Where to Stay in Meknes
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Our pick for backpackers
Stay in Medina (Old City)
Offers the most affordable accommodation (hostels/basic riads) and immersive cultural experiences with cheap eats.
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Meknes
Medina (Old City)
Mid-rangeA labyrinthine historic heart pulsating with traditional Moroccan life, crafts, and souks.
- +Authentic immersion into Moroccan culture
- +Abundance of local crafts and food stalls
- +Charming riads offering unique stays
- -Can be overwhelming and disorienting for some
- -Limited modern amenities within the core
Ville Nouvelle (New City)
Mid-rangeA functional, modern district with administrative buildings, shops, and wider avenues.
- +More spacious and easier to navigate
- +Access to modern shops, restaurants, and services
- +Better parking options for those with cars
- -Lacks the historical charm and atmosphere of the Medina
- -Can feel less authentically Moroccan
Heri es-Souani Area
Mid-rangeDominated by historical monuments and vast agricultural surroundings, offering a quieter, grander scale.
- +Proximity to major historical sites
- +Peaceful and less crowded than the Medina
- +Grand historical architecture
- -Limited dining and shopping options directly within the area
- -Can feel somewhat isolated from the city center's buzz
Daily Budget (Budget)
MAD 450/day
Hidden Gems in Meknes
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Au Cheval Rouge
This no-frills eatery is a local favorite for authentic and delicious tagines at incredibly reasonable prices. Locals flock here for a true taste of Moroccan home cooking.
Souk El-Attarine
FREEWhile the main souks are touristy, this smaller market is where locals buy their spices, perfumes, and traditional remedies. The air is rich with fragrant aromas, offering a more authentic shopping experience.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Meknes