Imperial cities
Rabat
The administrative capital of the Kingdom, Rabat charms with its UNESCO sites, its kasbah facing the ocean and an atmosphere more peaceful than the big metropolises.
- Region
- Imperial cities
- Ideal stay
- 2–3 days
- Best time
- April – June
Royal capital
Seat of the Kingdom’s institutions, Rabat combines historic monuments, embassies and leafy residential districts.
UNESCO heritage
The city and its Chellah necropolis are part of the World Heritage, reflecting several centuries of Moroccan history.
Gentle living
Calmer than Casablanca, Rabat offers a pleasant setting between ocean, the Bou Regreg river and shady gardens.
Don't miss
Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V
Kasbah of the Udayas
Chellah
Medina of Rabat
Essential guide
What to do in Rabat ?
Emblematic sites, must-do experiences and the best outing ideas to plan your stay.
The essentials
4 placesHassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V
The unfinished 12th-century minaret and the neighbouring royal mausoleum, historic symbols of the city.
See on the mapKasbah of the Udayas
A fortified citadel of blue-and-white lanes, perched at the mouth of the Bou Regreg facing the ocean.
See on the mapChellah
An ancient and medieval necropolis ringed by ramparts, mixing Roman ruins and Marinid monuments in a green setting.
See on the mapMedina of Rabat
A quieter medina than those of the other imperial cities, known for its craft souks and the Rue des Consuls.
See on the mapCulture & Museums
4 placesMohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Morocco's first major modern-art museum, dedicated to Moroccan and international artists.
See on the mapBotanical Test Gardens
A historic garden planted with rare species, a green haven appreciated for its shady paths.
See on the mapRue des Consuls
The historic shopping street of the medina, long home to foreign diplomatic missions.
See on the mapRabat Beach
An urban beach at the foot of the Kasbah of the Udayas, popular with families and surfers.
See on the mapAround Rabat
4 placesSalé
Rabat's twin city across the Bou Regreg, with its own medina and a more traditional feel.
See on the mapBou Regreg Marina
A contemporary riverside district, between restaurants, promenades and views of the Kasbah of the Udayas.
See on the mapRoyal Palace (exterior)
The official residence of the King, whose imposing esplanade and gates can be seen from outside.
See on the mapRabat-Salé tramway
A pleasant, scenic way to link the two banks of the river along the historic ramparts.
See on the mapBest time to visit
April – June / Sept. – Nov.
Average temperatures : 18–23°C
Season IdealGetting around
In Rabat, walking is ideal in the historic centre. For longer trips, taxis (petits and grands), buses and trains connect the city to the rest of the Kingdom.
Where to stay
Options range from traditional riads to boutique hotels. Choose accommodation near the medina or the main sights to make the most of Rabat.
Good to know
Respect local customs, bargain with a smile in the souks and keep some change for small purchases. A word of Arabic or Berber is always appreciated.
Next destination
Ifrane