Exploring Meknes 2026: Why Morocco’s Forgotten Imperial City Deserves a Full Day (or Two)
Most tourists race through Meknes in two hours on the way to Volubilis. Huge mistake.
Meknes is the most underrated imperial city in Morocco – smaller and calmer than Fes or Marrakech, yet packed with grand gates, underground prisons, vast royal granaries, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet.
This is your complete 2026 guide to the “Versailles of Morocco” – updated with new attractions, honest restaurant recommendations, and the perfect one-day or overnight itinerary.
Top 10 Things to Do in Meknes (2026 Edition)
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Bab Mansour – The Most Beautiful Gate in Morocco
Finished in 1732, this massive triumphal arch is covered in green zellige and marble columns “borrowed” from Volubilis and Marrakech. Come at sunrise or golden hour for photos with zero crowds. -
Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail
One of only three active shrines in Morocco open to non-Muslims. Stunning carved plaster, fountains, and the tomb of the sultan who built the city (and had 500 wives). -
Herri es-Souani – The Royal Stables & Granaries
Once housed 12,000 horses. The 4-meter-thick walls and underground water system kept grain fresh for 20 years. New 2025–2026 restoration includes a small museum and rooftop views. -
Dar Jamai Museum
Gorgeous 1882 palace-turned-museum with the best collection of Moroccan embroidery, jewelry, and ceramics outside Rabat. The Andalusian garden alone is worth the 20 MAD entry. -
Place el-Hedim
Meknes’ smaller, friendlier version of Jemaa el-Fnaa. Evening brings storytellers, henna artists, and zero pressure. -
Volubilis Roman Ruins (25 min away)
Morocco’s best-preserved Roman city. In 2026, new electric shuttles and a café inside the site make it easier than ever. -
Moulay Idriss Zerhoun – The Holy Hill Town (30 min)
Morocco’s most sacred town after Mecca for many locals. Non-Muslims can now visit the main square and terraces (overnight still restricted). -
Aguelmame Sidi Ali Lake (45 min drive)
Turquoise crater lake in the Middle Atlas – perfect half-day escape with picnic and wild tortoises. -
Medina Walk with Zero Hassle
Meknes medina is 1/10th the size of Fes and almost tourist-free. Buy cedar boxes, damascene steel, or ironwork directly from the artisans. -
Wine Tasting in the Meknes Region
The Romans started it – today Morocco’s best reds come from here. Visit Château Roslane or Celliers de Meknès for tours (book ahead).
Perfect One-Day Itinerary (2026)
- 08:30 – Breakfast at your riad
- 09:00 – Bab Mansour + Place el-Hedim photos
- 09:30 – Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail
- 10:15 – Heri es-Souani granaries
- 11:30 – Drive to Volubilis (open 8:30–18:30)
- 13:30 – Lunch at Volubilis café or back in Meknes
- 15:00 – Dar Jamai Museum + medina stroll
- 17:00 – Sunset mint tea on a rooftop overlooking Bab Mansour
- 19:30 – Dinner at Ya Hala or Omnia
Where to Stay Overnight (Highly Recommended)
- Riad Lahboul – Stunning garden pool, 5 min from Bab Mansour
- Riad Yacout – Traditional luxury, incredible home-cooked dinners
- Zaki Suites & Spa – Modern 4-star with huge rooms if you want a hotel
Where to Eat Like a Local
- Ya Hala (Place el-Hedim) – Best tanjia in Morocco (order 4 hours ahead)
- Omnia Restaurant – Upscale Moroccan in a restored riad
- Café Palais Terrasse – Panoramic views and perfect pastilla
- Street brochettes on Rue Rouamzine – 15 MAD for the best kebabs of your life
How to Get to Meknes in 2026
- From Fes: 45 min by train (every hour) or private car
- From Rabat: 1h45 by train
- From Casablanca: 2h45 high-speed Al Boraq + change in Kenitra
- From Marrakech: 6h train via Casa (better overnight in Meknes on the imperial route)
Why You Should Spend the Night
Meknes after 5 pm is magical. Tour buses leave, the gates glow under floodlights, and you have Place el-Hedim almost to yourself.
Ready to Discover the Imperial City Everyone Skips?
Let We Road Morocco show you Meknes the right way – private English-speaking guide from Meknes itself, perfect timing for photos, and the best tanjia reservation in town.
Contact us instantly:
📱 WhatsApp: +212 667-499757 (send “Meknes day” for a custom plan)
✉️ Email: weroadmorocco@gmail.com | contact@weroadmorocco.com
✓ Local Meknassi guides who grew up next to Bab Mansour
✓ Combine with Volubilis & Moulay Idriss seamlessly
✓ No rush, no shopping stops
Meknes isn’t forgotten – it’s waiting for travelers who know better.
See you under the grandest gate in Morocco.
B’seha w raha! 🏰✨