THINGS TO DO IN meknes: 1-DAY ITINERARY

Often overlooked by tourists, Meknes definitely feels a lot more authentic and untouched than other Imperial Cities of Morocco (Rabat, Fès, and Marrakech). This scenic hilltop city in northern Morocco is known for its medina, authentic boutique hotels situated inside beautiful riads, and a large mausoleum which is the final resting place of Moulay Ismail.

Explore the UNESCO-stamped ancient medina and its narrow streets lined with historical sites and souks. You can also visit the nearby ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Another thing that is appealing about Meknes is the collection of magnificent gates it has.

This in-depth 1-day travel itinerary highlights some of the best tourist attractions in Meknes and offers tips on where to eat and where to sleep.

Day 1

Morning: The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail

Your first stop in the morning is the final resting place of the great Moroccan ruler, Moulay Ismail. With a few interconnected courtyards decorated with marble columns and a beautiful fountain, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is one of the city’s most important historical landmarks. Step inside the tomb hall to admire the beauty of its nicely decorated interiors. The mausoleum is open to non-Muslim visitors except the tomb itself. When visiting this holy complex, it is recommended to wear modest clothing.

Medina

With its narrow and traffic-free alleys lined with colourful buildings, bustling shopping souks, and 17th-century gates, the medina in Meknes (Old Town) is the most popular tourist area in the city. Get lost in a maze of traditional Moroccan craft shops and stalls offering silk threads, carpets, slippers, spices, and souvenirs. The UNESCO-Listed Meknes Medina is also home to historical attractions such as the Bou Inania Madrasa and the Bab Mansour Gate.

Place Hedim (Lahdim Square)

You will find the central square of Meknes right in front of the Bab Mansour gate. Packed with artists, merchants, and snack vendors, Place Hedim (Lahdim Square) is the best place to experience the lively vibe of Meknes. From watching acrobats and fire eaters do their tricks to haggling for rugs, ceramics, and slippers with street sellers, there is plenty to look forward to when visiting this bustling and picturesque square in Meknes. There are many cafes with outdoor terraces where you can sit down for a cup of tea/coffee.

The Dar Jamai Museum

This gorgeous palace from the 19th century was originally built for the wealthy Jamai family. In 1920, the palace was converted into a lovely museum that houses an eclectic collection of traditional ceramics, textiles, wooden items, and jewellery. Visitors will have a chance to see antique carpets from all over the country, an old prayer platform, costumes from the 14th century, rugs and cushions, and brocaded saddles. Step outside to find a spectacular central Andalusian-style garden. We should probably mention that most explanations of items on display are in French/Arabic.

Day 1, morning - meknes Tour Map

Afternoon: Place Lalla Aouda

Your afternoon walk begins at this modern square with gardens and shaded benches. Nestled behind the imposing city walls, Place Lalla Aouda is where cavalry parades of Sultan Moulay Ismail's army took place back in the day. Nowadays, this large square with green areas attracts both tourists and locals who come here to take a break from the busy alleys of the old medina. You can hire one of the local carriages and experience the endless city walls of Meknes from a unique perspective.

Meknes Museum

Interested in Moroccan folk art? Pay a visit to the Meknes Museum, a small museum that houses a nice collection of pottery, metalwork, jewellery, and clothing. Check out the decorative suit of leather armour encrusted with old coins and different Moroccan carpets. The entrance to the Meknes Museum will set you back 10 dirhams.

Prison de Kara

Located just a stone’s throw from the mausoleum, Prison de Kara is probably the weirdest tourist attraction in Meknes. This underground prison was where Sultan Moulay Ismail kept Christian, Portuguese, and Spanish prisoners. The enormous prison could accommodate over 60, 000 prisoners who were mostly slaves used to build the sultan’s palaces of Meknes.

The Royal Stables

Your last stop is one of the most impressive historical landmarks of Meknes, the grandiose Royal Stables. Believe it or not, 12,000 royal horses used to call this place their home. Unfortunately, the 1755 Lisbon earthquake left most of the facilities in ruins. Today, you can explore the grounds and see 3 restored halls, as well as the ruined stables. Even though this place is not in pristine condition, it is still worth checking out because of its sheer size. You will come across a few horses here that are purely kept for tourists.

