Day Trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis 

• Scenic drive through the Moroccan countryside and Rif foothills.
• Visit Moulay Idriss, one of Morocco’s most important pilgrimage towns.
• Explore the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins of Volubilis, famous for mosaics, arches, and temples.
• Discover Meknes, Morocco’s “Versailles,” with its monumental gates, palaces, and ramparts.
• Admire the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail and the royal stables.
• Wander through Meknes’ lively traditional souks with a relaxed, authentic vibe.

The day begins in the morning with a comfortable pick-up around 10:00 am to start your journey westward from Fes.

Your first stop will be the sacred town of Moulay Idriss, dramatically perched on the slopes of Mount Zerhoun and overlooking the fertile plains of northern Morocco. This charming hillside village, with its bustling souks and scenic alleys, is one of the country’s most important pilgrimage sites. It is believed that visiting Moulay Idriss multiple times in one’s lifetime carries a spiritual merit comparable to the Hajj for those unable to travel to Mecca. Although non-Muslims cannot enter the mausoleum itself, the town’s beauty, atmosphere, and sweeping views make it a highlight.

From there, a short drive leads to the ancient Roman city of Volubilis. Known in Berber as Ouallili (meaning laurel flower), this archaeological treasure is remarkably well-preserved and has been granted UNESCO World Heritage status. Visitors can walk among the remains of triumphal arches, temples, palaces, and thermal baths, while admiring intricate mosaics that depict mythological scenes. As one of the most significant Roman outposts in North Africa, Volubilis offers a vivid glimpse into the grandeur of antiquity.

After exploring the ruins, the trip continues to the imperial city of Meknes. Once a military settlement in the 11th century, it rose to prominence in the 17th century under Sultan Moulay Ismail, who transformed it into a magnificent capital. Often referred to as the “Versailles of Morocco,” Meknes is renowned for its monumental architecture, sprawling walls stretching for dozens of kilometers, and imposing gates adorned with exquisite Islamic artistry.

Highlights of Meknes include the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the impressive Dar El Makhzen palace complex, vast royal stables, and the serene Agdal reservoir. The surrounding countryside, with its olive groves and vineyards, adds to the city’s timeless charm. Compared to bustling Fes, Meknes feels more relaxed and traditional, offering a pleasant atmosphere for wandering through its vibrant yet affordable souks.

By the evening, you will return to Fes with lasting memories of Morocco’s imperial heritage and ancient history.