Meknes

Meknes the Versaille:

Surrounded by some 40 km of lime-and-earth walls, Meknes is unjustly eclipsed by the other cities.The city expressed a full military obsession of its founder to withstand all sorts of marauding invaders. This unparalleled technology talks about Morocco’s glory and prosperity that it did know at that time. We, however, tend to forget with reviled feelings these unique excesses: the last golden age to date, still impresses more than the inhuman and cruel deeds of the rulers.

The city has known ups and downs and seemingly, today, is trying to keep up alongside with Fez and Marrakech as the most authentic and fascinating imperial cities.
From here, the visitor can go on a side trip to explore the ancient Romans ‘ farthest flung capital of Volubilis or the first Islamic shrine of Moulay Idriss in Morocco. Both sites are fundamental keys to an understanding of Moroccan history

Meknes highlights:

• A day trip to the middle Atlas, this little range is quite rewarding and awesome and offers some stunning views.
• Middle Atlas Mountains, outside fantastic drive away to Ifrane, Sefrou, Azrou beautiful alpine resorts with some skiing in winter.
• A day trip to Moulay Idriss shrine for some spiritual experience amongst the hilly whitewashed village.
• A day trip To Volubilis roman ruins to explore Morocco’s greatest site.
• Relaxing massage in the hot baths of Moulay Yaacoub.
• Stables and horse riding training of international standards on the back of some Arab or Berber stallion.

Your tour in details:

• Meknes is beautiful at night. Definitely it is worth taking pictures of the gates and, if possible, to walk around! The best in Meknes is to rent one of those horse drawn Calèches and tour the city ramparts and main outskirts by night.
• After dusk, the Hdim square and gate come alive with musicians playing drums, mandolins, flutes and a variety of other instruments. In particular, listen to a performance of storytellers and many local styles; watch the outdoor restaurant’s impressive ambiance and sip mint tea or go for a budget diner.
• Get lost in the maze of shops at the Meknes Souks. A great shopping experience in the meandering alleyways of the medina! Be prepared to bargain, bargain hard and bargain with a smile. Take a handful of sweets to hand out to the children, and you will endear yourself to one and all. Great shopping opportunities wait for you.
• Escape the bustle of Medina and take a trip to the surrounding small towns of Ifrane, Sefrou or even Moulay Yaacoub. The Berber Valleys of the Middle Atlas Mountains are only about one hour drive from the city and you will find yourself amidst stunning villages, spectacular scenery and very welcoming people.
• A walk through the Medina of Meknes (old town) is a must. It’s probably the only way to explore the true Moroccan culture. It’s best to start at a fixed point in Medina, such as one of the main gates, and head to one of the main sites, such as the Qarawiyyin mosque, so that you can ask people for directions while also exploring.
• Wander at sunset amidst the Roman ruins of Volubilis with some stunning views of the surrounding fertile plains.
• Rejuvenate in the calm location at a Moulay Yacoub Spa. The hot bath / spa is an absolutely magnificent place to relax—some of them offer very professional services.

More highlights:

1. 1. Cooking Workshops and before that an expedition into local markets.
   2. Ethno art shop, around the souks and alleyways where craftsmen Damaskina and the Franciscan nuns’ embroidery workshops   thrive…undoubtedly the best creations.
   3. The souks, a stage for some voices, actions and smells.
   4. Moulay Ismail mausoleum, the 17th century sanctuary architectural masterpiece.
   5. Hammams and in a traditional way
   6. Hri swani, the stables and the water pool of the Hdim area.
   7. The Mellah or Jewish quarter, the sole synagogue still in function
   8. Morocco’s most impressive mud brick and adobe walls surrounding the old city of Meknes.
   9. Sip mint tea at Bab Mansour gate in front of LaPlace Hdim, a hive of activity and a great place to sit and people watch.
   10. Meknes’ best museum is Dar Jamai where some of the finest collections are preserved.

How To Get Around

Get a certified and licensed city guide to show you around, properly explain the cultural sites of your tour and serve as a shield against the hustles of the marketplace vendors.

• The Petit Taxis have meters but the drivers tend to forget using them with tourists. It is always good to negotiate the price in advance, but keep in mind that at night, the prices are 50% more than during the day.
• On a family trip get a Calèches, horse drawn cart, to take you around in the most pleasant way throughout the alleyways and corners of the city wall.