Day 1, afternoon - meknes Tour Map

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Other things to see in Meknes

• Bab Mansour: The main city gate located between the Kasbah and the medieval Medina, Bab el-Mansour is a photogenic structure completed in the 18th century by the orders of Sultan Moulay Ismail. The intricate architectural detail on this impressive gate includes inscriptions from the Quran, zellige tiles, and beautiful marble columns. Unfortunately, the enormous gate is under maintenance at the moment.

• Bassin Souani, also known as Hri Swani (the Silo of the Norias) and Sahrij Swani (the Basin of the Norias), is another major tourist attraction currently undergoing renovations in Meknes. Bassin Souani is one of the largest dams in the country. 320 meters long and almost 150 meters wide, the basin was built in the 16th century to ensure water supply to the city and the neighbouring villages. With street food vendors, performers, and spectacular sunset views across the water, this UNESCO World Heritage List site used to be one of the most popular natural recreational areas in Meknes. Hopefully, Bassin Souani will be filled with water after the renovations, so that both locals and tourists can once again enjoy its charms.

• Bou Inania Madrasa: Located in the heart of the Medina, this former Islamic school and mosque from the 14th century is definitely worth checking out. With its zellige tile decorations and carved artwork on the walls, the historical building is a beautiful piece of architecture. For a reasonably priced entrance fee, visitors can step inside the picturesque central courtyard and visit the classrooms and bedrooms on the upper levels. Don’t miss the green tiled rooftop to enjoy spectacular views across the city.

• Dar Al Makhzen‎ (Royal Palace): Travelers visiting Meknes will find the city’s royal residency right in the heart of the Kasbah. Built in the 18th century, the Royal Palace is also known as Dar Al Makhzen. As you can expect, visitors are not allowed to see the palace from the inside, because it serves as one of the king's residencies. Since it is not that easy to obtain a royal invitation, we suggest snapping a photo of the enormous and nicely decorated gate.

• Khemis Gate: Meknes is home to many beautiful gates and Kmehis is one of them. Built in the 17th century, this gate gives way to the Mellah, the Jewish quarter of the old medina. The door itself looks stunning with an arch filled with intricate zelllij and a yellowish gate with beautiful carvings.

• Bab Berdieyinne: Don’t miss this majestic city gate from the 17th century built by the orders of the Sultan Moulay Ismail. Used to protect the city from Northern attacks, Bab Berdieyinne is one of the gates to the old medina. You will notice distinctive Islamic architectural designs and a beautifully ornamented arch with blue and ocher tiles.

• Calèche Rides: One of the best ways to experience the city of Meknes is in a horse-drawn carriage, also known as caleche. Hire one of these ornate carriages and discover the city’s major landmarks from a different perspective. Caleches typically accommodate five passengers. A thirty-minute tour of the main attractions in Meknes in a caleche will set you back around DH100.

• French Institute of Meknes: Located between Ville Nouvelle and the ancient medina, the French cultural exchange centre is home to a language school, media library, cafeteria, theatre, and beautiful green spaces. The Institute also hosts events like art exhibitions, films, and theatre plays. Keep in mind that all events and diversified activities held here are in French.

Day Trips from Meknes

• Volubilis: Sitting atop a hill, this site is the most famous Roman remnant in Morocco and the most popular day trip option from Meknes. Welcome to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a striking site that is home to impressive temple fragments, well-preserved mosaics, and the ancient city’s surviving columns. One of Morocco's most popular World Heritage Sites, Volubilis was even used as one of the key filming locations for the Last Temptation of Christ movie by Martin Scorsese. You can reach these world-famous Roman ruins from Meknes by car in just under 40 minutes.

• Moulay Idriss: On the same road as Volubilis, this gorgeous city built upon the Khyber and Tazga hills makes for a popular day trip from Meknes. Get lost in the medina, snap a photo in front of the mosque, and hike the hillside paths to enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also check out the city market and purchase everything from plastic toys, rugs, and ceramics to traditional Moroccan pastries, spices, and meat. Moulay Idriss is an important pilgrimage centre attracting thousands of people during its annual religious festival in August. It takes about 40 minutes by car to get from Meknes to Moulay Idriss.

• Fès: Located about 65 kilometres from Meknes, Morocco’s first capital is simply a must-visit destination. Welcome to Fes, a city of tranquil gardens, palaces, museums, and vibrant souks. Whether you wish to explore the oldest medina in Northern Africa, visit some of the best museums in the country (Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts, Borj Nord Arms Museum, Dar Batha Museum), or reconnect with nature in the beautiful Jnan Sbil garden, there are plenty of activities in Fes to keep you occupied for at least a day or two.

