If you’re planning a visit to Marocdon’t miss Rabat, its capital. This imperial city is full of treasures that will transport you through the country’s history.
We were charmed… with its unique blend of history and modernity, between authentic medina, picturesque kasbah, remarkable historic sites and fascinating museums.
A destination that perfectly combines culture, heritage and relaxation on the Atlantic coast.
Discover our ideas for what to do in Rabat, illustrated with photos that will make you want to go. Bonus: useful tips and additional activities.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Wander through the Kasbah des Oudayas and explore its Andalusian garden
Why visit?
Perched high above the mouth of the Bouregreg river, the Kasbah des Oudayas is the historic heart of Rabat. Founded by the Almoravids and fortified by the Almohads in the 12th century, it served as a defensive bastion before welcoming Andalucia exiles in the 17th century.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll be charmed by its picturesque streets of white and blue houses and its ramparts, which offer a breathtaking view of the Atlantic. It is also home to a Hispano-Moorish-inspired garden, offering an oasis of freshness with its fountains and lush vegetation.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: allow around 2 hours to explore the kasbah, its garden and have time to stroll along the ramparts facing the sea.
- Opening hours: the kasbah is open every day, the garden is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Difficulties and access for the disabled: cobbled and sometimes steep streets, not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
- Rates: access to the kasbah and garden is free (the Musée de la Parure is not free).
- Access: main entrance via Bab Oudaia, the kasbah’s monumental gateway
- Parking: The Kasbah des Oudayas is entirely pedestrianized. We recommend that you leave your car at the hotel for the duration of your visit. If this is not possible, the nearest parking lot is Plage de Rabat, a 9-minute walk from the museum entrance.
- Eating out: Café Maure is a must when visiting the kasbah!
- Visit the official website for more info here
2. Discover the collections of the Mohammed VI Museum
Why visit?
The Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art offers a fascinating insight into Moroccan and international creativity. The first major museum devoted to contemporary art at 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. See more works in our dedicated article!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h30 to 2h to appreciate all the collections
- Opening hours: open daily from 10am to 6pm, closed on Tuesdays
- Handicap access: modern museum fully accessible to people with reduced mobility
- Rates: 60 dhs (MAD) for foreign adults
- Access: on avenue Moulay Hassan, in the city center
- Parking: a few spaces on rue d’Ifni
- Catering: museum café-restaurant serving Moroccan specialities
- Visit the official website for more info here
WHERE TO STAY IN Rabat
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Hassan district
Hotel La Tour Hassan Palace – See prices, photos and availability
Rabat’s historic center
Riad Meftaha Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Marina Rabat-Salé
Hotel Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé – See prices, photos and availability
3. Admire the Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum, symbols of Rabat
Why visit?
The monumental ensemble of the Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum is one of Rabat’s most emblematic landmarks. The Tour Hassan, an unfinished minaret dating from the 12th century, was intended to be the tallest religious tower in the world. We were fascinated by its imposing proportions and the remains of the unfinished mosque, with its hundreds of columns testifying to the ambition of the original project. Opposite the tower, the Mohammed V Mausoleum impresses with its refined architecture and sumptuous decoration.
This site, guarded by the Royal Guard in traditional costume, houses the tombs of King Mohammed V and his sons. Find out more in our dedicated article.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: allow around 1 hour to explore the entire site
- Opening hours: open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:45 p.m. for the Hassan Tower and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the Mohammed V Mausoleum.
- Difficulties and disabled access: flat terrain but a few steps to reach the mausoleum
- Admission: free
- Access: located on the Hassan II esplanade, a 15-minute walk from the medina
- Parking: parking available in and around rue Saadiyine
- Restaurants: little on offer in the surrounding area, return to the heart of the Hassan district
- Dress code: respectful dress is recommended for visiting the mausoleum.
- Would you like a guided tour? See prices and availability
4. Explore the remains of Chellah, an ancient Roman necropolis
Why visit?
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.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h30 to 2h to explore the entire site
- Opening hours: open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (times vary according to season)
- Difficulties and PRM access: uneven and sometimes steep terrain, some parts may be difficult to access for people with reduced mobility.
- Rates: 70 dhs (MAD) for adults, 30 dhs (MAD) for children
- How to get there: south-east of Rabat city center, 6min drive from Rabat Royal Palace
- Parking: parking available at site entrance
- Catering: A café and restaurant are available on site.
