Fes-Meknes Highlights Tour
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Fes-Meknes Highlights Tour

4-day tour of Fes medina and Meknes imperial city

4 days • Moderate difficulty • Est. €333

Day 1: Arrival and Immersion in Fes el-Bali

Arrive in Fes, check into a traditional Riad in the medina, and begin exploring the UNESCO-listed Fes el-Bali on foot. Focus on the main gates, the historic university, and the intricate architecture of the Marinid era.

  • 10:00

    Transfer to Riad in Fes el-Bali

    Private transfer from Fes-Saïss Airport or Train Station to your Riad. Note: Cars cannot enter the medina; you will walk the final stretch with your luggage.

  • 11:00

    Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate)

    Start your tour at the iconic blue-tiled gate, the main entrance to the medina. Great for photos and orienting yourself.

  • 11:30

    Nejjarine Fondouk Rooftop

    Visit this historic caravanserai. Climb to the rooftop for a panoramic view of the medina and enjoy mint tea.

  • 12:30

    University of Al-Qarawiyyin

    View the exterior of the world's oldest continuously operating university. Note: Non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall, but the surrounding area is significant.

  • 13:00

    Medersa Bou Inania

    Explore this stunning 14th-century Marinid madrasa, known for its intricate stucco work and cedar wood ceilings.

  • 14:00

    Lunch at a Traditional Restaurant

    Enjoy a tagine and couscous at a local restaurant near Place Seffarine.

  • 15:30

    Place Seffarine

    Visit the historic copper-smithing square. Watch artisans hammering copper and smell the aromatic herbs and spices.

  • 16:30

    Zellige Workshops of Derb Zouak

    Visit the famous tile-making workshop to see how traditional Moroccan mosaic tiles are crafted by hand.

  • 18:00

    Dinner and Relaxation at Riad

    Return to your Riad for a light dinner or relax on the terrace with mint tea.

Meals: Lunch at Near Place Seffarine , Dinner at Riad or Local Restaurant

Where to stay: Stay in a traditional Riad within Fes el-Bali for an authentic experience. Book in advance as they fill up quickly.

Getting around: Walking is the primary mode of transport within the medina. Use petit taxis for longer distances outside the medina.

Day 2: Tanneries, Souks, and Jewish Quarter

Dive deeper into the medina's sensory experiences. Visit the famous Chouara Tanneries, explore the artisan souks, and learn about the history of the Jewish community in the Mellah.

  • 09:00

    Bab Ftouh

    Start at this ancient gate on the southeastern edge of the medina. It offers a glimpse into the city's defensive history.

  • 10:00

    Mellah (Jewish Quarter)

    Walk through the former Jewish quarter. Visit the Jewish Cemetery on the hill for panoramic views and learn about the community's history.

  • 11:30

    Dar Batha Museum

    Visit this 19th-century palace showcasing Moroccan arts and crafts, including ceramics and textiles.

  • 12:30

    Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts

    Explore the museum housed in the former Nejjarine Fondouk, dedicated to traditional woodwork.

  • 13:30

    Lunch in the Souks

    Eat at a restaurant nestled within the souk labyrinth. Try local specialties like pastilla.

  • 15:00

    Jnan Sbil Garden

    Relax in this 19th-century French-style garden, a green oasis in the heart of the medina.

  • 17:00

    Chouara Tanneries

    Visit the famous tanneries from the viewing terrace. The smell is strong, so hold a mint leaf or orange peel to your nose. Watch the leather dyeing process.

  • 19:00

    Dinner in the Medina

    Enjoy a final dinner in Fes el-Bali before the next day's excursion.

Meals: Lunch at Souk Area , Dinner at Medina

Where to stay: Same Riad in Fes el-Bali.

Getting around: Walking. The medina is a maze; consider hiring a local guide for the souks to avoid getting lost and to negotiate prices.

Day 3: Day Trip to Meknes and Volubilis

A full-day excursion to the nearby imperial city of Meknes and the Roman ruins of Volubilis. This day involves more travel and walking.