• Ifrane: Wish to go skiing while visiting Meknes? Nestled high in the Moroccan Middle Atlas Mountains, Ifrane is also known as the Switzerland of Morocco. Just a short drive from the city, you will find the Michlifen Ski Station, a popular winter sports resort with five ski slopes. Nature lovers visiting Ifrane can spend a few hours in the Cedre Gouraud Forest (Cedar Forest) and spot animals like wild boats and barbary apes. You can also snap a photo of the popular lion statue in the center of Ifrane or go golfing at the 18-hole Michlifen Golf & Country Club. It will take you about an hour by car to reach Ifrane from Meknes.

Best golf courses in Meknes

• Royal Golf de Meknes: Situated within the gardens of the Royal Palace in Meknes, this spectacular 9-hole golf course is the only enclosed course in all of Africa. Golfers will notice how the course is narrow and quite short with fairways bordered by a variety of trees including apricot and palm trees. There is a lovely clubhouse within the complex and you can rent clubs and caddies there. To enter the Royal Golf de Meknes, one needs to obtain authorization from the Royal Palace.

Vineyards in Meknes:

• Volubilia-Domaine de la Zouina: Located 30 minutes from Meknes, this spectacular wine and olive estate is for all you wine lovers visiting Morocco. Call ahead to book a tour of the estate, which includes wine tasting (Volubilia Gris, Rose, Epicuria, and Syrah/ Cabernet Sauvignon). You can also try the estate’s dried fruits, goat cheese, and olive oil. The guided tour of the Volubilia-Domaine de la Zouina estate will set you back approximately 30 euros per person and last 45 minutes. Keep in mind that the minimum group size is 4 people. Surrounded by cypress and olive trees, and with a beautiful colonial villain in the middle, the wine estate itself is stunning.

• Château Roslane: For more food delicacies and wine tastings, make a reservation at the boutique Château Roslane Hotel and wine estate. The property is a feast for the eyes with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a spa center, and a gorgeous restaurant with both indoor and al fresco dining options. Chateau Roslane offers lunch and wine tasting. Each course is delicious, and wines include Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah blend, and Muscat dessert wine.
  

Things to do with kids in Meknes

• Aqualand Water Park: Open in 2018, this universe of artificial waves and water slides is the largest water park in the country. Take your kids to the Aqualand Water Park in Meknes and enjoy 12 water attractions and relaxation areas. Kids love the Space Boat slide, as well as the thrilling Spiral Slide. You can also check out the pools such as the magnificent Lazy River, Relax Pool, and Paradis Des Caraibes. In case you get hungry, the on-site café/restaurant serves pizza, pasta, pancakes, toast, and tajine dishes.

• KS Fantasy Park: No visit to Meknes with your children is complete without spending a few hours at the KS Fantasy Park. With a 600 m² indoor play area, the park offers a wide range of activities for the little ones. From climbing walls and trampolines to ball pools, slides, and monkey bridges, KS Fantasy Park truly has it all. The park has a game library where children of all ages can enjoy reading workshops and painting classes. Keep in mind that no adults are allowed in the play area. Instead, they can enjoy a drink and watch their kids from the on-site café and through the CCTV screens. KS Fantasy Park has air conditioning in summer and heating in winter.

Where to eat in Meknes

• L'Oliveraie Restaurant in Château Roslane hotel: Château Roslane is home to one of the most beautiful restaurants on this list. Located 20 kilometers from the city center, L'Oliveraie is a fine dining establishment with both indoor and outdoor areas. The indoor part has two picturesque olive trees in the middle, while the outdoor area is located in the garden and offers magnificent views of the vineyard-covered valley. What should I order here? Try the roasted leg with potatoes or order the lamb/chicken tagine.

• Aisha: Are you in the mood for some tasty homemade Moroccan food? Book a table at this tiny restaurant in Meknes where Aisha and her mother make local delicacies such as Berber bread, harira soup, fluffy couscous, and tagine dishes. Cooked to perfection with just the right mix of spices, the minced meat tagine is a big crowd-pleaser. You can also try their chicken rfissa which has a great combination of flavours and textures. At Aisha, portions are generous, prices are fair, and the service is impeccable.

• La Maison De La Pizza: If you like pizza, this small restaurant in Meknes is where you want to go! The chef, Amel is always welcoming and prepares delicious pizza with a thin and crispy crust. The Greek pizza with oregano is great, as well as the classic marinara with tomato sauce and garlic. La Maison De La Pizza also offers vegetarian options and a variety of salads.