- Tip: visit in the morning to take advantage of milder temperatures and ideal light for photos.
- Visit the official website for more info here
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)
5. Getting lost in Rabat’s medina
Why visit?
Rabat’s medina offers an authentic experience far removed from the mass tourism found in other Moroccan cities. We particularly appreciated its lively but less frenetic atmosphere than that of Marrakec.
As you stroll through its maze of narrow streets, you’ll notice the traditional architecture with its ornate doors, whitewashed walls and Merinid fountains.
We loved the explosion of color in the artisan stalls, with their carpets, pottery, jewelry and traditional clothing. Don’t resist!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: allow half a day for leisurely exploration
- Opening hours: stores are generally open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., some close during Friday prayers.
- Difficulties and PRM access: narrow and sometimes cluttered streets, not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
- Prices: free access but please allow a budget for purchases
- Access: entrance through the Bab El Had gate
- Parking: not possible inside, we recommend you leave your car at the hotel for the medina tour.
- Eating out: numerous options, from cafés to traditional restaurants
- Tip: don’t hesitate to negotiate prices in the souks, as this is a local tradition.
- Visit the official website for more info here
6. Stroll the Esplanade du Palais Royal in Rabat and its gardens
Why visit?
The Royal Palace is worth a visit for its majestic architecture and historical significance. Located in the heart of Rabat, it is the official seat of the King of Maroc and the embodiment of the country’s power. Although access to the interior is forbidden to the public, you can admire the imposing façade, stroll through the surrounding gardens and watch the royal guard.
Find out more in our dedicated article.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 30 to 1 hour if you feel like strolling through the gardens
- Opening hours: open daily from 9am to 6pm, subject to official events.
- Difficulties and PRM access: easily accessible area, flat terrain
- Rates: free of charge
- Access: located in the Touarga district
- Parking: several parking spaces are available inside the Palais, at the entrance near the police station.
- Catering: cafés and restaurants within walking distance
- Tip: Please note that an identity document is required to access the site (passports for foreigners and CIN for Moroccans).
- 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!
7. Relax on Rabat’s most beautiful beaches and enjoy the Atlantic coastline
Why visit?
We can’t recommend you enough to take advantage of one of the city’s beaches.
What could be better than an afternoon of idleness to counterbalance a day of intense cultural sightseeing? Urban beaches such as Plage des Oudayas and Plage de Rabat, although busy, offer spectacular sunsets. But you’ll also find more peaceful beaches outside the city, like Plage de Bouznika or Skhirat.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: half a day to a full day, depending on the activities planned
- Opening hours: open all day, supervision on main beaches in summer
- Difficulties and access for disabled people: some beaches have special access facilities.
- Rates: free access
- Access: Rabat beach can be reached on foot from the center, the others require transport.
- Parking: parking lots available near the main beaches
- Catering: beach cafés and restaurants open mainly during the summer season
- Tip: Beware of strong currents on some beaches, respect the swimming flags.
- Visit the official website for more info here
8. Take a walk along the Bouregreg
Why visit?
The banks of the Bouregreg river, which separates Rabat from its twin city Salé, offer one of the capital’s most pleasant walks. We particularly enjoyed this landscaped trail, which harmoniously blends nature, culture and modernity.
Following the river, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of both banks, with the Kasbah des Oudayas on one side and the Salé medina on the other.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours, depending on the length of the route chosen
- Opening hours: accessible at any time, but particularly pleasant in the late afternoon.
- Difficulties and access for disabled people: well laid-out promenade accessible to people with reduced mobility
- Free access
- Parking: several parking lots along the route
- Dining: cafés and restaurants overlooking the river
9. A breath of fresh air at the Botanical Gardens
Why visit?
The Rabat Botanical Gardens are a haven of peace in the heart of the city.
Created in the early 20th century during the French protectorate, this 17-hectare garden has enchanted us with its exceptional botanical wealth and serene atmosphere. As you stroll along its shady paths, you’ll discover an impressive collection of species. Majestic palms, colorful bougainvilleas and towering cacti create a lush landscape that invites contemplation.
See more photos in our dedicated article!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 hour to allow time for wandering
- Opening hours: open every day (except Monday) from 9am to 7pm in winter and from 8am to 8pm in summer.
