Rabat City: The Full Guide to Morocco’s Hidden Gem

Nowadays, we collect memories, not things. And let’s be real, as much as we love traveling to distant destinations, navigating a path less traveled is where we thrive. Enter Rabat. Morocco’s untapped, culture-rich capital is brimming with buried cities, majestic mosques, mouth-watering street food, and bustling markets.

Off the tourist-trodden track is always more thrilling as it brings about unexpected adventures and friendly encounters. And Rabat is all that and more. Compared to Morocco’s seductive Marrakech and Fez, Rabat is a colorful, sunny oasis of calm waiting to be explored.

As one of Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Rabat is one of the best places to visit while traveling up or down the Atlantic Coast. Smaller in size and less famous than the Imperial Cities of Marrakesh and Fes, Rabat’s calmer atmosphere can also be a welcome break from the tourist hustle of other cities. Culture abounds in Rabat, bringing the city to life and fostering a sense of playfulness.

Now let’s explore the Imperial Moroccon City together…

Getting To Know Rabat

Wondering if Rabat is worth visiting? Sure, it isn’t on the tourist radar, but there are many reasons to include it on your list.

Rabat In a Bird’s Eye View

The city’s history went back to the Phoenician (present-day Lebanon and Syria) expansion about 3,000 years ago. Rabat was built in the tenth century near the ruin of an ancient Roman settlement near Salé. During the mid-eleventh century, an Almohad sultan established a rabat, or citadel, for his army near Salé.

In the 20th century, Rabat was invaded by the French, who established a protectorate there and opened it to extensive development to the south and west. Post-1912, the city’s population grew, as did its prestige as Morocco’s new administrative, educational, and cultural center.

By the late 20th century, Rabat became home to several major non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that focused on human and women’s rights. These organizations helped influence much of the modern history of Rabat by organizing several significant peaceful marches, including a 2000 march that focused on changes to family law.

Although not its largest city, Rabat is Morocco’s capital and Royal City. Today it is known as the ‘Washington’ of North Africa because of its parks, boulevards, monuments, embassies, and government buildings, Rabat is also the seat of the Royal Family.

Not surprisingly, it is home to many fascinating palaces, mosques, and parks in the sensual North African (Morocco) style that evokes visions of a thousand and one nights.

What is the weather in Rabat city like?

Rabat features a Mediterranean climate (Csa) with warm to hot, dry summers and mild damp winters. Located along the Atlantic Ocean, Rabat has a mild, temperate climate, shifting from cool in winter to warm days in the summer months.

The nights are always cool (or cold in winter, it can reach sub 0 °C (32 °F) sometimes), with daytime temperatures generally rising about 7–8 °C (13–14 °F). The winter highs typically reach only 17.2 °C (63.0 °F) in December–February. Summer daytime highs usually hover around 25 °C (77.0 °F) but may occasionally exceed 30 °C (86.0 °F), especially during heat waves.

Summer nights are usually pleasant and cool, ranging between 11 °C (51.8 °F) and 19 °C (66.2 °F) and rarely exceeding 20 °C (68.0 °F). Rabat belongs to the sub-humid bioclimatic zone with an average annual precipitation of 560 mm (22 in).

Where is Rabat Located?

Rabat is located on the Atlantic Ocean, about 85 kilometers (52 miles) north of Casablanca. It is a neighboring city with Sales. Rabat is a fabulous destination and arguably Morocco’s most European city.

It’s home to dozens of embassies as well as most of the major administrative headquarters of the Moroccan government.

The Ultimate Travel Guide To Explore Rabat

If you are a traveler planning to visit the amazing capital of Morocco then keep reading because I am going to show you everything you need to know in order to have a safe and comfortable experience.

Is Rabat Morocco safe?

So you might be wondering, is Rabat safe during the day and night?

Rabat is a safe destination to visit, both day and night. Big Moroccan city such as Rabat is less dangerous than any other city in the world. Like everywhere else, it’s important to keep a low profile and not attract unwanted attention as a foreigner.

Is Rabat Safe For Solo Travelers?

As a solo traveler or visitor, you are unlikely to be assaulted or gravely injured because there is only a minor crime (scams and pickpockets).

