Rabat offers a refined blend of historical grandeur and modern living, inviting visitors to explore ancient sites and enjoy its vibrant coastal charm. This capital city provides a calmer, more authentic experience compared to other major Moroccan destinations, featuring lush gardens, an accessible medina, and beautiful beaches.
For socializing, the Kasbah des Oudaias features charming cafes like Café Maure, providing a relaxed setting with scenic views. The Ville Nouvelle, particularly around Place Pietri, offers a European feel with Parisian-style cafes. The local beaches, such as Plage de Rabat, are lively areas where tourists and locals gather.
Top 6 Things to do in Rabat
Activities in Rabat range from exploring ancient fortifications and royal heritage to immersing oneself in vibrant local markets and enjoying the city's coastal charm.
1. Kasbah of the Udayas and Andalusian Gardens
Stepping into the Kasbah of the Udayas, a 12th-century fortress, reveals a charming residential area with blue and white painted houses. It is worth doing for its picturesque alleys, panoramic views of the Bou Regreg River and the Atlantic Ocean, and the tranquil Andalusian Gardens. Within the gardens, visitors can find Café Maure, offering a peaceful spot for mint tea. Tips: Arrive early for a more serene experience.
Cost: Free to enter the Kasbah and Andalusian Gardens. Tea and pastries at Café Maure are an additional cost.
Transport: The Kasbah is within walking distance from central Rabat. Alternatively, a tram ride from the city center takes approximately 2 minutes and costs around MAD 6. A taxi ride is about 3 minutes and costs MAD 7-10.
2. Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V
The Hassan Tower is an iconic, unfinished minaret from the 12th century, originally intended to be part of the world's largest mosque. Adjacent to it is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of modern Alaouite architecture containing the tombs of King Mohammed V and his sons, King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. It is worth visiting to appreciate its grand scale and intricate Moroccan craftsmanship inside the Mausoleum, which is open to non-Muslims. Tips: Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. Avoid visiting between noon and 2 PM due to midday prayers.
Cost: Free entry.
Transport: This site is located in the Hassan district. It is a pleasant 30-minute walk from many accommodations. Taxis typically cost MAD 7-10 for a short ride from central areas. The tram is also an option, with services taking about 10-39 minutes and costing MAD 6 from various points in Rabat, including Rabat Ville station.
3. Chellah Necropolis
Chellah is a historic fortified Muslim necropolis built on the ruins of a Roman city, 'Sala Colonia.' This archaeological site features ancient vestiges, lush gardens, and is often home to storks. It is worth exploring for its blend of Roman and Islamic history, offering a serene and evocative atmosphere.
Cost: Estimated entrance fee is MAD 60 for individual access. Guided tours are available for an additional cost, for example, a 300 DH package for an accompaniment service, which does not include entry fees.
Transport: Chellah is located slightly outside the city center. A taxi ride takes about 8-9 minutes and costs MAD 7-10. The tram offers connections from Tour Hassan or Rabat Station, with journeys ranging from 6 to 35 minutes and costing MAD 6.
4. Rabat Medina and Rue des Consuls
The Rabat Medina offers a more relaxed and manageable shopping experience compared to other Moroccan cities. Its narrow, maze-like streets are divided by product type, featuring areas for leather goods, textiles, spices, and traditional jewellery. Rue des Consuls is particularly known for handicrafts from across Morocco, including pottery, carpets, and babouches. It is worth visiting for an authentic local market experience and finding unique handmade souvenirs.
Cost: Free to explore. Prices for goods vary; generally, items are less expensive than in Europe.
Transport: The Medina is centrally located and easily walkable from many parts of Rabat.
5. Royal Palace (Dar Al Makhzen)
The Royal Palace, or Dar Al Makhzen, is the King of Morocco's official residence, built in 1864. While visitors cannot enter the interior, its impressive exterior, grand gates, and surrounding gardens are visible from the outside. It is worth seeing for its architectural grandeur and to witness a significant symbol of Moroccan royalty. Tips: Visitors must show a valid passport to enter the Touarga area.
Cost: Free to visit the exterior.
Transport: The palace grounds are accessible by car, public bus, taxi, or on foot. Trams also have a stop near the palace.
6. Plage de Rabat
Plage de Rabat is the city's main beach, easily accessible from major landmarks. It features golden sand and moderate Atlantic waves, making it suitable for beginner surfers. It is worth visiting for a relaxing break, enjoying the sun, or trying water sports. Equipment such as umbrellas and chairs can be rented. Tips: Strong currents exist beyond breakwater protection, so always swim in designated areas.
Cost: Free access to the beach. Umbrella rental costs approximately MAD 30, and chairs cost MAD 20.
Transport: The beach is a short walk from the Kasbah des Oudayas and about a 15-minute walk from central Rabat. Local buses stop nearby, and taxis are also available.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
