Day Trip Overview:
This is an amazing Visit the best-preserved archeological site in Morocco, the abandoned Roman city of Volubilis, on a day trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis. The numerous exquisite mosaics that have been kept in place are among its most remarkable characteristics. In 1997, Volubilis was designated as a World Heritage Site.
Highlights of the Day Trip from Fes to Volubilis are as follows:
- Explore Volubilis, the ancient Roman city.
- Go to Meknes Medina’s Bab Mansour & Lahdem Square.
- Admire Morocco’s sacred city, Moulay Idriss Zerhoun.
The schedule for the day trip from Fes to Volubilis is as follows:
One of the most well-liked day trips from Fes is to Volubilis and Meknes. It’s a perfect opportunity to venture outside of Fes and see three fascinating locations: the Roman ruins at Volubilis, the tiny but incredibly spiritual town of Mulay Idris Zerhoun, and Meknes, a peaceful city and one of Morocco’s imperial cities.
1-Volubilis:
The first destination is the Roman archeological site of Volubilis. One of the best-preserved archeological sites in Morocco, if not all of North Africa, is this Carthaginian-era site. Volubilis, one of Meknes’ most significant historical and touristic landmarks, is the city’s emblem.
Archaeological investigations conducted since the turn of the 20th century have demonstrated that Volubilis’ beginnings date at least to the third century BC. This historic city is thought to have originated during the Roman era and beyond. Its urban adventures continue to testify to the splendor of the area’s decades-long civilization.
In addition, this city or the archaeological area stands out for its magnificence and natural beauty, drawing visitors in with a picturesque landscape amidst the city’s urban influence. Features include ancient columns with Roman letters carved on them, houses and temples, arches, and amazing mosaic panels encircled by a substantial wall. Among the mosaics with the highest preservation are those depicting Hercules’ trials, Diana’s bath, and the nymphs’ bath.
There are several public structures in Volubilis, including as the well-known Capitol Temple, the Arc of Freedom, the court, and the public plaza. There are also other monuments depicting mills, baths, olive presses, and wall remnants.
2-Molay Idriss Zerhoun:
Moulay Idris Zerhoun, regarded as the first Islamic city in North Africa, is the second destination. Its founder, Moulay Idris, is the source of the name. It spans two hills and is situated 550 meters above sea level beneath Mount Zerhoun. It is encircled by verdant plains with an abundance of olive trees. The city was off-limits to non-Muslims until 1917. It still has the essence of a sacred city today. Fortunately, the tomb of Mulay Idrís is now the only location off-limits to non-Muslims.
Clinging to a slope, the city is a stairwell of stairs. Certain locations, referred to as “Terraces,” provide a breathtaking perspective of the city, the mausoleum, the lanes, and the little homes that round it. You may explore this little city on foot, seek for Morocco’s only round minaret, or take in the breathtaking scenery from one of the expansive terraces.
This city is the site of the annual Season of Moulay Idris the Greater. The largest religious celebration in this little sacred city.
Every year at the end of August, thousands of people travel to Moulay Idris, taking with them numerous presents and joined by folkloric groups like the Aissaoua, Hamadisha, and Tuat people, as well as Sufi sects and other groupings seeking favors.
3-Meknes:
Meknes, the least well-known of the four imperial cities in the nation, is the final destination on the day excursion from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes. Light has been present in Meknes from the tenth century AD. Although its medina is rather lovely and serene, it lacks the significant buildings as the medinas of Fes and Marrakech do. It also features vibrant souks with traditional iron and weaving craftspeople, as well as a madrasa.
Even if the Medina is stunning, there are more amazing sights in Meknes outside of its medieval district. Meknes stands out for the size of its territory and the variety of its old walls and structures. Mawla Ismail encircled it with walls that stretched 40 kilometers in length and were remnants of that illustrious era, strewn with a collection of massive urban gates and towers. There are several magnificent gates within the fortifications, but the Bab Mansour entrance is the most striking in all of Morocco.
Lahdem Square is located on the other side of this entrance and resembles the well-known Jamaa el Fna Square in Marrakech. The market with the eateries on one side and the wall on the other surround the plaza. This is also a big square with plenty of different atmospheres, animals (including an ostrich and a Barbary monkey), and noise.
Royal Stables is yet another fascinating location that you will adore when visiting Meknes. The only interesting location that deviates somewhat from the center is this one. The cavalries housed thousands of horses in addition to storing feed here. The stables’ exterior is stunning, making it a great location for gorgeous pictures.
With its significant historical landmarks, Meknes was deserving of being included to the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1996.
After visiting Volubilis and Meknes for the day, you are transferred back to your Fes lodging.
More details on this Fes to Volubilis and Meknes day trip:
- Lightweight walking shoes, like athletic sneakers. This journey calls for long sleeves, long skirts or slacks, and a thick jacket.- Children need to have an adult accompany them.
- If you would like a vegetarian alternative, please let us know when you make your reservation.
- Beverages with alcohol (available for purchase)
- At the moment of booking, you will receive a booking confirmation.