Discover Meknes
Meknes, one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, is renowned for its imposing ramparts, the famous Bab Mansour gate and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. The medina, quieter than that of Fes, is full of architectural treasures and lively souks.
Meknes in numbers
Around 400,000 visitors per year
4th imperial city of Morocco
30% Europe, 25% Middle East, 20% Africa
Best time to visit
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather (20-28°C). Summer can be hot but less stifling than in Marrakech.
Geographic location
Meknes is located in northern Morocco, about 60 km from Fes and 150 km from Rabat. The city is easily accessible by motorway and train.
Specialties
Dried meat tajine, olives, local wine. Crafts: damascene work, carpets, pottery. Sites: Bab Mansour, royal granary, Meknes stud farm.
Our recommendations for you
accommodation
accommodation
Hôtel Transatlantique
Colonial hotel, downtown.
accommodation
Riad Lahboul
Restored riad, pool and terrace.
accommodation
Palais Didi
Palace with garden, pool and spa.
accommodation
Hôtel Splendide
Comfortable hotel, near train station.
accommodation
Dar Meknès
Traditional riad, flowering patio.
restaurant
restaurant
Meknès Restaurant
Meknassi specialties, chicken pastilla.
restaurant
Darna
Slow-cooked tagines, family atmosphere.
restaurant
Palais de Moulay Ismaïl
Traditional cuisine in a palace.
restaurant
Restaurant Riad Palais Didi
Imperial cuisine, sumptuous setting.
restaurant
La Rôtisserie
Roasted meats and wines.
restaurant
Beldi Meknès
Traditional cuisine, flowering patio.
restaurant
Café Litera
Sandwiches and salads, artists' place.
visit
visit
Bab Mansour
Monumental gate of the medina, the largest in Morocco.
visit
Mausolée Moulay Ismaïl
Tomb of the founding sultan of Meknes.
visit
Heri es-Souani
Granaries and royal stables from the 17th century.
visit
Lac Agdal
Artificial lake for irrigation, promenade.
visit
Bassin Souani
Water basin surrounded by gardens.
visit
Bab Mansour
Monumental gate of the medina, the largest in Morocco.
visit
Mausolée Moulay Ismaïl
Tomb of the founding sultan of Meknes.
visit
Heri es-Souani
Granaries and royal stables from the 17th century.
visit
Lac Agdal
Artificial lake for irrigation, promenade.
visit
Bassin Souani
Water basin surrounded by gardens.
guide
guide
Rachid Benjelloun
Imperial guide, specialist of monumental gates.