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Moulay Idriss

Moulay Idriss is a picturesque hilltop town located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Fez, renowned for its spiritual significance and stunning views. Named after Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty, the town is considered one of Morocco's holiest places. The town is a pilgrimage site, especially for those tracing Morocco’s Islamic roots. With its whitewashed houses cascading down the hillside, narrow streets, and vibrant markets, Moulay Idriss offers visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s rich cultural and spiritual history. The town is also home to the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, a revered landmark in Moroccan religious life.

Moulay Idriss Tours & Excursions

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Fez - Morocco

Full-Day Trip Volubilis Moulay Idriss, and Meknes Group Of 8

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Day Trips
Guided Tours

€16
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Fez - Morocco

Cultural Day Trip meknes Volubilis in a Small Group OF 8

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Day Trips

€25
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Fez - Morocco

From Fez: Meknes, Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Day Trip

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Adventures
City Cards
Day Trips
Guided Tours
Walking Tours

€40
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Fez - Morocco

From Fes: Meknes Volubilis and Moulay Idriss Day Trip

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Adventures
Day Trips
Guided Tours

€18
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Fez - Morocco

A Week Around Fez

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Guided Tours
Multi-Day Trips
Other Experiences

€700
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Fez - Morocco

From Fez: Chefchaouen Day Trip with Driver with Group Of 8

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Day Trips
Guided Tours

€32
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Fez - Morocco

From Fez : Memorable Day Trip to Chefchaouen the Blue City

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Day Trips
Other Experiences

€20
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Fez - Morocco

3 Days/2nights: Moroccan Sahara Expedition: Fez to Marrakech

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Multi-Day Trips

€220
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Fez - Morocco

From Fez: 2-Day luxury Sahara Desert Tour with Camel Ride

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Multi-Day Trips

€109
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Fez - Morocco

Flavors of Fez: Market visit, and a hands-on cooking class

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Day Trips
Workshops

€50
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Fez - Morocco

Fez: 2 Day-1 Night Luxury Sahara Desert Trip to Fez/Marakech

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Adventures
Multi-Day Trips
Other Experiences

€115
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Fez - Morocco

From Fez: 3-Day Desert Tour To Merzouga And Marrakech

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Guided Tours
Multi-Day Trips

€240
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Fez - Morocco

Fez Medina Guided Tour

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Adventures
Day Trips
Guided Tours
Walking Tours

€11
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Fez - Morocco

Fes: Medina Ramparts Minivan Tour

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Adventures
City Cards
Day Trips
Entry Tickets
Guided Tours
Private Tours
Walking Tours

€6
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Fez - Morocco

From Fes:2-Day Transfers to Chefchaouen & back to Fez/Tanger

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Adventures
City Cards
Entry Tickets
Guided Tours
Multi-Day Trips
Private Tours
Walking Tours

€60
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Fez - Morocco

From Fez: Day Tour to the Blue Town of Chefchaouen

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City Cards
Day Trips
Walking Tours

€25
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Fez - Morocco

From Fez: Middle Atlas Ifran and Forest of Monkeys Day Trip

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Day Trips
Other Experiences

€25
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Fez - Morocco

From Fes To Marrakech : 3 days Tour Via The Desert Of Merzouga

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Adventures
Guided Tours
Multi-Day Trips
Other Experiences

€198
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The Basics

Moulay Idriss is a small, tranquil town but rich in history and cultural significance. It sits on two hills, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The town is famous for its religious importance, as it is the burial place of the founder of the Idrisid dynasty, whose tomb attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. The town also features narrow streets, vibrant souks, and whitewashed buildings. Visitors can stroll around the town, visit the mausoleum, and experience a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the busier cities of Fez and Meknes. The town remains a key place of Islamic tradition and heritage in Morocco.

Things to Know Before You Go

When visiting Moulay Idriss, it’s important to be mindful of its religious significance. The town’s main attraction is the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, which is only accessible to Muslims. However, non-Muslim visitors can still enjoy the surrounding areas, including the town's scenic viewpoints and winding streets. As with many Moroccan towns, dress modestly and respectfully when visiting. The town is relatively small, so expect a peaceful visit with limited tourist infrastructure. Be prepared to walk, as the town’s narrow, steep streets can be challenging, but they reward you with incredible views.

How to Get There

Reaching Moulay Idriss from Fez is easy and convenient. The town is about a 45-minute drive from Fez, making it perfect for a day trip. You can take a taxi or hire a private driver for a direct route. For a more affordable option, you can take a bus from Fez’s main bus station to Meknes, and from there, catch a shared taxi or minibus to Moulay Idriss. The town’s compact nature makes it perfect for exploring on foot, with its winding alleys and peaceful atmosphere. Consider hiring a local guide to help navigate the town’s sites and history.

When to Get There

The best time to visit Moulay Idriss is during the cooler months of spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). These seasons offer mild weather, making it more comfortable to explore the town’s steep streets and religious landmarks. Summer can get hot, especially in the afternoons, so try to avoid visiting during this time. If you’re interested in experiencing the town's religious significance, plan to visit during the annual Moulay Idriss Festival, which takes place every August, celebrating the founder’s spiritual legacy and drawing many pilgrims from across Morocco.

Day Trips from Fez

Moulay Idriss is often visited on a day trip from Fez due to its proximity and cultural importance. After visiting the town and its mausoleum, you can head to the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved mosaics and ancient structures. Alternatively, combine your visit with a tour of Meknes, just a short drive away, where you can explore its imperial gates, royal stables, and bustling medina. The countryside around Moulay Idriss offers beautiful scenery for a peaceful stroll, and nearby villages provide a chance to experience traditional rural life in Morocco.