  • 08:00

    Drive to Meknes

    Private car or tour bus departure from Fes to Meknes (approx. 1 hour drive).

  • 09:15

    Volubilis Roman Ruins

    Visit the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins. Explore the well-preserved mosaic floors, triumphal arch, and basilica. This is the highlight of the trip.

  • 11:00

    Meknes Medina

    Explore the quieter, less crowded medina of Meknes. Visit the Kasbah and the bustling souks.

  • 12:30

    Bab Mansour al-Alj

    See the monumental gate of Meknes, often compared to the gates of Fez but grander.

  • 13:30

    Lunch in Meknes

    Traditional lunch at a restaurant in Meknes.

  • 14:30

    Hannine Gardens

    Visit the beautiful gardens of the former royal palace, featuring orange and lemon trees.

  • 16:00

    Moulay Ismail Mausoleum

    Visit the mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail, a key figure in Meknes' history.

  • 17:00

    Return to Fes

    Drive back to Fes (approx. 1 hour).

  • 18:00

    Rest and Dinner

    Return to Fes, rest at the Riad, and have a light dinner.

Meals: Lunch at Meknes , Dinner at Fes

Where to stay: Same Riad in Fes el-Bali.

Getting around: Private car or organized tour is highly recommended for this day due to the distance and multiple stops.

Day 4: Final Explorations and Departure

A relaxed final day to revisit favorite spots, buy souvenirs, and explore any missed areas of the medina before departure.

  • 09:00

    Fes el-Bali (The Old Medina)

    Morning walk through the medina. Visit any souks or landmarks missed during previous days.

  • 10:30

    Souvenir Shopping

    Visit the Zellige workshops or other artisan areas to purchase souvenirs. Practice bargaining.

  • 12:00

    Farewell Lunch

    Enjoy a final Moroccan meal, perhaps trying a new dish or revisiting a favorite spot.

  • 13:30

    Final Stroll in Jnan Sbil

    A peaceful walk in the garden before heading to the airport/station.

  • 15:00

    Transfer to Airport/Station

    Private transfer to Fes-Saïss Airport or the Train Station for departure.

Meals: Lunch at Medina

Where to stay: Check out of Riad.

Getting around: Walking and private transfer for departure.

Practical Information

The optimal time to visit the Fes-Meknes region is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these months, daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 25°C, offering comfortable conditions for extensive walking through the medinas and archaeological sites. Summer months can be excessively hot, often exceeding 35°C, which makes navigating the car-free, densely packed streets of Fes el Bali physically demanding. Winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain, particularly in January and February, requiring layered clothing. Transportation between Fes and Meknes is efficient and frequent. The ONCF train network connects the two cities in approximately one hour, with multiple daily departures from Fes Ville station. For greater flexibility, particularly when visiting the Roman ruins of Volubilis, hiring a private driver or joining a small group tour is recommended. Within Fes, the medina is largely pedestrian-only; therefore, walking is the primary mode of transport. For longer distances within the city or trips to the outskirts, petit taxis are affordable and widely available, but insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price beforehand. Accommodation is best centered in Fes el Bali, the historic medina. Staying in a traditional riad provides an authentic experience and places you within walking distance of major attractions like the Al-Qarawiyyin University and the tanneries. For those preferring modern amenities, options exist in Fes Ville (the new city), though this requires daily transit into the medina. In Meknes, staying near the city center allows easy access to the Bab Mansour gate and the kasbah. Budget considerations should account for the cost of guided tours, as navigating the labyrinthine souks without a local guide can be challenging. Entrance fees for monuments like the Bou Inania Madrasa and Volubilis are modest but add up. Budget travelers can find affordable riads and local eateries, while luxury seekers will find high-end riads with rooftop terraces. Always carry cash (Moroccan Dirham) for small purchases, tips, and markets that do not accept cards. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime and a light jacket for evenings. Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are essential due to the uneven cobblestones and extensive walking required. A scarf is useful for both modesty when visiting religious sites and protection from the sun. Finally, carry a reusable water bottle and basic first-aid supplies, including blister plasters, as the terrain can be tough on feet.

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