The 6 Best Day Trips from Fes: Volubilis, Meknes, Chefchaouen and More

Fes is surrounded by some of Morocco’s most rewarding day trips: the best-preserved Roman ruins in the country, an imperial city of monumental gates, a holy hilltop town, cedar forests full of monkeys and, a little further, the blue streets of Chefchaouen. Here are the best day trips from Fes, how far each one is and how to plan your day.

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1. Volubilis

Distance: about 85 km, around 1.5 hours each way.

Spread across a ridge above olive groves and wheat fields, Volubilis is the finest Roman site in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Walk under the Triumphal Arch of Caracalla, along the main street to the columns of the basilica and capitol, and look down at the colourful mosaics still in place in the houses, including the House of Orpheus and the House of the Labours of Hercules. There is little shade, so go early and bring water and a hat.

2. Moulay Idriss Zerhoun

Distance: a few kilometres from Volubilis.

This whitewashed town tumbles over two hills and is one of the holiest places in Morocco, home to the tomb of Idris I, founder of the first Moroccan dynasty. The shrine itself is closed to non-Muslims, but the views from the hilltop terraces are wonderful. It combines perfectly with Volubilis.

3. Meknes

Distance: about 60 km, around 1 hour each way.

The imperial city of Sultan Moulay Ismail is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its monumental gates and walls. Don’t miss Bab Mansour, one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco, the lively Place el-Hedim, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and the vast royal granaries and stables of Heri es-Souani. Meknes is calmer than Fes, and its medina is easy to explore. Read our Meknes and Volubilis guide.

4. Ifrane and the Azrou cedar forest

Distance: about 65 km to Ifrane, around 1 hour; Azrou is about 20 minutes further.

In the Middle Atlas, Ifrane looks surprisingly European, with chalet-style houses, tidy parks and cool mountain air; it is often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” and sees snow in winter. Beyond Azrou, ancient cedar forests are home to Barbary macaques that live in the wild. Enjoy watching them, but please do not feed them.

5. Chefchaouen

Distance: about 200 km, around 3.5 to 4 hours each way.

The famous blue town in the Rif Mountains is possible as a long day trip from Fes, but you will spend most of the day on the road. If you can, stay a night to enjoy the medina after the day visitors leave. Read our Chefchaouen travel guide.

6. Sefrou

Distance: about 30 km, around 40 minutes each way.

A small, authentic market town at the foot of the Middle Atlas, with a well-preserved medina, an old Jewish quarter and a waterfall a short walk from the centre. Sefrou celebrates a famous cherry festival every June.

How to book your day trip

The most popular option is a full-day tour that combines Volubilis, Moulay Idriss and Meknes, with hotel pickup from Fes. Compare reviews and book day trips from Fes on GetYourGuide. You can also hire a grand taxi for the day or rent a car; compare prices on DiscoverCars. Trains run from Fes to Meknes in under an hour if you prefer public transport.

Do it like a Moroccan: local tips

• Hire an official guide at Volubilis. Guides wait at the entrance and bring the ruins and mosaics to life.
• Bring warm layers for the Middle Atlas. Ifrane and Azrou are much cooler than Fes, and snow is common in winter.
• Carry cash. Entrance fees, guides and roadside cafés often only take dirhams.
• Stay connected. A Morocco eSIM from Airalo keeps your maps working on the road.

Planning your stay? Read our Fes travel guide and where to stay in Fes.

Cover photo: yao bros on Unsplash