Best Places to Visit in Fes Meknes | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Fes Meknes Travel Guide
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Welcome to Fes Meknes, Morocco, a captivating destination that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern charm. Located in the heart of the country, Fes Meknes is a region steeped in history, boasting a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries. As you wander through the labyrinthine streets of Fes, you'll be transported to a bygone era, where the scent of exotic spices fills the air and the vibrant colors of the bustling souks captivate your senses. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the world's oldest university, Al-Qarawiyyin, and the enchanting medieval medina, a maze-like network of narrow alleyways that lead to hidden treasures such as the stunning Bou Inania Madrasa and the iconic Al-Attarine Madrasa. In Meknes, the imperial city of Morocco, you'll discover the grandeur of the past, with its majestic palaces, impressive gates, and sprawling royal gardens. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the fascinating Roman ruins of Volubilis, a testament to the region's ancient history. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking an authentic cultural experience, Fes Meknes is a destination that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
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Best Places To Visit in Fes Meknes
1. Fes : Fes is a city in Morocco that is known for its rich history and culture. It is home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, which was founded in 859 AD. The city is also famous for its beautiful architecture, including the stunning Fes el Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the winding streets of the medina, visit the tanneries, and sample delicious Moroccan cuisine.
2. Meknes : Meknes is another city in Morocco that is worth a visit. It is known for its impressive imperial architecture, including the Bab Mansour gate and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Visitors can also explore the medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sample local delicacies like pastilla and harira soup.
3. Marrakech : Marrakech is a vibrant city in Morocco that is famous for its bustling souks, stunning gardens, and lively nightlife. Visitors can explore the historic medina, visit the Bahia Palace, and watch the sunset over the Koutoubia Mosque. The city is also known for its delicious food, including tagine and couscous.
4. Chefchaouen : Chefchaouen is a picturesque town in Morocco that is known for its blue-painted buildings and stunning mountain scenery. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of the medina, hike in the nearby Rif Mountains, and sample local specialties like goat cheese and honey.
5. Essaouira : Essaouira is a coastal city in Morocco that is known for its beautiful beaches, historic medina, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore the ramparts of the old city, visit the port to see the fishermen bring in their catch, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants.
6. Tangier : Tangier is a port city in Morocco that is known for its rich history and cultural diversity. Visitors can explore the medina, visit the Kasbah Museum, and take a stroll along the beachfront promenade. The city is also famous for its literary history, with writers like Paul Bowles and William S. Burroughs having spent time here.
7. Casablanca : Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and is known for its modern architecture, including the Hassan II Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in the world. Visitors can also explore the medina, visit the Royal Palace, and sample local specialties like bissara soup and pastilla.
8. Rabat : Rabat is the capital city of Morocco and is known for its historic landmarks, including the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Hassan Tower. Visitors can also explore the medina, visit the Royal Palace, and enjoy the city's vibrant arts and culture scene.
9. Agadir : Agadir is a coastal city in Morocco that is known for its beautiful beaches and sunny weather. Visitors can relax on the beach, explore the Souk El Had market, and take a trip to the nearby Paradise Valley.
10. Ouarzazate : Ouarzazate is a city in Morocco that is known for its stunning desert landscapes and historic kasbahs. Visitors can explore the Ait Ben Haddou kasbah, visit the Atlas Film Studios, and take a trip to the nearby Draa Valley.
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Food & Drinks To Try In Fes Meknes
1. Tagine: One of the most famous dishes in Morocco, tagine is a slow-cooked stew made with a variety of ingredients such as meat (usually lamb or chicken), vegetables, and aromatic spices. It is traditionally cooked in a clay pot with a conical lid, which helps to retain the flavors and moisture of the dish.
2. Couscous: Another staple of Moroccan cuisine, couscous is a grain dish made from semolina. It is typically served with a flavorful broth and topped with vegetables, meat, or fish. The grains are light and fluffy, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.
3. Pastilla: This is a unique and delicious Moroccan dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. Pastilla is a flaky pastry filled with a mixture of shredded chicken or pigeon, almonds, eggs, and aromatic spices. It is often dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon, giving it a hint of sweetness.
4. Harira: A traditional Moroccan soup, harira is commonly served during Ramadan to break the fast. It is made with a base of tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and a variety of spices. This hearty and flavorful soup is often enjoyed with dates and traditional bread.
5. Mint Tea: Morocco is famous for its mint tea, which is a symbol of hospitality and is served throughout the day. The tea is made with green tea leaves, fresh mint leaves, and sugar. It is poured from a height to create a frothy texture and is traditionally served in small glasses.
6. Mechoui: If you're a fan of roasted meat, then mechoui is a must-try in Fes Meknes. Mechoui refers to a whole lamb or sheep that is slow-roasted over an open fire. The meat is incredibly tender and flavorful, with a crispy exterior. It is often served with bread and a side of harissa, a spicy chili paste.
7. Makouda: Makouda is a popular street food in Morocco, especially in Fes Meknes. It is a deep-fried potato ball that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Makouda is often served with harissa or a spicy tomato sauce, making it a delicious and satisfying snack.
8. Zaalouk: Zaalouk is a traditional Moroccan salad made with roasted eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, and a variety of spices. It is typically served as a side dish or as a dip with bread. The smoky flavor of the eggplant combined with the tanginess of the tomatoes makes zaalouk a flavorful and refreshing addition to any meal.
9. B'stilla: B'stilla is a savory pie that is typically filled with pigeon meat, almonds, eggs, and a blend of aromatic spices. The filling is encased in layers of thin, flaky pastry and dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon. B'stilla is a unique and indulgent dish that combines sweet and savory flavors.
10. Orange Juice: Morocco is known for its delicious and refreshing orange juice. The oranges are freshly squeezed, resulting in a sweet and tangy beverage that is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day. You can find orange juice stands throughout Fes Meknes, offering a taste of the local citrus fruits.
Best Time To Visit Fes Meknes
The best time to visit Fes Meknes, Morocco is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The crowds are also smaller compared to the peak tourist season in summer. Additionally, spring and fall offer the opportunity to witness festivals and cultural events such as the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music and the Meknes International Festival of Amazigh Culture. It is important to note that winters in Fes Meknes can be chilly and rainy, while summers can be hot with temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F).
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Transportation To Fes Meknes
There are several transportation options to travel from Fes to Meknes, Morocco:
1. Train: The most convenient and popular option is to take a train from Fes to Meknes. The journey takes around 30 minutes and there are frequent departures throughout the day. Trains are comfortable and offer a scenic view of the countryside.
2. Bus: There are also regular bus services available between Fes and Meknes. Buses are usually cheaper than trains but may take slightly longer, depending on traffic conditions. The journey by bus takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
3. Taxi: Taxis are another option for transportation between Fes and Meknes. You can either hire a private taxi or share a grand taxi with other passengers. Taxis are more expensive than trains or buses but offer the flexibility of choosing your own departure time.
4. Car rental: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Fes and drive to Meknes. The distance between the two cities is around 60 kilometers and the journey takes approximately 1 hour. However, it is important to note that driving in Morocco can be challenging, especially for foreigners, due to different road conditions and traffic rules.
Overall, the train is the most recommended mode of transportation for traveling between Fes and Meknes due to its convenience, affordability, and reliability.