Things to do in Meknes

Things to Do in Meknes: The Ultimate 2024 Guide (+ Map & Tips)

Nestled between the bustling metropolis of Fes and the capital city of Rabat lies Meknes, Morocco’s often overlooked imperial gem. While travelers flock to Marrakech’s sensory overload and Fes’s ancient medina, Meknes offers something uniquely refreshing: grandeur without the crowds, imperial splendor with breathing room, and authentic Moroccan culture that doesn’t feel staged for tourists.

Having explored the imperial cities of Morocco extensively, I can confidently say that Meknes delivers one of the most rewarding experiences for travelers seeking the perfect balance of historical magnificence and genuine local atmosphere. This comprehensive guide goes beyond the typical tourist checklist to help you discover the true essence of this remarkable city.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day immersion, this guide provides everything you need: detailed attraction information, cultural insights, practical tips, and suggested itineraries that will help you experience the best things to do in Meknes in 2024.

Top Historical Attractions You Can’t Miss

Meknes earned its UNESCO World Heritage status thanks to its spectacular imperial monuments and centuries-old architecture. These historical treasures tell the story of Morocco’s powerful past and the ambitious Sultan Moulay Ismail who transformed Meknes into his imperial capital in the 17th century.

Visit the Magnificent Bab Mansour Gate

The monumental Bab Mansour is widely considered the most impressive gate in all of Morocco, and possibly in North Africa. Completed in 1732, this massive structure marks the entrance to the imperial city and stands as a testament to Moulay Ismail’s architectural vision.

The gate features intricate zellij tilework, marble columns reportedly taken from the Roman ruins of Volubilis, and magnificent carved cedar wood. The imposing presence of Bab Mansour is even more striking at sunset when the warm light accentuates its detailed craftsmanship and grand scale.

During my visit, I was struck by how the local residents would gather near the gate in the evening, treating this historical monument as a natural part of their daily lives rather than a cordoned-off attraction. Take time to observe both the architectural details and the social life that unfolds around this landmark.

Practical Tips:

• Location: Place el-Hedim
• Opening Hours: View from outside available 24/7; interior occasionally open (check current hours)
• Entry Fee: Free to view from outside
• Time Needed: 30 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for optimal lighting

Wander Through Place El Hedim

Place El Hedim serves as Meknes’s main square and social hub, connecting the medina with the imperial city. Similar to Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fna but considerably less frenzied, this square offers a more relaxed but equally authentic glimpse into Moroccan public life.

During the day, the square features vendors selling everything from fresh orange juice to traditional crafts. As evening approaches, the atmosphere transforms with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls creating a vibrant local scene. The square’s strategic location directly opposite Bab Mansour provides an excellent vantage point to appreciate the gate’s grandeur.

What impressed me most about Place El Hedim was how it primarily caters to locals rather than tourists. While you’ll certainly encounter other visitors, the square primarily serves as a genuine gathering place for residents, making it an excellent spot to observe everyday Meknesi life.

Practical Tips:

• Location: Adjacent to Bab Mansour and the medina entrance
• Hours: Always accessible, most lively in late afternoons and evenings
• Entry Fee: Free
• Time Needed: 1-2 hours (more if dining or people-watching)
• Tip: Visit multiple times throughout your stay to experience different atmospheres

Explore Heri es-Souani (Royal Stables & Granaries)

Perhaps the most fascinating testament to Sultan Moulay Ismail’s ambition, the massive royal stables and granaries of Heri es-Souani once housed 12,000 royal horses and stored enough grain to sustain them for up to 20 years. The ingenious architectural design included a sophisticated irrigation system that regulated temperature and preserved food supplies.

Today, the partially restored ruins provide a glimpse into the sultan’s military might and organizational prowess. The vast spaces with their arched doorways and thick walls create dramatic lighting effects and offer an impressive photography opportunity. The innovative cooling system, featuring small streams running through the structure, demonstrates remarkable engineering knowledge for the era.

Walking through these massive structures, I was struck by the eerily beautiful play of light and shadow through the ancient arches—a photographer’s dream. The sheer scale of the stables helps visitors comprehend the might of the Moroccan empire during its heyday.

