- Travel Enthusiast
- Nov 24, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Aug 21
RABAT - MOROCCO: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Morocco's capital might not always steal the spotlight, but Rabat has a quiet magnetism that makes it one of the country’s most rewarding stops. With its sweeping Atlantic views, palm-lined boulevards, and elegant blend of old and new, Rabat is where tradition meets modernity in the best way.
This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know – from Rabat’s absolute must-sees to how to get around and where to stay.
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RABAT HIGHLIGHTS
If you’re looking for the absolute best of Rabat, these are the spots you shouldn’t miss:
Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V – A symbol of Morocco's royal history, this site combines unfinished grandeur with intricate beauty.
Kasbah of the Udayas – Step into a serene blue-and-white village within the city, with cliffside views and quiet gardens.
Andalusian Gardens – Lush, calm, and tucked away inside the Kasbah, this garden is a hidden oasis.
Rabat Medina – Less hectic than other medinas, but full of life, color, and local craftsmanship.
Chellah – A hauntingly beautiful set of Roman and medieval ruins, now overgrown with wildflowers and storks’ nests.
Bouregreg Marina – A fresh, modern waterfront with cafes, boats, and a scenic promenade.
GETTING TO AND AROUND RABAT
Getting around Rabat:
Walk around the city – The Medina, Kasbah of the Udayas, and Andalusian Gardens are clustered close together, and it’s an easy walk from there to the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Streets are calmer than in other Moroccan cities, and walking is a great way to take in the local rhythm.
Take the tram – The Rabat–Salé tramway is clean, modern, and connects much of the city, including downtown Rabat, the Mohammed VI Museum, and the nearby city of Salé.
Grab a taxi – Quick and affordable, these small blue taxis are ideal for short trips. Just make sure the meter is running, or agree on a price before the ride.
Rent a car – Ideal if you're planning to explore areas outside the city – like Casablanca, Meknes, or Chefchaouen.
Getting to Rabat:
Arriving by train? Rabat is well connected – just an hour from Casablanca and around four hours from Marrakech by train, with two main stations in the city (Rabat Ville and Rabat Agdal).
Flying in? Rabat–Salé Airport (RBA) is about 20 minutes from the city center. You’ll find taxis and private transfers waiting outside the terminal.
Short on time? You can visit Rabat on a guided day trip from Casablanca, which includes transport and key highlights – perfect if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss out.
RABAT ITINERARY
Day 1 gives you a solid feel for the city and covers the must-see highlights, but there’s more to Rabat than first impressions. If you can, take an extra day to dig a little deeper.
DAY 1
Morning: Head to Chellah – a peaceful hilltop site of ancient Roman and medieval ruins, now covered in wildflowers and watched over by nesting storks.
Then, make your way to Hassan Tower, where huge columns hint at what would have been one of the world’s largest mosques.
Just a short walk away, visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, an architectural masterpiece and resting place of Moroccan royalty.
Lunch: Stop at Dar Naji, a local favorite known for its rooftop terrace and comforting Moroccan dishes like harira and chicken tagine.
Afternoon: Head into the Medina – the bustling heart of the city. Wander through its maze of narrow alleys, browse the local shops, and take in the rhythm of daily life in the capital.
Then, continue to the Kasbah of the Udayas, a hilltop fortress with white-and-blue houses, quiet lanes, and sweeping views of the Atlantic. Inside the Kasbah, you’ll also find the Andalusian Gardens, a peaceful retreat filled with citrus trees, fountains, and shaded paths.
Evening: Head to Le Dhow, a floating restaurant on the Bouregreg River, with clear views across to Bouregreg Marina and the Salé waterfront.
DAY 2
If you want to take it easy on Day 2, just enjoy Rabat at a slower pace. But if you're up for more exploring, here are some great options:
Explore the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – A sleek space showcasing Moroccan and international artists, right in the heart of the city.
Visit the Royal Palace (from the outside) – While you can’t go in, the gates and surrounding complex offer a glimpse into the country's royal architecture.
Wind down with tea at Café Maure – Set on the edge of the Kasbah, this spot offers ocean views, mint tea, and a peaceful spot to unwind.
