Things To Do
in Meknès
Meknès is a beautiful city located in north-central Morocco, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city was once the capital of Morocco and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the historic medina, with its bustling souks and colorful buildings.
Meknès is also famous for its impressive gates and walls, giving it a unique and charming atmosphere.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran aala wajib" - No thanks, it's my duty
- "Bslama" - Goodbye
- "Kif halak?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bab Mansour gate, an iconic symbol of the city. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional Moroccan pastries.
Stroll through the vibrant markets of Meknès, where you can shop for local crafts and spices. Don't miss the stunning architecture of the Royal Stables.
Head to Place el-Hedim for dinner, where you can taste local Moroccan dishes. End your night with a relaxing walk through the illuminated streets.
Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, an impressive architectural masterpiece. Take time to learn about the city's rich history.
Explore the Jewish Quarter, where you can see the old synagogues and learn about the local Jewish heritage. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant serving delicious Moroccan cuisine.
Enjoy an outdoor dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city. Experience the evening ambiance with traditional music and local flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical architecture, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Less touristy compared to other Moroccan cities, offering an authentic experience.
- Famous for its agricultural produce, particularly vineyards and olive groves.
- Vibrant local markets and traditional crafts.
- Pleasant climate, especially in spring and autumn.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities like Marrakech or Casablanca.
- Public transport can be less reliable and less developed.
- Language barrier for non-French or Arabic speakers.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Getting around may require more effort, as it is not as walkable or accessible as bigger cities.
Best Activities in Meknès
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and scenic trails of the Middle Atlas Mountains near Meknès.
Experience the historic Royal Stables of Meknès and witness the majestic Arabian horses.
Enjoy a leisurely walk, people-watching, and soaking in the local atmosphere at El-Hedim Square in Meknès.
Play a round of golf amidst stunning surroundings at the Royal Golf de Meknès.
Tours
Uncover the best of Meknès with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Meknès
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning example of Marinid architecture and a popular spot for capturing Meknès' beauty
Offers panoramic views of the city from its rooftop terrace, great for photography enthusiasts
Perfect spot to capture the grandeur of Meknès, known for its intricate decorations and breathtaking architecture
Not only a historic site, but also offers picturesque views of the city from its elevated location
Food in Meknès
Meknès Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked stew of tender lamb, prunes, apricots, and a blend of savory spices. Highly recommended at Restaurant Riad El Ma and Le Toit Du Palais.
Must-Try!
A flavorful combination of couscous, vegetables like carrots, turnips, zucchini, and chickpeas, often served with a side of spicy harissa. Enjoy at Restaurant Laksiba and Maison d'Hôtes Hiba.
A delicate savory-sweet pastry filled with pigeon or chicken, almonds, and an aromatic blend of cinnamon and sugar. Best sampled at La Maison de la Photographie and Dar Zerhoune.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Meknès better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling square hosts a variety of street food stalls offering grilled meats, kebabs, and freshly baked bread, providing an authentic taste of local street food culture.
A vibrant market where you can savor a diverse selection of traditional street snacks such as bessara (fava bean soup), msemen (folded fried dough), and maakouda (potato fritters).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a handshake and use polite language. Men typically greet each other with a handshake and women may greet with a handshake or a nod of the head.
Morocco is predominantly Muslim, and it is important to be respectful of Islamic customs and traditions. For example, during the month of Ramadan, it is best to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
It is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals. For women, this means covering the shoulders and knees, and for both men and women, avoiding clothing that may be considered too revealing or provocative.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Meknès with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Meknès
Ensure a smooth experience
In Meknès, Morocco, tipping is common in the service industry, especially in restaurants, cafes, and for tour guides. A standard tip is around 10% of the total bill, although it's always good to check if a service charge has already been included.
Cash is the most widely used form of payment in Meknès, although credit and debit cards are becoming increasingly accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and businesses that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Meknès.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is an ideal time to visit Meknès as the weather is mild and the countryside is lush and green. The city comes alive with local festivals and events, and the famous Meknès International Marathon usually takes place in April.
Fall is another great time to visit Meknès. The weather remains pleasant, and it's the harvest season, so you can expect to find an abundance of fresh produce in the markets. Additionally, the Meknès Olive Fair is held in November, showcasing the region's olive oil production.
Summer in Meknès can be hot, with temperatures often reaching well above 30°C (86°F). However, it's a good time to experience various cultural events and festivals, including the Moussem of Moulay Idriss, a religious event that attracts pilgrims from around the country.
Winter in Meknès can be chilly, especially at night, but it's a quieter time to visit the city. The historic monuments and attractions are less crowded, and you can also experience authentic Moroccan culture during the Almond Blossom Festival, which typically takes place in January.
Meknès at Night
Hiking in Meknès
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful town located near Meknès, offering access to hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and ancient ruins.
Known for its hot springs, this area also has hiking trails that lead through picturesque valleys and lush greenery.
A short drive from Meknès, this park offers a variety of hiking trails through cedar forests, lakes, and mountainous terrain.
Located east of Meknès, Ziz Valley features hiking opportunities with breathtaking views and unique geological formations.
A region that's a bit further away but worth the visit, known for its rugged landscapes and hiking trails that cater to all levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Meknès through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Meknès by plane.
Located approximately 60 kilometers northeast of Meknès, Fès–Saïs Airport serves the city of Fès and surrounding regions.
Situated about 102 kilometers northeast of Meknès, this airport serves Nador and northeastern Morocco, offering international flights.
Approximately 229 kilometers west of Meknès, this is the largest and busiest airport in Morocco, offering a wide range of international connections.
Located about 254 kilometers northwest of Meknès, this airport serves the city of Tangier and is a significant hub for international flights.
Around 200 kilometers to the northwest of Meknès, this airport serves the capital city of Rabat and provides international flight services as well.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Meknès, comprising ethnic groups that include both Arab and Berber heritage.
A subgroup of Berbers often found in eastern Morocco, including parts of Meknès.
A growing demographic group, often comprising migrants and students from various sub-Saharan African countries.
Historically significant but now a small community, with roots that date back centuries in Morocco.
A small community of expatriates, primarily from France and Spain, living in Meknès.
The Soul of Meknès
Discover the essence of Meknès through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Meknès, with numerous local clubs and a strong following among fans.
Basketball has gained popularity in Meknès, particularly among the youth, with several courts available for play.
Handball is also a favored sport in Meknès, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Athletics is encouraged in schools and universities, with many young athletes participating in track and field events.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in school programs and local clubs, with regular competitions.
Games like Boule and traditional wrestling are still practiced in local communities, showcasing cultural heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meknès.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Moroccan cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Meknès offer delicious vegetable tagines, couscous, and salads. Notable spots include Restaurant Lahboul and Riad Yacout.
Diners with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like grilled fish, vegetable tagines, and rice-based couscous at accommodating restaurants such as Restaurant Aicha and Restaurant Al Makan.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Meknès with these cultural adventures.