Tourists can now travel freely across Morocco without fear of being attacked. However, you must be extra cautious as a solo traveler, and you are unlikely to have any challenges.

Tips On How To Stay Safe In Rabat City

Traveling to Rabat necessitates extra caution because things are too easy to go wrong.

The petty crime and harassment in this city make you more vigilant than in other nations, and you’re unlikely to ever be in danger in this country. However, you can leave Rabat unharmed and without incident by following the guidelines below:

1. Respect Rabat’s culture and religion

Tourists should respect local customs in Morocco like any other country. For instance, if you go to Rabat during Ramadan, be careful not to consume alcohol in public.

It is also recommended not to drink, eat and smoke in public, or at least with discretion, especially in less touristy areas. Also, another thing to keep in mind is that if you see shoes near the entrance of a place, be sure to take yours off.

This point is not only true for Rabat city but for your entire trip to Morocco. Therefore, I suggest you read my previous article about things not to do for tourists traveling to Morocco to have a more understanding of the things you should avoid.

2. Tour guides should be avoided

Those that say “no money” are most likely after your cash. They will attempt to persuade you to visit their stores or bring you somewhere and then demand payment for their services.

Say no firmly. If they start walking with you, they will demand money, regardless of their age or how friendly they are. Trust only the tour guides recommended by your hotel staff.

3. Don’t go out late by yourself

Walking at night requires caution while strolling in well-lit and busy locations is fine. In the medinas, you never know what’s around the corner. Particularly against tourists, petty crime is prevalent in this area.

4. Be mindful of your attire

When it comes to the dress code in Morocco, you are free and can dress as you wish. Just remember that Morocco is a Muslim country. It is advised to avoid necklines, shorts, tank tops, and mini skirts. Do as you feel, Moroccans are used to tourists, but you’ll be more comfortable if you dress more properly.

5. Valuables should not be carried

Leave your hotel with only the essentials because pickpockets and muggings do happen. Leave your passport at the hotel and don’t take it with you! We advise you to copy your passport and leave your original documents in your room.

This is a good general rule, people will regard jewelry as a sign of affluence and will try harder to con you in shops or steal from you on the street.

Although this is sound advice in any destination, Rabat is extremely serious due to the immense quantity of individuals who will pay you unwanted attention. It requires a lot of energy to be constantly on the lookout in a city where inquiring for directions frequently leads to people demanding money.

How to get to Rabat?

Morocco’s major airport is in Casablanca; however, there is a Rabat airport. Flights to Rabat are either domestic or limited flights from Europe. Chances are you’ll arrive in Rabat by land entry, train, bus, or car. Your choice may depend on your budget and how you plan to travel to Morocco.

You can reach Rabat from other cities as well. Check the timetable and purchase your ticket to the appropriate station. A second option to reach Rabat is to use the bus system. 

Not all cities will have buses to Rabat, as they try to reach places with limited train service to give another option. You may need to use the public bus system. These buses depart from the main depot in each city. The schedules can be erratic, and buses overcrowded, however, they are inexpensive.

A third option to reach Rabat is by car. You can buy a seat in a shared grand taxi or hire a driver to take you privately. Private drivers can be arranged through your accommodation.

They usually have direct contact with drivers or taxis that can be hired to take you to your destination. This is often the fastest way to travel but is also the most expensive.

How to get around Rabat?

There are many ways you can explore Rabat city, Here are a few ways explained below:

1. On foot

Walking around the Centre Ville, Agdal, the University, the Medina, the Ocean/River, and the monuments are easy and pleasant if you are relaxed.

The new Corniche on the river leading to the Oudaias has been re-done, and there are expected openings of cafes soon.

The route cotiere, or coastal road, past the cemetery and the Oudaias has dramatic ocean-side views, especially charming at sunset.

2. By tram

There are two lines between Rabat and Salé. It costs only 6 dirhams (Sep 2019) for one use, and it works from 06:00-23:00. There is a tram every 10 minutes during the week and every 20 minutes on Sunday.

One of the stations (Mohammed V – Gare de Rabat) is just opposite the downtown train station (Gare de Rabat-Ville). It is a good way of getting around. Maps are available at every station.

3. By taxi

Petit Taxis are all blue, mostly Fiat Uno and Renault Dacia. This inexpensive way to get around town usually won’t exceed 25/30 dirham, the minimum fare​ is 5/6 dirham.

