Morocco’s Laid-Back Capital: Essential Travel Guide to Rabat
Looking for the best things to do in Rabat or highly recommended places to stay? Discover the ideal time to visit, tips for getting around and the best tours in this essential travel guide to Rabat.
Located where the Bou Regreg River meets the Atlantic Ocean, Rabat serves as the laid-back capital of Morocco. It’s not the country’s biggest city (in fact, it comes in 7th in terms of population) and is far less famous than tourist hotspots like Marrakech and Fes.
But that’s what makes it so perfect for travellers seeking a breather from the hustle and bustle.
Founded in the 12th century by the Almohads, Rabat later became a haven for Barbary pirates. In 1812, the French established it as their administrative centre and it became Morocco’s capital when independence was achieved in 1955.
Today, Rabat is home to some of the country’s most important museums and architectural gems you won’t find elsewhere.
My first visit to Rabat was purely intended for visa purposes but I immediately fell in love. I encountered few other tourists while wandering the Kasbah district and the Ville Nouvelle – maybe (like me), Rabat hadn’t been on their radar!
The calm atmosphere of Rabat allows you to immerse yourself in its cultural and architectural heritage, as well as enjoy authentic interactions with locals.
In this Essential Travel Guide to Rabat, discover everything you need to know to experience the Moroccan capital to the fullest. I’ll share the best things to do in Rabat and beautiful riad hotels, as well as my top tour recommendations.
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BEST TOURS IN RABAT
Don’t have time to read the whole article? These are my top Rabat tour recommendations:
Cultural walking tour of Rabat
Full-day trip from Rabat to Chefchaouen
Best things to do in Rabat
Explore the laid-back medina
Compared to the chaotic medinas of Fes and Marrakech, Rabat’s historic quarter is a breath of fresh air. This rambling district reveals a distinctly Andalusian flair, with whitewashed building dating back to the 17th century when Muslim refugees arrived from Spain. Wandering its streets is definitely one of the best things to do in Rabat!
Along the way, you can admire historic gems like the Grand Mosque (built during the Merenid period) or people watch from one of the cafes surrounding the Central Market. Unlike the tourist-centric souks elsewhere, Rabat’s marketplace is filled with locals shopping for fresh produce and spices. For artisanal wares, don’t miss Souq es Sebbat.
If you want to explore the medina with a guide, I highly recommend this cultural walking tour of Rabat or this food-focused medina tour.
Soak up the views from the Oudaias Kasbah
Adjacent to Rabat’s medina is the Kasbah district, an 11th-century fortified neighbourhood that is now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond the 12th-century gateway of Bab Oudaia lies a maze of winding lanes that are highly photogenic. This is one of the best places to visit in Rabat for street photography!
Inside the Kasbah of the Oudaias, you’ll find the Kasbah Mosque along the main street of Rue el Jamma. There are also plenty of hole-in-the-wall eateries where you can pick up snacks and drinks. I recommend grabbing a freshly squeezed orange juice.
Make your way to the northern tip of the district for panoramic views over the Bou Regreg River as it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Surfers can often be seen riding the breaks here and there are great views toward the neighbouring city of Salé.
If you only have one day to explore Rabat, check out my recommended itinerary here.
Relax in the Andalusian Gardens
End your visit to the Kasbah of the Oudaias at the Andalusian Gardens, a gorgeous green space filled with palms, bougainvilleas and orange trees. It’s a particularly wonderful spot to relax on a hot summer’s day. There’s also a cafe overlooking the river where you can stop for a mint tea.
The Andalusian Gardens also provide access to the National Museum of Jewellery & Adornment, which exhibits ornaments and clothing from across Morocco.
Opening hours of the Andalusian Gardens: 10 am to 6 pm (closed Tuesdays)
Entrance fee to the Andalusian Gardens: Free
Opening hours of the National Jewellery Museum: 10 am to 4:30 pm (closed Tuesdays)
Entrance fee for the National Jewellery Museum: 60 dh
For more cultural inspiration, check out this list of the best museums in Rabat.
Photograph the Hassan Tower
This towering minaret was intended to be part of a grand mosque envisioned by the 12th-century ruler Yacoub al-Mansour. His goal was to build the largest mosque and minaret in the world, but his death in 1150 halted construction forever.
