Things to do in Rabat Morocco

At the mouth of the Bu Regreg River on the Atlantic coast lies Rabat, the capital of Morocco. The city is not as much of a tourist attraction as Marrakech or Casablanca, but it is a major cultural centre in the country due to its historical legacy. There you can visit interesting museums, such as the Museum of Archaeology, and see the mark left by different cultures on the city’s buildings, including the Hassan Tower and the Royal Palace. But that’s not all there is to see in Rabat in Morocco!

In Rabat, you can also visit an impressive botanical garden, the Medina and the Kasbah of the Oudaias, a historic centre with cobbled streets and views of the river. Here are all the details about the must-see Rabat and many other travel tips that will make your experience in Rabat unforgettable. Read on to find out how to get around the city, what to eat, where to sleep and what to see in the surrounding area.

As you may know, Passporter helps you create your travel itineraries quickly and easily. You can also draw inspiration from the experiences of other travellers and choose the places that interest you most and add them to your route.

What are the best things to do in Rabat?

1. Tower Hassan

2. Mohammed V Avenue

Avenue Mohammed V is one of Rabat’s main thoroughfares, a wide tree-lined street running through the city centre and an important meeting place. It is well worth a stroll along this lively street to enjoy its majestic colonial buildings, such as the National Theatre and the government offices.

Along the way you’ll also discover a wide range of restaurants, cafés and shops, and beautiful squares, including African Unity Square, where the statue of King Mohammed V stands. Definitely a place to see in Rabat.

3. The Kasbah of the Udayas

The Kasbah of the Udayas is a charming old fortified quarter built in the 12th century by the Almohads, a historic enclave with cobbled streets, white and blue houses and beautiful gardens. The most characteristic feature of the quarter is its Andalusian architecture, which can be seen in the ornate doors of the houses.

Inside, you can visit the Oudaias Museum, which exhibits traditional Moroccan art and artefacts, and the neighbourhood is in a privileged location with unique views of the Bouregreg River and the city of Salé across the river. The Kasbah of the Udayas is a timeless gem that reveals the essence of Morocco and a must-see in Rabat.

4. The Souk of Gold: a unique market to see in Rabat, Morocco

The Gold Souk or Souk es Sebat, as it is known to the locals, is the city’s best-known market and a must-see on your visit. It is located in the medina and offers a wide variety of gold, silver and fine jewellery products in true Moroccan style and tradition.

The souk is narrow and cobbled, a lively place full of colourful shop windows through which you can watch the local goldsmiths at work creating unique and detailed designs. Be aware that if you want to buy at a good price, you’ll have to haggle.

5. The Mausoleum of Mohammed V

The Mausoleum of Mohammed V is an impressive monument located next to the remains of the Hassan Tower. It was built in memory of King Mohammed V, an important figure in Morocco’s independence, and his two sons.

The structure features an impressive green dome and minarets true to the Islamic and Moroccan style that stand out against the city’s skyline. The interior is equally impressive, with intricate mosaics, marble detailing and a peaceful atmosphere. It is a place of pilgrimage and reverence, where visitors can honour the memory of a beloved and respected leader in Moroccan history.

The mausoleum is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm and admission is free.

6. La Ville Nouvelle, the most modern area to see in Rabat, Morocco

This district is a modern, elegant area and the financial and administrative centre of Rabat that contrasts with the old medina and Kasbah. It was built during the French colonial period with wide avenues, European-style buildings, parks and greenery, making it an ideal place for both work and leisure.

Embassies, luxury hotels, shopping malls and international restaurants are located here. The most characteristic feature of the place is that the architecture shows a fusion of Moroccan and French influences. If you have enough time, it is an interesting place to see in Rabat.

7. Royal Palace of Rabat

Rabat’s Royal Palace is a symbol of the country’s royalty and history. The current residence of the king is characterised by its majestic Islamic architecture with European touches, and the manicured Moroccan-style gardens that surround the building. The palace is notable for its beautiful gilded gates and the intricate decorations that cover the walls.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to visit the palace, but you can see its beauty from the outside. It is well worth a visit to discover one of the most important buildings in Morocco.

