A weekend in Rabat is enough to get a feel for Morocco’s capital, which moves at a much more leisurely pace than Marrakech or Casablanca. We appreciated the balance the city strikes between its imperial heritage, lively medina, and Atlantic coastline: in just two days, you’ll already get a good sense of what it’s all about.
With our itineraries, we’ll guide you through Rabat. Make the most of your stay and form your own opinion of this destination with our practical tips and plenty of photos!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Practical Tips for Visiting Rabat in 2 Days
What can you see in Rabat in 2 days? Is that enough time?
Yes, 2 days are enough to explore Rabat’s must-see attractions: the Kasbah of the Oudayas, the medina, the Hassan Tower, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, and Chellah. You’ll even have time left over to watch the sunset over the Atlantic or go on an excursion.
Maps of must-see attractions
To help you follow along as you read our itinerary below, here is our map of Rabat’s main tourist attractions:
Getting Around in Rabat
Good news for a weekend in Rabat: you can explore the historic center on foot, since the medina and the Kasbah of the Oudayas are entirely pedestrian-only and closed to cars. To get to more distant sites, we opted for the tram, which serves the main neighborhoods and tourist attractions on two lines. We found it convenient and affordable. The small blue taxis are ideal for short distances: just ask the driver to turn on the meter. Finally, traditional boats shuttle across the Bouregreg River to Salé—a unique crossing you can add to your itinerary.
Where to Stay in Rabat
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
Idea 1 – Our Ideal Itinerary: 2 Days in Rabat
For a first weekend in the capital, we focused our visits on the major sites: the kasbah and the medina on the first day, followed by the imperial monuments and contemporary art on the second. Each day ends by the water—a ritual we highly recommend, as the sunsets in Rabat are truly beautiful.
Day 1 – 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.: Kasbah of the Oudayas and Andalusian Garden
There’s nothing quite like the Kasbah des Oudayas to begin your exploration of Rabat. Perched above the mouth of the Bouregreg River, it was founded by the Almoravids and later fortified by the Almohads in the 12th century, before welcoming Andalusian exiles in the 17th century. We entered through Bab Oudaia, a monumental gate whose ornate details struck us with their delicacy. Inside, we strolled through the narrow streets lined with white and blue houses until we reached the ramparts, where the view stretches out toward the Atlantic. You’ll then reach the Hispano-Moorish-inspired garden, open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., where fountains and lush greenery offer a refreshing respite.
Allow about 2 hours to explore the kasbah, the garden, and the walk along the ramparts. Admission to the site is free: only the Museum of Jewelry, located within the walls, requires a fee. We recommend that you come without a car, as the kasbah is entirely pedestrian-only; if necessary, the nearest parking lot is the one at the Rabat Beach, a 9-minute walk from the entrance. However, the cobblestone streets—some of which are steep—make it difficult for people with limited mobility to explore the area. Before heading back, we enjoyed a break at Café Maure, right on site—a perfect spot to take a breather.
Day 1 – 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.: Rabat’s Medina
After lunch, chosen from among Our Top Picks, walk to the medina of Rabat, which is easy to reach from the kasbah. You enter through Bab El Had, the Sunday Gate, the only gate in the wall that still serves as a passageway to the old city. We loved its atmosphere—lively without being as frenetic as in Marrakech. As you wander through the maze of narrow alleys, you’ll notice the ornate doors, whitewashed walls, and Merinid fountains. We also found it hard to resist the artisans’ stalls, which are overflowing with rugs, pottery, jewelry, and traditional clothing.
Like us, set aside the entire afternoon to explore the medina at your own pace. Shops are generally open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and some close during Friday prayers. Admission is free, but be sure to set aside a budget for shopping: bargaining is part of the souk tradition, as long as you remain respectful. We don’t recommend driving there, since traffic is impossible to navigate. The narrow and sometimes crowded alleys are also not well-suited for people with limited mobility.
Day 1 – End of the day: Sunset on the Corniche
To wrap up this first day, we headed to the coast. The city beaches of Oudayas and Rabat are crowded, but we’ve seen some spectacular sunsets there. You can also stroll along the Corniche, a promenade along the ocean, perfect for watching the sun dip into the Atlantic as far as the eye can see. We enjoyed this moment of calm after the hustle and bustle of the medina. If you feel like dipping your toes in the water, keep an eye out for the swimming flags, as the currents can be strong at some beaches.