Be sure to check the meter is running to avoid being overcharged at the end of the trip, although this is much less of a problem than in other cities. Don’t be surprised if the taxi stops to pick someone else up. Also, Uber works in Rabat, but it’s 20-30% pricier than regular taxis.

Avoid the Grand Taxis when traveling around Rabat—they are much more expensive and less safe than blue petit taxis.

4. By bus

There are now official bus routes listed, and bus stops have signs showing at least the bus lines that stop there. Costing 5 dirhams (Sep 2019), they are a cheap way to get to know the several layers of Rabat.

The buses can be of very variable quality, but it could be worth taking the chance given the cost-saving and experience of what many locals with low-income experience. If the bus is crowded, watch out for pickpockets.

5. By car

Driving around yourself is not recommended. Insurance rates are high, and most drivers will avoid hitting you at all costs; however, Morocco has the second-highest car accident rate globally, and most drivers do not abide by traffic laws. Driving doesn’t necessarily mean you will have an accident, but Moroccans recommend great caution when driving.

There are many things to do here and many places to explore, as with most Moroccan cities, it is enough to wander around and adventure where something takes your fancy.

How many days in Rabat is enough?

If you are looking to only explore Rabat then two days maximum is enough time to explore and get a full experience in this beautiful Moroccan city.

Rabat’s small size makes it easy to explore in a day or two, whether you visit on a day trip from Casablanca or Fes or while passing through as part of a tour of Morocco’s imperial cities.

The plan for your 2-day stay in the city will be very simple, you will split the time between exploring the medina where you get to see amazing shops, handcrafts, wood and leather goods. In addition to a visit to the historical kasbah of Udayas and a traditional Moroccan Hammam to end the first day.

On the second day, you’ll have the chance to visit the Oujla craft center and if you are interested in contemporary art then you should see the Museum Mohamed VI of Modern and Contemporary Art.

In the afternoon you can take a Taxi to explore Chellah or alternatively participate in a cooking class and learn how some of the typical dishes like tagine and couscous are made.

What’s The Best Time To Visit Rabat?

Though Rabat is a great destination to visit almost all year round, June-August is the best time to go due to its perfect climate conditions. Around this time of year, flights and accommodation can also be cheaper as it is outside of key peak holiday seasons if you book well enough in advance.

In the summer, temperatures reach a maximum of around 31℃ (89℉). It can get down to as low as 6℃ (43℉) in the winter months at night.

If you’re keen to see the sights of Rabat during the day, the sun stays up the longest around August. The wet season in Rabat usually falls during the months surrounding November each year.

It’s not uncommon to get decent rainfall or light showers during this time, but on some days, the weather tends to be fine for most of the day, with only a few drops of rain falling from a passing shower.

What To Pack When Traveling To Rabat?

If you plan to do lots of different activities on your vacation, you’ll have a fair amount of gear you need to pack into your suitcase. Keeping everything organized can be a challenge. With this packing list and what to wear section, you will be packing like an expert in no time.

Here is what to pack when traveling to Rabat Morocco:

For Men Travelers:

• Comfortable Underwear
• Convertible Hiking Pants
• Long-sleeve button-up shirts
• Oxford T-shirt
• Fleece Sweatshirts
• Swim Trunks
• Waterproof socks
• Lightweight jacket
• Baseball cap
• Beanie
• Thermal Layers
• Sandals
• Sleep mask
• Flip Flops
• Toothbrush
• Travel Sized Toothpaste
• Natural Deodorant
• Shaving Cream
• Dry Shampoo
• Sunscreen
• Polarized sunglasses
• Protective Laptop Case
• Sports Camera
• Extra Memory Cards
• Phone chargers
• Portable phone charger
• Waterproof electronics case
• Passport

For Women Travelers:

