Fes to Volubilis and Meknes day trip

Fes to Volubilis and Meknes day trip

Overview

This is an excellent example. Day tour from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes, including a visit to the ruined Roman city of Volubilis, Morocco’s best-preserved archaeological monument. Its most astonishing characteristics are the many exquisite mosaics that have been maintained in situ. Volubilis was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Highlights of a Day Trip from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes

• Discover the ancient Roman city of Volubilis.
• In Meknes Medina, see Bab Mansour and Lahdem Square.
• Admire Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, Morocco’s sacred city.

Itinerary of the 1-day excursion from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes

Day trip from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes is one of the most popular day trips from Fes; it is a timely opportunity to travel outside of Fes and visit three exciting sites: the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the amazing small town of Mulay Idris Zerhoun, which holds a lot of spiritual significance for Moroccans, and Meknes, a quiet city and one of Morocco’s Imperial cities.

1. Volubilis

The first stop is at Volubilis, a Roman archaeological site. This Carthaginian-era site is one of the best-preserved archaeological sites not just in Morocco, but throughout North Africa. Volubilis is the ancient city of Meknes’s emblem, as well as one of its most notable historical and tourism attractions.

This historic city dates back to the Roman period and beyond; archaeological investigations conducted since the early twentieth century have revealed that Volubilis’ beginnings date back at least to the third century BC. Its urban triumphs bore evidence to the magnificence of the region’s decades-long civilisation.

Furthermore, this city or archaeological area is distinguished by the beauty of its nature and splendor, as it draws the attention of visitors to it by the picturesque landscape in the middle of the city’s urban influence, from ancient columns written on some Roman letters, houses and temples, arches and fantastic mosaics panels surrounded by a large wall. Some of the best-preserved mosaics are Diana’s bath, the bath of the nymphs, and Hercules’ trials.

Volubilis has a plethora of public structures, including the famed Capitol Temple, the Arc of Freedom, the court, and the public plaza, as well as several mills, olive presses, baths, and wall remnants.

2. Molay Idriss Zerhoun 

The second destination is Moulay Idris Zerhoun, which is regarded as North Africa’s earliest Islamic city. It is named for its creator, Moulay Idris. It is situated 550 meters above sea level, under Mount Zerhoun, and spans two slopes. It is bordered by verdant grasslands and olive groves. Non-Muslims were barred from entering the city until 1917. It still has the character of a sacred city today. Fortunately, the tomb of Mulay Idrs is currently the only spot where non-Muslims are not permitted.

The city is clinging to a hill through a tangle of steps. Some “Terraces” provide spectacular views over the city, the mausoleum, the lanes, and the modest homes that surround it. You may get lost in the alleyways of this attractive city, hunt for Morocco’s unique round minaret, or take in the scenery from one of the panoramic terraces.

This city holds the Season of Moulay Idris the Greater every year. This modest holy city’s largest religious celebration.

Every year towards the end of August, thousands of pilgrims, Sufi sects, and diverse gatherings in quest of blessings go to Moulay Idris, bearing numerous presents and accompanied by folkloric groups such as Aissaoua, Hamadisha, and the Tuat people.

3. Meknes 

Meknes, the least well-known of the country’s four imperial capitals, is the last destination on the Day excursion from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes. Since the 10th century AD, Meknes has been in the spotlight. Its medina lacks the amount of significant structures that the medinas of Fes and Marrakech have, but it is exceedingly lovely and peaceful. It also boasts a madrasa and vibrant souks where you can watch craftsmen weaving or ironing using ancient methods.

Although the Medina is attractive, the most stunning sights of Meknes are located outside of the medieval section. Meknes is recognized by its large size and abundance of ancient structures and fortifications. Mawla Ismail encircled it with walls that stretch for 40 kilometers and are punctuated with a slew of massive urban gates and towers. There are numerous beautiful gates inside the walls, the most outstanding of which is the Bab Mansour.

On the opposite side of this entrance lies Lahdem Square, which resembles Marrakech’s iconic Jamaa el Fna Square. The plaza is flanked on one side by the wall and on the other by the market with eateries. This is also a vast plaza with a variety of atmospheres, animals, including snake charmers, an ostrich, and Barbary monkeys, as well as a lot of noise.

Finally, Royal Stables is an intriguing location that you will enjoy seeing while in Meknes. It’s the one point of interest that’s a little out of the way. The cavalries housed thousands of horses as well as food storage. The exterior of the stables is quite gorgeous, and it’s a great area to snap shots.

Meknes, with its significant historical sites, merited to be included to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1996.

Your day tour from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes concludes with a transport return to your Fes hotel.

What the price includes and excludes

The price includes:

• Pick-up and drop-off at/from your lodging.
• Transport by private contemporary car with air conditioning.
• English-speaking driver/guide with prior experience.
• Car Gas.

Price does not include:

• Drinks
• Lunch

More information about the Fes to Volubilis and Meknes Day Trip

– Walking shoes that are comfortable, such as athletic sneakers. This journey calls for long sleeves, long trousers or skirts, and a heavy jacket. – Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
– Vegetarian options are available; please specify at the time of booking if you want them.
– Alcoholic beverages (available to purchase)
– You will get your booking confirmation at the moment of booking.