✓ Updated February 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Meknes, Morocco: Jan or Feb 2026

Meknes, Morocco travel destination - scenic view of Wander the Grandeur of Bab Mansour during ideal visiting season — Image: Entrada a Meknes, Marruecos. - panoramio.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

For an inspiring journey to Meknes, Morocco, aim for the spring months of March to May or the autumn months of September to November. During these periods, the air is pleasantly mild, perfect for exploring the grand ramparts and the bustling medina without the intense summer heat. Imagine wandering through the ancient city walls as a gentle breeze carries the scent of orange blossoms, or witnessing inspiring golden sunsets paint the sky over the Bab Mansour gate. The winter months offer a quieter, more introspective experience, with crisp air and fewer crowds, though some days can be cool and damp.

Best Months to Visit:

JanFebMarAprMayOctNovDec

Airport Code

FEZ

Coordinates

33.89°, -5.56°

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Top Things to Do

Wander the Grandeur of Bab Mansour

Stand in awe before Bab Mansour, Meknes' monumental city gate, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. Arrive in the late afternoon when the setting sun casts a warm glow on the intricate tilework and carved cedarwood, making the details truly pop. Imagine the sultans and caravans that once passed through this magnificent portal.

Explore the Underground World of Heri es-Souani

Descend into the vast, cool depths of Heri es-Souani, the former granaries and stables of Moulay Ismail. This subterranean marvel feels like stepping into another era, with its immense stone arches and echoing chambers. Visit on a hot summer day to escape the heat and marvel at the sheer scale of this historical feat of engineering.

Savor a Tagine in a Local Riad Courtyard

Seek out a traditional riad restaurant tucked away in the medina for an authentic tagine experience. The slow-cooked lamb or chicken, infused with spices and preserved lemons, is best enjoyed in the tranquil ambiance of a hidden courtyard, often accompanied by the gentle sound of a fountain. Ask your riad host for their favorite local spot for a truly personal recommendation.

Get Lost in the Medina's Labyrinthine Souks

Allow yourself to be delightfully lost in the bustling souks of Meknes, where vibrant carpets, aromatic spices, and handcrafted leather goods spill from every stall. Engage with local artisans, practice your bargaining skills, and discover unique treasures you won't find anywhere else. The best time to experience the full energy is mid-morning, before the midday heat sets in.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

culture

Embrace the 'medina time' mindset! While shops might have opening hours listed, things often start a bit later and close for a midday break. Don't be afraid to politely ask shopkeepers if they're open; a friendly 'Salam alaikum' goes a long way and might just get you that rug you've been eyeing.

money

While credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants, cash is king in the souks and smaller establishments. Have plenty of Moroccan Dirhams on hand for purchases, and don't be shy about politely bargaining – it's part of the experience! Look for ATMs inside banks for better security and exchange rates.

transport

Getting around Meknes is best done on foot within the medina, but for longer distances or to reach the Ville Nouvelle, petit taxis are your best bet. Always agree on the fare *before* you get in, or ensure the meter is running. A typical ride within the city shouldn't cost more than 20-30 MAD.

food

Don't leave Meknes without trying a traditional tagine, especially one with lamb and prunes – it's a local specialty! For an authentic experience, seek out small, family-run eateries in the medina rather than tourist traps. Look for places bustling with locals; that's always a good sign.

safety

Meknes is generally safe, but like any bustling city, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded souks. Keep your valuables secure and be firm but polite if approached by persistent touts. Stick to well-lit main streets after dark, particularly when walking alone.

packing

Pack light, breathable clothing, especially if visiting during warmer months. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the ancient medina's uneven cobblestones. Consider bringing a light scarf or shawl, which is useful for covering shoulders when visiting religious sites or for sun protection.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan

