Often overlooked by tourists, Meknes seems much more authentic and untouched than Morocco’s other imperial cities (Rabat, Fez, and Marrakech). This picturesque hilltop city in northern Morocco is known for its medina, authentic boutique hotels housed inside beautiful riads, and a large mausoleum that is the final resting place of Moulay Ismail.
Explore the UNESCO-listed old medina and its narrow streets with historical sites and souks. You can also visit the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis. Another attraction of Meknes is the series of magnificent gates it contains.
This post highlights all the best things to do in Meknes and offers tips on where to eat and stay.
Table of Contents
Best things to do in Meknes
Visit Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail
The Mausoleum is the final resting place of the great Moroccan ruler Moulay Ismail. With its few interconnected courtyards decorated with marble columns and a beautiful fountain, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is one of the most important historical sites in the city. Enter the hall of the tomb to admire the beauty of its beautifully decorated interiors. The mausoleum is open to non-Muslim visitors, except the tomb itself. When visiting this sacred shrine, it is recommended to wear modest clothing.
Explore Medina
With its narrow, traffic-free streets lined with colorful buildings, bustling souks, and 17th-century gates, Meknes’ Medina (old town) is the city’s most popular tourist area. Lose yourself in a maze of traditional Moroccan craft shops and stalls selling silk threads, carpets, slippers, spices, and souvenirs. The UNESCO-listed Meknes Medina is also home to historic attractions such as the Bou Inania Madrasa and Bab Mansour Gate.
Visit Al-Hadeem Square
Meknes’ central square ( Place El-Hedime) is located just across from the Bab Mansour Gate. Filled with artists, merchants, and snack vendors, Al-Hadeem Square is the best place to experience the lively atmosphere of Meknes. From watching acrobats and fire-eaters perform their tricks to haggling over rugs, ceramics, and slippers with street vendors, there’s plenty to enjoy when visiting this vibrant and picturesque square in Meknes. There are plenty of cafés with outdoor terraces where you can sit and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee.
Explore Dar Jamai Museum
This magnificent 19th-century palace was originally built for the wealthy Jamai family. In 1920, the palace was transformed into a magnificent museum that houses an eclectic collection of traditional ceramics, textiles, wooden objects, and jewelry. Visitors will have the opportunity to see antique carpets from all over the country, an ancient prayer platform, 14th-century costumes, rugs and cushions, and brocaded saddles. Outside, you will find a spectacular central Andalusian-style garden. It should be noted that most of the explanations of the exhibits are in French/Arabic.
See Lalla Aouda Square
This is a modern square with gardens and shaded benches. Nestled behind the city’s imposing ramparts, Lalla Aouda Square is where the cavalry parades of Sultan Moulay Ismail’s army once took place. Today, this large square with green spaces attracts both tourists and locals who come to take a break from the bustling streets of the old medina. You can rent one of the local horse-drawn carriages and see Meknes’ endless ramparts from a unique perspective.
Visit Meknes Museum
Interested in Moroccan folk art? Visit the Meknes Museum, a small museum that houses a fine collection of pottery, metalwork, jewelry, and clothing. Admire the decorative leather armor inlaid with ancient coins and the various Moroccan rugs. Entrance to the Meknes Museum will cost you 10 dirhams.
See Kara Prison
Located just a stone’s throw from the mausoleum, Kara Prison is probably the strangest tourist attraction in Meknes. This underground prison is where Sultan Moulay Ismail locked up Christian, Portuguese, and Spanish prisoners. The enormous prison could hold over 60,000 prisoners, most of them slaves used to build the Sultan’s palaces in Meknes.
Discover The Royal Stables
The Royal Stables is one of the most impressive historical sites in Meknes, the grandiose Royal Stables. Believe it or not, 12,000 royal horses once made their home here. Unfortunately, the Lisbon earthquake of 1755 left most of the facilities in ruins. Today, you can explore the grounds and see three restored rooms, as well as the ruined stables. Although the place is not in perfect condition, it is worth a visit due to its size. You will meet a few horses there that are kept only for tourists.
