The most underrated of Morocco's imperial cities — grand monuments, the finest city gate in Africa, ancient Roman ruins just 30 km away, and hardly a tour group in sight.
Meknès was the imperial capital of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century — a man who built on such a scale that his city rivalled Versailles. Massive walls stretching 45 km, vast granaries capable of feeding 12,000 horses, palaces, mosques and the incomparable Bab Mansour gate — one of the most magnificent entrances in the world.
Unlike Fès and Marrakech, Meknès receives a fraction of tourist visitors — the medina is authentic and unhurried, the prices honest and the people genuinely welcoming. Its position between Fès and Rabat, and close to the extraordinary Roman ruins of Volubilis and the holy city of Moulay Idriss, makes it a perfect base.
The most monumental city gate in Morocco — an 18th-century triumphal arch of white marble columns, intricate green-and-white zellij tilework, and sheer overwhelming scale.
Morocco's most impressive Roman site — a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological park with triumphant arches, stunning floor mosaics and sweeping views of the Zerhoun plain.
The vast royal stables and granaries of Moulay Ismail — a monumental ruin of vaulted chambers stretching 1 km, once housing 12,000 horses.
One of the few religious sites in Morocco open to non-Muslims — the resting place of the sultan who built imperial Meknès, with exquisite marble and stucco decoration.
A UNESCO medina without the tourist rush — artisan quarters for carpets, pottery and brass work, the Place el-Hedim square and authentic local life.
Morocco's holiest city and the tomb of the founder of the Idrisid dynasty — a white hillside town that was closed to non-Muslims until 2005.
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A palatial 17th-century riad in the heart of the imperial medina — original hand-cut tilework, a stunning courtyard pool, acclaimed Moroccan cuisine and impeccable service. One of Morocco's most underrated luxury addresses, combining the grandeur of Fès with the tranquillity of an uncrowded imperial city.
The grande dame of Meknès hotels — surrounded by landscaped gardens, with a pool, tennis courts and panoramic views of the imperial city walls. The kind of unhurried elegance that recalls French Morocco, with the medina a short taxi ride away.
A beautifully restored riad palace in the medina — 9 individually designed suites, a serene courtyard garden, rooftop terrace with views of the imperial ramparts and atmospheric Moroccan dinner served by candlelight on request. The intimate alternative to Riad Yacout.
An intimate riad within walking distance of Bab Mansour — authentic Moroccan rooms decorated with local crafts, a rooftop terrace overlooking the medina and genuinely excellent home cooking from the owner's family. The soul of Meknès at an accessible price.
Clean, comfortable and modern — the reliable choice for budget-conscious travellers who still want air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom and a decent breakfast. A 10-minute walk to Bab Mansour and the medina, with the predictable quality guarantee of the Ibis brand.
Wildflowers around Volubilis, mild temperatures, the Meknes olive harvest festival in April. Perfect conditions.
Inland heat can be intense — start sightseeing early. The cooler evenings in the medina are pleasant.
Golden light on the Roman ruins, harvest season, comfortable temperatures. The best season for Volubilis.
Quiet and uncrowded — the imperial monuments are atmospheric in winter mist. Cold evenings require warm layers.