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.
Day 2 – 8:30–9:30 a.m.: Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum
The second day begins on the Hassan II Esplanade, across from the capital’s most iconic landmark: the Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum. An unfinished 12th-century minaret, the tower was intended to become the tallest religious tower in the world. We were struck by its proportions and by the hundreds of columns in the unfinished mosque, which give a sense of the scale of the original project. Across from it, the mausoleum houses the tombs of King Mohammed V and his sons, guarded by the Royal Guard in traditional dress. We found its architecture refined and its decoration particularly meticulous.
Allow about 1 hour to tour the site; admission is free. We recommend arriving early: the Hassan Tower is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:45 p.m., and the mausoleum is open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The grounds are flat, except for a few steps leading up to the mausoleum, where respectful attire is recommended. If you’re driving, you can park on Rue Saadiyine or in the surrounding area; if you’re walking, it’s a 15-minute walk from the medina. To fully appreciate all the historical details, we think a guided tour is a practical option. Interested in a guided tour? Check prices and availability
Day 2 – 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: Chellah Site
Next, take a small taxi to the Chellah site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located a 6-minute drive from the Royal Palace. We recommend visiting in the morning to enjoy milder temperatures and beautiful light for photos. Once the ancient Roman city of Sala Colonia and later a Merinid necropolis, the site moved us with its atmosphere steeped in history. As you stroll through the site, you’ll discover the remains of thermal baths, ancient buildings, and the necropolis.
Plan to spend 1.5 to 2 hours there. The site is open daily, generally from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the winter and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the summer: check the hours before your visit, especially during Ramadan. The uneven and sometimes steep terrain makes certain areas difficult to access for people with limited mobility. Parking is available at the entrance, and you’ll find a café and a restaurant on site.
Day 2 – 2:00–4:00 p.m.: Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
After lunch, we headed to Moulay Hassan Avenue, right in the heart of downtown, where the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is located. As Morocco’s first major museum dedicated to contemporary art, it first impressed us with its architecture, which blends Moroccan traditions with clean lines. The collections feature more than 500 paintings and about ten sculptures, showcased through a variety of eclectic temporary exhibitions. We found them to be beautifully showcased. You can extend your visit at the museum’s café-restaurant, which serves Moroccan specialties.
Allow 1.5 to 2 hours to see all the galleries. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on Tuesdays, making it perfect for a weekend visit. It is also fully accessible to people with limited mobility. As for parking, there are a few spots available on Rue d’Ifni.
Day 2 – 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.: Bouregreg Riverbanks and Salé Marina
End your weekend on a relaxing note along the Bouregreg, the river that separates Rabat from its twin city, Salé. We loved this scenic route that blends nature, culture, and modernity, offering views of the Kasbah of the Oudayas on one side and the medina of Salé on the other. To get to the other side, it takes 9 minutes by car across the Hassan II Bridge or 30 minutes by tram to the Bab Lamrissa stop—unless you’d prefer to take a boat across. Once there, the Salé Marina offers one of the most beautiful views of Rabat: from there, we watched the pleasure boats moored in the harbor, with the Hassan Tower in the background.
Locals love to gather there at the end of the day, when the setting sun bathes the city in golden light. Allow 1 to 2 hours for this flat, well-maintained walk, which is lined with numerous cafés featuring outdoor seating. If you’re driving, the Bab Fès underground parking garage is a 20-minute walk from the marina.
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!
Idea 2 – A Weekend of Museums, Gardens, and Crafts
Do you enjoy taking your time at museums and lesser-known spots? This itinerary is for you. On the first day, we recommend starting with the Museum of History and Civilizations, in the southern part of the Hassan neighborhood, next to the Villa des Arts. From prehistory to ancient and Islamic civilizations, its collections trace millennia of Moroccan history. We were particularly impressed by the prehistoric remains from the Sidi Abderrahmane site, the Roman bronzes from Volubilis, and the bronze statue of Juba II. Allow 1 to 2 hours for your visit; the museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Next, visit Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the capital’s only Catholic religious building, which blends Art Deco elements with Arabic influences. We were surprised not only by its colorful stained-glass windows but also by its role as a gathering place for locals. The tour, which is free, takes 5 to 15 minutes and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. On Sundays, however, it closes at 1 p.m., so we recommend scheduling your visit for Saturday. In the afternoon, return to the Kasbah of the Oudayas to explore the Museum of Jewelry, located within its walls, and then take a leisurely stroll through the Andalusian garden.
