Meknes
An imperial city with a rich history, impressive architecture, and a thriving food scene.
Overview
Meknes, a city in northern Morocco known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. Founded in the 11th century by the Almoravid dynasty, Meknes has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Arabs, Berbers, and French. The city’s history is reflected in its architecture, with a mix of Islamic and European styles. Meknes enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. The city’s geographical area is characterized by its fertile plains and rolling hills, providing a picturesque backdrop to its historic sites. Meknes is also home to a variety of plant species, including olive trees, vineyards, and orchards, adding to its natural beauty. Explore the city’s historic medina, with its labyrinthine streets and bustling souks, or visit the impressive Royal Stables and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, Meknes offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors.
Things to Do
Explore the Old Town: Wander through the historic old town of Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved 17th-century architecture and traditional Moroccan atmosphere.
Visit the Royal Stables: See the Royal Stables of Meknes, which once housed thousands of horses and were considered among the most impressive in the world.
Discover the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail: Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the final resting place of the powerful sultan who made Meknes his capital in the 17th century.
Shop at the Souks: Explore the bustling souks of Meknes, where you can find a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and traditional Moroccan handicrafts.
Relax in Place El-Hedim: Take a leisurely stroll in Place El-Hedim, a large square lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings, perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere.
Visit the Dar Jamai Museum: Explore the Dar Jamai Museum, housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century palace, showcasing a collection of Moroccan art and artifacts.
Day Trips: Take day trips from Meknes to nearby attractions such as Volubilis, an ancient Roman city, and the holy city of Moulay Idriss, both located a short drive away.
What to See
Bab Mansour: Admire the grand Bab Mansour, a monumental gate that serves as the entrance to the imperial city of Meknes, known for its stunning architecture and intricate tile work.
Heri es-Souani: Visit Heri es-Souani, a complex of granaries and stables built by Moulay Ismail to store food and provisions for his royal palace.
Moulay Ismail Palace: Explore the ruins of the Moulay Ismail Palace, once a lavish complex that included over 50 palaces and pavilions.
El Hedim Square: Relax in El Hedim Square, a bustling square in the heart of Meknes, surrounded by cafes, shops, and historic buildings.
Dar El Makhzen: Visit Dar El Makhzen, the royal palace of Meknes, which is still used by the Moroccan royal family for official functions.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Meknes is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city’s attractions.
Getting there
By Air: The nearest airport to Meknes is Fes–Saïs Airport (FEZ), located about 70 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Meknes.
By Road: Meknes is easily accessible by road from major cities in Morocco. The drive from Fez takes around 1 hour.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Riad Yacout
Riad Yacout offers mid-range accommodations with traditional Moroccan decor. The riad features a courtyard with a fountain, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving Moroccan cuisine. It is located in the heart of Meknes, close to the medina and other attractions.
Riad Benchekroun
Situated in the medina, Riad Benchekroun provides comfortable rooms with a mix of Moroccan and contemporary styles. The riad offers a peaceful stay and easy access to Meknes’ historical sites.
Riad D’Or
Nestled in the heart of the medina, Riad D’Or offers a traditional Moroccan experience with its elegant rooms and courtyard. The riad’s central location allows guests to explore Meknes’ attractions easily.
Luxury Accommodation:
Riad Palais Didi
Riad Palais Didi is a luxurious riad located in the medina. The riad features beautifully decorated rooms, a courtyard with a swimming pool, and a spa offering traditional Moroccan treatments. Its central location and luxurious amenities make it a popular choice for luxury travelers.
Riad Hiba
Riad Hiba offers luxurious accommodations with a focus on traditional Moroccan hospitality. The riad features a rooftop terrace with views of the city, a spa, and a restaurant serving Moroccan and international cuisine. Its serene atmosphere and elegant decor make it a popular choice for those seeking luxury in Meknes.
Transatlantique
Hotel Transatlantique is a luxury hotel located in the Ville Nouvelle area of Meknes. The hotel features elegant rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving Moroccan and international dishes. Its convenient location and luxurious amenities make it a popular choice for upscale travelers.
Other Attractions in Morocco
Chefchaouen
Marrakech
Fez
Asilah
The Saharan Desert
Rabat
Casablanca
Ait Benhaddou
Essaouira
Taghazout
High Atlas Mountains
Agadir
Tangier
Ouarzazate
General Knowledge Base
General information about Mekens, Morocco.
Meknes is known for its rich history and culture, as well as its impressive architecture and monuments.
The name Meknes is thought to come from the Berber word “Meknassa”, which means “the place of war”.
Meknes was founded by the Berber tribe of Miknasa in the 11th century.
Meknes’ most famous monument is the Bab Mansour gate, which is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and design.
Meknes is known for its delicious tagine dishes, which are slow-cooked stews made with meat, vegetables, and spices.
Meknes’ most famous festival is the Meknes International Festival of Photography, which is held every year in September.
Meknes’ most popular tourist attraction is the Heri es-Souani granaries, which are a series of massive underground storage rooms that were used to store food and supplies for the royal palace.
Meknes has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers.
