanca is where old meets new. The Hassan II Mosque, perched over the Atlantic, is a must-see, but there’s more to this city than its landmarks. Stroll through the Habous Quarter for a mix of tradition and modernity, or dive into the thriving food and art scene. Want to experience it all? We’ve put together a detailed itinerary to help you out.