1 day
Duration

🏛️ Meknes & Volubilis Day Trip from Fez – Discover Morocco’s Imperial Past

🕗 Departure: Morning Pick-Up from Your Hotel or Riad in Fez

Step back in time on this culturally rich day trip from Fez to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, and Volubilis, the best-preserved Roman archaeological site in the country. This journey blends Islamic architecture, Roman ruins, and authentic Moroccan heritage, offering a deeper understanding of the Kingdom’s fascinating past.

🚗 1. Scenic Drive from Fez to Volubilis

  • Start the day with a comfortable drive through fertile plains and olive groves en route to Volubilis, located about 1.5 hours from Fez.

  • Enjoy the changing landscape as you travel through the Zerhoun region, rich in history and agriculture.

🏺 2. Volubilis – Explore the Roman Ruins (UNESCO Site)

  • Arrive at Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient Roman city dating back to the 3rd century BC.

  • Explore the remarkably preserved mosaics, basilica, triumphal arch, and houses once inhabited by Roman officials.

  • Learn about the city’s importance as a Roman outpost and its later Islamic influence.

🏘️ 3. Moulay Idriss Zerhoun – Optional Panoramic Stop

  • Just a few minutes from Volubilis lies the holy town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, the birthplace of Islam in Morocco.

  • Stop for photos and a panoramic view of the town nestled in the hills (no visit inside the mausoleum for non-Muslims).

🏰 4. Arrival in Meknes – Imperial Grandeur

  • Continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, known for its massive gates, royal stables, and impressive monuments built by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century.

  • Begin your guided tour in the medina and old ramparts.

🌆 5. Key Attractions in Meknes:

  • Bab Mansour – one of the most beautiful gates in North Africa, adorned with intricate zellige tiles and calligraphy.

  • Hedim Square – the main public square, similar to Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa but more tranquil.

  • Royal Stables and Granaries (Heris Souani) – a colossal structure once housing 12,000 horses and massive food stores.

  • Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail – visit the resting place of the legendary sultan (open to non-Muslims).

  • Medersa Bou Inania (optional) – a 14th-century Islamic school with stunning woodwork and tile art.

🍽️ 6. Lunch in a Traditional Meknes Riad or Restaurant

  • Relax and enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch featuring local dishes such as beef with prunes, kefta tagine, or seasonal couscous.

  • Enjoy the laid-back vibe of this lesser-visited imperial gem.

🚗 Return to Fez

  • After a full day of exploration, return comfortably to Fez in the late afternoon or early evening.

📌 Tour Highlights:

  • ✅ Full-day trip to Meknes & Volubilis from Fez

  • ✅ Guided tour of Roman ruins in Volubilis (UNESCO)

  • ✅ Visit Meknes’ imperial monuments, gates & mausoleum

  • ✅ Optional stop in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun

  • ✅ Traditional Moroccan lunch

  • ✅ Expert local guide and comfortable transport

Included
Transport with driver.
Guide or professionnel driver.
Local guide and monument entrance fee.
Fuel & Air-condition.
Tourist tax & Parking fee.
Excluded
Lunch.
Drinks.
Tip.