Fez to Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes Day Tour with Guide

Summary

Guided Day Trip: Roman Ruins, Sacred Towns & Meknes Medina

You’ll walk ancient Roman streets at Volubilis, explore sacred Moulay Idriss with local stories, and dive into Meknes’ medina—all in one easy day from Fez.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Fez was still cool when our driver met us outside the riad—he greeted us with a quick “salaam” and a smile. As we left the city behind, the landscape changed fast: olive groves, low hills, and the odd shepherd waving as we passed. We made a quick stop by the Chahed river. The water was clear enough to see pebbles at the bottom, and there was this faint smell of wild mint growing along the banks. It’s not a spot you’d find in guidebooks, but it set the tone for what was coming.

Volubilis came into view just before noon. You can’t miss those columns rising out of nowhere. Our guide—Youssef—knew every corner of these Roman ruins. He pointed out faded mosaics (the one with dolphins is my favorite), and explained how locals still find bits of pottery after heavy rain. Walking under the Arch of Caracalla, I could almost picture ancient markets buzzing here. There were storks nesting on top of some pillars too—oddly peaceful.

Next up was Moulay Idriss Zerhoun. It’s a quiet town, perched on two hills, all whitewashed walls and green tiles. Youssef told us stories about Idriss I—the founder of Morocco—and showed us where pilgrims gather at the Grand Mosque. The streets are narrow and twisty; I nearly lost track following the scent of fresh bread from a tiny bakery tucked behind a blue door.

Lunch in Meknes meant tagine—slow-cooked lamb with prunes—in a place called Café El Medina right near Place el-Hedim. Afterward, we wandered through the old medina’s maze of shops: leather slippers piled high, brass lanterns catching sunlight through wooden slats overhead. Bab El Mansour is even bigger than it looks in photos; its tiles are chipped but beautiful up close.

We finished at Moulay Ismail’s mausoleum and peeked inside the royal stables (Rouah). The echo inside is something else—you can almost hear hooves if you listen hard enough. By late afternoon, we were back in Fez, tired but happy, watching sunset colors stretch over the hills as we drove home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes Tour

• Start excursion from Fes hotel
• Visit Chahed river landscape
• Explore Volubilis Roman ruins
• Walk through Moulay Idriss Zerhoun village
• Visit Moulay Idriss Grand Mosque
• Lunch with Moroccan Tagine
• Tour Meknes old city and Medina walls
• See Bab El Mansour gate
• Visit Moulay Ismail’s shrine
• Explore Meknes Souks and Place el-Hedim
• Return to Fes hotel

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! The walkways are mostly flat and our guide adjusts the pace for everyone’s comfort. Kids love exploring ruins and there are plenty of rest stops.

What should I bring for this day trip?

I’d recommend comfy shoes (there’s some uneven ground), sun protection, water, and maybe a light jacket if you’re traveling outside summer months.

Is lunch included? Can you accommodate dietary needs?

Lunch isn’t included so you can choose what suits your taste—vegetarian options are available at most cafés in Meknes if you let your guide know ahead.

What’s included

Your English- or French-speaking driver will pick you up right at your hotel or riad in Fez. All transport is by air-conditioned vehicle for comfort between stops—and drop-off back at your door is included too.