10 days

Feb

9 days

Mar

8 days

Apr

7 days

May

5 days

Jun

3 days

Jul

1 day

Aug

1 day

Sep

4 days

Oct

6 days

Nov

9 days

Dec

10 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	15°C	5°C	59°F	41°F	75mm	10 days	10.5h
Feb	17°C	6°C	63°F	43°F	60mm	9 days	11h
Mar	19°C	8°C	66°F	46°F	50mm	8 days	12h
Apr	22°C	10°C	72°F	50°F	45mm	7 days	13h
May	25°C	13°C	77°F	55°F	30mm	5 days	14h
Jun	29°C	16°C	84°F	61°F	15mm	3 days	14.5h
Jul	32°C	18°C	90°F	64°F	5mm	1 day	14h
Aug	32°C	19°C	90°F	66°F	5mm	1 day	13.5h
Sep	29°C	16°C	84°F	61°F	25mm	4 days	12.5h
Oct	24°C	12°C	75°F	54°F	40mm	6 days	11.5h
Nov	18°C	8°C	64°F	46°F	65mm	9 days	10.5h
Dec	15°C	5°C	59°F	41°F	70mm	10 days	10h

Quick Tip: Jun offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Jul in Meknes, Morocco

Weather

32°C°C / 90°F°F

1 day rainy days • 5mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Aug in Meknes, Morocco

Weather

32°C°C / 90°F°F

1 day rainy days • 5mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Wander the Grandeur of Bab Mansour

attraction

Explore the Underground World of Heri es-Souani

attraction

Best time: May-Oct

Savor a Tagine in a Local Riad Courtyard

food

Get Lost in the Medina's Labyrinthine Souks

shopping

Best time: Mar-Nov

Discover the Tranquility of the Dar Jamai Museum

cultural

Step into the serene beauty of the Dar Jamai Museum, housed in a stunning 19th-century palace. Admire the exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship, from intricate zellige tilework to carved stucco and traditional textiles. The peaceful gardens offer a welcome respite, making it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation, especially during the cooler spring months.

Best time: Mar-May

Experience a Traditional Hammam

activity

Indulge in a revitalizing traditional hammam, a quintessential Moroccan experience. Let the steam and skilled attendants work their magic, leaving your skin feeling incredibly soft and your mind utterly relaxed. Opt for a local, less touristy hammam for a more authentic and immersive cultural encounter.

Enjoy Mint Tea with a View at a Rooftop Cafe

food

As dusk settles over Meknes, find a rooftop cafe overlooking the medina. Sip on sweet, fragrant mint tea and watch as the city lights begin to twinkle below. This is the perfect, low-key way to absorb the atmosphere and reflect on your day's adventures, especially during the pleasant evenings of spring and autumn.

Best time: Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

Take a Day Trip to the Roman Ruins of Volubilis

attraction

Venture just outside Meknes to the remarkably preserved Roman city of Volubilis. Wander among ancient mosaics, towering columns, and the remnants of grand villas, imagining life in this once-thriving outpost. Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the midday sun, allowing ample time to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Best time: Mar-May, Sep-Nov

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Getting Around Meknes, Morocco

Grand Taxis

These are shared taxis, typically white Mercedes or similar sedans, that operate on fixed routes between cities and within larger towns like Meknes. They are a quintessential Moroccan travel experience, perfect for reaching nearby towns or even making longer inter-city journeys if you're on a budget and don't mind sharing.

Cost:Varies greatly, but expect around 20-30 MAD for a ride within Meknes or to a nearby village. A full taxi to Fes might cost 150-200 MAD.

Tip:Always agree on the price *before* you get in. If you want a faster journey or more comfort, offer to pay for the empty seats (usually 3-4). Don't expect them to wait for you if you get out to sightsee. The best place to find them is at designated taxi stations (Gare Routière for inter-city, smaller ones within the medina). Avoid hailing them right at major tourist attractions as prices can be inflated.

Petit Taxis

These are the smaller, usually blue or red, metered taxis found within Meknes. They are ideal for getting around the city, especially between the medina and the Ville Nouvelle, or to specific points within the medina that are accessible by car.

Cost:Metered, usually starting at 4-5 MAD, with a typical ride within the city costing 10-20 MAD. Night fares are slightly higher.

Tip:Insist on using the meter ('compteur'). If the driver refuses, find another taxi. Keep small change handy as they often claim not to have change for larger bills. Download an offline map app like Maps.me to verify your route and ensure you're not taken on a scenic detour.