8. Mohammed VI Museum of Contemporary Art

If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the Mohammed VI Museum of Contemporary Art, a cultural enclave that celebrates modern creativity and artistic expression. The museum houses collections of Moroccan and international artists who exhibit their paintings, sculptures and multimedia works in the building’s many rooms. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and organises cultural events that encourage dialogue and reflection.

Visiting hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm daily except Tuesdays, when it is closed.

Admission: 40 dirhams adults, 20 dirhams under 18.

9. Chellah

The archaeological site of Rabat’s Chellah is a unique place to learn about the country’s history; Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans and Arabs left their mark on the fortress walls as they passed through. Although the abandonment of the complex caused it to deteriorate over time, you can still enjoy its walls, towers, gardens and necropolis.

On crossing the walls you will come across a necropolis where it is still possible to recognise buildings such as the baths, the capitol, the forum and the temples. It is not a very busy place, so you can enjoy your visit in peace and quiet.

Entry fee: 70 dirhams plus a taxi fare of around 30 dirhams.

Visiting hours: 8.30am-5.30pm daily.

10. The Medina of Rabat

The Medina of Rabat is one of the most charming and authentic places to explore in Morocco’s capital. Like other medinas in the country, Rabat’s Medina is also a maze of narrow, winding streets, full of life and activity. Here you’ll find colourful souks where traders sell a wide variety of products, such as spices, handicrafts, clothes or leather, and beautiful buildings with ornate façades.

In the Medina you can also sample the local cuisine at street stalls and see the day-to-day life of the locals as it is not a very touristy place. The neighbourhood is also a good place to stay and experience the whole experience.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

11. Oudayas Beach

On the shores of the Atlantic Sea is Oudaya, a long beach of fine sand famous for its big waves that attract surfers from all over the world. It is located next to the old town, and as a result is one of the busiest beaches in the area.

It is located in a unique environment that invites you to take out your camera because of the contrast of colours. On one side is the city and on the other the mouth of the river Bou Regreg. On the beach you can enjoy the sun, relax and swim, although the water can sometimes be a little cloudy. In the surrounding area you will also find bars and restaurants where you can quench your thirst and hunger.

12. Exotic gardens of Bouknadel, the natural space to see in Rabat

The Exotic gardens of Bouknadel is a botanical paradise, an oasis with a large collection of exotic plants and cacti from all over the world. The shady paths allow you to explore the more secluded areas of the garden, leading you to unique corners of great beauty where you can feel a connection with nature.

The complex is divided into geographical zones, with educational areas where you can read about plant species. You will also see exotic animals.

Visiting hours: open daily from 9:00 am to 7:30 pm in summer and until 5:30 pm in winter.

Entry fee: 20 dirhams adults, 10 dirhams under 10 years old.

What things to do in Rabat and its surroundings?

1. Casablanca

Casablanca is Morocco’s largest and most modern city, and one of the most important economic and cultural centres in North Africa. But it is also a popular tourist destination as it retains its original essence in contrast to the skyscrapers.

The city is home to a mix of cultures and offers a lively gastronomic and nightlife scene. But the most impressive sights of the city are the Hassan II Mosque with its 210-metre-high minaret, the old town, the seafront promenade and the Arab League Park.

Casablanca is about an hour’s drive from the capital Rabat, and can be reached by train, bus or private car. Train travel costs around €15, although this depends on timetables and dates. If you want to know more about Casablanca, visit this post: What to see and do on a trip to Casablanca, Morocco?

Continue to discover everything you can see in Casablanca

2. Fez

Fez is one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, the third largest and one of the most visited. It is considered by Moroccans to be the cultural and religious centre of the country, due to the historical and cultural legacy reflected in its narrow streets, souks and the Mellah, the Jewish quarter of Fez.

The city is well connected to Rabat and can be reached by train and bus (as well as private services that offer this route from Rabat). The journey takes 3 hours by public transport and costs between €10 and €20.

Read more about this amazing city in this post: What to see and do in Fez Morocco?

Discover everything you need for your trip to Fez

What things to do in Rabat in 1 day?

One day is more than enough to visit Rabat, but if you want to delve deeper into its museums and points of interest, we recommend spending at least two days.

