Meknès - Discovering Morocco

Travelling to Meknès

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Meknès, a pretty good destination in Morocco (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Meknès and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Meknès, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Morocco, here's everything to know about Meknès for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Meknès

Meknès is a city located in northern Morocco, and it is the sixth-largest city in the country. It was once the capital of Morocco and is known for its historic importance and cultural attractions. Meknès has a rich history dating back to the 11th century and boasts various UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the monumental gate of Bab Mansour and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, which is a beautifully designed tomb and mosque complex. The city is also famous for its handicrafts, particularly ceramics, leather goods, and textiles. Additionally, Meknès has a bustling medina, or old town, where visitors can experience the local culture and buy souvenirs.

What to visit in Meknès

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions of Meknès, along with some information about each of them: 1. Bab Mansour: This is the grand entrance to Meknès' old town, and is one of the most photographed sites in the city. It was built in the 17th century and has intricate tile work and arches.
2. Moulay Ismail Mausoleum: This is the burial site of Moulay Ismail, one of Meknès' most powerful rulers. The mausoleum is adorned with Islamic calligraphy and intricate tile work.
3. Dar Jamai Museum: Housed in a beautiful 19th-century palace, this museum has an extensive collection of Moroccan artifacts, including pottery, textiles and jewelry.
4. Heri es-Souani: This is a complex of granaries and stables that were built during Moulay Ismail's reign. It is an impressive example of Moroccan engineering and architecture.
5. Place el-Hedim: This is a large square at the center of Meknès' old town, and is a hub of activity with street performers, food vendors and shops selling traditional wares.
6. Medersa Bou Inania: This is a 14th-century religious school that is known for its beautiful architecture, including intricate tile work and ornate plaster carvings.
7. Royal Palace of Meknès: This is the current residence of the King of Morocco when he visits the city. It is an impressive example of contemporary Moroccan architecture.
8. El-Mansour Gate: This is another grand entrance to Meknès' old town that was built during the reign of Moulay Ismail. It has impressive arches and intricate tile work.
These are just some of the popular tourist attractions in Meknès that offer a glimpse into the city's culture and history.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Morocco, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Meknès.

When to go on holiday to Meknès

The best time to visit Meknès is during the months of April, May, September, and October. During this time, the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 20-30°C (68-86°F) during the day and cooler temperatures at night. Additionally, these months are less crowded and there are fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxed experience. However, it is important to note that Meknès can get very hot during the summer months with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F), while winter months can be quite chilly with temperatures dipping below 10°C (50°F).

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Meknès

There are several ways to get to Meknès, Morocco. The most common ways are: 1. By air: You can fly into Fes-Saïss Airport and take a taxi or public transportation to Meknès, which is about an hour drive away.
2. By train: Morocco has a well-developed train system, and Meknès is on the main railway line that connects Fes and Rabat. You can take a train from Fes or Rabat to Meknès, which is less than an hour away.
3. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between major cities in Morocco, and Meknès is well-served by bus. You can take a bus from Fes, Rabat, or other nearby cities to Meknès.
4. By car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car at the airport or in one of the major cities and drive to Meknès. The roads in Morocco are generally in good condition, but be aware that driving in big cities can be chaotic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Meknès, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Meknès

Sure, here are some typical foods of Meknès, Morocco, along with their descriptions: 1. Meknassi lamb tagine - a slow-cooked lamb tagine with sautéed onions, garlic, ginger, turmeric, saffron, and dried fruits such as apricots and raisins.
2. Zaalouk - a tomato and aubergine salad that is commonly served as a side dish.
3. Harira - a traditional Moroccan soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, celery, cilantro, and spices such as cinnamon, cumin, and paprika.
4. Pastilla - a savory pastry made with layers of thin phyllo dough filled with sweetened pigeon or chicken meat, eggs, nuts, and spices.
5. Kefta tagine - a beef or lamb meatball dish cooked in a tomato sauce with spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika.
6. Mechoui - a roasted lamb dish that is traditionally slow-cooked in a pit in the ground over charcoal.
7. Couscous - a dish made with steamed small balls of semolina, often served with vegetable or meat stews.
8. Makfoul - a raw onion salad mixed with tomatoes and drizzled with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
9. Harcha - a traditional bread that is similar to a pancake, made of semolina, butter, and salt.
10. Mint tea - a sweetened tea made with fresh mint leaves and served in small glasses.
You can find general info about typical foods in Morocco here.