Practical Tips:

• Location: Southern edge of Meknes, approximately 2km from the medina
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (check current hours)
• Entry Fee: 70 MAD (approximately $7 USD)
• Time Needed: 1-1.5 hours
• Getting There: Short petit taxi ride from the medina (around 20 MAD)
• Tip: Bring a wide-angle camera lens if possible

Reflect at the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail

This stunning mausoleum is one of the few religious sites in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors, offering a rare glimpse into Islamic sacred architecture. The final resting place of Sultan Moulay Ismail, the ruler who made Meknes an imperial city, the mausoleum features breathtaking craftsmanship with intricate plasterwork, zelij tilework, and carved cedar ceilings.

The peaceful courtyards and gardens create a serene atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling city outside. The main tomb chamber, with its ornate decorations and solemn ambiance, provides an opportunity to appreciate the refined artistic traditions of Moroccan imperial architecture.

I was particularly moved by the quiet reverence visitors showed here, regardless of their faith. The mausoleum offers a moment of tranquility and reflection amidst your sightseeing itinerary.

Practical Tips:

• Location: Near the Royal Palace, within the imperial city
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, closed during prayer times
• Entry Fee: Free (donations appreciated)
• Time Needed: 30-45 minutes
• Dress Code: Conservative dress required (covered shoulders and knees)
• Note: Remove shoes before entering certain areas; photography permitted in most sections

Discover Medersa Bou Inania

Not to be confused with its namesake in Fes, Meknes’s Medersa Bou Inania is a 14th-century theological college that showcases exquisite craftsmanship. Built during the Merinid dynasty before Moulay Ismail’s time, this religious school features traditional Islamic architectural elements including a central courtyard, prayer hall, and student dormitories.

The medersa’s detailed stuccowork, geometric patterns, and calligraphy provide insights into the artistic and spiritual values of medieval Morocco. Though smaller than some of Meknes’s grander monuments, the medersa offers an intimate glimpse into historical Moroccan education and daily student life.

What struck me most was how the architecture itself served as a teaching tool, with Quranic verses and geometric patterns designed to inspire students’ contemplation and learning. The peaceful courtyard feels worlds away from the busy medina streets just outside.

Practical Tips:

• Location: Within the old medina
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Entry Fee: 60 MAD (approximately $6 USD)
• Time Needed: 30-45 minutes
• Photography: Allowed, but be respectful of the site’s religious significance

Exploring the Heart of Meknes: The Medina & Souks

While Meknes’s imperial monuments rightfully draw attention, the city’s soul lies within its ancient medina quarters. Unlike the often overwhelming medinas of Fes or Marrakech, the Meknes medina offers a more navigable and relaxed environment to experience traditional Moroccan urban life.

Get Lost (Purposefully) in the Meknes Medina

The walled old city of Meknes embodies centuries of Moroccan urban development, with narrow derbs (alleys) winding between residential quarters, small neighborhood mosques, communal fountains, and local hammams. Dating back to the 11th century, the medina predates the imperial city and represents the authentic heartbeat of Meknes.

What makes the Meknes medina special is its manageable size and relatively straightforward layout compared to Fes’s notoriously labyrinthine streets. This accessibility doesn’t diminish its authenticity—you’ll still find yourself immersed in the sights, sounds, and aromas of traditional Moroccan life.

During my wanders through the medina, I appreciated how easy it was to orient myself while still enjoying those magical moments of discovery that make medina exploration so rewarding. I recommend venturing into the residential areas away from the main commercial streets to observe everyday life—children playing, neighbors chatting, and the rhythms of a community that has existed for centuries.

Practical Tips:

• Location: Central Meknes, accessible from Place el-Hedim
• Hours: Always accessible; shops typically open 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Entry: Free
• Time Needed: At least 2-3 hours for proper exploration
• Navigation: Download an offline map, but also be open to wandering
• Safety: Generally very safe; exercise normal precautions with valuables

Shop for Souvenirs in the Souks

The commercial heart of the medina comprises several specialized souks, each traditionally dedicated to specific crafts or products. The souk scene in Meknes provides an excellent shopping opportunity with the benefit of less aggressive salesmanship than you might encounter in more tourist-heavy cities.

Souk Nejarine (Carpenter’s Souk)

Specializing in wooden items, this souk features craftsmen creating and selling everything from practical household items to decorative pieces. Look for carved cedar boxes, traditional Moroccan furniture, and wooden kitchen implements that make functional souvenirs.

