Meknes, Volubilis & Moulay Idriss Small-Group Day Tour from Fes

Dam Achahad & Rif Mountains, stop to enjoy the stunning landscape, breathe the fresh air, and capture beautiful photos.

the ancient Roman ruins Volubilis, where you will spend a some time exploring the 2000-year-old ruins and getting an idea of life during the Roman Empire.

During the journey, you will visit the holy town of Moulay Idriss, located on a scenic hillside. The town is famous as the burial place of Idris I, the first major Islamic ruler of Morocco. You will have free time to explore the surroundings, enjoy panoramic views over the town, and discover its unique atmosphere, including its traditional handmade candy.

Travelers pass by Dar Jamai Museum, an elegant 19th-century palace in Meknes that reflects traditional Moroccan architecture and craftsmanship. From the outside, visitors can admire its grand gates, detailed tilework, carved wood, and peaceful gardens while the driver briefly explains the historical importance of the building and its role in the city’s heritage.

The tour begins with an exploration of the historic city walls and monumental gates dating back to the 17th century, including Bab Berdaïne and Bab Khemis. Continue through the imperial city to see important sites such as the Royal Stables (Roua), granaries (Heri), and the former stud facilities, which reflect Meknes’ role as a powerful royal capital. A stop is made at the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, one of the rare religious sites in Morocco historically open to non-Muslim visitors. The tour then exits through the impressive Bab Mansour, one of Morocco’s most famous gates, leading onto the vast El Hedim Square. Across the square, Dar Jamai Museum of Moroccan Arts showcases a rich collection of traditional crafts, textiles, woodwork, and ceramics, offering insight into Morocco’s artistic heritage.

El Hedim Square (often translated as “the Square of Demolition”) is a famous public square in Meknes, Morocco. It was created between 1672 and 1674 during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail, after parts of the old city were demolished to make space for the imperial palace complex and the square itself. Today, El Hedim Square serves as a lively gathering place and an important historical landmark, facing the monumental Bab Mansour gate.

Travelers will see Bab El-Khemis, one of the historic gates of Meknes dating back to the 17th century during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail. The gate is known for its massive stone structure and strategic importance as one of the main entrances to the imperial city. From outside, visitors can admire the impressive architecture, defensive design, and surrounding city walls while learning about its role in Meknes’ history as an imperial capital. This stop provides a cultural overview and a photo opportunity without entering the site.

Travelers will stop at Bab Mansour, the most famous and monumental gate of Meknes, built in the early 18th century during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Considered one of the most impressive gates in Morocco, Bab Mansour is known for its massive scale, green zellij tilework, marble columns, and detailed Islamic calligraphy. Visitors have time to admire the architecture, take photos, and enjoy views over El Hedim Square, while learning about the gate’s historical role as the ceremonial entrance to the imperial city.