Rabat is often overlooked in favor of Marrakech or Fez, yet Morocco’s capital is also worth a family vacation. With its accessible historic sites, numerous green spaces, and the seaside within easy reach, it offers a less crowded setting than other imperial cities. In our opinion, Rabat works better for families than people realize: the city is well-organized, distances are manageable, and the pace of life is more relaxed than in Marrakech. Check out our ideas for things to do in Rabat with kids, illustrated with photos. As a bonus, here are some useful tips for planning your family trip.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Visiting Rabat with kids: Is it a good idea?
A City Suited for People of All Ages
Rabat is suitable for a wide range of ages, but the experience varies depending on your family’s profile. Younger children, especially those under 6, will mainly enjoy the green spaces, beaches, and walking paths along the Bouregreg River. Children ages 7 or 8 and older can begin to enjoy historic sites such as the Kasbah of the Oudayas, the Chellah, or the Hassan Tower, provided they are prepared for the context. We believe that teenagers curious about history, architecture, or local life will find much more to explore in Rabat than they might have anticipated.
A capital city that’s family-friendly
Rabat offers a real logistical advantage for families: its main attractions are concentrated within a relatively compact area, which minimizes long trips. The city also has a modern, clean, and affordable tram system, which is very convenient for planning your days. We also appreciated the fact that Rabat is a lively capital without being overwhelming: the medinas there are less commercially intense than in Fez or Marrakech.
Green spaces, accessible beaches, riverside walks, and the zoo make it easy to alternate between cultural visits and more leisurely breaks. However, there are a few things to keep in mind: the cobblestone alleys of the medina and some archaeological sites are not very stroller-friendly. If you’re traveling with a very young child, it’s best to bring a baby carrier instead. In the summer, the heat can also be intense at outdoor sites: plan your cultural visits for the morning and save the beaches or gardens for the hottest parts of the day.
WHERE TO STAY IN Rabat
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Hassan District –
La Tour Hassan Palace Hotel – see prices, photos and availability
Historic Center of Rabat –
Riad Meftaha Hotel – see prices, photos and availability
Marina Rabat-Salé –
Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé Hotel – see prices, photos and availability
1. Explore the Kasbah of the Oudayas and its Andalusian garden
Why visit with children?
The Kasbah of the Oudayas is one of the most photogenic spots in Rabat, but it also offers a wonderful experience for children to wander around: narrow alleys to explore, ramparts to walk along, and views of the Atlantic Ocean to discover around every corner. Founded by the Almoravids and fortified by the Almohads in the 12th century, it offers a hands-on, visual introduction to Morocco’s history. The Hispano-Moorish-inspired garden, with its fountains and lush vegetation, offers a pleasant break for younger children, who need to catch their breath after the climb. In our opinion, the visit works well for children ages 5–6 and up, provided you take your time. Very young children and strollers will be hindered by the cobblestones and slopes.
What we liked
We particularly loved the peaceful atmosphere of the Kasbah of the Oudayas, which lets you explore the medina without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a pleasant place to visit with children because the narrow streets are beautiful, colorful, and relatively quiet, although you do need to watch out for the cobblestones and stairs. Café Maure, located near the garden, is a great spot for a family break: the kids can sit down, watch the river, and take a breather between sightseeing stops. We found that this slower pace was an integral part of the experience.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: Allow about 2 hours to explore the kasbah and its garden, and to take the time to walk along the ramparts facing the sea.
- Hours: The kasbah is open daily; the garden is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Limited Mobility: cobblestone streets that are sometimes sloped, not well-suited for people with limited mobility or strollers
- Admission: Free admission to the kasbah and the garden (there is an admission fee for the Jewelry Museum )
- Directions: Main entrance via Bab Oudaia, the monumental gate of the kasbah
- Parking: The Kasbah is entirely pedestrian-only. If you are not on foot, the closest parking lot is at Rabat Beach, a 9-minute walk from the entrance.
- Dining: Café Maure is a must-visit spot
2. Visit the Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum
Why visit with children?
