Rabat: Morocco's Elegant Capital

Rabat, Morocco's political and administrative capital, offers a more relaxed and sophisticated alternative to the chaos of larger Moroccan cities. With its blend of ancient history, French colonial architecture, pristine beaches, and royal palaces, Rabat presents a refined face of Morocco often overlooked by tourists rushing to Marrakech or Fes.

Overview

Founded in the 12th century by the Almohad dynasty, Rabat became Morocco's capital in 1912 under the French protectorate. Today, it's home to the royal palace, government ministries, and foreign embassies. The city's medina is UNESCO-listed, and its wide boulevards, manicured gardens, and clean streets give it a distinctly European feel while maintaining Moroccan authenticity.

Top Attractions

Kasbah of the Udayas - This 12th-century fortress overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and Bouregreg River. Wander through blue and white painted streets, visit the Andalusian Gardens, and enjoy panoramic views from the observation platform.

Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V - The incomplete 12th-century minaret stands as a symbol of Rabat. Next to it, the stunning mausoleum houses the tombs of King Mohammed V and his sons. The white marble, intricate tilework, and royal guards make this a must-visit.

Chellah - Ancient Roman and medieval ruins surrounded by lush gardens. Storks nest atop crumbling minarets, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. The site dates back to the Phoenicians and includes both Roman Sala Colonia and Islamic necropolis.

Medina of Rabat - Less touristy than other Moroccan medinas, Rabat's old town offers authentic shopping experiences. Rue des Consuls is the main shopping street with traditional crafts.

Royal Palace (Dar al-Makhzen) - While you can't enter, the palace gates and surrounding grounds are impressive. The massive complex serves as the official residence of the Moroccan king.

Mohammed VI Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art - Morocco's premier modern art museum showcasing Moroccan and international contemporary artists.

Andalusian Gardens - Peaceful gardens within the Kasbah of the Udayas, featuring orange trees, colorful flowers, and traditional fountains.

Bouregreg Marina - Modern waterfront development with restaurants, cafes, and boat tours. Great for sunset walks.

Archaeological Museum - Morocco's oldest museum, housing artifacts from prehistoric times through the Islamic period, including the famous bronze busts from Volubilis.

Cultural Heritage

Royal Traditions: Rabat is the seat of Moroccan monarchy. The changing of the guard at the Royal Palace and mausoleum is a ceremonial spectacle.

Mawazine Festival: Africa's largest music festival (May/June) attracts international stars and millions of attendees.

Diplomatic Quarter: As the capital, Rabat hosts numerous embassies, giving it an international, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Food & Restaurants

Traditional Moroccan:

• Dar Naji - Authentic Moroccan in beautiful riad setting
• Restaurant Dinarjat - Palace-style dining with traditional music
• Le Dhow - Floating restaurant on a boat in the Bouregreg River
• Ty Potes - Moroccan-French fusion

Seafood:

• Le Ziryab - Fine dining at Sofitel
• Cosmopolitan - Beachfront seafood
• La Koutoubia - Fresh fish and mezze

International:

• Matsuri - High-end Japanese
• Paul - French bakery and cafe
• La Mamma - Italian cuisine

Cafes:

• Café Maure - Inside Kasbah, overlooking ocean
• Veranda - Elegant French-style cafe
• Café Restaurant Riad - Rooftop with medina views

Best Areas to Stay

• Agdal - Modern, upscale residential area near embassies
• City Center - Near Hassan Tower and modern amenities
• Medina - Traditional riads, authentic atmosphere
• Kasbah of the Udayas - Quietest, most scenic area
• Hassan - Close to main attractions and tram line
• Ocean/Plage - Beach area with resort hotels

Prices & Budget

• Budget hotels: $20-40/night
• Mid-range: $50-100/night
• Luxury: $120-300/night
• Meals: $5-20 depending on restaurant
• Museum entries: $1-3
• Taxis: $2-8 for most trips
• Tram: $0.60 per journey

Getting There & Around

By Train:

