If you’ve got a layover in Meknes, don’t let it go to waste sitting at MEK. The city, in Morocco, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of MEK:
- Can you legally enter Morocco? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Meknes from the Airport
From MEK, the local transport gets you to Meknes in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Meknes, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Meknes, we’d suggest Bab Mansour Laleuj and Place El-Hedim. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Meknes. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MEK, check out Bassatine Airport Waiting Area or Tarmac Viewpoint (Window) to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near MEK
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Meknes: Restaurant Dar Meknes and Restaurant La Grilladiere. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Snack Bar or Coffee & Vending Point. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Bag Storage Near MEK
Dedicated luggage storage at MEK may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Meknes’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and MEK is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Meknes and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MEK, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Meknes count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave MEK. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.