Fes to Volubilis and Meknes Day Trip
Itinerary
Departure from Fes
Your day begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel or riad in Fes. Leave the city’s ancient streets behind as you travel through the fertile Saiss Plain toward northern Morocco.
Along the way, enjoy scenic landscapes of olive groves, farmland, vineyards, and traditional villages before reaching the ancient Roman city of Volubilis.
Explore Volubilis
Your first stop is the extraordinary archaeological site of Volubilis, one of the finest preserved Roman settlements in North Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walk through centuries of history as you admire remarkably preserved villas, basilicas, public baths, temples, and beautifully detailed mosaic floors depicting Roman mythology and daily life.
You’ll have plenty of time to explore the impressive ruins while learning about the importance of this ancient city, which flourished nearly 2,000 years ago as a major Roman outpost.
Drive to Meknes
After visiting Volubilis, continue with a short drive to the imperial city of Meknes, once the capital of Morocco during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century.
Known for its monumental architecture and peaceful atmosphere, Meknes offers a wonderful contrast to the lively streets of Fes.
Visit Bab Mansour
Begin your discovery of Meknes at the famous Bab Mansour, considered one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco.
Decorated with intricate zellige tiles, carved stone, and elegant calligraphy, this monumental entrance showcases the grandeur of Morocco’s imperial architecture.
Explore El Hedim Square
Just opposite Bab Mansour lies El Hedim Square, the vibrant heart of Meknes.
Here you’ll find local cafés, street performers, artisan shops, and traditional markets where visitors can experience everyday Moroccan life.
Visit the Royal Granaries and Sahrij Swani
Continue to the impressive Royal Granaries (Heri es-Souani) and the nearby Sahrij Swani basin.
These remarkable engineering achievements were built to store grain and water for the royal palace and thousands of horses during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail.
The massive stone structures remain one of Meknes’ most fascinating historical landmarks.
Lunch Break
Enjoy free time for lunch at one of Meknes’ traditional restaurants, where you can sample authentic Moroccan cuisine such as tagines, couscous, grilled meats, or fresh salads.
Lunch is not included, allowing you the flexibility to choose according to your preferences.
Return to Fes
In the afternoon, relax during the scenic drive back to Fes, arriving in the early evening after an enriching day exploring Morocco’s Roman and imperial heritage.