Why it became known as the Hassan Tower is still a bit of a mystery. But it has been called such since the 13th century.
Today, the 45-metre-high Hassan Tower and 348 columns of the intended mosque are the only remnants of al-Mansour’s ambitious plan. The minaret’s façade is intricately carved with Islamic motifs and designs, hinting at the lavishness the completed mosque would have displayed.
The unfinished minaret stands alongside the tranquil Jardin Tour Hassan. It’s a favourite spot for local families to stroll and relax in the early evening. While there are views of the Hassan Tower from various points across Rabat, standing directly below it is the best way to appreciate just how huge it would have been.
Opening hours of Hassan Tower: 6:30 am to 10:45 pm
Entrance fee for Hassan Tower: Free
Visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V
Just a stone’s throw from the Hassan Tower is this magnificent mausoleum. It is located on the spot where thousands gathered to celebrate Moroccan independence after the king’s return from exile.
Today, it is the final resting place of Mohammed V and his son, King Hassan II, and is not to be missed when visiting Rabat.
The Mausoleum of Mohammed V is staffed by rifle-wielding guards who are resplendently dressed. Most are happy for you to take photos but always ask first!
Inside the tomb chamber, you’re treated to a breathtaking display of traditional Moroccan design. In addition to the grand marble tombs, the walls are beautifully decorated with zellige tilework.
While non-Muslims cannot enter the adjoining mosque, they can view the mausoleum’s splendid chamber from above. Be sure to dress appropriately (no headscarves are required for women).
Opening hours of the Mausoleum of Mohammed V: 8 am to 6 pm weekdays and 8:15 am to 5:45 pm weekends
Entrance fee for the Mausoleum of Mohammed V: Free
Visit the Mohammed VI Museum of Contemporary Arts
Housed in a stunningly restored French colonial building, this Rabat gem is a must for art lovers. Though small, the permanent collection offers an intimate look at the country’s leading artistic voices. It’s a who’s who of Moroccan art from the mid-20th century onwards.
Alongside big names like Mohamed Melehi and Farid Belkahia are little-known sculptors and painters making their mark. The temporary exhibitions are just as exciting, spotlighting both rising local talents and established international artists.
Opening hours of the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: 10 am to 6 pm (closed Tuesdays)
Entrance fee for the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: 40 dh
Wander the elegant Ville Nouvelle
Translating as the “New City”, this elegant district is overflowing with French colonial buildings and leafy parks, making it a wonderful area to stroll. History buffs shouldn’t miss the Museum of History and Civilisations. Meanwhile, the Postal Museum on Avenue Mohammed V boasts a superb collection of Moroccan stamps, telephones and telegraph machines.
The 17th-century defensive wall separating the Ville Nouvelle from the medina runs alongside Avenue Hassan II. To the south lies the Royal Palace, constructed in 1864 and enclosed by an imposing wall.
If you need to purchase train tickets for ongoing travel, the Rabat Ville railway station is located in the Ville Nouvelle and provides a perfect excuse to explore.
Delve into the past at the Museum of History and Civilisations
Rabat is home to Morocco’s leading archaeological museum, which boasts the country’s most extensive collection of ancient artefacts. Originally built in 1932 to display excavated treasures, the museum expanded just a few years later to house a growing collection of finds.
Exploring its galleries is definitely one of the best things to do in Rabat for history buffs!
In the prehistoric section, glimpse how early humans lived through human remains spanning the Middle Paleolithic to the Neolithic eras. While the collection includes artefacts from pre-Roman civilisations, it’s the bronzes, ceramics and statuary objects from Lixus, Volubilis and Chellah that are the highlight.
Opening hours of the Museum of History and Civilisations: 10 am to 6 pm (closed Tuesdays)
Entrance fee for the Museum of History and Civilisations: 20 dh
Tour the ancient necropolis of Chellah
The ancient ruins of Chellah will transport you back to the 14th century when this site was a thriving Merenid citadel. Located on the south side of the Bou Regreg River, its collection of crumbling remains are now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It’s a fascinating spot to wander, not only for its history but also its large colony of storks.