Other things to do in Meknes
See Bab Mansour Laalej
The main city gate located between the kasbah and the medieval medina, Bab el-Mansour is a photogenic structure completed in the 18th century on the orders of Sultan Moulay Ismail. The intricate architectural details of this impressive gate include inscriptions from the Quran, zellige tiles, and magnificent marble columns. Unfortunately, the enormous gate is currently undergoing maintenance.
Discover The Souani Basin
Also known as Hri Swani (the Norias Silo) and Sahrij Swani (the Norias Basin), is another major tourist attraction currently undergoing renovation in Meknes. The Souani Basin is one of the largest dams in the country. At 320 meters long and nearly 150 meters wide, the basin was built in the 16th century to provide water to the city and nearby villages. With its street food vendors, artists, and spectacular views of the water at sunset, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was once one of Meknes’ most popular natural recreation areas. Hopefully, the Souani Basin will be filled with water after the renovation work, so locals and tourists alike can once again enjoy its charms.
Visit Madrasa Bou Inania
Located in the heart of the Medina, this former Islamic school and mosque from the 14th century is worth a visit. With its zellige tile decorations and carved artwork on the walls, this historic building is a beautiful piece of architecture. For a reasonable entrance fee, visitors can enter the picturesque central courtyard and tour the classrooms and bedrooms on the upper levels. Don’t miss the green-tiled roof for spectacular views of the city.
See Dar al-Makhzen (Royal Palace)
Travelers visiting Meknes will find the city’s royal residence right in the heart of the Kasbah. Built in the 18th century, the royal palace is also known as Dar Al Makhzen. As you might expect, visitors are not allowed to see the palace from the inside, as it is one of the king’s residences. Since it is not easy to get a royal invitation, we recommend taking a photo of the enormous, beautifully decorated gate.
Discover Khemis Gate
Meknes is home to many beautiful gates and Kmehis is one of them. Built in the 17th century, this gate gives access to the mellah, the Jewish quarter of the old medina. The gate itself is magnificent with an arch filled with intricate zelliges and a yellowish portal with beautiful carvings.
See Bab Berdieyinne
Don’t miss this majestic 17th-century city gate, built by order of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Used to protect the city from attacks from the north, Bab Berdieyinne is one of the gates of the old medina. Here you will notice distinctive Islamic architectural motifs and a beautifully decorated arch with blue and ochre tiles.
Enjoy a Ride in a horse-drawn carriage
One of the best ways to explore the city of Meknes is to take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Rent one of these decorated carriages and see the city’s main sights from a different perspective. The carriages usually seat five passengers. You can find them in Medina, a thirty-minute tour of Meknes’ main attractions in a horse-drawn carriage will cost you around 100 DH.
Discover French Institute of Meknes
Located between the new city and the old medina, this center for French cultural exchange houses a language school, a media library, a cafeteria, a theater, and beautiful green spaces. The institute also hosts events such as art exhibitions, films, and plays. It is worth noting that all the diverse events and activities that take place there are in French.
Day Trips from Meknes
Volubilis
Situated on a hilltop, this site is Morocco’s most famous Roman ruins and the most popular day trip option from Meknes. Welcome to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a stunning site that is home to impressive temple fragments, well-preserved mosaics, and surviving columns from the ancient city. One of Morocco’s most visited World Heritage Sites, Volubilis was even a major filming location for Martin Scorsese’s “The Last Temptation of Christ.” These world-famous Roman ruins can be reached by car from Meknes in just under 40 minutes.
Moulay Idriss
On the same road as Volubilis, this beautiful city built on the Khyber and Tazga hills makes a popular day trip from Meknes. Lose yourself in the medina, snap a photo in front of the mosque, and hike the hillside trails for stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also visit the town’s market and buy everything from plastic toys, rugs, and ceramics to traditional Moroccan pastries, spices, and meats. Moulay Idriss is a major pilgrimage center, drawing thousands of people during its annual religious festival in August. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Meknes to Moulay Idriss.