The next day, head to the Touarga neighborhood, near the Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Morocco. The interior is closed to the public, but you can admire the façade, stroll through the gardens, and watch the royal guard from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., barring official events. Don’t forget your passport—it’s required to enter the site.
We then headed to the Botanical Garden in the Agdal neighborhood: established in the early 20th century during the French Protectorate, it covers 17 hectares. We enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere there, surrounded by palm trees, bougainvilleas, and towering cacti. Admission is free, and since there are no dining options on site, you can bring a picnic.
Finally, cross the Bouregreg River to the Oulja pottery complex in Salé, which is worth a visit even if you don’t plan to buy anything. We were impressed by the variety of creations and the artisans’ craftsmanship. In fact, we rank this visit among the best activities in the region. The workshops are generally open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., though some close on Friday afternoons, and admission is free. Note that the site is currently being redeveloped to make way for a new City of Crafts and Arts. In the evening, you can attend a theatrical or musical performance at the Mohammed V National Theater.
Idea 3 – A weekend in Rabat and a day trip
Rabat is also an excellent base from which to explore the region. To combine a visit to the capital with a getaway, we suggest spending the first day exploring the must-see sights: the Kasbah of the Oudayas and its Andalusian garden in the morning, the Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum in the early afternoon, followed by a stroll through the medina at the end of the day. This condensed itinerary, which can be done without a car, lets you experience the city’s main highlights, from Almohad heritage and imperial landmarks to the bustling souk. We’ll then set aside the second day for one of the two excursions listed below. For more ideas on day trips from Rabat, Read our article on the best day trips from the capital.
Day Trip to Casablanca
Just a 1- to 1.5-hour drive or train ride away, Casablanca offers a striking contrast to Rabat. As Morocco’s largest metropolis, it blends Art Deco architecture, urban culture, and Moroccan traditions. We were impressed by the buildings that reflect early 20th-century French influence, and especially by the Hassan II Mosque, built right on the ocean and open to visitors. Like us, plan a full day to also explore the Art Deco district, the central market, the Habous neighborhood, and the Corniche, whose terraces overlook the Atlantic Ocean.
Several tour operators offer tours of the old city, the mosque, the Habous district, and the modern neighborhoods. Book this guided tour that covers all the must-see sights: see details, prices, and availability, or opt for a food tour: see prices, details, and availability.
Day Trip to Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes
If you’re interested in ancient history, head to Volubilis, a 2.5-hour drive from Rabat. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this archaeological site preserves the ruins of a city of Mauritanian origin that flourished under the Roman Empire. We loved strolling among the temples, thermal baths, and patrician houses, surrounded by lush vegetation and panoramic views of the valley. We have fond memories of the Arch of Caracalla, the site’s most iconic landmark. Plan to spend half a day there, then head to the village of Moulay Idriss, one of Morocco’s most sacred sites.
In the afternoon, continue on to Meknes, the former imperial capital during the reign of Moulay Ismaïl, often overshadowed by Fez or Marrakech. We loved its tranquility and rich heritage, from the monumental Bab Mansour gate to the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, including the royal granaries and stables of Heri es-Souani. Some of these monuments may be undergoing restoration work: check for access before you go. Our favorite? We particularly enjoyed the Dar Jamaï Museum, dedicated to traditional Moroccan music, its instruments, and its history. Finish your tour at El Hedim Square, which is more intimate than Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fna but just as lively.
Meknes is about a 2-hour drive from Rabat, and an organized tour allows you to visit Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes all in one day: see details, prices, and availability. Another option: Tangier is just 1 hour and 20 minutes away via the Al Boraq high-speed train, perfect for a day trip exploring the White Medina and the Cave of Hercules. For more ideas, read our article on day trips from Rabat.