• From Casablanca: 1 hour, frequent trains
• From Marrakech: 4 hours
• From Fes: 3.5 hours
• From Tangier: 4.5 hours

By Plane:

• Rabat-Salé Airport: Limited international flights
• Most visitors fly into Casablanca (1 hour away)

Getting Around:

• Tram - Two modern lines connecting major areas
• Petit Taxis - Blue taxis, metered, cheap
• Bus - Extensive network but can be crowded
• Walking - City center and medina very walkable
• Rental Cars - Good for day trips

Day Trips

Casablanca (1 hour) - Morocco's largest city, Hassan II Mosque Meknès (1.5 hours) - Imperial city with impressive gates Volubilis (2 hours) - Best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco Moulay Idriss (2 hours) - Holy town near Volubilis Salé (10 min) - Twin city across the river with pottery workshops Asilah (2.5 hours) - Charming whitewashed coastal town

Mini Itinerary (2-3 Days)

Day 1:

• Morning: Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V
• Lunch: Traditional Moroccan restaurant
• Afternoon: Kasbah of the Udayas and Andalusian Gardens
• Sunset: Café Maure with ocean views
• Dinner: Le Dhow floating restaurant

Day 2:

• Morning: Chellah ruins
• Lunch: Medina restaurant
• Afternoon: Medina shopping and Mohammed VI Museum
• Evening: Bouregreg Marina walk
• Dinner: Seafood at the coast

Day 3 (Optional):

• Day trip to Volubilis and Meknès
• Or: Beach day and Archaeological Museum
• Evening: Mawazine Festival if visiting in May/June

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March-May): Perfect weather, flowers blooming, Mawazine Festival in May
• Summer (June-August): Hot but beach season, many festivals
• Fall (September-November): Pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists
• Winter (December-February): Mild, can be rainy, fewer crowds

Shopping

• Traditional crafts in the medina
• Carpets and textiles on Rue des Consuls
• Leather goods (babouches, bags)
• Ceramics and pottery from Salé
• Modern shopping at Mega Mall
• Bookshops with French literature
• Oudayas Arts Gallery for contemporary art

FAQs

Q: How many days do I need in Rabat? A: 1-2 days is sufficient for main sights. Add more for day trips or if visiting during Mawazine Festival.

Q: Is Rabat worth visiting? A: Yes! It's more relaxed than Marrakech, less touristy, and offers excellent museums, ruins, and coastal scenery. Perfect for travelers seeking authenticity without hustlers.

Q: Is Rabat safe? A: Very safe. As the capital, it has high security. One of Morocco's safest cities for tourists.

Q: Can I combine Rabat with other cities? A: Absolutely. It's 1 hour from Casablanca, making it easy to combine. Also works well with Meknès, Fes, or Chefchaouen itineraries.

Q: Do people speak English? A: In hotels and tourist sites, yes. French is more widely spoken. Arabic is the official language.

Q: What's the difference between Rabat and Casablanca? A: Rabat is cleaner, more organized, and relaxed. Casa is bigger, more chaotic, and business-focused. Rabat feels more authentically Moroccan despite being modern.

Q: Can I visit the Royal Palace? A: No, but you can photograph the impressive gates and watch the changing of the guard.

Insider Tips

• Visit Hassan Tower early morning or late afternoon for best photos without crowds
• Café Maure in the Kasbah is perfect for mint tea with ocean views
• Chellah is magical in late afternoon when storks return to nest
• The tram is efficient and connects all major areas - get a rechargeable card
• Sunday is quiet as government offices close
• Cross the river to Salé for authentic pottery workshops
• Rabat beaches (Plage de Rabat, Témara) are clean and less crowded than Casablanca
• Many museums are free or heavily discounted on Sundays
• The medina has virtually no hassle compared to Marrakech or Fes
• Book hotels in advance during Mawazine Festival (May/June)
• For authentic Moroccan experience, stay in a riad in the medina
• The archaeological museum is underrated - don't miss the bronze busts
• Corniche walkway from Kasbah to beaches is beautiful at sunset
• Try bissara (fava bean soup) for breakfast in the medina