- The garden is accessible to all, but some uneven ground may not be suitable for wheelchairs.
- Admission: Free
- Access: Avenue Annasr, in the Agdal district
- Parking: some public parking spaces in adjacent streets
- Catering: The garden does not have a restaurant, but it seems that picnics are possible on site.
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10. Visit the Museum of History and Civilization
Why visit?
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.
Find out more in our dedicated article!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours to appreciate all the collections
- Opening hours: open Wednesday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Tuesdays.
- Handicap access: museum accessible to people with reduced mobility
- Rates: 10dhs (MAD) for children and 20 dhs (MAD) for adults
- Access: in the south of the Hassan district, next to the Villa des Arts
- Parking: parking available on adjacent streets
- Catering: Café Restaurant Les Artistes nearby
- Find out more on the Fondation nationale des musées website here.
11. Discover Rabat’s historic gates and step back in time through architecture
Why visit?
Rabat’s monumental gates, true architectural masterpieces, bear witness to the ancient fortified city and its strategic importance. We particularly liked Bab al-Kabir, the monumental entrance to the kasbah, with its surprisingly fine ornamentation!
And don’t miss Bab El Had, also known as the Sunday Gate, because of the weekly market held here in the 12th century. This is the only gate in the wall that still acts as a passageway into the medina.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 5 to 15 minutes per door, depending on your interest in architecture
- Times: visible at all hours, but best appreciated in daylight
- Difficulties and PRM access: easily visible from the outside
- Rates: free of charge
- Access: located in various parts of the city
- Parking: variable depending on the location of each door
- Catering: cafés and restaurants near most doors
12. Visit St Peter’s Cathedral
Why visit?
The only Catholic religious building in the Moroccan capital, it elegantly blends Art Deco elements with Arab influences. We were impressed by the harmony between its sleek silhouette and the surrounding buildings. Inside, it’s the colorful stained glass windows that create the surprise. While the building is a place of meditation for the local Catholic community, we were astonished to discover that it is also a meeting place for the locals! Find out more in our dedicated article.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 5 to 15min
- Opening hours: open daily from 10am to 4pm, except Sundays until 1pm
- Difficulties and PRM access: No particular difficulties to report during the visit. A wheelchair-accessible entrance is available in the side streets.
- Rates: free of charge
- Parking: parking available in nearby streets
- Catering: numerous cafés and restaurants nearby
- Tip: proper attire is recommended, as for any place of worship
13. Stroll around the Salé marina for a unique view of Rabat
Why visit?
The Salé marina offers one of the finest views of Rabat, and is a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
We particularly enjoyed this modern promenade along the north bank of the Bouregreg, from which you can admire the pleasure boats moored in the port, with the majestic Hassan Tower as a backdrop.
It’s a popular spot for locals, especially at the end of the day when the setting sun casts a golden glow over the city.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours for a leisurely stroll
- Opening hours: accessible at any time, particularly pleasant at sunset
- Difficulties and access for disabled people: flat, well-laid-out promenade, accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- Free access
- Access: from Rabat, cross the Hassan II bridge (9min by car) or take the 30min tramway (stop A-Bab Lamrissa) from the medina to Salé.
- Parking: The Bab Fès underground parking lot is a 20-minute walk from the marina.
- Eating and drinking: numerous cafés and restaurants with terraces overlooking the river
14. Take a colorful bath at the Complexe de potiers de Salé
Why visit?
The Oulja potters’ complex is well worth a visit. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a great overview of Moroccan craftsmanship! 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. Find out more in our dedicated article!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours, depending on your ability to choose the pieces you buy!
- Opening hours: generally open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., some workshops close on Friday afternoons.
- Difficulties, access, parking: to be determined in the light of new development work.
- Admission: free, but please budget for purchases
- Catering: small cafés nearby
Things to do in Rabat: other ideas
Discover other museums
Rabat has a vibrant cultural scene, with many museums worth your attention. In addition to the above-mentioned museums, we recommend the Musée de la Photographie, the Villa des Arts and the Galerie d’Art Nouiga to discover local and emerging artists. For history buffs, the Bank Al-Maghrib Museum traces the evolution of the country’s monetary system, while the Museum of Jewellery displays dazzling jewelry and traditional costumes, testimony to Moroccan ancestral know-how.
