Day Trip from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes

Day trips to Volubilis from Fes are very popular. It is an excellent way to see three interesting sites. The Roman ruins at Volubilis; the small town Mulay Idris Zaerhoun, which has a spiritual meaning for Moroccans; and Meknes.

1. Volubilis:
First stop, Volubilis – an ancient Roman site. This Carthaginian site is one of the most well-preserved archeological sites in North Africa and Morocco. Volubilis, the ancient city’s symbol and most popular historical and tourist attraction is located in Meknes.

Archaeological digs carried out in the early twentieth century, have shown that Volubilis’ origins date back to at least the third century BC. The urban achievements of Volubilis still testify to the glory of its decades-long civilisation in the area.

This city or archaeological area is also distinguished by its beauty and splendor. It attracts visitors with its picturesque landscape, which includes ancient columns, written in Roman letters, temples and houses, arches, and mosaic panels. Some of the most well-preserved examples of mosaics include the baths of Diana and the Nymphs or Hercules’ trials.

Volubilis has many public buildings including the Capitol Temple, Arc of Freedom and the Court, as well as mills, olive press, baths and remnants of walls.

2. Molay Idriss Zerhoun:
Moulay Idris Zerhoun is the second stop. This city is considered to be the first Islamic town in North Africa. The city takes its name from the founder, Moulay Idris. The city is situated 550 metres above sea level under Mount Zerhoun and extends across two hills. The green plains with olive trees surround it. It was forbidden to enter the city for a whole year. Non-Muslims were banned from entering the city in 1917. It retains today its status as a holy town. The mausoleum Mulay Idris, however, is still the only place that non-Muslims are not allowed to visit.

The city is built on a hill that has a confusing maze of steps. The “Terraces” provide an amazing view of the city and its mausoleum. They also offer a great look at the narrow streets, small houses, and alleyways. Get lost in this charming city’s streets, search for the only Moroccan circular minaret, or take in the views from the panoramic terraces.

This city hosts the Season of Moulay Idris The Greater every year. This small holy city hosts the biggest religious festival.

Every year, at the end August, thousands of pilgrims and Sufi sects and other groups in search of blessings make a pilgrimage to Moulay Idris. They bring with them many gifts, accompanied by folkloric ensembles such as Aissaoua and Hamadisha and the Tuat people.

3. Meknes:
Meknes is the last stop of the Day Trip from Fes Volubilis Meknes, the least known of the four imperial cities in the country. Meknes was first illuminated in the 10th century AD. The medina is not as crowded with important buildings as the medinas of Fes and Marrakech, but it’s still very peaceful. There is also a madrasa and colorful souks, where you can watch artisans working with weaving or iron using traditional techniques.

The most beautiful places in Meknes, despite its Medina, are located outside the medieval district. Meknes’s wide expanse and its many historical walls and buildings make it a unique city. Mawla Ismail built walls that extend over 40 km. A group of towers and gates are scattered throughout the city. The ramparts have several impressive gates. The Bab Mansour, is the most impressive in Morocco.

The Lahdem Square is on the other side. It looks a bit like the famous Jamaa el Fna Square of Marrakech. The wall surrounds the square on one side, and the restaurants and market on the other. It is a very large square, with many atmospheres. There are also animals, such as snakes and their charmers. An ostrich, a Barbary Monkey, and lots of noise.

Royal Stables is another place you’ll love when visiting Meknes. This is the only attraction that is a little out of the centre. The cavalries housed thousands of horses and stored grain. Outside the stables, you can take beautiful pictures.

In 1996, the city of Meknes with its historical monuments deserved to be included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO.

The day trip to Volubilis or Meknes from Fes ends with a return transfer to your Fes accommodation.