Archaeologists have uncovered evidence that a Roman town called Sala once stood here in the first centuries AD. The excavated remains reveal a Roman forum, baths and temple – snapshots of everyday life in the ancient empire. From an overlooking terrace, you can take in both ancient sites and their connected history.
Spend an afternoon in Salé
Just a short tram ride across the Bou Regreg from Rabat lies the riverside city of Salé, which is worth an afternoon’s exploration. You can wander through the medina’s atmospheric lanes and souks to uncover historic gems. These include the beautifully restored Abou Hassan Medersa (a 14th-century Islamic school) and the striking Mausoleum of Sidi Ben Ashir.
Salé still has a really authentic atmosphere and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other tourists during your explorations. I particularly love climbing along Salé’s imposing walls, from where you can view the sprawling cemetery that connects to the Plage de Salé Ville. The panoramas back toward Rabat are also hard to beat!
For more information about visiting Salé, check out my detailed travel guide here.
Stroll through the Jardins Exotiques
Just 13 kilometres north of Rabat lies this verdant garden – the life’s work of French horticulturist Marcel Francois. He was responsible for bringing a diverse range of plant species from Africa, Asia and South America together in this exotic botanical oasis.
Meandering pathways dotted with ornamental bridges and follies wind through the gardens while palm trees tower overhead. It has a delightfully overgrown ambiance, as though you are wandering through a wild jungle. In addition to short strolls, there’s the three-hour Red Trail trek, which covers every corner of the gardens.
Birdwatch in Merja Zerga National Park
With its sweeping expanse of beach and colourful fishing boats bobbing in the harbour, Moulay Bousselham is a popular birdwatching destination. Located 140 kilometres north of Rabat along Morocco’s Atlantic Coast, this laidback town makes an ideal stopover if you’re travelling between Rabat and Tangier.
Moulay Bousselham also serves as a gateway to the lagoon of Merja Zerga National Park, where herons, plovers, egrets and flamingos are easily spotted on boat tours. It’s one of North Africa’s most important wetlands and a “must” for birdwatchers visiting Morocco.
Top tours in Rabat
Despite being the country’s capital, Rabat is a relatively compact city and easy to explore independently. Most of the sights are concentrated in and around the medina and the Ville Nouvelle, meaning you can walk between most or utilise the city’s modern tram system.
That being said, there’s nothing quite like sightseeing with the help of a local guide, who will incorporate fascinating cultural insights into the experience. Many also include transport between attractions, saving you time and the potential hassle of getting lost.
Below are some of my top picks for tours in Rabat, from cooking classes and food experiences to day trips to Chefchaouen. You’ll find more highly-rated tours in Rabat at Viator and GetYourGuide, including honest reviews from previous guests to help you make an informed decision.
Explore Rabat’s ancient medina and Kasbah of the Oudaias while sampling specialties from local food stalls, then sit down for a two-course Moroccan lunch or dinner at the end.
Cultural walking tour of Rabat
This private tour of Rabat takes in the Kasbah of the Oudaias, the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohamed V, as well as the medina and the Jewish Quarter.
Explore all of Rabat’s top sights on this private half-day tour, including pick up and drop off at your Rabat hotel.
Join Chef Khadija in her private residence for a hands-on cooking class, which caters to both vegetarians and carnivores.
Top day trips from Rabat
Full-day trip from Rabat to Chefchaouen
Including round-trip transport from Rabat, this day trip to Chefchaouen allows you to explore the “Blue Pearl” independently, with the option for a guided tour.
Including transport to and from Marrakech, this full-day trip includes a guided tour taking in many of the “Red City’s” most famous sights.
For more information about the above tours, check out my article detailing the Top Tours in Rabat for Culture, History and Food.
How to get to Rabat
Fly to Rabat–Salé Airport
Rabat–Salé Airport is an important international gateway, with daily flights from destinations across Morocco and Europe.
Official taxis park just outside the terminal buildings and make the 10-minute drive to the city centre. Booking a private airport transfer will ensure the driver is there when you arrive and save you the hassle of negotiating a fare.
Alternatively, you can book a fixed-price transfer with Welcome Pickups.
Private transfer
If you’re travelling overland from another Moroccan city, the most comfortable and convenient way to reach Rabat is by booking a private transfer. You’ll get door-to-door service directly to your Rabat riad or hotel, avoiding the hassle of lugging bags to and from a bus station or negotiating fares with taxi drivers.