Strolling along the corniche
Rabat’s corniche offers a refreshing escape to the Atlantic. This promenade along the coast is ideal for admiring the sunset with the ocean as far as the eye can see.
Taste Moroccan specialties
Moroccan cuisine is one of the most renowned in the world, and Rabat offers many opportunities to discover its flavors. Don’t leave town without trying an authentic tajine or a fragrant couscous. For breakfast or an afternoon snack, try msemen (flaky pancakes) or beghrir (pancakes with a thousand holes).
Last but not least, don’t forget to savour the undeniable mint tea with almond, honey or orange blossom pastries, a delicious afternoon snack.
Find all our addresses in our dedicated article.
Things to do in Rabat with children
Recharge your batteries in one of the city’s many parks
The Moroccan capital is distinguished by the diversity of its green spaces:
- The Andalucia Gardens, nestled in the Kasbah des Oudayas, invite you to take a romantic stroll through fountains, orange trees and flowering alleys.
- The Parc Hassan II offers a more modern atmosphere, with large relaxation areas, playgrounds and sports facilities, ideal for families and joggers.
- The Jardins d’Essais Botaniques, with their incredible variety of local and exotic plants, will appeal to botany enthusiasts.
- The Jardin Nouzhat Hassan, right in the center of town, is also a haven of coolness where locals and visitors alike enjoy recharging their batteries in the shade of the palm trees.
- And don’t forget the Forêt de la Maâmora, one of the largest cork oak forests in the world, ideal for a picnic in the shade of the trees.
Other fun activities
Travelling with the family? Don’t panic, we’ve found plenty of activities in Rabat to do with your children:
- Rabat Zoo: A must for families. Atlas lions, monkeys, giraffes, crocodiles… The enclosures are well laid out, and the educational trail appeals to children and parents alike – see details here.
- The Magik Park water park offers a wide range of water games in Salé.
Things to do in Rabat when it rains
Opt for a cultural day out
Rabat has so many museums to keep you busy on rainy days!
Look out for our article on the best museums in Rabat.
You can also opt for a theatrical or musical performance at the Théâtre National Mohammed V – find their program on the official website here.
Opt for a shopping day
Why not take advantage of a rainy day to do some shopping?
First, note that Rabat’s medina has many covered passageways. Don’t miss Rue Souika, the liveliest street in the medina, for traditional souvenirs.
If you prefer modern boutiques, we recommend avenue Fal Ould Oumeir (Agdal district) or avenue Mohammed V, lined with numerous shops.
Excursions around Rabat
Want to get away from the city for a day? Rabat’s surroundings are full of treasures to discover. Archaeological sites, authentic villages or nature escapades: here are our ideas for excursions to explore the surroundings of the Moroccan capital.
Immerse yourself in Boukdanel’s exotic gardens
For an off-the-beaten-track getaway, the Jardins Exotiques de Bouknadel, a 36-minute drive from Rabat, unveil lush vegetation! (more information here).
Surveying the Volubilis site
A 2h30 drive from Rabat, the archaeological site of Volubilis is well worth a visit. This ancient Roman city, founded in the 3rd century BC, reached its apogee under the Roman Empire before being abandoned in the 11th century, but is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. We loved our walk around the site, between the romantic ruins, the abundant vegetation and the sublime panoramic views over the valley!
Discover the vibrant city of Casablanca
Just an hour from Rabat, Casablanca offers a striking contrast to the capital. The largest city on Maroc and the country’s economic powerhouse, it boasts a resolutely modern face while preserving its unique architectural heritage. We were impressed by the Art Deco and Modernist buildings that bear witness to the French influence of the early 20th century. The must-see Hassan II mosque will dazzle you with its colossal dimensions and spectacular location overlooking the ocean.
The Habous district, a former medina built during the Protectorate, also deserves your attention for its neo-traditional architecture.
Need more advice? Read our article What to do in Casablanca.
Explore other imperial cities
Rabat is one of the four imperial cities of Maroc, and you can easily visit the other three on day trips:
- Meknes, 1h30 away, will seduce you with its peaceful medina and imposing monuments such as the Bab Mansour gate and the royal granaries.
- Fez, 2h30 away, with its labyrinthine medina, the largest in the world, offers total immersion in medieval Maroc.
- Marrakech is further away (4h drive), but still accessible for an express excursion to discover the mythical Jemaa el-Fna square, palaces and lush gardens.
