Moulay Idriss
Moulay Idriss

Moulay Idriss

Moulay Idriss

The basics

It was only in 2005 that non-Muslims were allowed to stay overnight in Moulay Idriss, and most travelers still visit as a day trip from Fez. A popular day out combines Moulay Idriss with the imperial city of Meknes and the Roman ruins of Volubilis, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Moulay Idriss is also a common stop on multi-day Morocco journeys and tours of Morocco’s imperial cities (Fez, Rabat, Meknes, and Marrakech).

Only Muslims can enter the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, which dates back to the turn of the 18th century, and other sacred buildings. But non-Muslims can still enjoy sweeping views from the Big Terrace (Grande Terrasse), visit the Roman baths, see the aqueduct, and soak up the atmosphere. As the town can be hard to navigate, many travelers explore with a guide.

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Small-Group Full-Day Meknes, Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Zerhoun Tour from Fez
Small-Group Full-Day Meknes, Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Zerhoun Tour from Fez
star-4.5
$30.00 per adult
Traveler Favorite
Great experience
Excellent trip. I booked with guides at both Volubilis and Meknes. Our guided tour of Volubilis then 30 minutes on your own. Stop at a few places to take pics. The stop at Moulay was short but was all that was needed. Two hour guided tour at Meknes. Plus another hour there to eat. Local guides were very informative. We arrived back in Fes about 1900.
SarahsSnaps_P, May 2024
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Things to know before you go

  • Moulay Idriss is a must for history buffs and travelers interested in religion.

  • This is a sacred and conservative town, so modest dress is important. Women should wear long, loose pants or skirts with a loose, long-sleeved, high-neck top; men should wear long pants and shirts.

  • Fez and Meknes have much broader ranges of accommodation than Moulay Idriss.

  • Moulay Idriss is a hill town, and the streets are often sloping, cobbled, or lined with steps. It’s not a destination for travelers who rely on wheelchairs.

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How to get there

Moulay Idriss lies in northern Morocco, about 40 miles (65 kilometers) west of Fez and 20 miles (30 kilometers) north of Meknes. It’s a scenic 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) hike, donkey ride, or drive from the Roman ruins at Volubilis. Trains link Fez and Meknes, from where shared “grand taxis” and regular taxis connect to Moulay Idriss. Many travelers opt to hire a driver or join a tour with transport.

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When to get there

August is pilgrimage season for Moulay Idriss, but unless you’re a pilgrim yourself, the town is best avoided at this time. Saturdays can be a lovely day to visit, with great people-watching opportunities as the local market comes alive.

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Why is Moulay Idriss so important to Moroccans?

Moulay Idriss takes its name from Moulay Idriss, also known as Idris I, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad buried in the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss. He conquered parts of northern Morocco and founded the city of Fez, where his son Moulay Idriss II is buried in the Zaouia Moulay Idriss II. Considered the founder of Islamic Morocco, Moulay Idriss is a Sufi saint.

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the nearest attractions to Moulay Idriss?
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