The esplanade of the Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum is an interesting place to visit with children, as its sheer scale makes an immediate impression. The rows of columns, the unfinished minaret, the royal guards in traditional dress, and the architecture of the mausoleum create a visually striking setting that even the youngest children can easily appreciate. Children aged 8 or 9 and older will be better able to understand the history of the unfinished mosque and the role of Mohammed V in Morocco’s history. We’ve also noticed that the presence of the guards often captures children’s attention and makes the visit more tangible for them. Just be sure to dress appropriately to enter the mausoleum. Read our dedicated article
What we liked
We were surprised by the scale of the Hassan Tower and by the impression created by the many columns still visible on the esplanade. This setting works very well for children: it helps them imagine the scope of the original project and understand that this mosque was meant to be monumental. We also appreciated the contrast between the tower’s more rugged ruins and the decorative elegance of the Mohammed V Mausoleum, right across the way. To make the visit more engaging, we recommend explaining to the children, before you arrive, that the tower was never completed—this turns the columns into a real observation point.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: about 1 hour for the entire site
- Hours: Hassan Tower is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:45 p.m.; Mohammed V Mausoleum is open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Accessibility and Challenges: flat terrain, a few steps to reach the mausoleum
- Admission: Free
- Directions: Hassan II Esplanade, a 15-minute walk from the medina
- Parking: available on Saadiyine Street or in the surrounding area
- Dress code: Appropriate attire is required to enter the mausoleum
- Would you like a guided tour for a more convenient family outing? Book your ticket now to save time!
3. Take a stroll through the medina of Rabat
Why visit with children?
In our opinion, the medina of Rabat is one of the easiest to explore as a family in Morocco. It’s less crowded and less overwhelming than those in Fes or Marrakech, which allows children to soak up the atmosphere of an ancient city without feeling too overwhelmed. The narrow streets are lively and colorful, lined with artisans and shops selling rugs, pottery, and jewelry, as well as beautiful traditional doors to admire along the way. In our opinion, this visit works well for children as young as 6 or 7 who are curious about local culture; younger children will especially enjoy the colors, sounds, scents, and activity. Since the medina is pedestrian-only and the ground can be uneven, it’s best to avoid a stroller and opt for a baby carrier when traveling with a toddler.
What we liked
We enjoyed the lively yet relaxed atmosphere in Rabat’s medina. Children can watch the artisans at work and stop at the pastry or dried fruit stalls without being hassled. We also found that Rabat’s medina lends itself well to a gradual exploration: you walk in, stroll around, and leave without having to deal with sensory overload.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: Allow half a day to explore at your own pace
- Hours: Stores are generally open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; some close during Friday prayers
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Limited Mobility: Narrow, sometimes crowded alleys that are not well-suited for strollers or people with limited mobility
- Rates: free access
- Directions: Enter through the Bab El Had Gate
- Parking: Not available on-site; please leave your car at the hotel for this tour
- Tip: Bargaining is common in the souks; explain this to the children before you go in—it can turn into a game.
- Visit the official website for more information here
4. Explore the Chellah site
Why visit with children?
Chellah is a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site that combines two distinct periods: a Roman city (Sala Colonia) and a 14th-century Merinid necropolis. For families, this site is particularly well-suited thanks to two key attractions: the storks nesting high up on the ruins immediately catch the attention of young children, and the gardens surrounding the ruins provide a shaded setting for a visit without excessive heat. Children aged 8–9 and older are likely to appreciate the “two superimposed civilizations” that this site so vividly illustrates. The ground is sometimes uneven: be sure to wear closed-toe shoes.
What You’ll Love
We found Chellah to be more peaceful than most of the region’s historic sites. During our visit, the interior of the site was undergoing restoration, which limited access to certain areas, but the atmosphere remained very special: cats lounging among the stones, storks perched on the heights, and vegetation spilling over the ruins. With children, this almost wild atmosphere makes the walk more lively than a typical historical tour. We recommend visiting in the morning, before the heat sets in, to enjoy the site in peace.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours to explore the entire site
- Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (subject to change depending on the season)
- Challenges and Access for People with Limited Mobility: uneven and sometimes steep terrain; some areas are difficult for people with limited mobility to access
- Prices: 70 dhs (MAD) for adults, 30 dhs (MAD) for children
- Directions: southeast of downtown, a 6-minute drive from the Palais Royal
- Parking: Parking is available at the site entrance
- Dining: There is a café and a restaurant on site
- Tip: Plan your visit for the morning to enjoy milder temperatures
- Visit the official website for more info here
5. Enjoy the beaches of Rabat and the Atlantic coast
Why visit with children?
Are you familiar with the beaches in Rabat? Having access to a beach from a city with such a rich historical heritage is a significant advantage for families. Rabat has urban beaches like Oudayas Beach and Salé Beach, accessible from downtown, as well as quieter beaches outside the city, such as Bouznika or Skhirat, which are better suited for children who need space to play. However, we recommend exercising caution: Atlantic currents can be strong at certain beaches. Strictly follow the swimming flags and do not allow children to swim if the flag is red. Lifeguards are generally on duty at the main beaches during the summer, but never leave your children unattended.
What we liked
We found that the beach provides an excellent contrast to days spent on cultural tours, especially for children who reach their limit after two or three historic sites. We particularly liked Bouznika Beach because it’s less crowded than the city beaches. We recommend combining a morning of cultural sightseeing with an afternoon at the beach to keep everyone’s spirits up.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: half a day to a full day, depending on the planned activities
- Hours: Open all day; lifeguards on duty during the summer on the main beaches
- Challenges and Access for People with Disabilities: Some beaches have accessible facilities
- Rates: free access
- Access: Rabat Beach is within walking distance of the city center; Bouznika and Skhirat beaches require transportation
- Parking: Parking lots are available near the main beaches
- Dining: Beach cafés and restaurants, open mainly during the summer season
- Important tip: Currents can be strong; be sure to follow the swimming flags.
6. Recharge at the Botanical Garden
Why visit with children?
Looking for a refreshing break right in the heart of the city? You can find it at the Rabat Botanical Garden, one of the city’s green lungs. Created in the early 20th century during the French protectorate, this 17-hectare garden features a diverse collection of plant species: palm trees, bougainvilleas, and towering cacti. For families, it’s above all a place to relax—ideal between cultural outings. Children have plenty of room to run around, explore the plants, and get some fresh air. We find this place suitable for all ages, including very young children. The ground on some paths may be uneven. The garden is closed on Mondays. Read more
What we liked
We enjoyed the tranquility of this garden, which contrasts with the hustle and bustle of downtown. It’s also one of the few places in Rabat where you can have a peaceful picnic. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s mostly frequented by locals, which gives it an authentic feel that children can intuitively sense.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: 1 hour for a leisurely stroll
- Hours: Open every day except Monday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the winter and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the summer
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Disabilities: accessible to all; some uneven surfaces may make it difficult for wheelchair users to navigate
- Admission: Free
- Directions: Annasr Avenue, Agdal neighborhood
- Parking: a few spots available on adjacent streets
- Food: No on-site dining facilities; picnics are allowed
7. Take a walk along the Bouregreg River
Why visit with children?
The landscaped banks of the Bouregreg, the river that separates Rabat from its twin city, Salé, offer one of the most pleasant walking paths in the capital. For families, this area offers several advantages: the path is flat and well-marked, the ground is firm (stroller-friendly), and the view changes with every step, with the Kasbah of the Oudayas on one side and the Salé Marina on the other. The walk is well-suited for young children: you can stop whenever you want, watch the boats on the river, and stroll without a specific destination in mind. The crossing to Salé by traditional boat is also an experience that children love.
What we liked
We particularly enjoyed the leisurely pace of this stroll, a world away from the hustle and bustle of the souks. The chance to take a boat to Salé was a real highlight for the kids: simple, inexpensive, and unexpected. We found it more memorable than many of the organized tours.
Practical advice
- Duration of the tour: 1 to 2 hours, depending on the route chosen
- Hours: Open at all times
- Challenges and Access for People with Disabilities: a well-maintained, accessible walking path; flat terrain
- Rates: free access
- Parking: Several parking lots along the route
- Dining: Cafés and restaurants with a view of the river
8. Visit the Rabat Zoo
Why visit with children?
The Rabat Zoo can be a fun activity to do with children, especially if you’re looking for a more playful outing between cultural excursions. Atlas lions, monkeys, giraffes, and crocodiles provide an opportunity to discuss biodiversity, endangered species, and conservation with them. The tour is suitable for a range of ages: younger children are especially captivated by the animals themselves, while older children may be interested in the informational signs and the challenges of wildlife conservation. As with any zoo, however, we recommend checking in advance about the animals’ living conditions and the educational programs offered. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the distances can be long.
What You’ll Love
The Rabat Zoo highlights several conservation initiatives, as well as an educational program designed to raise children’s awareness of biodiversity. The educational workshops and the petting zoo can make the visit more engaging for families, with activities centered on domestic animals, farm life, and the environment. This fun and educational approach can help children not only “see animals,” but also understand their habitats, the threats facing certain species, and the challenges of conservation. As with any zoo, however, we recommend that you pay close attention to the animals’ living conditions and the activities actually being offered at the time of your visit.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: Plan on half a day
- Hours: Open daily from March through October from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; from November through February from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; during Ramadan from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (see the official website here for any updates)
- Prices: Moroccan adults 90 DHS (MAD), Moroccan children ages 3 to 10 60 DHS (MAD), free for children under 3, non-Moroccan adults 180 DHS (MAD), children who are non-Moroccan nationals: 150 DHS (MAD)
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Disabilities: long walk; wear comfortable shoes; all areas of the zoo are accessible to people with disabilities
- Please note: Strollers are available on site, picnic area, parking accessible to people with disabilities
9. Explore the Museum of History and Civilizations
Why visit with children?
The Museum of History and Civilizations in Rabat traces millennia of Moroccan history, from prehistory to the great ancient and Islamic civilizations. For families, the main attraction lies in the visually striking exhibits: the Roman bronzes from Volubilis and the famous bronze statue of Juba II easily captivate children ages 9–10 and older. The prehistoric remains at the Sidi Abderrahmane site are more abstract and appeal more to teenagers or children interested in archaeology. The museum is accessible to people with limited mobility. We recommend focusing on a few key exhibits rather than trying to see everything, to keep the children’s attention.
What we liked
We found that this museum provides a useful complement to a visit to Chellah: you gain a better understanding of what you saw at the site after examining the artifacts that came from it. We suggest visiting the museum after the archaeological site so that children can make the connection between the two.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: 1 to 2 hours for all the collections
- Hours: Open Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; closed on Tuesdays
- Challenges and Access for People with Limited Mobility: Museum accessible to people with limited mobility
- Prices: 10 dhs (MAD) for children, 20 dhs (MAD) for adults
- Directions: south of the Hassan neighborhood, next to the Villa des Arts
- Parking: available on adjacent streets
- Dining: Les Artistes Café and Restaurant nearby
- Visit the official website for more info here
10. Explore the Salé Pottery Complex
Why visit with children?
The Oulja Pottery Complex in Salé is one of those places where you can watch craftsmanship in action. For children, watching artisans shape clay, paint geometric patterns, and fire the pieces is a hands-on and memorable experience—far more engaging than a museum dedicated to crafts. The variety of creations—ceramics, tagines, painted tiles—means there’s something for everyone. We recommend this visit for children ages 6–7 and up. Please note that the site is currently undergoing renovation and will soon be replaced by a new Cité d’Artisanat et des Arts: check the status of the work before visiting.
What we liked
We were impressed by the variety of pieces on display and by the artisans’ evident craftsmanship. This is a great outing with kids because it lets them get a hands-on look at the techniques, materials, and colors—a far cry from a more traditional tour. For us, it’s one of the most authentic activities near Rabat. We recommend visiting even if you don’t plan to buy anything: just seeing it is worth the trip and can spark children’s curiosity.
Practical advice
- Duration of the visit: 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much you want to browse and shop
- Hours: Generally open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; some workshops are closed on Friday afternoons
- Accessibility: outdoor parking on site; L3 tram line, École Taha Hessine stop
- Admission: Free; please budget for any purchases you might make
- Dining: There are small cafés nearby, or you can head back into town—check out our suggestions here
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN MOROCCO
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Not too wide
- A good engine
- For more choice, book early.
Other Things to Do in Rabat with Kids
Take a stroll through the city’s parks
Rabat has plenty of green spaces, which is a real asset for families. Hassan II Park features playgrounds and sports facilities in a modern setting. The Nouzhat Hassan Garden, right in the city center, offers shade and open space. The Andalucian Gardens at the Kasbah of the Oudayas are perfect for a contemplative break. For a getaway into nature, the Maâmora Forest—one of the largest cork oak forests in the world—is ideal for a picnic.
Arzantique Parc Water Park
The Arzantique Water Park is a wonderful option for a refreshing family outing near Rabat. The park features pools, water slides, and play areas suitable for both children and adults. We especially recommend it on hot days, as a nice break from outdoor cultural sightseeing. Be sure to check the hours and admission requirements before you go, as they may vary by season. Learn more here
Museums in Rabat
In addition to the museums featured in this article, Rabat offers other cultural venues that may appeal to certain types of families. The Musée de la Parure displays traditional jewelry and costumes in colors and shapes that capture the attention of even the youngest children. The Villa des Arts features temporary exhibitions of contemporary art. The Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Morocco’s first major museum dedicated to contemporary art, is better suited for art-loving teenagers or families looking to venture off the beaten path of historical sites.