These historic cities, all of which were capital cities of the kingdom at different times, will give you a deeper understanding of the cultural richness of Maroc.
Visit Assilah
Assilah is a very small but very pleasant town to visit. Consider it a pleasant stopover on your way to Tangier! Located about 2h30 north of Rabat, this charming coastal town won us over with its peaceful, artistic atmosphere.
We enjoyed walking along the ramparts built by Alphonse V of Portugal in the 15th century, which offer splendid views of the Atlantic Ocean. What’s more, the surrounding sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing after a visit.
Useful tips for visiting Rabat
Where is Rabat?
- Rabat is located on the Atlantic coast of Maroc, at the mouth of the Bouregreg river.
- Rabat to Casablanca = 1h drive
- Rabat to Meknes = 1h30 drive
- Rabat to Fez = 2h30 drive
- From Rabat to Marrakech = 4h drive
Here’s a map to help you find the city’s main attractions:
How to get to Rabat?
There are several options for getting to Rabat:
- By plane: Rabat-Salé Airport, 8 km from the city center, is a gateway for visitors, with several international destinations served – see flights.
- By train: the ONCF railway network serves Rabat’s stations, linking it efficiently to all the other cities of Maroc with high-speed lines (Al-Boraq) and conventional trains.
- By car: large white cabs provide connections between the towns of Maroc; the well-developed motorway network makes access by car easy.
- By bus: CTM, the national bus company, offers comfortable, air-conditioned and safe bus journeys.
Find out more in our dedicated article here.
Driving and parking in Rabat
Driving in Rabat is generally pleasant, thanks in part to the city’s major arteries, which facilitate traffic flow. The city is well structured, with spacious boulevards and clear signage, making car travel smoother than in other major Moroccan cities.
Please note, however, that Rabat city center can be congested at peak times, with limited parking.
Also note that cars are not allowed in the medina or the Kasbah des Oudayas. For more information, visit the official website, which lists paying parking lots here.
Getting around Rabat
Rabat’s efficient public transport network makes it easy to get around the city:
- The modern tramway, with its two lines, serves the main districts and tourist sites. We found this mode of transport particularly convenient, clean and affordable (6 dirhams per journey).
- Buses are also plentiful, but can be crowded at peak times.
- Small blue cabs, which only operate in town, are economical and practical for short distances (make sure the driver uses the meter).
To cross over to Salé, you can even take one of the traditional boats that shuttle back and forth on the Bouregreg!
Where to eat in Rabat
Rabat offers a diverse culinary scene to suit all palates and budgets.
For lunch with a view, we recommend Restaurant Marsa and its Andalusian specialties! Finally, for a coffee break, Café Maure offers delicious Moroccan pastries and mint tea.
Find more addresses in our dedicated article!
Visit Rabat in winter
Winter in Rabat offers a pleasant visiting experience, far from the heat of summer. From November to March, temperatures generally fluctuate between 10°C and 18°C, making for comfortable urban exploration. We enjoyed the exceptional luminosity of this season, ideal for photography. Although a few rainy days can occur, they are generally short-lived. This is the ideal time to enjoy museums and historic sites without the summer crowds. What’s more, accommodation prices are often lower. Don’t forget to pack a woollen jacket for cool evenings, and a light raincoat in case of showers.
Other tips
- Islam is the official state religion, so you’ll hear the 5 daily calls to prayer echoing from the minarets of mosques across Maroc.
- Note a particularity of the weekly rhythm: on Friday, the Muslim prayer day, some shops adapt their opening hours or close. But this is not an official holiday.
- On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), some stores close, particularly those belonging to the Jewish community.
- Maroc remains a modern Muslim country, economically liberal, open to the world, which cultivates a balance between traditions and international dynamics.
Read all our tips for visiting Maroc in our dedicated article – coming soon.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Morocco
- Best of
The most beautiful landscapes in Morocco
What to do in Morocco (coming soon)
The most beautiful riads
The most beautiful cities
The most beautiful medinas (coming soon)
The most beautiful gardens (coming soon)
The best museums (coming soon)
The most beautiful beaches in Morocco (coming soon)
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Morocco (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in Morocco (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Marrakech
Casablanca
Fès
Meknès
Chefchaouen
Sahara Desert (coming soon)
SHE MADE THE TRIP Myriam
