Excursions Volubilis - Moulay Idriss - Meknès (departure Fès)

Fez , Morocco

Excursions Volubilis - Moulay Idriss - Meknès (departure Fès)

Active

(7 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

What to see in meknes: Some of the places you can't miss are:
Souks: a simple walk through the souks will show you that we are in a more modern city than Fez.
Place El-Hedim: Place el-Hedim is in Meknes what Place Jamaa el Fna is in Marrakech, the center of the city's public and cultural life. Restaurants and terraces have been installed in areas where formerly public executions and royal announcements took place.
Gate of Bab el-Mansour: communicates the old place El Hedim with the old imperial city of Moulay Ismaïl.
Dar Jamaï Museum: this is one of the most interesting museums in Morocco.
Mausoleum of Moulay Ismaïl: one of the key visits to Meknes. This is the tomb of the sultan who marked the origins of Morocco today. Madrasa Bou Inania: Koubbat as-Sufara: Heri es-Souani:

Available options

Excursions Volubilis - Moulay Idriss - Meknès (departure Fès)

Pickup included

What's included

The car and the driver

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Volubilis is an ancient Roman city where the best preserved and most visited archaeological remains of Morocco can be found. The area was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997.
What to see in Volubilis
While the best thing to do is walk around its ruins, there are some points you shouldn't miss:

Forum, Basilica and Temple of Jupiter: Located on the upper part of Volubilis, these three places were the center of public life in the city.
Thermal baths: Although its condition is quite neglected, you can still appreciate the heating system used by the Roman thermal baths.
Arch of Caracalla: built in marble in the year 217 in honor of the emperor and his mother. When it was built, it was crowned with a bronze chariot.
Mosaics: the highlight of your visit! The labors of Hercules, the bath of the nymphs, the Acrobat ... Finding all these mosaics is a difficult task without a guide!

Stop 2

Moulay Idriss is one of Morocco's most famous pilgrimage sites. Its name honors Idriss I, great-grandson of Mahomet and founder of the Idrissides dynasty.
Due to its religious status, the city was closed to non-Muslims until the middle of the 20th century. Today, the only forbidden place is the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss.
What to see in Moulay Idriss? Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss: The Mausoleum of Idriss is the most important point of interest in the city. However, you will have to be content to see it from the outside.Place de Moulay Idriss I: this is the most interesting square in the city, an ideal place to relax in one of its cafes and enjoy the street atmosphere. It is a compulsory point of passage to reach the mausoleum.
Panoramic terraces: The large terrace and the small terrace are the best observation points in the city to admire Moulay Idriss. Circular minaret

What's not included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Fez

Fez is the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, known for its ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the oldest university in the world, the University of al-Qarawiyyin. It offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and traditional crafts.

Top Attractions

Fez Medina

The Fez Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and best-preserved medieval old cities in the world. It's a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic sites.

Historical/Cultural Full day Free to explore, fees for specific sites

Al-Qarawiyyin University

Founded in 859 AD, Al-Qarawiyyin is the oldest continuously operating university in the world. It's a significant cultural and historical site.

Historical/Educational 1-2 hours Free

Bou Inania Madrasa

A beautiful example of Marinid architecture, this madrasa (Islamic school) is one of the few religious sites in Fez open to non-Muslims.

Historical/Architectural 30-60 minutes Moderate

Chouara Tanneries

One of the last remaining traditional tanneries in the world, the Chouara Tanneries offer a glimpse into an ancient craft that has changed little over centuries.

Cultural/Industrial 30-60 minutes Free (donations appreciated)

Bab Bou Jeloud

The main gate to the Fez Medina, Bab Bou Jeloud is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and a great photo opportunity.

Architectural 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, served in a conical clay pot.

Dinner Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.

Couscous

Steamed semolina grains served with vegetables and meat, often with a rich sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.

Pastilla

A savory-sweet pie made with layers of thin pastry, filled with spiced pigeon meat, almonds, and sugar.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and nuts.

Harira

A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices, often served during Ramadan.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Rif Mountains Horseback riding in the countryside Spa and hammam treatments Strolling through the gardens of the Royal Palace Exploring the Fez Medina Visiting historic sites and museums Attending traditional music and dance performances Experiencing a traditional hammam

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)

The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. This is the best time for sightseeing and exploring the city.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic, Berber
Widely spoken: French, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Time Zone

GMT+1

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

Fez is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use reputable tour operators and guides

Getting there

By air

Fes-Saïss Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Fez Railway Station

By bus

Fez CTM Bus Station, Fez Supratours Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Fez. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely used

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fez Medina Fes el Jdid Ville Nouvelle

Day trips

Meknes

60 km • Full day

Meknes is a historic city with a rich past, known for its imperial palaces, mosques, and the famous Bab Mansour gate. It offers a mix of history, architecture, and local culture.

Volubilis

80 km • Full day

Volubilis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the remains of a Roman city. It's one of the most important archaeological sites in Morocco, offering a glimpse into the country's Roman past.

Chefchaouen

120 km • Overnight

Chefchaouen is a picturesque mountain town known for its blue-washed buildings, narrow streets, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the Rif Mountains.

Festivals

Fez Festival of World Sacred Music • June Fez Festival of Sufi Culture • April Ramadan • Date varies (Islamic calendar)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide to navigate the medina and learn about its history and culture
Visit the Chouara Tanneries early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
Try a traditional hammam experience for relaxation and rejuvenation
Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals
Bargain politely in markets and souks, but be prepared to walk away if the price is not agreeable