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 the city allows you to immerse yourself in its cultural and architectural heritage, as well as enjoy authentic interactions with locals.
In this Ultimate Travel Guide to Rabat, discover everything you need to know to experience the Moroccan capital to the fullest, from the best things to do and beautiful riad hotels to 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:
Things to do in Rabat
Explore the laid-back medina
Compared to the chaotic medina alleys of Fes and Marrakech, Rabat's historic quarter is a breath of fresh air. This rambling district reveals a distinctly Andalusian flair, with whitewashed architecture dating back to the 17th century when Muslim refugees arrived from Spain.
Wander the peaceful streets and discover historic gems like the imposing Grand Mosque and the stately Merenid-built fountain. Unlike the tourist-centric souks elsewhere, Rabat's marketplace is filled with locals shopping for fresh produce and spices. For artisanal wares, head to 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, you’ll find a maze of winding blue and white lanes. The area is clustered with Andalusian-style houses and there’s a tranquil, fountain-dotted garden planted with palm and orange trees.
Inside the Oudaias Kasbah, you'll find the oldest mosque in Rabat, the Kasbah Mosque, along the main street of Rue el Jamma. There are also plenty of hole-in-the-wall eateries where you can grab drinks and snacks. Make your way to the northern tip of the district for panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and the neighbouring city of Salé.
Things to do 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 one of the largest mosques in the world, but his death in 1150 halted construction forever.
Today, the 45-metre-high Hassan Tower is the only remnant of al-Mansour's ambitious plan. Its façade is intricately carved with sumptuous motifs and designs, hinting at the lavishness the completed mosque would have displayed. It stands within the tranquil Jardin Tour Hassan, a favourite spot for local families to stroll and relax in the early evening.
Visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V
Just a stone’s throw from the Hassan Tower is this magnificent mausoleum, which 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.
Step inside the opulent tomb chamber to behold a breathtaking display of traditional Moroccan design. In addition to the grand marble tombs, the walls are beautifully decorated with intricate zellige tilework. While non-Muslims cannot enter the adjoining mosque, they can view this splendid chamber from above. Be sure to dress appropriately!
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. A visit here perfectly complements Morocco's traditional handicrafts and shows how the country seamlessly blends ancient and avant-garde.
Things to do in Rabat
Wander the elegant Ville Nouvelle
Translating as the “New City”, this elegant district is overflowing with French colonial architecture. History buffs will delight in the Archaeological Museum, while the unexpected Postal Museum on Avenue Mohammed V boasts a superb collection of Moroccan stamps, telephones and telegraph machines.
In the evening, stroll along the tree-lined streets to experience the Ville Nouvelle at its most atmospheric. The 17th-century defensive wall separating the Ville Nouvelle from the medina runs alongside Avenue Hassan II while to the south lies the Royal Palace, constructed in 1864 and enclosed by an imposing wall.
Delve into history at the Rabat Archaeology Museum
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.
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.
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. Wander through the medina's atmospheric lanes and souks to uncover historic gems like the meticulously restored Abou Hassan Medersa (a 14th-century Islamic school) and the striking Mausoleum of Sidi Ben Ashir.
Test your haggling skills in the bustling markets, where locals shop for day-to-day goods rather than tourist trinkets. For Instagrammable views of Rabat's mighty Oudaias Kasbah, head to Salé's beach. As the sun sets, make your way to the modern Marina Bouregreg to sip on mint tea with the locals at a waterfront cafe.
Things to do in Rabat
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 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 the perfect place to escape for the day. Located just 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
Top day trips from Rabat
For more information about the above tours, check out my article detailing the Top Tours in Rabat for Culture, History and Food.
Best tours in Rabat
How to get to Rabat
Fly to Casablanca Mohammed V International 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Rabat travel guide
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.
Luxury places to stay in Rabat
Mid-range places to stay in Rabat
Affordable places to stay in Rabat
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, perfect for meandering the old medina. Winter brings more chance of rain, although temperatures remain mild and pleasant in the low to mid teens.
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