Meknes Fes-meknes, Morocco Travel Guide
Bab Mansour LaLaj: This gate is arguably the most impressive and well-preserved in Morocco, a masterpiece of Moroccan-Islamic architecture. Sultan Moulay Ismail began its construction, completed by his son. It serves as the grand entrance to the Imperial City. Its renown is for intricate zellige, carved cedarwood panels, and repurposed marble columns. It is always accessible for viewing from the outside. No entrance fee is charged. The gate is best photographed from Place El Hedim, especially in the morning or late afternoon.
Place El Hedim: The main square of Meknes, frequently called the "little Djemaa el-Fna." It borders the medina and faces Bab Mansour. Historically, this square saw public gatherings, markets, and entertainment. It's always accessible and free. Street performers, storytellers, snake charmers, and food stalls are present. A fantastic place to observe local life. Photography of individuals requires permission and a tip.
These suggestions help maximize your sightseeing pleasure and take photos of unique moments.
Volubilis (Walili): UNESCO site, Morocco's best-preserved Roman archaeological site. Features mosaics, Arch of Caracalla, thriving Roman city remains. A must for history enthusiasts (requires day trip).
Meknes Medina: UNESCO site, a living museum of labyrinthine streets, traditional houses, public fountains. Royal Palace (Dar el Makhzen): Not open to public, but its imposing walls and grand gates are significant features. Madrasa Bou Inania: Exquisite Marinid architecture (14th century), open to non-Muslims.
Grand Mosque of Meknes: Significant religious building in the medina, generally not accessible to non-Muslims. Moulay Idriss Zerhoun: Holy town with tomb of Moulay Idriss I, founder of Morocco's first Arab dynasty (day trip; restricted access to tomb).
Bab Mansour itself is a grand monument to Moulay Ismail's reign and ambitious vision. Its size and decoration symbolize imperial past.
Heri es-Souani (Royal Granaries): Its vastness a glimpse into the logistical and agricultural might sustaining Moulay Ismail's imperial army and court.
Meknes is a city of historical architecture, but its surroundings exhibit natural beauty.
Jnane Sbil Garden (in Fes): Easily accessible from Meknes via short train ride. A peaceful escape with diverse plant life, fountains, and walking paths.
A smaller, historical garden near the Royal Palace walls in Meknes. A green space for relaxation.
Extensive green spaces and manicured lawns, contrasting with the city's historical architecture.
Countryside around Meknes, especially towards the Zerhoun mountains, features rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards. A pleasant backdrop for day trips.
Not a main focus in Meknes. Further travel into the Middle Atlas mountains may reveal Barbary apes in cedar forests near Azrou.
Meknes is an inland city. No sandy shores or significant natural lakes nearby. The Agdal Basin is an artificial reservoir.
Beyond well-known landmarks, Meknes has several hidden gems awaiting discovery.
Explore Fondouks (traditional caravanserais), the Kissaria (covered textile/gold market), and Bab Berdaine (another grand gate on the northern side).
Rooftop terraces in riads offer panoramic medina views. The imposing scale of The Monarch's residence walls provides a dramatic backdrop. Place El Hedim at dusk offers lively scenes.
Discover authentic local life and regional specialities.
Allocate sufficient time for each site. Combining a visit to Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Zerhoun for a single day trip from Meknes is common.
Have on comfortable shoes for walking, especially when exploring the medina or archaeological sites. Stay hydrated. Guides can deepen your experience and ease navigation through complex areas.
Group nearby attractions to reduce travel time. Start early to avoid crowds and heat.
Ensure you wear comfortable shoes for long walks. Carry water to stay hydrated throughout your explorations.
Some historical sites could be challenging for those with mobility issues due to uneven terrain or stairs.
Allow for spontaneous discoveries in the medina.
Meknes offers family-friendly attractions that cater to different ages.
The main square becomes a lively entertainment hub in the evenings, with storytellers, musicians, and street artists. Children often enjoy the spectacle.
The vast scale of the royal stables and granaries captures the imagination. Kids enjoy exploring the huge arches and imagining thousands of horses.
Exploring the souks can be an adventure. The colors, sounds, and different sections (spices, leather, metalwork) offer a sensory experience. Younger children may need close supervision.
Children can observe the intricate Islamic architecture and learn about historical Islamic education in a peaceful setting. This provides a quiet moment for appreciation.
The museum, housed in a palace, showcases customary Moroccan crafts. This offers insight into the daily life and artistry of Meknes's past. Visual displays interest all ages.
Kids can run around the from Ancient rome ruins and discover mosaics. It's an outdoor history lesson. Guides can tell engaging stories about Roman life.
Explore Volubilis toursEncourage children to spot specific items or colors in the souks, turning shopping into a scavenger hunt. The atmosphere captivates younger visitors.
Pace your activities to avoid over-tiring children. Schedule breaks for snacks and relaxation.
Many riads and hotels have family rooms. Vacation rentals often feature more space and use of a kitchen.
Encourage children to try new foods, especially the sweet pastries. These often become a highlight of their culinary exploration.
Small gifts or souvenirs from the souks, like mini tagines or colorful babouches, can be exciting for kids.
Meknes has challenges for accessibility, especially in older areas.
The medina features narrow, uneven streets, numerous stairs, and crowded souks. These conditions create challenges for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility issues.
The Ville Nouvelle has wider, more even pavements. Taxis are more accessible here, although some vehicles may not be adapted for wheelchairs.
Advance planning is important for travelers with special mobility needs. Research specific accommodation and attractions.
This minimizes surprises and maximizes comfort.
Moroccan hospitality is generally high. Locals often help when travelers are facing difficulties.
A willingness to receive assistance leads to a more pleasant journey.
The medina is a place with many sensory inputs: sights, sounds, and smells. This can be overwhelming for some.
A measured approach helps manage sensory experiences.
Search for online forums and communities dedicated to accessible travel in Morocco. Experiences and tips from other travelers are valuable.
Specialized travel agencies focus on accessible trips. They customize itineraries and set up suitable accommodations and transport.
Your riad or hotel may have local contacts who can assist with specific needs or recommend accessible services.
