RABAT: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Welcome to Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital and a perfect blend of history and modernity. As one of Morocco’s imperial cities, Rabat is rich in culture, offering UNESCO-listed landmarks, lush gardens, and a stunning Atlantic coastline. From exploring its medina and admiring its iconic architecture to relaxing by the sea, Rabat promises an enriching experience. Let’s explore why this beautiful city deserves a place on your Moroccan adventure!
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HIGHLIGHTS
Before diving into the details of our recommended itineraries, here's a brief overview and a summary to make planning easier for you:
Day 1: Discover Rabat's Elegance
Hassan Tower, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, Kasbah of the Udayas, Andalusian Gardens, Rabat Medina
Day 2: A Day of Art and Flavor
Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Abul Hassan Medersa, Bouregreg Marina
Walking Food Tour, Tangier Guided Day Tour by High-Speed Train, Full-Day Trip to the Blue City of Chefchaouen
Casablanca, Meknes, Fes, Chefchaouen
GETTING AROUND RABAT
Rabat is a compact city that’s easy to explore. Key attractions like the medina, the Kasbah of the Udayas, and the Andalusian Gardens are all within walking distance, making it ideal for exploring on foot. For getting around the city or visiting neighboring Salé, the Rabat–Salé tramway offers a modern and efficient transport option, connecting major parts of both cities.
Taxis are readily available - petit taxis are perfect for short trips within Rabat, while grand taxis are more suited for longer journeys, including travel between cities. If you're looking to explore beyond Rabat, renting a car provides the flexibility to uncover nearby attractions at your own pace.
Rabat is well-connected by train, with direct routes from major cities such as Casablanca (a 1-hour journey) and Marrakech (approximately 4 hours), making it easy to include in your Moroccan itinerary. If you’re flying into Rabat–Salé Airport (RBA), the city center is just a 20-minute drive away, with taxis and private transfers ensuring a smooth arrival.
1-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Discover Rabat's Elegance
Morning: Start your day at the Hassan Tower, an incomplete minaret surrounded by historical ruins. Visit the adjacent Mausoleum of Mohammed V, an architectural masterpiece and resting place of Moroccan royalty.
Lunch: Enjoy an authentic Moroccan lunch at Le Petit Beur, a cozy restaurant in the city center renowned for its traditional tagines and couscous. The warm ambiance, accompanied by live traditional music, makes it a perfect spot to relax and savor Moroccan flavors.
Afternoon: Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, a UNESCO-listed fortress overlooking the Atlantic. Walk through its narrow alleys adorned with blue and white walls, then relax in the Andalusian Gardens.
Evening: Wander through the vibrant Rabat Medina, where you can shop for handmade crafts, spices, and textiles. End your day with a sunset view at Le Dhow, a floating restaurant offering a unique dining experience by the river.
2-DAY ITINERARY
If you have 2 days in Rabat, immerse yourself in the artistic and culinary treasures that define this vibrant capital city:
Day 2: A Day of Art and Flavor
Morning: Visit the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, this world-class museum showcases an impressive collection of Moroccan and international artwork, blending tradition with modernity.
Lunch: Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at Le Goéland, a well-regarded restaurant in Rabat known for its fresh seafood and sea-inspired dishes crafted with daily arrivals.
Afternoon: Explore the Abul Hassan Medersa in Salé, Rabat's twin city just across the Bouregreg River. This 14th-century Islamic school boasts intricate zellige tilework and peaceful courtyards. Then, walk along the Bouregreg Marina, where you can admire the modern skyline and traditional fishing boats or take a relaxing boat ride.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal at Ziryab Restaurant, a refined venue offering flavorful tagines and couscous dishes in an elegant setting.
WHERE TO STAY
Rabat offers accommodations that cater to different preferences and budgets, providing options that range from traditional riads to modern hotels with excellent amenities:
Mid-Range:
MGallery Le Diwan Rabat: A stylish hotel offering comfortable rooms, a spa, and a central location near key attractions.
Riad Kalaa: A charming riad located in the medina, featuring traditional décor, a rooftop terrace, and personalized service, offering an authentic Moroccan experience.
Dar Shaan: A boutique riad blending modern comforts with traditional Moroccan charm, offering a serene courtyard, a rooftop pool, and excellent hospitality, located in the heart of Rabat's medina.
Luxury:
Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr: Situated on the Atlantic coastline, this hotel combines historical charm with modern luxury. Enjoy ocean views, a spa, and multiple dining venues.
La Tour Hassan Palace: A historic hotel in the heart of Rabat, offering opulent rooms, a spa, and gourmet restaurants, all reflecting traditional Moroccan architecture.
Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé Hotel & Residences: Located along the Bouregreg River, this hotel features elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and exceptional dining options, blending Moroccan heritage with contemporary design.
EXTRA ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE
If you find yourself with extra time in Rabat, consider adding these activities to your trip:
Walking Food Tour: Experience the vibrant flavors of Rabat on a guided walking food tour. Learn about the city’s history, traditions, and cuisine while enjoying Morocco’s best dishes at local food stalls. Book here →
Tangier Guided Day Tour by High-Speed Train: Enjoy an exciting full-day tour of Tangier and its surroundings. Travel from Rabat on a high-speed train, then discover Tangier’s highlights, including the Kasbah, the port, the old Medina, and more. Book here →
Full-Day Trip to the Blue City of Chefchaouen: Explore the stunning Blue City of Chefchaouen on a full-day trip from Rabat. Wander its iconic blue streets, visit local landmarks, and soak in the charm of this mountain gem. Book here →
BEYOND RABAT
While Rabat has much to offer, there are also several incredible nearby destinations worth exploring:
Casablanca: Discover the iconic Hassan II Mosque, vibrant souks in the Habous Quarter, and Morocco’s modern art and dining scene. Check out our ultimate Casablanca itinerary →
Meknes: Step into history at the Bab Mansour Gate, the grand Royal Stables, and the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis. Check out our ultimate Meknes itinerary →
Fes: Step back in time in the medieval city of Fes el-Bali, home to the world’s oldest university, the Al Quaraouiyine, and vibrant tanneries. Check out our ultimate Fes itinerary →
Chefchaouen: Lose yourself in the enchanting blue streets, stunning mountain views, and peaceful ambiance of this Rif Mountains treasure. Check out our ultimate Chefchaouen itinerary →