Things To Do
in Meknès
Meknès, a historic city in northern Morocco, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. Once the capital of the Moroccan empire, it boasts a blend of traditional Moroccan and French colonial influences. The city is surrounded by impressive ramparts and features beautiful gardens, palaces, and bustling souks.
Meknès is also a gateway to exploring the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bab Mansour gate, one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco, and explore the nearby Place El Hedim.
Visit the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum and then head to the Royal Stables, which once housed 12,000 horses.
Enjoy dinner at a local Moroccan restaurant and wander through the streets of the medina, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Spend your morning at the Dar Jamai Museum, learning about Moroccan art and culture.
Take a leisurely stroll through the Jardin Lahboul, a beautiful garden perfect for relaxation and photography.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city and enjoy traditional Moroccan music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $10-$20 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel | $40-$80 |
| 🚕Taxi fare within the city | $2-$5 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-$3 |
| 🛒Local market produce | $1-$5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage
- Delicious Moroccan cuisine
- Less touristy compared to other Moroccan cities
- Limited nightlife options
- Hot summers can be uncomfortable
- Language barrier for non-Arabic speakers
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Afak" - Please
- "Bslama" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Meknès
Visit one of these nice places.
This grand gate is an iconic symbol of Meknès and offers a stunning backdrop for photographs.
The intricate architecture and beautiful tile work make this site a must-visit for photography enthusiasts.
The impressive structure and surrounding gardens provide excellent photo opportunities.
Food in Meknès
Meknès Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked stew with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, often served with bread.
Must-Try!
Steamed semolina served with vegetables and meat, a staple of Moroccan cuisine.
A savory pie made with layers of thin pastry, filled with pigeon or chicken and dusted with cinnamon and sugar.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find local produce, spices, and street food like grilled meats and fresh juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
While Meknès is relatively liberal, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
Showing respect to elders is important in Moroccan culture; greetings should be polite and courteous.
It is polite to eat with your right hand, and you should wait for the host to begin eating before you start.
Safety
Tipping in Meknès
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to leave a tip of about 10% at restaurants and for guides, though rounding up is also appreciated.
Cash is the preferred method of payment; however, some larger establishments accept credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures are mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the gardens.
Hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). Early morning or late afternoon is best for sightseeing.
Cooler temperatures return, offering comfortable weather for exploring and enjoying local festivals.
Mild winters with occasional rain; a great time for fewer crowds and enjoying indoor attractions.
Meknès at Night
Hiking in Meknès
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination near Volubilis, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Various trails in the Rif Mountains provide opportunities for hiking enthusiasts to explore beautiful landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Meknès by plane.
Located approximately 60 km from Meknès, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of Morocco, Berbers have a rich cultural heritage that influences local traditions and languages.
The Arab population is predominant in Meknès, contributing to the city's cultural and linguistic landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Morocco, with local clubs having passionate followers.
Track and field events are also popular, with various competitions held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meknès.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Meknès has a growing number of restaurants offering vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat stock in soups and tagines.
All food in Meknès is Halal, aligning with Islamic dietary laws.