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Unlike the more tourist-oriented cities of Marrakech and Fez, Meknes is far enough off the track to avoid the annoyances that western tourists may experience in Morocco's larger cities. The city is centered around the ancient medina with its labyrinth of souks and narrow alleyways leading to El-Hdim Square. The Medina itself is a harmonious design combining elements of Islamic and European town planning and is UNESCO World Heritage listed. El-Hdim Square is home to an array of interesting local culture and characters from snake charmers to traditional musicians, story-tellers to medical practitioners.
Meknes served as the capital for the 17th century Muslim ruler Moulay Ismail, affectionately nicknamed "The Bloodthirsty" and his exquisitely decorated mausoleum is one of the city's architectural highlights, along with the monumental Bab Mansour, a gate with stunning colored tiles, marble pillars and a lacy web of carved stucco; the Royal stables; the 10th century Nejjarin Mosque; and the Medersa Bou Inania, a 14th-century Koran school with a bird's-eye view of the Grand Mosque from its roof terrace. The impressive Roman ruins of the city of Volubilis, with its rich mosaics and complete lack of tourists, are located just outside the city.
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Getting There
By Air: Royal Air Maroc (www.royalairmaroc.com) flies to Fez from New York five times per week via Marrakech. Alternatively, Royal Air Maroc flies non-stop to Fez from European cities including Paris and London.
By Land: Meknes is 36 miles from Fez and the distance can be covered by Grande taxi (pre-arranged tariff), rental car, train or public bus.
Required Documentation: U.S. citizens do not require a tourist visa to visit Morocco -- only a valid passport.
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Where to Stay
Palais Riad Didi (tel. +212/55-558-590; www.palaisdidi.com/en) is an 18th century former palatial home with views overlooking the medina. Price: Moderate to Expensive.
Riad Safir (tel. +212/35-534-785; www.riadsafir.com) is a boutique property located in the oldest part of the city near Hammam Jdid. Price: Moderate.
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