• Large bag to travel with (which can double up as your beach bag)
• Passport
• Phone
• Currency or credit card
• Travel insurance info (just in case)
• Lip balm
• Moisturiser (under 100 ml)
• Comfy socks for the plane
• Book/Kindle (which you probably won’t read all holiday)
• Playing cards
• Sunglasses for when you land at the other end
• Extension lead – to use with your adaptor so you can do your hair, charge your phone, and have your speakers plugged in all at once
• Phone charger
• Camera and camera charger
• Portable speakers for tunes
• Headphones
• Kindle charger
• One bikini/swimsuit for every three days of beach/pool time
• One cover-up for every three days of beach/pool time
• One pair of flip-flops or pool slides for the day
• One beach bag (which can double up as your travel bag)
• One beach towel
• One crossbody bag for the day
• A couple of T-shirts and tops
• Underwear – one pair of knickers for every evening and a few extra for days out
• Jewelry – leave anything sentimental or expensive at home, just in case you lose it
• Nightwear – something cool but comfy
• A jacket or layer you can wear out if it gets chilly
• Hairdryer
• Hairbrush and comb
• Hairbands
• Suncream
• Deodorant
• Sanitary products

For Family Travel:

Besides your stuff, you may need the following for the baby:

• Diaper bag
• Diapers -a little extra especially depending on your chosen destination
• Wet wipes
• Changing sheet
• Blankets- At least two
• Disposable plastic bags
• Disinfectant/Sanitizer
• Liquid hand wash for yourself
• Child’s toiletries, including toothpaste and brush- small packs
• Tissues
• Toys and small books – Pick your favorites.
• Clothes, socks, and shoes depending on the season- One outfit for a day, and in cold weather, instead of putting on one thick sweater or jacket, always use layers of clothing. Check the nose tip and hands of the baby to see if the layers are enough. Baby shouldn’t feel too hot also.
• Caps, mittens, and boots -necessary in case of a baby below 1 year.
• Towels/bathing suit & washable bibs
• Sunhats and sunscreen (advised by the doctor)
• Feeding sets- lightweight
• Carry snack food as well as any supplement or formula that you give
• Medical kit- You can check with your child’s doctor if he can provide you with the list of medications that you should carry for the child depending on their age. Our doctor always did this, and in times of emergency, we would take medications based on the prescription given.
• Take childproof rooms or carry socket protectors or painter’s tape to cover the switches.
• Car seat- A must if you are driving on your own.
• Stroller- Handy and easy to fold one

If you find this very difficult to organize and pack the right items for your trip then I highly recommend you check my dedicated article about what to pack for a Morocco trip, in which you get to know everything starting from what to wear all the way to the smaller things to pack.

12 Attractions & Things To Do In Rabat (Explained)

If you’ve decided to visit Rabat, you’re probably wondering what to do in Rabat. The city has a lot to offer, from the beautiful view of Hassan Tower to various amazing museums.

1. Admire Hassan Tower

Built by the Almohads, the unfinished Hassan Tower (Le Tour Hassan) was the work of ruler Yacoub al-Mansour and would have been the minaret for his grand vision of a massive mosque on this site that was planned to be one of the largest in the world.

The Hassan Tower was commissioned by the Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur (1160-1199), the third Caliph of the Almohad Caliphate, and would have been one of the tallest in the world at 60 meters.

2. Stroll Udayas Kasbah

Guarding the mouth of the Bou Regreg River against the cliff-top on the left bank is a 12th-century citadel, reconstructed by the Almohads from 1146 as a base from which to launch attacks on Iberia. The Kasbah of the Udayas is a compact maze of scurrying alleys with whitewashed houses trimmed with blue.

The walls command awesome views of Rabat’s beach, the Atlantic, the Bou Regreg estuary, and Salé over on the right bank. At the powerful main gate, Bab Oudaïa, check out the profuse moldings tracing the arch and the frieze.

The Oudaias Craft Museum is in a 17th-century palace in the Kasbah, displaying pottery, Korans, musical instruments, jewelry, traditional Moroccan clothing, jewelry, and spectacular Berber carpets.

3. Enjoy Rabat’s Beach

If you are visiting during the hotter months of the year, heading to the beach is one of the best activities in Rabat. For boat rides and kayaking, go a bit further north or south, e.g., to Temara beach, which is much cleaner than the city beaches.

Note that the waves and currents can be powerful here, so only strong and experienced swimmers should go in the water. You can book surfing lessons at the Oudayas Surf Club. Depending on your comfort level, different beaches are available with smaller and bigger waves.