Fez
Located about 65 kilometers from Meknes, Morocco’s first capital is simply a must-see destination. Welcome to Fez, a city of tranquil gardens, palaces, museums, and bustling souks. Whether you want to explore the oldest medina in North Africa, visit some of the country’s best museums (Nejjarine Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts, Borj Nord Museum of Arms, Dar Batha Museum), or reconnect with nature in the beautiful Jnan Sbil Garden, there’s no shortage of activities in Fez to keep you busy for at least a day or two.
Ifrane
Fancy a spot of skiing while visiting Meknes? Nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains of Morocco, Ifrane is also known as the Switzerland of Morocco. Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find Michlifen Ski Resort, a popular winter sports resort with five ski slopes. Nature lovers visiting Ifrane can spend a few hours in the Cèdre Gouraud Forest and spot animals such as wild cats and Barbary apes. You can also snap a photo of the famous lion statue in the center of Ifrane or play a round of golf at the Michlifen Golf & Country Club (18 holes). It’s about an hour’s drive from Meknes to Ifrane.
Discover the Best Golf Courses in Meknes
Royal Golf de Meknes
Located in the gardens of the Royal Palace of Meknès, this spectacular 9-hole course is the only enclosed course in all of Africa. Golfers will notice that the course is narrow and quite short, with fairways lined with a variety of trees, including apricot and palm trees. The complex has a charming clubhouse where clubs and caddies can be rented. To enter the Royal Golf de Meknès, permission must be obtained from the Royal Palace.
Visit Vineyards in Meknes
Volubilia – Domaine de la Zouina
Located 30 minutes from Meknes, this spectacular wine and olive estate is a must-see for any wine lover visiting Morocco. Call ahead to book a tour of the estate, which includes a wine tasting (Volubilia Gris, Rosé, Epicuria, and Syrah/Cabernet Sauvignon). You can also sample the estate’s dried fruits, goat cheese, and olive oil. The Volubilia – Domaine de la Zouina guided tour will cost you about 30 euros per person and lasts 45 minutes. It should be noted that the minimum group size is 4 people. Surrounded by cypress and olive trees, with a beautiful colonial villa in the middle, the wine estate itself is stunning.
Chateau Roslane
For more gourmet treats and wine tastings, book a room at the boutique hotel and winery Chateau Roslane. The property is a feast for the eyes with a seasonal outdoor pool, a spa center, and a beautiful restaurant with indoor and alfresco dining options. Chateau Roslane offers lunches and wine tastings. Every dish is delicious, and wines include chardonnay, cabernet, merlot, a syrah blend, and a muscat dessert wine.
Best things to do for children in Meknes
Have Fun in an Aqualand Water Park
Opened in 2018, this world of artificial waves and water slides is the largest water park in the country. Take your kids to Aqualand Water Park in Meknes and enjoy 12 water rides and relaxation areas. Kids love the Space Boat slide, as well as the exciting Spiral Slide. You can also visit pools such as the magnificent Lazy River, the Relax Pool, and the Caribbean Paradise. If you’re hungry, the on-site café-restaurant offers pizza, pasta, crepes, toast, and tagine dishes.
Visit KS Fantasy Park
No visit to Meknes with your kids is complete without spending a few hours at KS Fantasy Park. With a 600m² indoor playground, the park offers a wide range of activities for little ones. From climbing walls and trampolines to ball pits, slides, and rope bridges, KS Fantasy Park does have it all. The park has a games library where children of all ages can take part in reading workshops and painting classes. Remember that adults are not allowed in the playground. They can have a drink and keep an eye on their children from the on-site café and through the CCTV screens. KS Fantasy Park is air-conditioned in the summer and heated in the winter.
Visit best restaurants in Meknes
Restaurant l’Oliveraie at Chateau Roslane Hotel
Chateau Roslane is home to one of the most beautiful restaurants on this list. Located 20 kilometers from the city center, l’Oliveraie is a fine dining establishment that has both an indoor and outdoor area. The indoor area features two picturesque olive trees in the middle, while the outdoor area is located in the garden and offers a beautiful view of the valley covered in vineyards. What should you order here? Try the roast leg of lamb with potatoes or order the lamb/chicken tagine.
