Meknes City

Immerse Yourself in the Culture of Meknes

Why Visit Meknes

Meknes City, one of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities, is a magnificent blend of royal architecture, ancient gates, peaceful gardens, and rich cultural heritage. Often considered the country’s most underrated destination, Meknes Morocco offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to Marrakech or Fes, yet it’s equally impressive in history and monuments.

The city was shaped by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, who built grand palaces, massive walls, and monumental gates. Today, visitors come to admire its architecture, explore its medina, and enjoy the slower pace of daily life.

This Meknes travel guide highlights the best places to visit in Meknes, helping travelers discover the beauty of this extraordinary imperial city.

Bab Mansour Gate in Meknes City with traditional zellige and large arches

Medina, Palaces & Grand Architecture

Exploring the Imperial Soul of Meknes City

Meknes is home to some of the most impressive architectural structures in Morocco. The Bab Mansour Gate, with its intricate zellige tiles and massive arches, is one of the most iconic entrances to any Moroccan medina.

Inside the old city, travelers can explore the Dar Jamaï Museum, beautiful courtyards, artisan shops, and peaceful gardens. The Medina of Meknes is calmer and more walkable than others in the country, making it ideal for relaxed Meknes sightseeing.

One of the most fascinating areas is the Royal Stables and Granaries (Heri es-Souani), a massive complex built to store grain and stable thousands of horses during Sultan Moulay Ismail’s reign.

Top Attractions & Imperial Monuments

Things to Do in Meknes

Meknes offers a rich mix of cultural, historical, and architectural landmarks. Top Meknes attractions include:

Bab Mansour — One of the grandest gates in Morocco.
Heri es-Souani — Ancient royal granaries and horse stables.
Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail — Burial place of the sultan, beautifully decorated.
Place El Hedim — Meknes’ main square, similar to a calmer Jemaa El-Fnaa.
Dar Jamaï Palace — A museum showcasing traditional art and architecture.
Meknes Medina — A UNESCO World Heritage site full of authentic markets and shops.

These monuments highlight the imperial legacy of the city and make Meknes tourism attractive to travelers who appreciate history, culture, and architecture.

Good to Know

Location

Meknes is situated approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) east of Fez and 60 kilometers (37 miles) west of the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, making it a central location in northern Morocco.

Imperial City

As one of Morocco's four imperial cities, Meknes was once the capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail, known for its architectural achievements and historical significance.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

The city’s medina, along with its historical monuments, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, recognized for its cultural and historical value.

Vibrant Souks

Meknes is famous for its lively souks, where visitors can find a wide range of traditional crafts, textiles, and local food products, offering an authentic shopping experience.

Nearby Roman Ruins

The ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, located just a short drive from Meknes, are a popular day trip destination, showcasing well-preserved mosaics and historical artifacts.

Meknes, MA

8:14 am, Dec 22, 2025

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light rain

Humidity: 87 %

Pressure: 1015 mb

Wind: 9 mph

Wind Gust: 0 mph

Clouds: 75%

Visibility: 5 km

Sunrise: 8:24 am

Sunset: 6:17 pm

Temperature
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9°/9°°C 1 mm 100% 6 mph 85% 1015 mb 0 mm/h

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10°/11°°C 1 mm 100% 10 mph 79% 1016 mb 0 mm/h

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10°/10°°C 1 mm 100% 13 mph 87% 1016 mb 0 mm/h

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8°/8°°C 1 mm 100% 9 mph 93% 1017 mb 0 mm/h

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7°/7°°C 1 mm 100% 5 mph 96% 1019 mb 0 mm/h

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8°/8°°C 1 mm 100% 5 mph 91% 1020 mb 0 mm/h

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9°/9°°C 0.38 mm 38% 6 mph 83% 1019 mb 0 mm/h

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8°/8°°C 0 mm 0% 6 mph 86% 1019 mb 0 mm/h

Notable Regions Around Meknes for Tourism

Bab Mansour

This stunning gateway is one of the most famous landmarks in Meknes, known for its intricate tile work and historical significance, serving as a prominent entrance to the medina.

Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail

The tomb of the founder of Meknes, this mausoleum features beautiful architecture and is a key historical site for visitors.

Heri es-Souani

These royal granaries and stables showcase the grandeur of Moulay Ismail’s reign and provide insight into the city’s agricultural history.

Volubilis

Located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Meknes, these ancient Roman ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for their well-preserved mosaics and historical importance.

Lalla Aouda Park

This beautiful park offers a peaceful retreat within the city, with gardens, walking paths, and recreational areas, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.