Day Trip Review: Fes to Meknes, Volubilis & Moulay Idriss

Okay, so you’re in Fes, right? You’ve explored the maze-like medina, perhaps you’ve sipped some mint tea, and now you’re wondering, “What’s next?”. Well, how does venturing out on a day trip to Meknes, Volubilis, and Moulay Idriss sound? It’s almost like stepping into a time machine, and it offers a really great peek into Morocco’s rich past and present. The trip is a popular choice for travelers, and there are good reasons for it; however, like with anything, being prepared and knowing what you are getting into is very important.

First Stop: Moulay Idriss – A Sacred Town

First up, very early in the morning you might head to Moulay Idriss. It’s a town with real historical significance, as it’s considered one of Morocco’s holiest spots. Founded by Moulay Idriss I in the 8th century, it kind of radiates a special, peaceful vibe, if you know what I mean. Up until not too long ago, non-Muslims weren’t allowed to stay overnight, adding to its somewhat mysterious allure. That ban is gone now, yet there is still a special feeling about the place.

That is, if you take one of the official tours that flock this spot! I noticed some aggressive, borderline-scammy guides vying for our attention from the second our car pulled up. Like, some were legit offering genuine tours, while others, in some respects, seemed to see tourists mostly as walking ATMs. Being bombarded by these fellas really put a damper on the spirituality you’re told to expect. One wanted us to visit an underground cave; I am so not into tourist traps. However, once past the pushy people, wandering through its narrow streets provides some terrific views and an insight into authentic Moroccan life. If you do decide to take a tour, make certain you negotiate the price beforehand and maybe even confirm what’s included, alright?

Volubilis: Stepping Back Into Roman Times

So next you journey onwards to Volubilis, that ancient Roman city. I think this was easily one of the highlights of the entire day trip. It’s not too far from Moulay Idriss, so you go straight from one holy site to Roman ruins, so it’s something different.

Now, honestly, Roman ruins in Morocco were something I wasn’t anticipating at all, but there you have it! Volubilis gives you some interesting glimpse into a bygone era, and its origins pretty much date all the way back to the 3rd century BC. Seeing those ruins standing against the Moroccan landscape can be striking, alright? We found ourselves wandering around the ancient buildings and getting a feel for that what life probably could’ve been during Roman times.

Be prepared for the sun! The site’s vast and it does get seriously hot. There’s so very little shade, so take water and maybe even wear a hat. Think about hiring a guide there at the site, so they are very informed and can truly bring the ruins to life with lots of engaging stories, so it could make all the difference. And don’t just rush through it; really, take some time to soak it all in. You might be surprised by how much you will enjoy wandering Volubilis.

Meknes: An Imperial City Worth Exploring

Then comes Meknes, the third stop on the trip, and, really, yet another imperial city of Morocco. Now, if you’re anything like me, imperial cities might sound samey after a while. Still, Meknes has a charm that makes it distinctive, I found. Meknes almost feels more laid-back and relaxed compared to Fes, although, honestly, I’m just talking about certain parts.

What I did like an awful lot were places like the Bab Mansour, which really is a massively ornate gate. This gate is just very intricately decorated, alright? But it can feel a bit overwhelming when crowds surround you from seemingly all directions. In some respects, I think it would really be cool to see it with fewer tourists around, so then I could really appreciate the craftsmanship and the history, that’s just me. Still, that square feels truly historic, maybe more so than others in the area.

Then we visited the granaries and the royal stables, the Heri es-Souani, that just gave a peek into the sheer scale of the sultan’s vision. Can you imagine the amount of resources it would take to manage such massive complexes way back when? Be sure you allow ample time, too; exploring Meknes actually requires some energy, particularly under the scorching sun. Take breaks, hydrate, and also watch out for those persistent vendors, alright?

Logistics: Getting There and Getting Around

You’ve got options for how you wanna handle transportation. Loads of folks opt for organized tours that you book right in Fes. That choice makes things pretty effortless; transport, guides, plus a basic itinerary all handled. However, these things can often feel a bit rushed and canned; it’s worth taking this into consideration. We tend to hire a private driver and decide upon where we wish to stop.

That route might just offer that needed bit more flexibility plus allow you to stay as long as you’d like, so we preferred this instead. That choice may also be cheaper than it would seem. Also, local taxis plus buses link up these towns, however, navigating those will take patience and research, honestly.

Whatever option sounds good, plan early, compare the prices and seriously read reviews from folks who have been, alright? Morocco’s travel scene can be, sometimes, very hectic. Knowing just what you should expect? Then you’ll go a bit more prepared. About the timing? Spring plus fall bring weather that’s much more bearable compared to summer, and they are perfect for exploring those ancient sites that sit beneath the beating sun.

Things to Watch out For

Oh, before I forget, I do have a few additional quick pointers on how to best get around that Moroccan travel scene, alright? Like I said previously, certain ‘guides’ around places like Moulay Idriss were pushier than vendors at the markets within Fes.

Be firm, make certain that you agree on the price beforehand plus don’t feel obliged just to buy whatever they suggest to you. It might just be part of some tourist trap where somebody gains a little money out of each victim’s purchase. Regarding those, remember that you shouldn’t hesitate to negotiate in local markets or for taxi fares. Haggling may simply be just a part of their culture plus almost something to look forward to. Really, most folks are simply trying to make their money, alright?

Oh yes, and make sure you keep watch over your belongings, mostly in these crowded areas. Basic precautions may help to simply keep opportunistic petty crime at bay. That means keep money secured, only carry necessary paperwork (rather than copies of each crucial document) plus remain alert to what happens nearby. These practices won’t completely eradicate crime, obviously; however, you could probably easily lessen the possibility you get victimized, so it’s all worth thinking about.

Is the Day Trip Worth It?

So, when all’s been said and done, this adventure out from Fes? I really think it’s something you might seriously consider. There can be bumps with all that persistent salesmanship, plus being ready is key to dodging frustrations plus instead having a far more memorable trip.

Personally, I did like going from spiritual Moulay Idriss up to grand Roman Volubilis plus imperial Meknes. It’s almost as if seeing Morocco through time. If you are visiting Fes, then think about a little side visit? In a way, it’s just like escaping that main stage that sits there within Fes while at the same time just delving that little deeper. That is Morocco for you.