Souk Sebbat (Shoe Souk)

Browse colorful displays of traditional Moroccan babouche slippers in leather and fabric varieties. The quality of leatherwork in Meknes is excellent, and prices are generally more reasonable than in Marrakech or Fes.

Souk El-Attarine (Spice Souk)

A feast for the senses, this aromatic section of the market offers pyramids of colorful spices, medicinal herbs, natural beauty products, and essential oils. The ras el hanout spice blend makes an excellent souvenir for culinary enthusiasts.

I found shopping in Meknes to be a refreshingly low-pressure experience. While bargaining remains part of the culture, merchants here tend to start with more reasonable asking prices and negotiate more gently than in Morocco’s tourism hotspots.

Practical Tips:

• Location: Throughout the medina, with main sections near Place el-Hedim
• Hours: Generally 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, closed or limited during Friday prayers
• Price Guidance: Expect to pay about 50-70% of the initial asking price after negotiation
• Payment: Carry cash (dirhams) for best prices; larger shops may accept cards
• Shopping Ethics: Support artisans by purchasing hand-crafted items rather than factory-made imports

Unique Cultural Experiences in Meknes

Beyond monuments and shopping, Meknes offers opportunities to engage with Moroccan culture in meaningful ways. These experiences provide deeper insights into local traditions and daily life.

Take a Moroccan Cooking Class

Learning to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes offers both cultural understanding and delicious rewards. Several cooking schools in Meknes offer half-day or full-day courses where you’ll shop for ingredients in local markets before preparing classics like tagine, couscous, or pastilla under expert guidance.

Cooking classes typically include instruction on proper spice blending—the foundation of Moroccan cuisine—and traditional cooking techniques like slow-cooking in conical tagine pots. Most courses conclude with a communal meal enjoying your culinary creations.

During my cooking class experience, I was particularly fascinated by the precision involved in building the complex flavor profiles of Moroccan dishes—the careful layering of spices, the balance of sweet and savory elements, and the importance of proper technique over exact measurements.

Practical Tips:

• Recommended Schools: Dar Romana Cooking Class, Riad Lahboul Cooking Experience
• Cost: 350-600 MAD per person (approximately $35-60 USD)
• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Booking: Reserve at least one day in advance
• Dietary Restrictions: Most schools can accommodate vegetarian requirements; inform them when booking

Visit a Local Hammam

Few experiences offer better cultural immersion than participating in the traditional Moroccan bathhouse ritual at a hammam. These public steam baths have been central to Moroccan social life for centuries, serving both hygienic and social functions.

Meknes features both traditional neighborhood hammams frequented by locals and more tourist-friendly options with additional amenities. The traditional experience involves progressing through rooms of increasing heat, scrubbing with black soap, and the invigorating (sometimes shocking!) exfoliation with a kessa mitt that leaves your skin remarkably soft.

My first hammam experience was equal parts intimidating and revelatory—I emerged feeling physically renewed and culturally enlightened. The communal nature of traditional hammams provides fascinating insights into Moroccan social structures and body image norms that differ refreshingly from Western perspectives.

Practical Tips:

• Traditional Options: Hammam Zitouna (very local experience, minimal English)
• Upscale Options: Hammam at Riad d’Or (more privacy, spa treatments available)
• Cost: Local hammams 10-30 MAD; upscale options 150-400 MAD
• What to Bring: Towel, flip-flops, change of underwear (towels provided at upscale hammams)
• Gender Separation: Hammams are strictly gender-segregated, with different hours for people of all genders
• Etiquette: Observe what others do; minimal or no swimwear is the norm in traditional hammams

Delicious Meknes: Foodie Must-Dos

Meknes offers exceptional culinary experiences that reflect both national Moroccan traditions and regional specialties. The city’s agricultural surroundings provide fresh ingredients that shine in local dishes.

Try Authentic Meknesi Cuisine

While Moroccan staples like tagine and couscous feature prominently in Meknes, the region boasts several distinctive local specialties worth seeking out:

Kamama

This slow-cooked beef or lamb head is a Meknesi specialty, typically served for lunch at dedicated kamama eateries. The meat becomes incredibly tender through hours of steaming, resulting in rich, concentrated flavors.

Herbel

A comforting soup unique to the Meknes region, herbel combines wheat berries, chickpeas, and fava beans with a blend of herbs and spices. It’s particularly popular during Ramadan but available year-round at traditional restaurants.

