Join us on a journey to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, and the ancient Roman Ruins of Volubilis. In Meknes, admire the impressive Bab Mansour gate, visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and explore the historic Heri es-Souani Granaries, once used for food storage. Stroll through the lively Medina and traditional souks, where you can experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Next, travel to Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman cities in North Africa. Walk among ancient ruins, marvel at detailed Mosaics, and discover the remnants of temples, baths, and grand archways that tell the story of Morocco’s Roman past.
This trip offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it ideal for traveler’s eager to explore Morocco’s rich heritage
✔️ Discover Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities
✔️ Visit the impressive Bab Mansour gate and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail
✔️ Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
✔️ Stroll through the bustling medina and vibrant souks of Meknes
✔️ Enjoy panoramic views of the Moroccan countryside
Embark on a full-day journey from Fes into the heart of northern Morocco, exploring the imperial city of Meknes and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. This excursion offers a unique blend of history, culture, architecture, and scenic countryside, providing insight into Morocco’s rich past and diverse heritage.
In the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel or riad in Fes. Our drive takes us through the beautiful Moroccan countryside, with rolling hills, fertile fields, olive groves, and small Berber villages along the way. The journey to Meknes takes approximately 1.5 hours, and your guide will provide historical and cultural context, explaining how Meknes developed into one of Morocco’s four imperial cities.
Founded in the 11th century, Meknes rose to prominence under Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, who transformed it into a grand imperial capital with impressive architecture, fortified walls, and vast palaces. The city’s history is reflected in its monuments, gates, and medina, providing a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s imperial past.
Upon arrival in Meknes, we will begin with a visit to Bab Mansour, one of Morocco’s most famous and beautifully decorated gates. Constructed in the early 18th century by a Christian convert to Islam, this monumental gate is renowned for its grand size, intricate tile work, and ornate inscriptions. Bab Mansour served as the main entrance to the imperial city and remains an iconic symbol of Meknes’ grandeur.
Next, we will explore the Heri es-Souani granaries, vast storage facilities once used to supply food and water to the city and Sultan Moulay Ismail’s army. These granaries showcase ingenious architectural techniques, including natural cooling systems designed to keep grain and provisions fresh in Morocco’s hot climate. Walking through the stone corridors, you can imagine the scale of the sultan’s army and the logistical planning that went into sustaining the city.
We will also visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the tomb of the powerful sultan whose 55-year reign left a lasting mark on Morocco’s history. The mausoleum features ornate Islamic architecture, delicate tile work, and intricate wood carvings, offering a serene and spiritual insight into Moroccan royal traditions.
Afterward, we will take a stroll through Meknes’ old medina, a maze of narrow streets lined with shops and historic buildings. The medina is home to colorful local souks, where merchants have sold spices, textiles, pottery, and handicrafts for centuries. Here, you can interact with artisans, observe traditional crafts, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
Around midday, we will stop at a local restaurant in Meknes for a traditional Moroccan lunch. Guests can enjoy dishes such as tagine, couscous, grilled meats, and fresh salads, paired with Moroccan bread and mint tea. This break provides a chance to rest, savor local flavors, and prepare for the next leg of the journey to Volubilis.
After lunch, we continue to Volubilis, approximately 30 minutes from Meknes. Volubilis is an ancient Roman city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dating back around 2,000 years. It was the capital of the Roman province of Mauretania and a center of administration, commerce, and culture during the Roman Empire.
Here, you will explore remarkably preserved ruins, including stone buildings, grand archways, and intricate floor mosaics depicting Roman gods, daily life scenes, and geometric patterns. Walking through the streets of Volubilis, you can imagine the city’s former glory, from bustling markets to administrative centers. Your guide will explain the historical significance of the ruins and how the Romans influenced local architecture, agriculture, and urban planning.
The site also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, with rolling hills, olive groves, and distant mountains providing a scenic backdrop for your visit. This combination of history and natural beauty makes Volubilis a truly memorable experience.
In the late afternoon, we will begin the drive back to Fes. The journey offers time to relax, reflect, and enjoy the serene landscapes as the sun sets over the Moroccan countryside. You will be dropped off at your hotel or riad in Fes, concluding a full day of history, culture, and exploration.
This day trip is perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Morocco’s imperial history, explore ancient Roman ruins, and experience the charm of traditional cities, all in a single, unforgettable day.