During your stay, don’t miss the Hassan II Mosque and Tower, the Chellah Gardens, the Kasbah of the Oudaias and the Medina. And if you have time, we also recommend a visit to the new quarter (La Ville Nouvelle). Also set aside time to enjoy the local gastronomy and dive into the souks to bargain.

Where to stay in Rabat?

You can find a wide range of prices for accommodation. The options range from humble hostels to spectacular hotels and riads.

One of the most recommended experiences when travelling to Morocco is to stay in a riad, as you’ll feel immersed in the culture and tradition of Rabat.

The truth is that these accommodations are true marvels of the country’s architecture and will make your experience all the more magical.

Here are just a few of the options:

• Dar Yanis: One of the most affordable ways to stay in Rabat without compromising on comfort. This humble hotel with classic Arab decoration is perfectly located within the Medina and offers an excellent price in relation to its location and facilities.
• Riad Meftaha: A few minutes from the beach, we find this Riad with intimate decoration and cosy rooms. Its terrace and corridors add to its perfect location, as well as a very affordable price.
• Riad Al Mazhar: Also nestled inside Rabat’s Medina, this Riad is a more ostentatious option than the previous accommodations. Its décor will make you feel intoxicated by the essence of Morocco, and its rooms are spectacular.

Where to eat in Rabat?

Moroccan gastronomy is an essential part of Mediterranean cuisine and of course, this is one of the things you’ll be able to taste in Rabat.

Among the star dishes you’ll be able to try are tajine and couscous. They are prepared in different ways and you can try them in practically all the bars and restaurants you’ll find in the medina.

However, we’ve put together a short list of restaurants in the city, among which you can also enjoy other types of cuisine.

• Cosmopolitan Restaurant: A few metres from the Mohammed VI Museum, you’ll find one of Rabat’s most exquisite restaurants. It’s not a cheap option, but you’ll be able to sample typical Moroccan dishes, as well as other options from French and Mediterranean cuisine.
• Dar Zaki: On our way to Rabat’s beach, we find Dar Zaki, a cosy restaurant where you can breathe the essence of Morocco. Here you’ll be able to try everything related to the country’s gastronomy while enjoying a unique atmosphere. The price is not exorbitant, making it a very good option if you want to eat out without spending too much.
• Tajine Wa Tanja: Another very affordable option but not at all negligible in terms of flavour is Tajine Wa Tanja. With its excellent location and cosy atmosphere, the highlight of this place is its delicious range of different African and Moroccan dishes. An essential stop on our gastronomic route through the capital.

How to get to Rabat?

The most convenient way to travel from Spain is by plane. There are direct flights from the main Spanish cities that will drop you off at Rabat Sale airport in 1.5 hours. From there, you have these options available to get there:

• Transfer: you can hire a transfer service from your accommodation for around €30. It is a very comfortable and safe option.
• Taxi: You should get your taxi from the official taxi rank at the airport to avoid being ripped off. The taxi ride to the centre should cost around €10.
• Bus: this is the cheapest option, but it can take up to 1.5 hours to get to the centre.

Tips on a trip to Rabat

• We recommend that you take out travel insurance for any medical expenses that may be incurred.
• It is best not to drink water that is not bottled.
• Book your transfer service between airport and accommodation in advance, in case you need it.
• It is advisable to stay inside the Medina, both for comfort and security.
• Carry cash, not all shops have credit card facilities.

How to organise what to see in Rabat Morocco

Register or download the Passporter App and discover all its possibilities.

• Get inspired by the experiences of other travellers.
• Create your own itinerary and add the app’s suggestions to it.
• Add the stops that interest you most, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest listed in this post as a reference).
• Organise your itinerary by route days according to their location on the map (you can take inspiration from the routes we present in the post)
• Check the travel budget that the app calculates according to your travel stops, restaurants, and leisure activities.
• Make the modifications you need and you’ll be all set for your trip.
• Share your experience. Upload photos of each of the places you’ve visited on your trip to the app and recommend other travellers what to see in Rabat.

If you have any doubts about how to do it, you can check our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.

Frequently asked questions about a trip to Rabat