• Restaurant Omnia: Recommended by Lonely Planet, this charming family-run dining establishment in Meknes has 2 beautiful outdoor terraces and a cute dining room downstairs. Ideal for a romantic lunch or dinner, Restaurant Omnia is probably one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city. On the menu, you will find local Moroccan dishes such as tagine, couscous, and harira soup. The slow-cooked meat tagine is to die for and the pastille is simply amazing. The restaurant owns a liquor license, so you can order something for their extensive beer and wine list.

• Collier de la Colombe: If you want to savour traditional Moroccan cuisine, make a reservation at Collier de la Colombe. Located just a short walk from Bab Mansour, this restaurant is situated inside a 3-star hotel and offers traditional Moroccan cuisine. The house specialty is pastilla which you can enjoy on their rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the new city and Boufekrane River. Meat lovers should try the tender grilled lamb. If you prefer fish and seafood, we recommend ordering the fish tagines or the Atlas Meunière trout. We should probably mention that Collier de la Colombe has a liquor license and serves alcohol.

• Restaurant Dar Baraka: Located in a narrow alley in the Medina, Restaurant Dar Baraka is hands down the best restaurant in Meknes. Knock on the door and you’ll be greeted by the friendly owner (Mr. Noureddine) who’ll sit down with you and take your order. You will be dining in a colourful Moroccan family home with cosy seating and an authentic vibe. What’s on the menu? House specialties include camel tajine, Moroccan couscous with chicken, veal with apricots and dried plums, and aubergines with tomato. Complimentary mint tea and biscuits are served after your meal.

Where to stay in Meknes

• Château Roslane  - Relais & Chateaux: Château Roslane is a luxury boutique hotel and spa located within a wine estate in El Hajeb, Morocco. Just a 25-minute drive from the historic city of Meknes. The hotel is situated in a beautiful setting with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can indulge in delicious meals at the hotel's restaurant or unwind by the sparkling pool.

• Dar Meknes Tresor: Situated inside a renovated building from the 17th century, Dar Meknes Tresor is a beautiful riad known for its authentic Moroccan ambiance and spacious rooms. You will be staying right in the heart of the Medina and just a few steps from some of the most popular tourist attractions in Meknes. The star of the show is the gorgeous rooftop terrace where guests are served breakfast and can enjoy mesmerizing views of the city.

• Riad d'Or: Located in the medina, this beautifully decorated Moroccan riad boasts a lovely rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, a small courtyard, and spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Guests say how the views from the rooftop terrace are exceptional and add that breakfast is delicious and included in the price. Authentic Moroccan dinner is available upon request at Riad d'Or.

• Riad Le Petit Ksar: This gorgeous riad is known for its beautiful architecture and decorations. You have a fabulous terrace with flowers, plants, and spectacular views of the city. Then, you have Juliette who is an amazing host. As for the rooms, they are spacious, comfortable, very clean, and bright. Riad Le Petit Ksar is located just minutes from the main square and close to the souks. Breakfast on the terrace is tasty, abundant, and varied.

The best time to visit Meknes

With hot summers and mild winters, the city of Meknes experiences a Mediterranean climate. If you don’t mind the hot temperatures ranging from 30° to 40° Celsius and large crowds of tourists in summer, visit Meknes from June to August. The winter season in Meknes runs from December to February. We should mention that during this time of year, it can get quite chilly in the evenings. Therefore, the best time to visit Meknes is in spring (March to May) or in autumn (September to November) when temperatures range from a comfortable 20° to 30° Celsius on average.

Meknes Festivals

• Fantasia (Horse Fantasia): Taking place in Meknes every May, Fantasia (Horse Fantasia) is a beloved festival that attracts many people from all over Morroco.  This Berber festival and performance celebrates the relationship between horses and men. You will see horse riders in traditional clothes charging along a 200-meter-long path and firing old gunpowder guns simultaneously.

• Meknes International Festival of Animated Cinema: If you are visiting Meknes in May, check out the Meknes International Festival of Animated Cinema (FICAM). The headquarters of this annual festival is at the French Institute, while the program extends to various historical spots in the city including the Cinema Camera Theatre, Dar Jamaï Museum, and Dar Lakbira. In addition to the festival's traditional short film contest, FICAM organizes workshops, discussions, and studio stands every year.