Local Wines

The surrounding Meknes region produces some of Morocco’s finest wines, thanks to ideal growing conditions and French viticultural influence. While alcohol isn’t widely consumed in this Muslim country, you can sample local vintages at upscale restaurants or dedicated wine shops.

During my culinary exploration of Meknes, I was particularly impressed by how restaurants maintained authentic flavors rather than adjusting dishes to presumed foreign preferences. Even in establishments accustomed to tourists, the food remained genuinely Moroccan in both preparation and presentation.

Recommended Dining Spots:

• Restaurant Aisha: Located near Place el-Hedim, serving excellent tagines in a traditional setting
• Mona Lisa: Despite the Italian name, this restaurant offers some of the best authentic Moroccan cuisine in town
• Café Clock: A cultural hub offering traditional dishes with contemporary presentations
• Street Food at Place el-Hedim: Evening food stalls serve delicious grilled meats, snail soup, and harcha (semolina bread)

Practical Tips:

• Meal Times: Lunch 12:30-2:30 PM, Dinner 7:30-10:00 PM (restaurants open earlier for tourists)
• Tipping: 10% is appreciated in restaurants; small change for casual eateries
• Water Safety: Stick to bottled water
• Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarianism is increasingly understood; explain clearly to servers

Essential Day Trips from Meknes

Meknes’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Morocco’s most significant archaeological and cultural sites, all within a short distance.

Day Trip to the Roman Ruins of Volubilis

Just 33 kilometers north of Meknes lie the remarkably preserved ruins of Volubilis, Morocco’s most impressive Roman archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Built in the 3rd century BCE and abandoned around the 11th century, Volubilis offers an exceptional glimpse into ancient Roman urban planning and architecture.

The site features well-preserved mosaics still in their original locations, impressive columns, a triumphal arch, and the remnants of wealthy homes and public buildings. The setting is particularly striking, with the ruins sprawling across a fertile plain with mountain views.

Visiting at sunrise or sunset enhances the experience dramatically, as the golden light illuminates the ancient stones and creates an almost mystical atmosphere. I found exploring Volubilis in the early morning, before the tour buses arrived, to be one of the most magical archaeological experiences I’ve had anywhere.

Practical Tips:

• Location: 33km north of Meknes
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (April-October); 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (November-March)
• Entry Fee: 70 MAD (approximately $7 USD)
• Time Needed: 2-3 hours for proper exploration
• Getting There: Grand taxi from Meknes (200-250 MAD for the entire taxi, can be shared), or guided tour
• Guides: Official guides available at entrance (150-200 MAD for 1-2 hour tour)
• Protection: Bring sun protection, water, and comfortable shoes; very little shade available

Day Trip to the Holy City of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun

Perched dramatically on two hills just 5 kilometers from Volubilis is Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, one of Morocco’s most important pilgrimage sites. Named after Moulay Idriss I, who brought Islam to Morocco and founded the country’s first dynasty, this sacred town features distinctive whitewashed buildings cascading down hillsides.

Until recently, non-Muslims were not permitted to stay overnight in Moulay Idriss, and parts of the town remain off-limits to non-Muslims, including the central shrine. However, wandering the winding streets offers insight into Moroccan religious traditions and a glimpse of small-town life rarely experienced by visitors who stick to major cities.

What impressed me most about Moulay Idriss was its authenticity—this is a genuine pilgrimage site first and a tourist destination second. The town has a palpably different atmosphere from other Moroccan destinations, with a sense of reverence and purpose among local visitors that’s fascinating to observe respectfully.

Practical Tips:

• Location: 24km from Meknes, often combined with Volubilis
• Getting There: Grand taxi from Meknes or from Volubilis
• Time Needed: 1-2 hours
• Religious Sensitivity: Dress modestly; avoid visiting during major Islamic holidays unless specifically interested in observing pilgrimages
• Photography: Exercise discretion, especially near religious sites
• Local Specialty: Try the town’s famous olive oil at small shops or restaurants

Beyond Day Trips: Guided Adventures with Sahara Discovery

While self-guided exploration around Meknes is straightforward, venturing further into Morocco’s diverse landscapes benefits from local expertise. Sahara Discovery, a reputable Moroccan travel company based in Meknes, offers excellently curated experiences ranging from single-day excursions to multi-day adventures.