Is Meknès an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other tourist destinations in Morocco, Meknès is relatively affordable. Accommodation and food costs are generally cheaper in Meknès than in other popular Moroccan cities like Marrakech or Fes. You can find budget-friendly options for accommodations and restaurants. However, the cost of activities and attractions might vary depending on your interests. Overall, Meknès can be considered an affordable destination for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Meknès

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Meknès, Morocco are: 1. Medina: This is the historic center of Meknès and has narrow streets, markets, and attractions like Bab Mansour and Moulay Ismail Mausoleum.
2. Ville Nouvelle: This area is outside the Medina and offers a modern, European lifestyle with shopping centers, cafes and restaurants.
3. Agdal: This is a district in Meknès, situated south of the medina, and home to the Royal Palace of Meknès, the royal gardens and the Meknès Golf Palace.
When choosing an accommodation, it is advisable to consider the distances to the main attractions you want to visit and the means of transportation available, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time in the Medina.
You can check hotel prices at Meknès here:
Booking.com

Is Meknès a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Meknes is considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other city, petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur, so it's important to take precautions such as keeping your valuables safe and not leaving them unattended. It is also recommended to stay in well-lit areas and to avoid walking alone at night. Overall, if you use common sense and take necessary precautions, Meknes is a relatively safe destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Morocco here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Meknès.

What type of travelers will enjoy Meknès the most?

Meknès is a great destination for all types of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun, and families. Here are some reasons why each of these groups may enjoy visiting Meknès: - Couples: Meknès is a romantic city with a charming medina, beautiful architecture, and historical sites. Couples can take a romantic stroll through the old city's narrow streets and explore the stunning Bab el-Mansour gate. They can also relax at one of the city's many traditional hammams, enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine in one of the city's restaurants, and visit the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum.
- Young people looking for fun: Meknès is a lively city with a vibrant nightlife scene. The city's bars and cafes are perfect for socializing and meeting new people. Young people can also participate in various outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby hills or exploring nearby ancient Roman ruins.
- Families: Meknès is an excellent destination for families, as it offers a diverse range of activities that will appeal to both children and adults. Families can explore the city's many historical and cultural attractions, such as the UNESCO-listed Medina of Meknes or the Dar Jamai Museum. They can also enjoy outdoor activities such as horse riding, biking, or exploring the nearby natural reserves. Additionally, families can indulge in the city's traditional Moroccan cuisine, which offers plenty of tasty and healthy options for everyone.

How to get around Meknès

To move around Meknès, you can use various modes of transportation such as taxis, buses, and horse-drawn carriages called caleches. Taxis are the most common mode of transportation and are relatively inexpensive compared to other options. You can easily hail a taxi on the street or find one at designated taxi stands throughout the city. Buses are also available and connect different parts of the city. Caleches are a bit more expensive but can be a fun and unique way to explore the city and its historical sites. It's important to negotiate the price beforehand if you decide to take a caleche.

What to see around Meknès

Certainly! Here are some suggestions for day trips you can take from Meknès: 1. Volubilis: This is an ancient Roman city and UNESCO World Heritage site that is only 30 minutes away from Meknès. It has beautiful and well-preserved ruins that are definitely worth exploring.
2. Moulay Idriss: This is a small, picturesque town located just 4 km from Volubilis. It's known for its spiritual significance as the birthplace of Morocco's first Arab dynasty and it has several historical sites and a lovely traditional market to visit.
3. Fès: This historical city is one of the most visited places in Morocco and it's only one hour away from Meknès. Fès has a walled old town with narrow streets and souks (markets) where you can buy handmade leather goods, spices, and ceramics.
4. Ifrane: This mountain town is located approximately 60 km from Meknès and is known for its stunning landscape and charming architecture. It's a great place to go skiing in winter or to explore the nearby forests and lakes in summer.
5. Sidi Kacem: This rural town is located approximately 60 km from Meknès and is home to several traditional farms and a beautiful lake. It's a great place to visit if you're interested in learning about local agriculture and rural life in Morocco.
For every travel information about Morocco you can click here.

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