The ‘From Fez: Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes Day Trip’ offers travelers a chance to explore Morocco’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Embarking from Fez, this full-day excursion takes visitors on a journey through ancient Roman ruins, picturesque towns, and the imperial grandeur of Meknes. With convenient pickup and a knowledgeable guide, this day trip promises an immersive cultural experience that delves into the heart of Morocco’s past. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an enlightening adventure, this tour provides a compelling glimpse into the country’s architectural and historical treasures.
Key Points
- This private full-day tour from Fez explores the UNESCO World Heritage site of Volubilis, the historic town of Moulay Idriss, and the imperial city of Meknes.
- The tour includes pickup from Fez accommodation, transportation, and a professional guide available in English, Arabic, and French.
- Highlights of the tour include the well-preserved Roman ruins and mosaics in Volubilis, the scenic views in Moulay Idriss, and the architectural wonders of Meknes.
- The tour duration is one day, with ample time allocated for exploring the historical sites and capturing the essence of Moroccan culture.
- The tour is customizable based on the number of participants and preferred language, with a flexible tour date option.
Tour Overview
This tour offers a private full-day excursion from Fez to the historical sites of Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes.
Priced from $52.90 per person, it provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour lasts one day and features a live guide available in English, Arabic, and French. Pickup from your Fez accommodation is included.
You’ll drive to Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a 1.5-hour visit to see its well-preserved Roman ruins and spectacular mosaics.
Next, you’ll visit the scenic town of Moulay Idriss for a 30-minute photo stop before continuing to Meknes, known as the ‘Versailles of Morocco,’ for a 3-hour sightseeing experience.
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Itinerary Details
The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation in Fes, followed by a 1-hour drive to the first destination, Volubilis.
Visitors spend approximately 1.5 hours exploring the well-preserved Roman ruins and spectacular mosaics at this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Next, it’s a 20-minute drive to the scenic town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, where you’ll have 30 minutes for a photo stop and brief visit.
The final leg of the journey is a 40-minute drive to Meknes, known as the ‘Versailles of Morocco.’ Here, you’ll enjoy a 3-hour break, photo stop, and in-depth visit to this historic city featuring 50 palaces, 20 gates, and a 45-kilometer city wall.
At the end of the tour, you’ll be returned to your accommodation in Fes.
Pickup Location and Drives
The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Fes, kicking off the day’s itinerary. From there, you’ll embark on a 1-hour drive to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, where you’ll spend 1.5 hours exploring the well-preserved site and admiring its stunning mosaics. Next, it’s a 20-minute journey to the picturesque town of Moulay Idriss, where you’ll enjoy a 30-minute photo stop and visit. The final leg of the trip takes you to Meknes, the "Versailles of Morocco," where you’ll spend 3 hours exploring its 50 palaces, 20 gates, and 45-kilometer city wall. After this immersive experience, you’ll be driven back to Fes, completing the day’s adventure.
| Destination | Travel Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Volubilis | 1 hour | 1.5 hours |
| Moulay Idriss | 20 minutes | 30 minutes |
| Meknes | 40 minutes | 3 hours |
Volubilis: Roman Ruins and Mosaics
Nestled amidst rolling hills, Volubilis boasts a trove of remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins and stunning mosaics that captivate visitors. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient city offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman Empire.
Visitors can explore:
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The well-preserved remains of temples, baths, and administrative buildings, which provide a vivid snapshot of daily life in the Roman province of Mauritania Tingitana.
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Intricate floor mosaics that adorned the homes of wealthy citizens, showcasing intricate designs and vibrant colors that have endured for centuries.
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Panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the elevated position of the site, offering a picturesque backdrop to the historical wonders.
Moulay Idriss: Scenic Views
After exploring the well-preserved Roman ruins and stunning mosaics of Volubilis, visitors can now turn their gaze towards the scenic views of Moulay Idriss, located on the slopes of Mount Zerhoun.
This charming town, nestled amidst rolling hills, offers a picturesque setting that complements the historical significance of the region.
During the 30-minute visit, travelers can take in the splendid vistas and capture the essence of this sacred site, which is considered the birthplace of Islam in Morocco.
The tour’s itinerary allows ample time to appreciate the serene atmosphere and scenic backdrops that make Moulay Idriss a must-see destination on the journey from Fez to Meknes.
Meknes: The Versailles of Morocco
Famed as the ‘Versailles of Morocco,’ Meknes showcases an impressive array of architectural wonders, including 50 palatial structures, 20 ornate gateways, and a 45-kilometer city wall that envelops the historic center.
Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of the Bab Mansour, a stunning gateway adorned with intricate tilework and calligraphy.
The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the powerful 17th-century sultan, stands as a testament to Meknes’ rich history, with its ornate façade and tranquil courtyards.
Explore the bustling Medina, where local artisans showcase their skilled craftsmanship in traditional souks, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture that defines this captivating imperial city.
Inclusions
The tour package includes air-conditioned transportation and a professional driver to guide travelers throughout the day.
Food and drinks, however, aren’t covered in the price.
Travelers can choose the number of participants, the tour date, and the preferred language of their live guide, whether it be English, Arabic, or French.
The tour offers the flexibility to customize the experience according to individual preferences.
With a duration of one full day, the tour provides ample time to explore the historical sites of Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes.
Customer Feedback
Travelers have provided positive feedback on this day trip, rating it 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews. Highlights include the relaxed guiding and organization, insightful visits to historical sites, and enjoyment of local cuisine during the tour. Customers have recommended this tour based on their overall satisfaction with the experience.
The top reasons for this positive feedback include:
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The tour’s relaxed and well-organized approach, allowing for a seamless and enjoyable experience.
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The informative and engaging visits to the historical sites of Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes.
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The opportunity to savor the local cuisine during the tour, further enhancing the culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Sites?
Yes, you can customize the itinerary to include additional sites. The tour operator is flexible and can accommodate requests to modify the tour based on your interests and preferences.
Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Historical Sites?
There are no strict dress code requirements for the historical sites, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees out of respect for the cultural and religious significance of the sites.
What Types of Transportation Are Available for the Day Trip?
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation provided throughout the day. A professional driver is included to transport the travelers between the historical sites and Fez at the start and end of the tour.
Can I Purchase Tickets for the Attractions During the Tour?
Yes, tickets for the attractions can be purchased during the tour. The tour package includes entry fees to Volubilis and Meknes, so guests don’t need to worry about purchasing tickets separately.
Are There Any Recommended Restaurants or Local Dishes to Try?
The tour doesn’t include meals, but the driver can recommend local restaurants to try traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine, couscous, and mint tea during the break in Meknes. Customer reviews highlight the enjoyment of sampling local cuisine on this tour.
The Sum Up
This enriching day trip from Fez provides a unique opportunity to explore Morocco’s captivating historical sites.
Visitors can marvel at the ancient Roman ruins and stunning mosaics of Volubilis, snap photos in the picturesque town of Moulay Idriss, and enjoy the vibrant imperial city of Meknes.
With convenient pickup and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers an unforgettable way to discover the cultural and historical treasures of this region.
You can check if your dates are available here: