Are you passing through Rabat? Let yourself be surprised by its amazing museums!
As Morocco’s political and cultural capital, Rabat is also home to a rich and varied museum scene. From the prestigious Musée Mohammed VI d’Art Moderne et Contemporain to the archaeological treasures of the Musée de l’Histoire et des Civilisations, as well as more confidential venues dedicated to photography and handicrafts, the city is sure to appeal to lovers of culture in all its forms.
Here’s our selection of the best museums in Rabat, with useful tips in pictures!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Rabat’s best museums: tips
Rabat’s museum offer is as varied as it is enriching: there’s something for everyone, but we particularly recommend it:
- The Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary ArtThe Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: for its remarkable collection of contemporary art and its openness to the world.
- The National Museum of Photography: for original exhibitions in a seaside fort.
- The Museum of History and CivilizationA journey through time!
Most museums are close to the city center or along Avenue Mohammed V, making it easy to visit on foot.
Here’s a map to help you find your way:
1. Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMVI)
Why visit it? Our review
The Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art offers a fascinating insight into Moroccan and international creativity. The first large-scale museum devoted to contemporary art in Maroc, it is a must-see for art lovers. We were impressed by the building’s architecture, which harmoniously blends Moroccan traditions with clean contemporary lines.
Inside, the remarkable collection of over 500 paintings and a dozen sculptures is perfectly showcased through eclectic temporary exhibitions.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The permanent collection of Moroccan pioneers sublimated by a luminous staging,
- Monumental sculptures for an artistic break in the open air,
- Prestigious temporary exhibitions, such as those dedicated to Picasso or Giacometti.
Useful tips
- Access: on avenue Moulay Hassan, in the city center
- Length of visit: 1h30 to 2h to appreciate all the collections
- Suitable for children: not particularly, but there is plenty of space for them to wander around, and you can take a break with them in the on-site cafeteria.
- Fee: 60 dhs (MAD) for foreign adults
- Opening hours: open daily from 10am to 6pm, closed on Tuesdays
- Handicap access: modern museum fully accessible to people with reduced mobility
- Visit the official website for more info here
See more works in our dedicated article!
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
2. Museum of History and Civilization
Why visit it? Our review
Rabat’s Museum of History and Civilization is a must-see for archaeology enthusiasts and anyone curious about the history of Maroc! This museum traces millennia of evolution through exceptional collections, from prehistory to the great ancient and Islamic civilizations.
Highlights include prehistoric remains from the Sidi Abderrahmane site, Roman bronzes from Volubilis and the famous bronze statue of Juba II.
Our 3 favorite moments
- Le Chien de Volubilis, a bronze statue dating from the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, is strikingly realistic,
- The patio, bathed in natural light, where Islamic stelae and Libyan-Berber inscriptions stand side by side,
- And generally speaking, we appreciated the sober but elegant scenography, which judiciously highlighted the works!
Useful tips
- Access: in the south of the Hassan district, next to the Villa des Arts
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours to appreciate all the collections
- Suitable for children: no
- Rates: 10dhs (MAD) for children and 20 dhs (MAD) for adults
- Opening hours: open Wednesday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Tuesdays.
- Find out more on the Fondation nationale des musées website here.
Find out more in our dedicated article!
3. Musée national de la Parure
Why visit it? Our review
This museum is worth a visit for its architecture, an elegant 17th-century royal palace that houses a remarkable collection of 8,000 handicrafts. You’ll be captivated by the diversity of the exhibits, from jewelry and costumes to weapons and tapestries. Don’t miss this colorful plunge into Moroccan savoir-faire through the ages!
Our 3 favorite moments
- The discovery of the Dar el Makhzen, former residence of the Pasha of Rabat, absolutely majestic!
- The costumes of the tbouridaa spectacular equestrian tradition in which the men are dressed in draped garments and richly ornamented rifles, a testament to their bravery.
- You can also combine your visit with a tour of the Andalucia gardens at the Kasbah des Oudayas!
Useful tips
- Access: in the Kasbah des Oudayas, northeast of the city of Rabat
- Tour duration: 1h
- Suitable for children: no special facilities for children, but they should enjoy the colorful immersion offered by this museum.
- Full adult fare: 60dhs (MAD)
- Opening hours: daily from 10am to 6pm, except Tuesdays.
- More information on the Fondation Nationale des Musées website here.
Find out more in our dedicated article.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Maroc
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Adapt your choice of vehicle to your itinerary!
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
4. National Museum of Photography
Why visit it? Our review
Housed in the imposing Fort Rottembourg on the seafront, this museum offers a contemporary program dedicated to Moroccan and international photography. The contrast between the historic site and the modern exhibitions creates a unique atmosphere. A real must for lovers of images and unusual places.
Useful tips
- Access: Avenue Mokhtar Gazoulit, Océan district
- Duration of the visit: 1 hour
- Suitable for children: no (some photos may offend the sensibilities of younger viewers)
- Full adult fare: 20 dhs (MAD), free on Fridays
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10am to 8pm. Closed on Tuesdays.
- Link to the official museum website here
5. Chellah archaeological site
Why visit it? Our review
The Chellah site, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a veritable journey through time, bearing witness to the different civilizations that have marked the history of Rabat. From the ancient Roman city of Sala Colonia to the Merinid necropolis, the mysterious atmosphere of this site steeped in history is awe-inspiring. Stroll through the Roman remains and you’ll discover traces of a forum, a triumphal arch and ancient thermal baths. The lush gardens surrounding the ruins add a poetic dimension to the whole, with storks nesting on the ramparts and cats lounging among the remains.
Useful tips
- How to get there: south-east of Rabat city center, 6min drive from Rabat Royal Palace
- Length of visit: 1h30 to 2h to explore the entire site
- Suitable for children: yes
- Rates: 70 dhs (MAD) for adults, 30 dhs (MAD) for children
- Opening hours: open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (times vary according to season)
- Tip: visit in the morning to take advantage of milder temperatures and ideal light for photos.
- Visit the official website for more info here
A LITTLE MORE PATIENCE
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay at Maroc a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
Coming soon!
6. Oulja Potters Complex
Why visit it? Our review
The Oulja potters’ complex is well worth a visit. You have to go even if you don’t buy anything, because it’s a great overview of Moroccan handicrafts!
We were impressed by the variety of creations and the skill of the craftsmen.
For us, it’s one of the best things to do in Rabat!
Now under redevelopment, the site has been moved and will soon make way for a new Cité d’Artisanat et des Arts.
Our 3 favorite moments
- A chance to meet passionate craftsmen who are never short of anecdotes about their work,
- The discovery of unique handcrafted pieces,
- And then there’s the colorful stroll through the open stalls, where you’ll find pottery, wrought-iron work and carved wooden objects in a warm and welcoming atmosphere!
Useful tips
- Access: near the Mohamed VI Tower (under construction)
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours, depending on your ability to choose the pieces you buy!
- Admission: free, but please budget for purchases
- Schedules: to be determined according to the new site
Read more in our dedicated article!
7. Bab Rouah Gallery
Why visit it? Our review
Nestled in one of Rabat’s oldest gateways, Galerie Bab Rouah is a landmark of contemporary Moroccan art. Take time to admire the architecture of the historic gateway, with its stone vaults and large volumes. The gallery hosts temporary exhibitions by well-known and emerging artists, in a sober atmosphere.
It’s a nice, quick stopover during your day of sightseeing!
Useful tips
- Access: Avenue de la Victoire
- Visit duration: 30min
- Child-friendly: short, child-friendly tour
- Full adult price: no information
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm
- Link to the official museum website here
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Other museums in Rabat
Among the more confidential but equally interesting museums, don’t miss out:
- La Villa des Arts, which hosts contemporary art exhibitions in an elegant Art Deco building (more info here).
- The National Museum of Natural History boasts a fine collection of fauna, flora and geology (more info here).
- Maroc Télécom Museum: retraces the history of telecommunications in Maroc through antiques and interactive installations (more info here).
- The Bank Al Maghrib Museum: immerses visitors in the country’s monetary and financial history, with superb old coins and occasional temporary art exhibitions (more info here).
- Finally, on the other side of the Bouregreg in Salé, the Musée Belghazi immerses you in the traditional Moroccan art of living, thanks to an eclectic private collection of handicrafts, musical instruments and ancient costumes.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Morocco
- Best of
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
Where to Stay in Morocco
- The must-dos
Marrakech
Casablanca
Fez
Meknes
Chefchaouen
Essaouira
Rabat
Tangier
Tetouan
Agadir
The Sahara Desert
SHE MADE THE TRIP Myriam