And if you watch the glimpse of the sunset, the lighthouse sits on a very photogenic rocky cliff with the Atlantic waves crashing around it.

It is easy to find just below the main cemetery of Rabat and next to the surf club. It is best visited around sunset when the cliffs are full of people watching the sun dip into the ocean.

If you don’t mind heading a bit farther south, Bouznika Plage (40 kilometers south of Rabat) is one of the best beaches in Morocco for sunbathing and swimming with a long bay of golden sand, plenty of sun loungers and shades, and nearby cafés for refreshments.

It’s hugely popular with local families on summer weekends.

4. Visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V

Facing off from the Hassan Tower is one of Morocco’s most revered shrines, the tomb of the ruler who guided the nation into independence. Unusually, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V is open to non-Muslims and was built in the 1960s to a design by Vietnamese architect Éric Vo Toan.

As well as Mohammed V (grandfather of the reigning Mohammed VI), the mausoleum is the resting place of his two sons, King Hassan (1929-1999) and Prince Abdallah (1935-1983).

Outside, the mausoleum is imposing but restrained, with multi-loved horseshoe arches and jagged merlons, but the interior brims with fine Moroccan decor.

There’s a marble floor, vibrant zellige walls, and an incredibly detailed ceiling of carved cedar painted with gold leaf and crowned with a dome with stained glass windows. Also, you can view Mohammed V’s tomb from a gallery above.

5. Visit Chellah

Great fun to explore, this walled garden on the left bank of the Bou Regreg estuary holds many layers of history going back to the Phoenicians, who set up a trading post on this spot some 2,500 years ago.

This grew into the Roman city of Sala Colonia, which had a Roman military unit until well into the 5th century, long after Rome had withdrawn from the rest of the region.

Muslim Arabs took over in the 7th century, and it was under the Marinids in the 13th century that the former city became a royal necropolis. Roman holdovers like a triumphal arch, steles, walls, and a fountain are among the ancient fruit trees.

In the Muslim section sits the tomb of Marinid ruler Abu al-Hasan Ali ibn Othman (1297-1351), known as the Black Sultan, who once held sway over the entire Maghreb region.

This is near the foot of a mostly intact stone minaret for a ruined mosque, still partially adorned with zellige tilework and capped with a stork’s nest.

6. Rabat National Zoo

Something that elevates Rabat’s National Zoo, home to more than 150 species, is that it was originally built for the lions that lived at the Royal Palace. What’s fascinating is that these animals descend from the wild Barbary lions, now extinct in the wild, captured by the royal family in the Atlas Mountains.

More than 1,500 animals at the National Zoo, from hippopotamuses to African elephants, mouflons, Nile crocodiles, hyenas, addaxes, and African wild dogs, live in healthy enclosures that mimic the animals’ natural environment.

This is more than a place to stare at captive animals, as you’ll discover at the museum, which deals with Morocco’s changing fauna since the end of the Tertiary Period some 2.6 million years ago.

A new vivarium opened in 2019 holds terrariums for turtles, lizards, amphibians, and snakes. Youngsters will have a fun time feeding the giraffes and taking a ride on a Shetland pony.

7. Historial Old Medina

Rabat’s rambling medina area has a distinctly Andalusian style to its buildings, as most of the architecture here dated from the 17th century when Muslims from Spain’s Andalusia region arrived. This makes it very different from the medinas of Fes and Marrakesh.

In particular, while strolling here, look out for the Grand Mosque on Rue Souk, built by the Merenids in the 14th century. Nearby is a Merenid-built fountain.

The Mellah (Jewish Quarter) is in the medina’s southeast corner. If you’re looking for bargains and local craftwork, the two best shopping streets are Souq es Sebbat and Rue Souk. The Kasbah district sits just off the medina’s northeast corner, so combining visits to both in one morning or afternoon is easy.

If you are a traveler that’s passionate about history and enjoys getting lost in the old cities then I suggest you check out the full guide about the medinas of Morocco, in which you learn about a variety of different old medinas that are worth visiting during your trip to Morocco.

8. Andalusian Gardens

Before leaving Kasbah, you have to visit the Jardins Andalouses. Together with the Museum, they are located in a palace built in the late 1670ies. The French implemented the garden itself during the occupation.

