Meknes

Morocco, Africa

Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a captivating blend of history and culture, known for its stunning architecture, including the grand Bab Mansour gate and the Royal Stables. Visitors can explore the ancient medina, vibrant souks, and the historical mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Its strategic location offers easy access to nearby attractions like Volubilis, making it a perfect base for exploring Morocco's rich heritage. Meknes offers an authentic Moroccan experience, less crowded than its counterparts, yet brimming with charm.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Bassatine

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Meknes

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Medina of Meknes

Wander through narrow streets filled with history and culture.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Bab Mansour Gate

Admire stunning architecture of this historic city gate.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Royal Stables

Explore the impressive ruins of royal horse stables.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail

Pay respects at the stunning tomb of a great sultan.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Heri es-Souani

See ancient granaries and water cisterns of Meknes.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Place El Hedim

Experience the lively atmosphere of this main square.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Moroccan cuisine at a local restaurant

Savor delicious tagine and other Moroccan specialties.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Dar Jamai Museum

Discover Moroccan arts in a beautifully restored palace.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop in the Souks

Find unique handicrafts and traditional souvenirs.

No booking required
10

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a day trip to Volubilis

Explore the ancient Roman ruins nearby Meknes.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-14 (#189 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Moroccan Dirham

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Arabic

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Tagine

Slow-cooked stew in a conical pot. (National dish)

Couscous

VE

Steamed semolina served with vegetables.

Pastilla

Savory pie with meat and spices.

Harira

VE

Traditional soup with lentils and chickpeas.

Mechoui

Whole roasted lamb, seasoned and cooked.

Phrases to learn

English

Arabic

Hello

Marhaban

(Mar-ha-ban)

Yes/No

Naam / La

(Nah-am / Lah)

Thank you

Shukran

(Shook-ran)

Excuse me

Afwan

(Ahf-wan)

How much?

Kam?

(Kam)