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Meknes

Morocco · City · MAD · 33.893500, -5.547300
Family friendly 7.1/10 · Rank 656 of 2 709
Best season: March-May, September-November

Best for

Meknes suits lovers of history, architecture, and quiet relaxation. The city is not suitable for beach lovers and active nightlife seekers.

Best season

March-May, September-November

Daily budget
$60.00 (≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 600 MAD)
For 7 days
$420.00 (≈ 35 246 ₽ · ≈ 4 200 MAD)
Meknes is one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, famous for its monumental Bab el-Mansour gate. The city was the residence of Sultan Moulay Ismail and preserves many palaces, mosques, and vast underground granaries. Its grandeur and peaceful atmosphere attract history lovers.
Summer
46.0°C
Winter
6.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

The residents of Meknes are mainly Arabs and Berbers, descendants of the ancient peoples of Morocco. They are known for their hard work, hospitality, and pride in their imperial city. Meknes is considered one of the four imperial cities of Morocco.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Rich historical heritage: Bab Mansour, Heri, and madrasahs.
  • Authentic atmosphere: the city has preserved its imperial charm.
  • Affordable prices: accommodation, food, and transport are cheaper than in Europe.
  • Gastronomy: tagine, couscous, harira, and mint tea.
  • Friendly locals: Moroccans are known for their hospitality.
  • Lack of mass tourism: the city is less visited than Fes and Marrakech.
  • Convenient location: proximity to Volubilis and Fes.

Cons

  • No sea: the nearest beaches are 150 km away.
  • Hot summers: temperatures can reach 36°C.
  • Limited nightlife: entertainment is concentrated in a few restaurants and bars.
  • Limited English: communication may be difficult in remote areas.
  • Traffic jams: during rush hours, moving around the city can take a long time.
  • Fewer entertainments: the city is less touristy than Fes and Marrakech.
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
33.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
34.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
46.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
10.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
16.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
6.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
November-March
Attractions

Bab Mansour Gate

A majestic 18th-century gate, considered one of the most beautiful in Morocco. Impressive mosaics and carvings. A symbol of Meknes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Heri es-Souani

Huge underground stables and granaries built for 12,000 horses. Impressive architecture and engineering solutions. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Place El-Hedim

A huge square that was once part of the sultans palace. Impressive size and panoramic views. A popular place for walks.

Bou Inania Madrasah

One of the most beautiful madrasahs in Morocco, built in the 14th century. Impressive wood carvings, mosaics, and a courtyard with a fountain.

Royal Palace

The palace of Sultan Moulay Ismail, built in the 17th century. Impressive architecture and history. Tourist access is limited, but the exterior is impressive.

Museum of Moroccan Art

A museum dedicated to traditional Moroccan art and crafts. The collection includes ceramics, textiles, and jewelry.

Meknes Market

A lively market in the city center selling fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts. An excellent place to get acquainted with local culture.

Best areas

Medina

The historic center of Meknes with Bab Mansour gate, markets, and madrasahs. An ideal place to stay if you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of an ancient city.

Ville Nouvelle

The modern part of the city with wide avenues, cafes, shops, and European-style hotels. A convenient place to stay in comfort.

Heri Area

The area around the Heri stables and granaries with hotels and guesthouses. Popular among history lovers.

Bab Mansour Area

The area near the main gate of the city with hotels, restaurants, and shops. A convenient location for exploring the city.

Place El-Hedim Area

The area around the main square with hotels and restaurants. Popular among tourists.

Hamria Area

A residential area with affordable hotels and local cafes. A good choice for budget travelers.

Must-try food

Tagine

Meat or fish stewed with vegetables and dried fruits in a clay pot with a conical lid. The main dish of Moroccan cuisine.

Couscous

A traditional dish of small steamed wheat granules with meat, vegetables, and chickpeas. Served on Fridays after prayer.

Harira

A thick soup of lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and lamb with herbs and spices. A traditional dish for breaking the fast during Ramadan.

Pastilla

A layered pie of thin warqa pastry filled with pigeon, chicken, or seafood, dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar.

Mint Tea

The national drink of Morocco, served with green tea, fresh mint, and plenty of sugar.

Msemmen

Thin layered pancakes served with honey, butter, or cheese. A traditional breakfast or snack.

Olives

Morocco is a major producer of olives. Try marinated olives with spices and herbs.

Where to go next

Volubilis

An ancient Roman city 30 km from Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Impressive mosaics and ruins.

Moulay Idriss

A holy city 30 km from Meknes with the tomb of Idris I. A popular place for pilgrimage.

Fes

A city 60 km from Meknes, known for its medina and craft traditions. A popular destination for a day trip.