Idea 4 – A Family Weekend in Rabat
Rabat is well suited for family vacations, thanks to its many green spaces suitable for all ages. We suggest you spend your first morning at the Gardens of Andalucia in the Kasbah of the Oudayas, for a leisurely stroll among fountains, orange trees, and flower-lined paths. In the afternoon, Hassan II Park takes over: its vast relaxation areas and playgrounds are perfect for both families and joggers. Right in the city center, the Nouzhat Hassan Garden also invites you to take a break in the shade of the palm trees—a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. We loved the relaxed atmosphere of these cool, refreshing spots.
On the second day, head to the Rabat Zoo, a must-see for families: Atlas lions, monkeys, giraffes, and crocodiles are on display in well-designed enclosures along an educational trail that appeals to both children and parents. Next, we recommend a picnic in the Maâmora Forest, one of the largest cork oak forests in the world. Finally, in Salé, the Magik Park water park offers plenty of water attractions for the little ones. We believe this itinerary, which alternates between nature and fun activities, has something for everyone.
Idea 5 – A Weekend at the Beach to Relax
The area around Rabat is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Atlantic coast, which are still relatively unknown to travelers. For a weekend in the great outdoors, we suggest spending the first day at Bouznika Beach or Skhirat Beach, both of which are great for swimming and located about 30 to 45 minutes away by car, depending on traffic. Half a day is enough, but we recommend staying the whole day and having a picnic there. In the late afternoon, head back into town for a stroll along the Corniche, the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the ocean.
The next day, surfers will head to Mehdiya Beach, while others can enjoy the city beaches of Oudayas and Rabat—which are more crowded but perfect for a final sunset. Access to the beaches is free; lifeguards are on duty during the summer at the main beaches, and some have accessible entry points. Please be mindful of the currents, which can sometimes be strong, and pay attention to the swimming flags. To end the day on a relaxing note, we also enjoy a stroll to the Salé Marina and its outdoor cafés along the Bouregreg River.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
- Get away from it all with Region Lovers’ beautiful destinations!
- Once a month
- Advertising-free
What You Need to Know for Your Weekend in Rabat
The Weather in Rabat
We mainly explored Rabat in the winter, an ideal season for a weekend getaway. From November through March, temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 18°C (64.4°F)—comfortable conditions for strolling around the city. We enjoyed the bright light during this time of year—perfect for photography—and you’ll be able to enjoy the museums and historic sites without the summer crowds. You might experience a few rainy days, but they’re usually short-lived. Accommodations also often offer more affordable rates. Just be sure to pack a sweater for cool evenings and a lightweight raincoat in case of a shower.
The Crowds in Rabat
Rabat struck us as more laid-back than Marrakech or Fez, but its weekly rhythm makes it worth considering for a weekend getaway. On Friday, the Muslim day of prayer, some businesses adjust their hours or close, even though it is not an official holiday. On Saturday and Sunday, a few shops also close, particularly those owned by the Jewish community. We also recommend keeping in mind that St. Peter’s Cathedral closes at 1:00 p.m. on Sundays. Finally, the five daily calls to prayer echo from the minarets—a rhythm to factor into your sightseeing plans.
Adjusting Your Itinerary When It Rains
Rabat has no shortage of things to do on rainy days, starting with its museums. The Mohammed VI Museum, the Museum of History and Civilizations, and the Museum of Jewelry offer plenty of ways to spend several hours out of the rain. We found the exhibits at the Mohammed VI Museum to be particularly well-curated. You can also book tickets for a play or concert at the Mohammed V National Theater. Rain is also a great excuse to go shopping: the medina has many covered arcades, and we recommend Souika Street—the liveliest one—for finding traditional souvenirs. For modern shopping, Fal Ould Oumeir Avenue in the Agdal neighborhood and Mohammed V Avenue are brimming with stores.
Where to Eat in Rabat
The capital charms visitors as much with its cultural richness as with its cuisine. From fine-dining restaurants in luxury hotels to seafood restaurants near the marina, not to mention traditional tea houses, Rabat has plenty of great places to eat. We’ve compiled our favorites in our selection of the best restaurants in Rabat.
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
