Day Trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis 

• Enjoy a scenic drive through the Moroccan countryside and the Rif foothills on your Day Trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis.

• Visit Moulay Idriss, one of Morocco’s most important pilgrimage towns, perched high on Mount Zerhoun.

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins of Volubilis, famous for its intricate mosaics, arches, and ancient temples.

• Discover Meknes, Morocco’s “Versailles,” with its monumental gates, royal palaces, and impressive ramparts.

• Admire the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail and the historic royal stables, highlighting Meknes’ royal legacy.

• Wander through Meknes’ lively traditional souks, experiencing the city’s authentic atmosphere and relaxed vibe.

The day begins in the morning with a comfortable pick-up around 10:00 am to start your Day Trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis.

Your first stop is 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. Visiting Moulay Idriss is believed to carry 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 of your Day Trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis.

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 UNESCO-listed. Visitors can walk among the remains of triumphal arches, temples, palaces, and thermal baths, while admiring intricate mosaics depicting mythological scenes. As one of North Africa’s most significant Roman outposts, Volubilis offers a vivid glimpse into the grandeur of antiquity, making it a must-see stop on your Day Trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis.

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

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

By evening, you will return to Fes with lasting memories of Morocco’s imperial heritage, Roman history, and the highlights of your Day Trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis.