This full-day private excursion from Fes takes you to two of Morocco’s most significant historical sites. You will explore Meknes, an imperial city known for its grand gates and Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. You will then visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site with remarkably preserved mosaics and structures. The tour also includes a stop at the Museum of Moroccan Art and a panoramic view of Fes before returning to your accommodation.
Day Trip from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes
Your day begins with pickup from your Fes accommodation at 9:00 AM. You will head out to explore the ancient imperial city of Meknes, often called the “Versailles of Morocco.”
You will see historical sites including the impressive ramparts, monumental gates, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. At its peak, Meknes had over 50 palaces, 20 gates, and a city wall stretching approximately 45 kilometers.
The tour begins with a look at the walls and monumental gates dating from the seventeenth century, including Bab Berdaïne and Bab Khemis. You continue exploring with visits to the royal stables, attics, and stud farms. A stop at the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail follows—this was the only mosque in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors for many years. You then exit through the famous Bab Mansour gate onto the vast El Hedim square.
Across the square, the Museum of Moroccan Art, Dar Jamai, displays a wide variety of traditional handicrafts for you to appreciate.
Next, you visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. You will spend time exploring these 2,000-year-old ruins, gaining insight into life during the Roman Empire.
You continue briefly to the town of Moulay Idriss. On your way back to Fes, your driver can take you to see a panoramic view of the Medina from Borj North or South upon request. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel.