Local Buses (ALSA)

Meknes has a public bus network operated by ALSA, connecting various neighborhoods and the medina with the newer parts of the city. This is the most economical way to travel longer distances within the city if you have time and are comfortable navigating local routes.

Cost:Very cheap, typically 3-4 MAD per ride.

Tip:Bus routes can be confusing for newcomers. Ask your riad or hotel staff for the specific route number and direction you need. Be prepared for crowded conditions during peak hours. It's a great way to observe daily life, but be mindful of your belongings.

Horse-drawn Carriages (Caleches)

These charming carriages offer a leisurely and romantic way to see the medina and its surroundings. They are particularly popular for short tours of the historical sites within the medina or for a scenic ride around the ramparts.

Cost:Negotiable, but expect to pay around 100-150 MAD for a 30-60 minute tour. Prices can vary significantly based on your negotiation skills and the driver.

Tip:Agree on the duration and route *before* you start. Drivers may try to extend the ride or take you to shops where they get a commission. Politely decline any unsolicited shop stops. This is more of a tourist experience than practical transport, so enjoy the ambiance.

Walking

The medina of Meknes is best explored on foot. Its narrow, winding alleys are not accessible by car and offer the most authentic experience of the city's historical heart.

Cost:Free!

Tip:Wear comfortable shoes! The medina's cobblestones can be uneven. Hire a licensed local guide for a few hours if you want to understand the history and navigate the labyrinthine streets without getting lost. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas of the medina.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When's the absolute sweet spot for visiting Meknes to truly soak in its atmosphere without the biggest crowds?

Honestly, I'd aim for late spring (April-May) or early autumn (September-October). The weather is beautifully mild, perfect for exploring the sprawling medina and the grand imperial sites. You'll still find plenty of life, but you won't be shoulder-to-shoulder with every other visitor, making those quiet moments in the historic kasbahs feel much more personal.

Beyond the main sights, what's a lesser-known gem in Meknes that truly surprised you?

You absolutely must seek out the Heri es-Souani, the vast granaries and stables built by Moulay Ismail. It's an incredible feat of engineering and history, often overlooked by those rushing between the Bab Mansour gate and the Mausoleum. Standing in those immense, cool stone chambers really transports you back in time; it feels like a secret whispered from the past.

Navigating the medina can feel a bit overwhelming. What's your top tip for getting around without getting hopelessly lost?

Embrace getting a *little* lost – it's part of the adventure! But seriously, my best advice is to use the Bab Mansour gate as your primary reference point. From there, try to orient yourself by the main arteries, and don't be afraid to politely ask for directions from shopkeepers; they're usually happy to help. Just be aware that some 'guides' might be a bit too eager.

What's a common cultural nuance in Meknes that visitors should be mindful of?

Respect for elders and a generally slower pace of life are key. When visiting homes or smaller shops, accepting a glass of mint tea is a sign of hospitality and connection; try to accept if offered. Also, remember that bargaining is expected in the souks, but always do it with a smile and good humor – it's a dance, not a battle.

Is it worth venturing out to the Roman ruins of Volubilis from Meknes, and what's the best way to do it?

Absolutely, Volubilis is a must-see and easily accessible from Meknes. The easiest and most authentic way is to hire a grand taxi for the round trip. Negotiate the price beforehand, and ask the driver to wait for you while you explore the remarkably preserved mosaics and ruins; it makes for a seamless and stress-free day trip.

When it comes to dining, where can I find truly authentic Meknes cuisine away from the main tourist drag?

Seek out the smaller eateries tucked away in the side alleys of the medina, especially those filled with locals. Look for places serving traditional tagines or couscous that smell incredible as you walk by. Don't be shy about peeking inside; often, the hum of local conversation is the best indicator of delicious, home-style cooking.

How many days do you need in Meknes, Morocco?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Meknes, Morocco to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Meknes, Morocco expensive to visit?

Meknes, Morocco can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Jan and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Meknes, Morocco famous for?

Meknes, Morocco is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Jan or Feb for the best experience.

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