Rabat

The capital of Morocco, 150 km from Meknes. A major cultural and historical center.

Chefchaouen

A city 200 km from Meknes, known for its blue houses and the Rif Mountains.

Tangier

A city 300 km from Meknes, known for its port and historic center.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Мекнес – Бассатин (MEK).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
March-May, September-November
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 80 MAD
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 400 MAD
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 800 MAD
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 1 500 MAD
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$130.00
≈ 10 910 ₽ · ≈ 1 300 MAD
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 350 MAD
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 35 MAD
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 150 MAD
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 15 MAD
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 20 MAD
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 5 MAD
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 60 MAD
Burger
Average price for a burger
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 40 MAD
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 20 MAD
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽ · ≈ 45 MAD
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 200 MAD
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 5 MAD
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 30 MAD
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 400 MAD
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 80 MAD
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 150 MAD
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 300 MAD
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
—
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 500 MAD
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 80 MAD
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 100 MAD
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Frequently asked questions
Meknes: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is March-May, September-November. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Meknes: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +46.0°C, during the day — up to +34.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Meknes: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +6.0°C, during the day — up to +16.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Meknes: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-March. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Meknes: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $60.00 (≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 600 MAD) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Meknes: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $8.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $40.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $80.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $150.00 per night, an apartment — $35.00 per night, a villa — $130.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Meknes: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $3.50, dinner at a restaurant — $15.00, a cup of cappuccino — $1.50, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Meknes: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $3.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Meknes: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Bab Mansour Gate — A majestic 18th-century gate, considered one of the most beautiful in Morocco. Impressive mosaics and carvings. A symbol of Meknes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.; Heri es-Souani — Huge underground stables and granaries built for 12,000 horses. Impressive architecture and engineering solutions. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.; Place El-Hedim — A huge square that was once part of the sultans palace. Impressive size and panoramic views. A popular place for walks.; Bou Inania Madrasah — One of the most beautiful madrasahs in Morocco, built in the 14th century. Impressive wood carvings, mosaics, and a courtyard with a fountain.; Royal Palace — The palace of Sultan Moulay Ismail, built in the 17th century. Impressive architecture and history. Tourist access is limited, but the exterior is impressive.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Meknes: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Tagine — Meat or fish stewed with vegetables and dried fruits in a clay pot with a conical lid. The main dish of Moroccan cuisine.; Couscous — A traditional dish of small steamed wheat granules with meat, vegetables, and chickpeas. Served on Fridays after prayer.; Harira — A thick soup of lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and lamb with herbs and spices. A traditional dish for breaking the fast during Ramadan.; Pastilla — A layered pie of thin warqa pastry filled with pigeon, chicken, or seafood, dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar.; Mint Tea — The national drink of Morocco, served with green tea, fresh mint, and plenty of sugar.; Msemmen — Thin layered pancakes served with honey, butter, or cheese. A traditional breakfast or snack.; Olives — Morocco is a major producer of olives. Try marinated olives with spices and herbs.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Meknes: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Medina — The historic center of Meknes with Bab Mansour gate, markets, and madrasahs. An ideal place to stay if you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of an ancient city.; Ville Nouvelle — The modern part of the city with wide avenues, cafes, shops, and European-style hotels. A convenient place to stay in comfort.; Heri Area — The area around the Heri stables and granaries with hotels and guesthouses. Popular among history lovers.; Bab Mansour Area — The area near the main gate of the city with hotels, restaurants, and shops. A convenient location for exploring the city.; Place El-Hedim Area — The area around the main square with hotels and restaurants. Popular among tourists.; Hamria Area — A residential area with affordable hotels and local cafes. A good choice for budget travelers.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Meknes: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Meknes: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Мекнес – Бассатин (code MEK). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Meknes: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — MAD. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $60.00 (≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 600 MAD). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Meknes: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Meknes: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Meknes: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Volubilis — An ancient Roman city 30 km from Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Impressive mosaics and ruins.; Moulay Idriss — A holy city 30 km from Meknes with the tomb of Idris I. A popular place for pilgrimage.; Fes — A city 60 km from Meknes, known for its medina and craft traditions. A popular destination for a day trip.; Rabat — The capital of Morocco, 150 km from Meknes. A major cultural and historical center.; Chefchaouen — A city 200 km from Meknes, known for its blue houses and the Rif Mountains.; Tangier — A city 300 km from Meknes, known for its port and historic center.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.1/10
Overall rank: 656 of 2 709
Rank among cities: 188

Best season

March-May, September-November

Useful information

Currency: MAD
Coordinates: 33.893500, -5.547300