What sets Sahara Discovery apart is their deep local knowledge and commitment to authentic experiences that balance must-see attractions with off-the-beaten-path discoveries. Their guides are known for cultural sensitivity and historical knowledge that adds considerable value beyond transportation logistics.

During my time in Meknes, I was particularly impressed with their attention to detail—from comfortable, well-maintained vehicles to thoughtfully timed stops that avoided the largest tourist crowds. Their multi-day desert tours create a perfect extension to a Meknes-based itinerary.

Popular Sahara Discovery Tours from Meknes:

Single-Day Options:

• Volubilis & Moulay Idriss Combo Tour: Expertly guided explorations of both sites with historical context that brings the ruins to life
• Fes Day Trip: Guided navigation through Fes’s labyrinthine medina with insider access to workshops and viewpoints
• Middle Atlas Mountains: Journey to Ifrane (Morocco’s “Little Switzerland”), cedar forests home to Barbary macaques, and traditional Berber villages

Multi-Day Adventures:

• Desert Experience (3-4 days): Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains to the Sahara dunes at Merzouga, with camel trekking and night in a desert camp
• Imperial Cities Circuit (4-5 days): Comprehensive tour connecting Meknes with Fes, Rabat, and Marrakech
• Atlantic Coast Adventure (5-7 days): From Meknes to Essaouira via the High Atlas, combining imperial heritage, mountain landscapes, and coastal charm

Practical Tips for Booking with Sahara Discovery:

• Advance Reservation: Book at least 3-4 days ahead during peak season (Mar-May, Sep-Nov)
• Customization: They willingly tailor itineraries to specific interests and time constraints
• Office Location: Their office is conveniently located near Place el-Hedim
• Price Range: Single-day tours 600-900 MAD per person; multi-day tours from 1,500 MAD per day (all-inclusive)
• What’s Included: Transportation, guide services, entrance fees, meals and accommodations on multi-day tours
• Contact: Most accommodations can arrange bookings, or visit their website

Practical Planning Section

Why Visit Meknes?

Meknes offers several compelling advantages over other Moroccan destinations:

• Authenticity: Experience imperial grandeur and medina life with fewer tourists and more genuine local interactions
• Accessibility: Compact, walkable city center with major attractions in close proximity
• Affordability: Significantly lower prices for accommodations, dining, and shopping compared to Marrakech or Fes
• Strategic Location: Perfect base for exploring Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and even day trips to Fes
• Balanced Experience: Combination of impressive monuments, cultural immersion, and relaxed atmosphere

Best Time to Visit Meknes

Spring (March-May): Ideal conditions with moderate temperatures (65-80°F/18-27°C), blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds. The agricultural surroundings of Meknes are particularly beautiful during spring.

Fall (September-November): Another excellent period with pleasant temperatures and harvest activities in the surrounding countryside. Wine regions are especially interesting during this season.

Winter (December-February): Cooler temperatures (45-65°F/7-18°C) with occasional rain but very few tourists. Accommodations offer their lowest rates, and monuments can be enjoyed in solitude.

Summer (June-August): Hot daytime temperatures (85-100°F/29-38°C) can make sightseeing challenging, though evenings are pleasant. Consider adjusting your schedule to explore early mornings and evenings.

How to Get to Meknes

By Train: The most convenient option, with regular connections to major Moroccan cities on the efficient ONCF network.

• From Casablanca: 3.5 hours
• From Rabat: 2 hours
• From Fes: 40 minutes
• From Marrakech: 7 hours

By Bus: CTM and Supratours operate comfortable coaches to Meknes.

• Terminal location: Southern edge of the city, a short taxi ride to the center

By Grand Taxi: Shared long-distance taxis connect Meknes with nearby cities.

• Faster than buses but less comfortable than trains
• Departure point: Grand taxi station near Bab el-Khemis

Getting Around Meknes

On Foot: The medina, imperial city, and main attractions are easily explored walking.

Petit Taxis: Abundant small blue taxis for locations beyond walking distance.

• Insist on meter usage (required by law) or agree on fare before entering
• Typical fare within city: 15-30 MAD

Horse-Drawn Carriages: Available for tourists near major attractions.