Aisha
Craving some tasty, homemade Moroccan cuisine? Book a table at this little restaurant in Meknes, where Aisha and her mother prepare local specialties such as Berber bread, harira soup, melting couscous, and tagines. Cooked to perfection with the right blend of spices, the minced meat tagine is a big hit. You can also try the chicken rfissa, which offers a great combination of flavors and textures. At Aisha, the portions are generous, the prices reasonable, and the service impeccable.
La Maison de la Pizza
If you love pizza, this little restaurant in Meknes is the place to go! The chef, Amel, is always welcoming and prepares delicious pizzas with a thin and crispy crust. The Greek pizza with oregano is excellent, as is the classic marinara with tomato sauce and garlic. La Maison de la Pizza also offers vegetarian options and a variety of salads.
Restaurant Omnia
Recommended by Lonely Planet, this charming family-run restaurant in Meknes has two beautiful outdoor terraces and a pretty dining room on the ground floor. Ideal for a romantic lunch or dinner, Restaurant Omnia is probably one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city. On the menu you will find local Moroccan dishes such as tagine, couscous, and harira soup. The slow-cooked meat tagine is to die for and the pastilla is simply incredible. The restaurant is licensed to sell alcohol, so you can order something from its extensive beer and wine list.
Collier de la Colombe
If you want to enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine, book at Collier de la Colombe. Located a few steps from Bab Mansour, this restaurant is housed in a 3-star hotel and offers traditional Moroccan cuisine. The house specialty is pastilla, which you can enjoy on the rooftop terrace, with stunning views of the new city and the Boufekrane River. Meat lovers should try the tenderness of the grilled lamb. If you prefer fish and seafood, we recommend ordering the fish tagines or the Atlas trout meunière. It is worth mentioning that Collier de la Colombe has a liquor license and serves alcohol.
Dar Baraka Restaurant
Located in a narrow alley in the medina, Dar Baraka Restaurant is by far the best restaurant in Meknes. Knock on the door and you will be greeted by the friendly owner, Mr. Noureddine, who will sit with you and take your order. You will dine in a colorful Moroccan family home, with comfortable seating and an authentic ambiance. What’s on the menu? House specialties include camel tagine, Moroccan couscous with chicken, veal with apricots and dried plums, and eggplant with tomato. Complimentary mint tea and biscuits are served after the meal.
Discover best places to stay in Meknes
Château Roslane – Boutique Hotel & Spa
Château Roslane is a boutique hotel and luxury spa located on a wine estate in El Hajeb, Morocco. It is a 25-minute drive from the historic city of Meknes. The hotel is set in a beautiful setting with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can enjoy delicious meals at the hotel’s restaurant or relax by the sparkling pool.
Dar Meknes Tresor
Housed in a renovated 17th-century building, Dar Meknes Tresor is a beautiful riad known for its authentic Moroccan ambiance and spacious rooms. You’ll be staying in the heart of the medina, just steps from Meknes’ most popular tourist attractions. The star of the property is the stunning rooftop terrace where breakfast is served and you can admire stunning views of the city.
Riad d’Or
Located in the medina, this beautifully decorated Moroccan riad features a lovely rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, a small courtyard, and spacious rooms with private bathrooms. Guests report that the views from the rooftop terrace are exceptional and add that the breakfast is delicious and included in the price. An authentic Moroccan dinner is available upon request at Riad d’Or.
Riad Le Petit Ksar
This beautiful riad is known for its beautiful architecture and decorations. You have a fabulous terrace with flowers, plants, and spectacular views of the city. As for the rooms, they are spacious, comfortable, very clean, and bright. Riad Le Petit Ksar is located a few minutes from the main square and close to the souks. Breakfast on the terrace is tasty, abundant, and varied.
The best time to visit Meknes
With hot summers and mild winters, the city of Meknes enjoys a Mediterranean climate. If you don’t mind the hot temperatures of 30° to 40° Celsius and the large crowds of tourists in summer, visit Meknes from June to August. The winter season in Meknes runs from December to February. It should be noted that at this time of year, it can get quite cold in the evenings. Therefore, the best time to visit Meknes is spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when temperatures range between 20° and 30° Celsius on average.
