Why You Shouldn’t Skip Meknes on Your Morocco Trip

Posted on May 12, 2025 | Julie J. |

Meknes might not get as much attention as nearby Fes or Marrakech, but during my 1-month trip through Morocco, it turned out to be one of the most pleasant surprises.

With its relaxed medina, grand gates, and layers of imperial history, Meknes offers a quieter, more authentic experience without the crowds.

I visited as a day trip from Fes, and while that was enough to see the highlights, I can easily imagine spending a night here to soak in the atmosphere a bit more.

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About Meknes

Once the capital of Morocco under Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, Meknes is a city that blends imperial ambition with laid-back charm. It’s best known for its massive gates, imposing walls, and the remnants of Ismail’s grand palace complex.

The medina is compact and easy to explore, with far fewer touts than in larger cities, and the Ville Nouvelle (new town) has a distinctly French feel thanks to colonial-era architecture.

Meknes is also a short drive from two other fantastic spots—Volubilis and Moulay Idriss—which makes it an excellent base or day trip stop.

How to Get to Meknes

Meknes is easily accessible by train, bus, or private transfer. I visited as a day trip from Fes, which made for a smooth and affordable ride—only about 45 minutes by train.

From Fes: The train is the easiest and most reliable option. They run frequently and cost just a few dirhams. You can check schedules on the ONCF website or just show up at the station.
From Rabat or Casablanca: Trains connect both cities to Meknes in around 2.5–3.5 hours. It’s an easy addition if you’re already headed north.
By car: If you’re on a road trip, driving to Meknes gives you more flexibility, especially if you want to combine your visit with Volubilis and Moulay Idriss.

Things to Do in Meknes

Meknes may not have the same buzz as Marrakesh or Fez, but that’s part of what makes it so enjoyable. It’s less chaotic, more compact, and still packed with impressive historical sites. I loved how easy it was to explore at my own pace.

Bab Mansour
This grand, intricately decorated gate is one of Meknes’s most iconic landmarks. Even if you’re not into architecture, it’s hard not to be impressed. The scale and detail are stunning—carved inscriptions, zellij tilework, and marble columns. A quick stop, but worth it.

Place El Hedim
Just across from Bab Mansour, this square is like a smaller, quieter version of Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakesh. It comes alive in the late afternoon with vendors, street performers, and locals out for a stroll. Great for people-watching.

Royal Stables & Granaries (Heri es-Souani)
This was one of my favorite sites. The massive vaulted granaries and stables built by Sultan Moulay Ismail are incredible—both for their scale and the way they were engineered to stay cool. It’s not overly crowded and feels atmospheric, especially if you go early in the day.
(currently closed for renovation)

Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail
A peaceful, ornate resting place for the sultan who made Meknes his imperial city. You can’t enter the actual tomb, but visitors are welcome in most of the complex. The courtyards and tilework are beautiful and it’s a quiet, reflective spot.

Medersa Bou Inania
Much smaller than the famous one in Fez, but still lovely. The craftsmanship in the cedarwood and tile details is worth a close look. It’s a nice, quick stop if you’re already exploring the medina.

Explore the Medina
Meknes’s medina is easier to navigate than others in Morocco, and while it’s not flashy, it has a down-to-earth feel that I really liked. You’ll find artisan workshops, spice vendors, and small cafes tucked into narrow lanes. It’s not touristy, which makes it feel more real.

Day Trip to Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Zerhoun
This was one of the highlights of my time in Meknes. Volubilis is a well-preserved Roman archaeological site with expansive ruins, mosaics, and incredible views over the countryside. Nearby, Moulay Idriss Zerhoun is a holy town built into two hillsides, where you can wander the narrow streets and enjoy panoramic views from the top.
You don’t need a car to get there—shared grand taxis to Moulay Idriss leave from near the Meknes train station and cost very little. From there, you can take a cab (or walk) to Volubilis and catch a bus back to Meknes from the main road.
It’s also easy to organize a private driver through your riad or hotel if you want more flexibility. The two sites are close together and pair perfectly for a half- or full-day trip.

Where to Eat in Meknes

Meknes doesn’t have the same density of restaurants as Marrakesh or Fez, but there are some real gems if you know where to look.

Restaurant Aisha
A cozy, family-run spot inside the medina with a small but delicious menu. Their chicken tagine with preserved lemon was one of the best I had in Morocco. It’s tucked away, so be ready to navigate some narrow streets, but it’s worth the effort.

Street Food in Place El Hedim
In the late afternoon, the square fills with food stalls selling grilled meats, brochettes, harira soup, and sweets. It’s casual and local—nothing fancy, but fun if you’re up for a snack or quick bite while soaking in the atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Meknes

If you decide to stay overnight, here are two well-rated options:

Riad Yacout
A charming riad right near El Hedim Square and Bab Mansour. It’s beautifully decorated, has a pool, and offers a traditional Moroccan breakfast on the rooftop. Super convenient if you want to explore the medina on foot.

Riad Mama H&K
Stylish and well-priced, with friendly hosts and a peaceful inner courtyard. It’s tucked inside the medina but still easy to access, and the rooms strike a nice balance between traditional and modern design.

Final Thoughts

Meknes might not be as widely known as its imperial siblings, but that’s part of its charm. It feels more laid-back and less polished—in the best way. The medina is lively but manageable, the historical sites are impressive without the crowds, and you’re just a short hop away from ancient Volubilis and the sacred town of Moulay Idriss.

Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or just to slow the pace a bit, Meknes is well worth a stop on any Moroccan itinerary.

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