Private transfer between Rabat and Casablanca
Private transfer from Rabat to Fes
By train
Rabat has railway connections to most major Moroccan cities, with the national railway company ONCF operating daily trains to and from cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangier and Fes.
The journey from Marrakech takes just 3.5 hours while Fes is 3 hours away. Casablanca can be reached from Rabat in just one hour by train and Tangier is just over an hour aboard the high-speed Al Boraq train.
Train tickets can be purchased through the ONCF website or at 12Go.
Bus
One of the most affordable ways to reach Rabat is by bus, with daily coaches connecting from cities across Morocco. The journey from Marrakech takes around 4.5 hours while Fes is 2.5 hours away. From Rabat, the bus trip to Casablanca is one hour.
Bus tickets can be purchased directly with companies such as CTM and Supratours or you can compare options (and book tickets) at 12Go.
Best places to stay in Rabat
While there’s no denying that Marrakech and Fes boast some of the best riad hotels in Morocco, Rabat has to come in a close third. In the capital, you’ll find beautifully restored homes that have been transformed into boutique hotels, many within the atmospheric medina.
Business hotels and family-friendly apartments are also easy to find, and there are a handful of affordable dars (converted homes) for budget-conscious travellers. If you’re after a high-end stay, Rabat also boasts several stunning hotels by leading international brands.
Luxury places to stay in Rabat
Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr
Occupying an 18th-century palace, this ultra-luxurious hotel features lavish rooms, two swimming pools and an onsite spa, plus multiple dining options.
The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam
Located adjacent to one of Rabat’s leading golf courses, this luxurious hotel boasts glamorous rooms and suites, as well as a swimming pool, a spa and gourmet restaurants.
Conrad Rabat Arzana
Overlooking the coastline to the south of Rabat, this modern hotel features a high-end tea room, a sushi bar and a Moroccan-French brasserie.
Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Sale Hotel
Set on a bank of the Bou Regreg, this riverside hotel features rooms, suites and extended residences, as well as a marble-clad wellness centre and gym.
Mid-range places to stay in Rabat
Riad Lalla Zineb
Occupying a 17th-century residence, this beautifully restored riad features several ensuite rooms, a courtyard plunge pool and a sun-drenched rooftop terrace.
Riad Amaris
Tucked away on a quiet street of the Rabat medina, this highly-rated riad features beautifully decorated suites set around a peaceful courtyard.
Riad Sidi Fatah
Centrally located in the Rabat medina, this beautifully restored riad features traditionally decorated rooms and a rooftop terrace where breakfasts are served.
Affordable places to stay in Rabat
Riad Dar Saidi
Set on a quiet street of the medina, this affordable Rabat riad receives rave reviews for its spacious rooms, generous breakfasts and incredible hospitality.
Riad Meftaha
Located on the edge of the medina, this budget-friendly Rabat riad features comfortable rooms and suites overlooking a tranquil patio and topped by a sun-dappled terrace.
A buffet breakfast laid out at Riad Meftaha – a budget-friendly riad in Rabat (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Riad Al Bahi
Combining modern amenities with traditional decor and a beautiful central courtyard, this highly-rated riad in the Rabat medina provides affordable stays for couples and solo travellers.
Best time to visit Rabat
The weather in Rabat is pleasant year-round, with each season offering its own charm. Spring brings mild temperatures perfect for leisurely sightseeing, with highs around 16°C from March to May. The blossoming trees and flowers make exploring the city’s gardens and parks especially enjoyable.
In summer, temperatures reach the mid to high-20s and while other Moroccan cities receive an influx of European visitors, Rabat remains blissfully crowd-free. Autumn provides a tranquil atmosphere with gentle breezes and moderately cooler temperatures while winter brings a greater chance of rain.
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH MY FAVOURITE RESOURCES:
Find hotels via Booking
Book tours and attractions via Viator or GetYourGuide
Find a rental car via Discover Cars
Book flights via Kiwi or Booking
Search for buses and trains via 12Go or Omio
Get travel insurance via SafetyWing
Buy a digital eSIM with Airalo
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About Me
I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.
Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.
I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.
