Leave Fez to discover Meknes and its monumental gates, then continue to Rabat, an elegant capital between history and the Atlantic. Take a break on Meknes' lively squares, explore Rabat's gardens and ramparts and finish with a walk facing the ocean. A weekend of imperial cities, cultural discoveries and relaxation.
Day-by-day programme
Day 1
The historic heart of Fez
Morning : the Fez el-Bali medina, the world’s largest car-free urban area (a local guide is recommended), the Bou Inania Madrasa and the exterior of Al-Qarawiyyin University.
Afternoon : the Chouara tanneries from the panoramic terraces, then the potters’ quarter and its famous Fez blue.
Evening : dinner in a traditional riad in the heart of the medina.
Day 2
Meknes and the ruins of Volubilis
Morning : leave early for Meknes (by car, or by train in 36 min), then Volubilis, Morocco’s largest Roman site: allow 1.5 hours for the mosaics still in place.
Afternoon : Bab Mansour, El Hedim square (the little sister of Jemaa el-Fna) and the granaries and stables of Moulay Ismail (Heri es-Souani).
Evening : a café facing Bab Mansour to watch local life, then the road (or train) to Rabat.
Day 3
Rabat, the coastal capital
Morning : the Kasbah of the Udayas, a medieval fortress with blue-and-white lanes above the Atlantic; mint tea and gazelle horns at the Café Maure.
Afternoon : Hassan Tower, an unfinished 12th-century minaret, and the Mohammed V Mausoleum; if time allows, the green necropolis of Chellah.
Evening : a stroll along Mohammed V Avenue in the Ville Nouvelle before your departure or return flight.
Concierge tips
Train option
The train is fast, comfortable and cheap. Fez → Meknes: every hour, about 36 min, about 26 MAD in 2nd class. Meknes → Rabat Ville: every hour, about 2 h 15, about 85 MAD. Indicative fares.
Stops and rest points
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1
FezStart
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2
Meknes1 h 15 drive · Short stop (2 to 3 h)
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3
Rabat2 h drive · 1 night recommended
Must-sees
- The Fez el-Bali medina and the Chouara tanneries
- Optional detour to the Roman ruins of Volubilis
- Meknes' monumental gates (Bab Mansour)
- The Kasbah of the Udayas and its blue-and-white lanes
- Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum
Route map
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