This Volubilis day trip from Fes visits two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one day. Walk among the mosaics, columns and triumphal arch of Volubilis, the best-preserved Roman city in Morocco, look across to the holy town of Moulay Idriss on its hillside, then explore Meknes, the imperial city of Sultan Moulay Ismail, with its monumental Bab Mansour gate and royal granaries.
Highlights
- Roman city of Volubilis (UNESCO)
- Floor mosaics and the Arch of Caracalla
- Moulay Idriss Zerhoun viewpoint
- Bab Mansour, Morocco’s grandest gate
- El Hedim square and the Meknes medina
- Heri es-Souani royal granaries
The day
Pick-up in Fes
Your driver collects you from the closest point to your riad or hotel that a car can reach, then about 1.5 hours through olive groves to Volubilis.
Volubilis
Around 2 hours among the Roman ruins: the basilica, the Capitol, the House of Orpheus mosaics and the Arch of Caracalla.
Moulay Idriss
A stop at the viewpoint over the whitewashed holy town of Moulay Idriss, and time for lunch.
Meknes
Bab Mansour, El Hedim square, the medina and the vast royal granaries and stables of Moulay Ismail.
Back to Fes
About 1 hour back to Fes, dropped off where you were collected.
Included
- Private A/C vehicle and driver
- Pick-up and drop-off in Fes
Not included
- Entrance tickets to Volubilis and monuments
- Local guide (optional, on request)
- Lunch and drinks
- Tips
Driving times
Times below are driving only. Stops for photos, visits and meals come on top.
| When | Route | Distance | Driving time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Fes to Volubilis | about 80 km | about 1.5 hours |
| Afternoon | Volubilis to Meknes, via Moulay Idriss | about 30 km | about 40 minutes |
| Evening | Meknes back to Fes | about 60 km | about 1 hour |
Best time to go
The best months for this day trip are March to May, when the hills around Volubilis are green and full of wildflowers, and September to November. In summer the ruins are very hot and have almost no shade, so we start early and you should bring a hat and water. Winter days are mild but can be rainy.
Your Volubilis and Meknes route
- Fes
- Volubilis
- Moulay Idriss
- Meknes
- Fes
Volubilis & Meknes day trip FAQ
How far is Volubilis from Fes?
About 85 km, around 1.5 hours by road. Meknes is about 30 km from Volubilis and an hour’s drive from Fes, so the whole loop fits comfortably into one day.
Do we need a guide at Volubilis?
It is not required, but an official guide at the entrance brings the mosaics and the history of the site to life. Tell us when you book and we can arrange one.
How long do we spend at each place?
Usually around 2 hours at Volubilis and 2 to 3 hours in Meknes, plus a stop at Moulay Idriss. As it is a private trip, you decide the pace.
What should we bring?
A hat, sunscreen and water: Volubilis has very little shade. Comfortable shoes are best for the uneven Roman paving.
How do I pay?
Sending a request is free. We confirm your date and pick-up point on WhatsApp or by email, then you confirm with a secure PayPal deposit and pay the rest on arrival.
When is the best time to visit Volubilis?
Spring is the most beautiful season, with green hills and wildflowers around the ruins. Autumn is also pleasant. In summer, start early and bring a hat and water, as there is very little shade at the site.
Is this day trip suitable for children?
Yes. The drives are short, and because the trip is private we can adjust the time spent at each site to suit your family. Tell us their ages when you book.