Admire the architecture at St. Peter’s Cathedral – A unique white Art Deco church from the 1930s, right in the city center.
Visit Bab El Had Gate – Once part of the city’s main entrance, this imposing gate still marks the transition between old and new Rabat.
Stroll through Jardin d’Essais Botaniques – A peaceful escape from the city buzz, with wide paths, palm trees, and exotic plants.
Take the tram to Salé – Just across the river, this quieter twin city is home to a historic medina, the impressive Great Mosque of Salé, the Mausoleum of Sidi Ben Ashir, and the Madrasa of Abu al-Hasan, a 14th-century school known for its intricate tilework and carved cedar wood.
Stop by Bouregreg Marina – Wander along the water’s edge, watch the boats come and go, and enjoy a snack or coffee with a view.
WHERE TO STAY
Staying overnight? Here are some great places to stay in Rabat:
Mid-Range:
Riad Kalaa – A charming riad tucked inside the medina, featuring traditional décor, a rooftop terrace, and a truly local feel.
Dar Shaan – A peaceful boutique riad in the medina, offering a rooftop pool, serene courtyard, and a blend of modern comfort and Moroccan charm.
MGallery Le Diwan Rabat – A stylish and comfortable stay in the city center, with well-appointed rooms and easy access to major sights.
Luxury
Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr – A refined coastal stay combining historical architecture with ocean views, fine dining, and a full-service spa.
La Tour Hassan Palace – A grand and historic hotel in central Rabat, known for its traditional Moroccan design, elegant rooms, and upscale amenities.
Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé – Set along the Bouregreg River, this polished hotel offers rooftop views, luxurious interiors, and easy access to both Rabat and Salé.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Is Rabat worth visiting in Morocco?
Yes, Rabat is worth a visit — especially if you're after a calmer, more laid-back experience. It may not have the intensity of Marrakech or the deep history of Fes, but it offers a unique blend of historic sites, ocean views, and a modern feel. The city is clean, organized, and easy to explore, making it a nice change of pace from Morocco’s busier destinations.
What is Rabat, Morocco best known for?
Rabat is best known for being Morocco’s capital and one of its four imperial cities. It’s home to landmarks like the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Kasbah of the Udayas. It also stands out for its clean streets, peaceful vibe, and blend of traditional and modern influences.
Is Rabat nicer than Casablanca?
That depends on what you're looking for. Rabat is calmer, greener, and more organized, with a stronger focus on culture and history. Casablanca is busier and more modern, known for business and nightlife. Many travelers find Rabat more enjoyable for sightseeing, while Casablanca is better for an urban buzz.
Is Rabat a walkable city?
Yes, Rabat is quite walkable, especially around the medina, the Kasbah of the Udayas, and the Hassan Tower area. Many of the city’s key sights are within a short distance of each other, and walking is a great way to take in the atmosphere. For longer distances, the tram is easy and reliable — and petit taxis are widely available and affordable for getting around quickly.
BEYOND RABAT
Got extra time? Here are a few amazing nearby destinations that are worth checking out.
Casablanca – Home to the towering Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca blends tradition with modern energy. Wander through the souks of the Habous Quarter, dive into the city’s emerging art scene, and discover where old meets new along the Atlantic coast. Want to make the most of your trip? Take a look at our Casablanca guide.
Meknes – Once an imperial capital, Meknes is full of faded grandeur. Don’t miss the impressive Bab Mansour Gate, the vast Royal Stables, or the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis — a quiet but fascinating trio that tells Morocco’s layered history. We've put together a full guide if you want to explore it more.
Fes – Step inside the medieval walls of Fes el-Bali and into another world. From the ancient Al Quaraouiyine University to the colorful chaos of the tanneries, this city is a maze of culture, craft, and centuries-old stories. Planning a visit? Check out our full Fes itinerary for all the details you need.
Chefchaouen – Known as Morocco’s Blue City, Chefchaouen is set in the Rif Mountains and filled with winding, blue-painted streets, quiet corners, and stunning views. It’s a peaceful escape that invites you to slow down and stay longer than expected. Planning a trip? We’ve got a detailed itinerary with everything you need to know.
