Day Trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis: A Guide

Taking a day trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis is a great way for visitors to the region to really get in the heart of the area and enjoy the historic architecture and sites of Morocco. The trip is a popular one that allows travelers to get up close and personal with Moroccan history and culture.

On this guide, we’ll offer some practical advice on taking a comfortable and enjoyable day trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis. We’ll look at how you can arrange the trip, as well as where to stay while in Meknes and Volubilis, how best to explore the regions, and the best times to visit.

Why Should You Visit Meknes and Volubilis?

Meknes and Volubilis are two of the most significant sites in Morocco for those interested in exploring its rich history and culture. In Meknes you will find a sprawling city dominated by a grand walled medina that has remained largely unchanged since it was founded in 1065 by Almoravid dynasty commanders. The historic district also contains excellent examples of Islamic architecture including the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and Bab Mansour, amongst others.

Volubilis is an even more ancient Roman archeological site to visit, having been the first overseas province of Rome. Here you’ll find a well-preserved connect centrum filled with gates, a triumphal arch and countless tumbled-down walls and columns Still standing, just barely, its floor mosaics are some of the finest examples of Roman art in the world.

How to Get to Meknes and Volubilis From Fes?

Your first step in arranging a trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis is getting there. By far the best way to go between the two cities is by car. Taking a private tour is a particularly convenient route to go, with most tours running for 7-14 hours depending on which one you choose. That said, the journey itself isn’t too long – it’s about 2 hours each way – so you can easily self-drive as long as you have a car.

If you don’t have your own vehicle or don’t think it’s feasible to do the drive yourself (for example, those travelling in groups of a few people) then public buses and shared shuttles are also available. These tend to cost less than private car hire but take longer (around 3 hours each way).

Where should you stay in Meknes and Volubilis?

Unless you plan on making an overnight trip, you won’t need to stay anywhere while in Meknes and Volubilis – just leave your things with your driver if you’re taking a private tour or hire a locker at your accommodation if you’re driving yourself.

That said, Meknes is still worth spending some time in if you want to explore the city itself more fully. There are some great hotels there that range from budget guesthouses to luxurious apartments. The Hotel Casa Allaoua is particularly highly rated and has room rates starting from €44 per night which includes free WI-FI services and superb customer service. Also highly recommended is Hotel Tikida El Morgeg located within the old town and only 5 minutes walk from the Grand Place. If you prefer something a bit more luxury then there’s always El Farhaoui Mouftahid which offers suites with panoramic mountain views as well as an indoor pool, sauna and free Wi-Fi.

What to do in Meknes and Volubilis?

Meknes is an incredibly fascinating city to explore. Upon arriving at the old walls, visitors should make their way to the Bab Mansour Gate where they can take a stroll through the medina down stunning Andalous Laâlou streets filled with colourful walls and rugs, pottery and jewellery for sale. Nearby is the huge square which features the El Hedim Mosque, addirah (ceremonial gate) and numerous old palaces.

Moving onto nearby Volubilis, this strikingly gorgeous Roman site is filled with wonders such as its mosaic-tiled roads and courtyards, grand arcades, basilica halls and temples. Visitors sometimes come here to attend one of its festival or concerts that are normally hosted during the summer months, so it’s worth checking out our website here before deciding whether or not to visit during this season.

What is the best time to visit Meknes and Volubilis?

The best time to visit Meknes and Volubilis really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. For example, during the summer months (June – August) temperatures can get very hot so you may prefer not to physical activity such as walking tour around this time. The winter months can be quite chilly (below 10°C) so take suitable clothing like coats, scarves, gloves and hats if you decide on this time.

If you’re looking for moderate climate but still want some nice weather for pictures then spring (April – May) or autumn (September – October) are your best bets. During this time temperatures range between 20-25°C during the day with some cooler times during the evening – this is also when festivals are held so consider if that is something that appeals to you too before booking your trip!

Conclusion

Taking a day trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis is a great way for visitors to get up close and personal with Moroccan history and culture. Travellers can easily arrange the trip through bus routes, shared shuttles or private tours – whichever route you take should be based on what kind of experience you want, how much time you have available, budget, etc.

The two places have plenty of great attractions to explore including examples of vibrant Islamic architecture in Meknes as well as exquisite Roman ruins in Volubilis – arrange your trip for spring or autumn for moderate climate with lots of activities still possible during these seasons! Finally, booking a convenient day trip with GetYourGuide makes this trip even easier – click here now to start planning your perfect day trip from Fes!