Surrounded by high walls, the garden is an oasis of green and quiet in the busy city. I spent an hour or so just sitting here and enjoying the atmosphere.

The garden is full of flowers of all colors, palms, and other trees and is home to many cats.

9. Dar al-Makhzen (the royal palace)

The Royal Palace in Rabat is unspectacular, especially in comparison with the Fes. But you can enter the gardens at least, and if you are lucky, some parts of the interior are also open to visitors.

This is the palace the Royal family spends most of their time in and where many government meetings with the king occur. So, you can get a peak inside when they are featured on TV.

10. St Peter’s Cathedral

A familiar silhouette on the Rabat cityscape, the functioning St Peter’s Cathedral, was visited in March 2019 by Pope Francis.

The building is in the Art Deco style with Moorish accents, especially in the latticework of its windows, and Resident-General Hubert Lyautey presided over the inauguration ceremony in 1921.

The two towers, seen from around Rabat, came later, in 1931. In the whitewashed interior, look at the cross stations in mosaic and the radiant strips of stained glass throughout.

11. Jardins Exotiques

About 20 minutes up from the Kasbah of the Udayas, on the N1 road, from Salé to Kenitra, is a garden held as one of the most important and most attractive in Morocco.

In four hectares, the Jardins Exotiques de Bouknadel were planted in the middle of the 20th century by the French horticulturalists Marcel François (1900-1999), who bought this plot in 1949.

The space has been open to the public since 1961, and after a fallow period in the 80s and 90s, it was rehabilitated in the 2000s and reopened in 2005. Various species and garden styles are crammed into these four hectares.

You can view Japanese, Chinese and Andalusian garden styles and botanical displays from around the globe, including the African savannah, the Caribbean, and the Amazon and Congo rainforests.

There’s a Moorish-style cafe by the entrance, and the home of Marcel François holds a museum about the history of the site and its rebirth in the 2000s.

12. Interesting Museums

Here are a few interesting museums to explore while visiting Rabat city:

i. Mohammed VI Museum of Modern Art

For anyone interested in Morocco’s modern art movement, this museum is one of Rabat’s top things to do. The permanent collection, housed in an impressively renovated building dating back to the French colonial days, is small but holds artworks from nearly all the country’s top names in the art world from the mid-20th century to the present day.

There is also a temporary exhibition program featuring local and international artists.

ii. Rabat Archaeology Museum

Built in 1932 and enlarged a few years later to display excavated finds, this museum is home to Morocco’s best archaeological collection. The prehistoric section brings human remains from the Middle Paleolithic period to the Neolithic, illustrating the continuity and size of the population at this time.

Pre-Roman civilizations are well represented in the collection. Still, the Roman-era exhibits, hailing from Morocco’s major archaeological sites of Lixus, Volubilis, and Chellah, are the museum’s highlights and include bronzes, ceramics, and sculpture.

Even if you’re not a museum person, this is the one museum on your Morocco travels that you should take advantage of.

iii. Villa des Arts

At a stately mansion in lush, peaceful grounds, this art museum is run by the Fondation ONA, a non-profit partly dedicated to raising the profile of Moroccan art, at two cultural centers, in Rabat and Casablanca.

The Villa des Arts in Rabat has two permanent exhibitions for self-taught naive artists Radia Bent Lhoucine (1912-1994) and Jilali Gharbaoui (1930-1971), considered the first Moroccan non-figurative painter.

There’s also a stage for performing arts at the center for a regular live music program, seminars, and discussions.

Read The Next Guide:

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Casablanca City	Essaouira City
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El Jadida City	Tetouan City
Kenitra City	Ifrane City
Ouarzazate City	Merzouga City

The Bottom Line

If you plan a trip to Morocco, you have many decisions. There are so many awesome places to visit in Morocco, and it can feel impossible to pick one place over another.

While some cities – like Marrakech – are unmissable, others get put on the chopping block. Rabat is often one of those cities if travelers are even considering it at all.

If you often catch yourself staring blankly at your screen, dreaming of far-distant places, it might be time to book your next trip—and the enchanting city of Rabat might be the holiday you never knew you needed.

The journey or trip to Rabat might not be easy, but it is well worth the trip — and it is far safer than you may imagine!

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