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Where to Eat in Rabat with Kids
Moroccan cuisine is generally well-received by children: the mild flavors of tagines, honey-and-almond pastries, flaky pancakes (msemen), and beghrir are all accessible culinary experiences. The medina offers many options, from simple cafés to traditional restaurants. We recommend Café Maure for a snack break while visiting the Kasbah of the Oudayas: mint tea and Moroccan pastries in a pleasant setting. For a meal with a view, Restaurant Marsa serves specialties from Andalucia. The dining options in the city center are diverse and cater to all budgets. Please note: Restaurants in Rabat do not always have a children’s menu, but dishes can often be easily adapted or shared. Don’t hesitate to ask. Read our article on the best restaurants in town
Where to Stay in Rabat with Your Family
For families, the city center is the most convenient area: the main attractions are within walking distance or accessible by tram, which minimizes travel time. Check for the availability of family rooms or connecting rooms before booking, as options vary by hotel. If you’re coming by car, check for parking lots near your accommodations: parking in the city center is limited. The riads in the medina, while often picturesque, may not be well-suited for strollers due to their staircases and inner courtyards. Modern hotels in the Agdal district generally offer more family-friendly amenities. In our opinion,the Rabat Marriott Hotel is one of the best options for a stress-free family stay in the capital.
Whatever you decide, we recommend that you book as early as possible, especially during peak season (July–August). Check out all our accommodation suggestions here
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Visiting Rabat with Children, Depending on the Season
Spring (March–May)
This is the time of year we recommend most highly for families. Temperatures are mild, the gardens are at their most beautiful, and you can explore the sites without being bothered by the heat. Crowds remain manageable, which makes visits more enjoyable with children.
Summer (June – August)
The heat is a factor to consider carefully: temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F) at outdoor sites. We recommend scheduling cultural visits in the morning and reserving afternoons for the beach or green spaces. The zoo, water parks, and walks along the Bouregreg River remain good options even in intense heat if you plan your schedule carefully.
Autumn (September – October)
September is still a great time to enjoy the beach, as the heat gradually subsides. It’s a good time to combine beach activities with cultural experiences without having to deal with excessive heat. We also appreciate that the sites are less crowded than during the summer months.
Winter (November–February)
Winter in Rabat is mild: temperatures generally range from 10°C (50°F) to 18°C (64.4°F). Museums and historic sites remain open, accommodation prices are more affordable, and there are no lines. For families with children interested in history, this is a very viable option. Be sure to pack a lightweight raincoat for rainy days, which are brief but possible between November and March.
Frequently asked questions
Is Rabat stroller-friendly?
Only to a certain extent. The promenades along the Bouregreg River, the city beaches, and certain parks—such as the Botanical Garden—are accessible. However, the medina, the Kasbah of the Oudayas, and the Chellah feature cobblestone streets, slopes, and uneven surfaces that make getting around quite difficult. We recommend using a baby carrier when visiting historic sites.
How many days should you plan to spend in Rabat with children?
Two days are enough to see the must-see sights without feeling overwhelmed. Three days allow for a more relaxed pace, with time for the beach, parks, and breaks. If Rabat is part of a broader tour of Morocco, two days are enough for the essential sights.
What should you do if it rains in Rabat while you’re traveling with children?
Rabat is a great place for this, thanks to its abundance of museums. The Museum of History and Civilizations, the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, and the Museum of Jewelry can easily fill a day. The medina also has covered passageways where you can stroll in the shade. For shopping, Souika Street and Mohammed V Avenue offer many covered or easily accessible shops.
Is Rabat a safe place to travel with your family?
Overall, Rabat seems to us to be a fairly family-friendly city. As the administrative capital, it has a visible institutional presence, and the atmosphere there is generally less hectic than in some of Morocco’s major tourist cities. As always, the usual precautions are still necessary: keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas, keep young children close to you in the medina or on main streets, and plan for breaks.
We also recommend explaining certain cultural norms to children before visits, especially at religious or memorial sites. Appropriate attire is recommended at several sites, and a calm demeanor is appreciated, particularly inside the Mohammed V Mausoleum.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Morocco
- Best of
Top Destinations
Must-See Places in Morocco
Most Beautiful Riads
Most Beautiful Cities
Most Beautiful Medinas
Morocco’s Most Beautiful Landscapes
Most Beautiful Gardens
Best Museums
Morocco’s Most Beautiful Beaches
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Morocco
Driving tips
- The must-dos
Marrakech
Casablanca
Fez
Meknes
Chefchaouen
Essaouira
Rabat
Tangier
Tetouan
Agadir
The Sahara Desert
