Top Things to Do
in Meknes

The Meknes medina is one of the most authentic and least touristy in Morocco. Unlike Marrakech or Fes where visitors are constantly approached by touts and guides, the Meknes souks function primarily for local residents. This means genuine craftsmanship, real prices, and an unhurried atmosphere. The covered souk passages are organized by trade: metalworkers, leather craftsmen, carpenters, spice merchants, and textile weavers each have their own quarter. The quality of Meknes woodwork and embroidery is particularly notable — the city has a centuries-old tradition of fine craftsmanship that continues today.

Housed in a magnificent 19th-century palace built by the Jamai family (once powerful viziers), this museum showcases the traditional arts of Meknes and the Fes-Meknes region. The palace itself — with its central courtyard, carved stucco, painted ceilings, and lush Andalusian garden — is the main attraction. Collections include traditional Meknes embroidery (renowned throughout Morocco), ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, weaponry, and textiles. The rooftop terrace offers panoramic views over Place el-Hedim and the medina roofscape.

The old Jewish quarter of Meknes, established during the Merenid period, is a poignant reminder of the diverse communities that once thrived in Morocco imperial cities. Located adjacent to the medina, the mellah is recognizable by its slightly wider streets, balconied houses (unusual in Moroccan architecture), and the remains of synagogues. While the Jewish community has largely emigrated, the architectural character remains distinct. The quarter has a contemplative, slightly melancholic atmosphere that contrasts with the bustle of the adjacent souks.

This enormous artificial lake behind the Heri es-Souani was built by Sultan Moulay Ismail to irrigate his palace gardens and provide water for the imperial city. Measuring roughly 4 hectares, it is fed by a system of underground channels from the Middle Atlas Mountains — an engineering feat that still impresses today. The basin is surrounded by olive groves and gardens, and local families gather here on evenings and weekends. The setting, with the Heri es-Souani arches reflected in the water, is serene and beautiful.

Meknes food scene is authentic, affordable, and deeply local. The city is renowned for its olive oil, preserved lemons, and dairy products from the surrounding agricultural plains. Place el-Hedim food stalls serve some of the best and cheapest street food in Morocco: grilled kefta (from 15 MAD), tangia meknessia (the local slow-cooked meat specialty, from 40 MAD), fresh bread, and salads. The medina restaurants offer traditional tagines and couscous at prices well below Fes or Marrakech. For upscale dining, the Ville Nouvelle has several excellent restaurants.

The Royal Golf de Meknes is one of Morocco most historic golf courses, established in 1971 within the grounds of the former royal palace gardens. The 9-hole course (played as 18 with different tees) is set among mature trees, olive groves, and historic palace walls. The setting is uniquely atmospheric — you play alongside Moulay Ismail ancient ramparts and garden walls. The clubhouse serves good food and drinks with views over the course. It is a relaxed, affordable golfing experience compared to the luxury courses of Marrakech.

Meknes evening life centers on Place el-Hedim and the Ville Nouvelle. The square comes alive after dark with food stalls, musicians, and families promenading — a more intimate version of Marrakech Djemaa el-Fna. The Ville Nouvelle has cafes, patisseries, and a few bars. The cultural life is quieter than Fes or Rabat but genuinely local. The annual Meknes International Film Festival and the olive harvest festival in October bring extra energy. The Moroccan tradition of the evening promenade (the "passeggiata") is alive and well here.

The Meknes plain is one of Morocco most fertile agricultural regions, carpeted with olive groves, vineyards, wheat fields, and fruit orchards. The olive oil from this region is considered the finest in the country, and the annual olive harvest (October-November) is a significant cultural event. Driving or cycling through the countryside reveals a peaceful, rural Morocco that most tourists never see — ancient farmhouses, grazing flocks, and the Middle Atlas Mountains rising to the south. The landscape between Meknes and Volubilis is particularly scenic.