Impressive Roman Ruins are still standing at Volubilis

Explore the Roman Ruins of Volubilis & the Imperial City of Meknes, Meknes

Overview

While traveling in Morocco, you can explore the country's regal history at the ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes. Set next to one another, they make the perfect combination for an interesting historical and cultural break on longer drives, especially when transferring between Casablanca and Fes and Chefchaouen and Fes. Then, travel back through time as you visit ancient Roman ruins and the landmarks left by Moroccan sultans!

First up is Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to Morocco’s best-preserved Roman ruins. This town was of the most remote outposts of the Roman Empire—the Romans ruled here for about 200 years, until 285 CE when the empire grew too large to control. Wander this massive archeological site and explore the remains of merchant homes, temples, and colorful mosaics that have remained in good condition over the centuries.

Next, you'll visit the Unesco World Heritage city of Meknes. Under the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail (1672–1727), Meknes grew from a small town to a magnificent capital. There are many fascinating places in this historic imperial city. The two main areas of interest are the Ville Impériale (Imperial City) — home to gardens, palaces, and the gate of Bab al-Mansour — and the medina (old walled town).

Meknes is a nice primer for bigger Moroccan cities like Fes because the medina here is smaller, less busy, and more laidback. Check out the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and the Dar Jamai, a once beautiful palace that now functions as a native arts museum exhibiting traditional crafts and artwork. Depending on your travel route, you may even have enough time to enjoy a delicious lunch here in Meknes.

Traveler reviews

3 total ratings, 2 with reviews
5.0 out of 5
Feature ratings
Quality of Experience
5.0
Guides, Drivers and Staff
5.0
Transport
5.0
Jon
Jon P.
Lake Jackson, TX | Reviewed on May 11, 2023

We also had the opportunity to explore some amazing Roman ruins during our trip. Despite the hot weather, our guide was enthusiastic and well-informed about the history of the site. We marveled at the preserved tile floors and appreciated the chance to learn about the ancient civilization that once thrived there. Read more

We also had the opportunity to explore some amazing Roman ruins during our trip. Despite the hot weather, our guide was enthusiastic and well-informed about the history of the site. We marveled at the preserved tile floors and appreciated the chance to learn about the ancient civilization that once thrived there.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
nicel ann
nicel ann t.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Apr 02, 2023

Our guide Adbul has been so good. Old man with lots of energy and knowledge about the place. Read more

Our guide Adbul has been so good. Old man with lots of energy and knowledge about the place.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport

Itineraries with Explore the Roman Ruins of Volubilis & the Imperial City of Meknes

Moroccan Cities: Tangier to Marrakech - 6 Days

This quick trip takes you through Morocco's best cities. Start in the north in Tangier and work your way south to the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen, pass Roman ruins in Volubilis, and through the medieval medina in Fes. Carry on the west to Morocco's capital, Rabat, before reaching modern Casablanca and finishing in lively Marrakesh.

Casablanca to Marrakesh: Imperial Cities, Hiking & the Desert - 10 Days

Explore Morocco's Imperial Cities, mountains, and desert with this balanced 10-day trip starting in Casablanca and ending in Marrakesh. Wander medieval medinas in Fes and Marrakesh, explore the modern cities of Casablanca and Rabat, and adventure along old caravan routes in the desert. Spend a day hiking in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains before ending the trip in Marrakesh.

Northern Morocco's Cities: Tangier to Casablanca - 5 Days

This 5-day itinerary highlights Morocco's northern cities, starting in Tangier and finishing in Casablanca. Wander blue streets in Chefchaouen, explore Roman Volubilis and Imperial Meknes. Lose yourself in the medieval medina in Fes, and Visit modern Rabat and Casablanca.

Imperial Cities, Desert Grand Tour & Hiking in the Atlas - 12 Days

Explore Morocco's cities and desert on this 12-day grand tour. Begin and end in modern Casablanca and travel around to the imperial cities of Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakesh, as well as the hillside town of Chefchaouen. You'll trek into the Sahara, camp under the stars, visit desert towns and kasbahs, and hike the Atlas mountains foothills.

Morocco North to South: Cities & Atlas Hiking - 9 Days

A perfect blend of culture and adventure, this 9-day route has you traveling across Morocco from Tangier to Marrakech. Immerse yourself in Chefchaouen, Fes, and Marrakech as your wander souks, markets, and local artisan workshops. Explore the modern cities of Rabat and Casablanca along the Atlantic coast. End your stay hiking between rural villages in the High Atlas foothills where you will share a meal and spend the night with a local family.

Highlights of Morocco: Casablanca to Essaouira - 15 Days

On this 15-day itinerary, you'll explore Morocco from top to bottom. Fly into Casablanca and transfer to Rabat, then wander through the photogenic "Blue City" of Chefchaouen. Continue to historic Fes before heading on an adventure through the Sahara. After a four-day desert safari that will take you through remote villages and oases, you'll be off to Marrakech. Finish your trip with a guided tour of the seaside town of Essaouira before returning to Casablanca.

Mediterranean Morocco: Tangier, Al Hoceima & Imperial Cities - 15 Days

Explore Morocco's Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines with this 15-day itinerary. From Casablanca, head northward along the Atlantic coast, stopping at Spanish colonial sites and Roman ruins of Laracche and Lixus, and the quiet beaches of Asilah. Wander through brightly-painted towns, enjoy the views while hiking the Rif mountains, and relax by the sea in Al Hoceima and Marsdar Bay. Transfer to the imperial city of Fes, tour a winery, and see more of the region's delights before ending your adventure in bustling Marrakech.

Morocco for Families: Fes, Marrakech & Essaouira - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary offers a blend of fun activities and relaxation, perfect for families. Take photos in the "blue city" of Chefchaouen, taste traditional food with a cooking workshop in Fes, see Barbary apes in the Atlas Mountains, and ride camels in the Sahara Desert. Go shopping in the bustling markets of Marrakech and relax in a traditional hammam before hanging out with the kids on the beaches near Essaouira.