• Negotiate fare before boarding (approximately 150-200 MAD per hour)
• More atmospheric than practical for regular transportation

Where to Stay in Meknes

Medina Riads: Traditional Moroccan houses converted to boutique accommodations offering authentic architecture and central locations.

• Recommended: Riad d’Or, Riad Yacout, Ryhad Bab Berdaine
• Price range: 600-1200 MAD per night

Ville Nouvelle Hotels: Modern accommodations in the new city with more Western amenities.

• Recommended: Hôtel Transatlantique, Ibis Meknes, Zaki Hotel
• Price range: 400-1000 MAD per night

Budget Options: Clean, basic accommodations for travelers watching costs.

• Recommended: Hostel Touareg, Hotel Regina, numerous family-run guesthouses
• Price range: 150-350 MAD per night

Suggested Meknes Itineraries

1-Day Whirlwind

• Morning: Bab Mansour, Place el-Hedim, quick medina walk
• Afternoon: Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, Heri es-Souani
• Evening: Dinner in Place el-Hedim

2-Day Explorer

• Day 1: All Meknes highlights (as in 1-day itinerary, but at relaxed pace)
• Day 2: Day trip to Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Zerhoun

3-Day Immersive

• Day 1: Imperial monuments and central Meknes
• Day 2: Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Zerhoun (consider Sahara Discovery’s guided tour)
• Day 3: Cooking class, hammam experience, deeper medina exploration

5-7 Day Grand Adventure

• Days 1-2: Explore all of Meknes at leisure
• Day 3: Volubilis and Moulay Idriss (with Sahara Discovery guide)
• Days 4-7: Join Sahara Discovery’s Desert Experience tour to Merzouga, returning to Meknes or continuing to Marrakech

Safety Tips for Meknes

Meknes is generally very safe for visitors, with lower levels of tourist-targeting hustlers than other major Moroccan destinations. Still, exercise common travel precautions:

• Petty Theft: Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas
• Unwanted Guides: Firmly but politely decline persistent offers of “guidance”
• Solo Female Travelers: Dress modestly to minimize unwanted attention
• Road Safety: Be cautious crossing streets; traffic rules are often treated as suggestions
• Emergency Numbers: Police (19), Ambulance (15)

Basic Phrases

A few key Arabic and French expressions to enhance your experience:

• Hello: Salam alaikum (Arabic), Bonjour (French)
• Thank you: Shukran (Arabic), Merci (French)
• Please: Min fadlak/fadlik (Arabic), S’il vous plaît (French)
• Yes/No: Na’am/La (Arabic), Oui/Non (French)
• How much?: B’shal? (Arabic), C’est combien? (French)
• Too expensive: Ghali bezzaf (Arabic)
• I don’t understand: Ma fhemtsh (Arabic), Je ne comprends pas (French)

Currency & Budgeting

The Moroccan dirham (MAD) is a closed currency, meaning you’ll need to exchange money after arriving in Morocco.

Daily Budget Guidelines:

• Budget: 300-500 MAD ($30-50 USD) – dorm beds, street food, public transportation
• Mid-range: 500-1000 MAD ($50-100 USD) – mid-range hotels, restaurant meals, occasional taxis
• Luxury: 1000+ MAD ($100+ USD) – riads, fine dining, private guides

Money Tips:

• ATM widely available in Meknes
• Credit cards accepted at upscale establishments but cash preferred for smaller businesses
• Keep small bills handy for taxis, tips, and market purchases

Conclusion

Meknes offers an ideal balance of Morocco’s imperial grandeur, cultural richness, and authentic daily life. Without the overwhelming tourist numbers of Marrakech or Fes, visitors can explore magnificent historical monuments and engage with local culture at a more relaxed pace.

Whether you’re adding Meknes as part of a broader Moroccan itinerary or making it your base for exploring the region, this underappreciated imperial city rewards travelers with unforgettable experiences. From the monumental Bab Mansour to the atmospheric medina, from culinary discoveries to day trips exploring ancient Roman ruins, Meknes delivers the Morocco of your imagination without the crowds.

When you’re ready to venture beyond the city, companies like Sahara Discovery make it easy to expand your Moroccan adventure into the Atlas Mountains, imperial cities, or the magical Sahara desert—all while maintaining the authentic experience that makes Meknes so special.

Have you visited Meknes? What was your favorite discovery in this imperial city? Share your experiences in the comments below!