Rabat Travel Guide – Top Things to Do, Where to Stay & Local Tips

Rabat Travel Guide, the capital of Morocco, is a clean, modern, historic, and peaceful city that often surprises visitors. Unlike the busy chaos of Marrakech or Casablanca, Rabat offers a calm atmosphere with stunning coastal views, world-class museums, UNESCO heritage sites, and beautiful gardens.

Whether you’re visiting for culture, history, beaches, or relaxation, this guide will help you plan the perfect Rabat trip.

Why Visit Rabat?

Rabat is ideal for travelers who enjoy:

UNESCO historic sites
Clean, relaxing coastal areas
Walkable neighborhoods
Beautiful gardens and museums
A safe and organized city environment
Easy transportation

It’s also one of the safest and most modern cities in Morocco.

Top Things to Do in Rabat

1. Kasbah of the Udayas

A stunning fortress overlooking the ocean, the Kasbah features:

Blue-and-white painted streets
Andalusian gardens
Views of the Bouregreg River
Historic architecture

Perfect for photography and peaceful morning walks.

2. Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V

One of Rabat’s most famous landmarks.

The Hassan Tower is an unfinished 12th-century minaret
The Mausoleum is the burial place of Morocco’s kings
Marble interior, mosaics, and royal guards

This complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. Rabat Medina

Smaller and calmer than medinas in Marrakech or Fes.

You’ll find:

Local crafts
Spices
Jewelry
Traditional clothes
Moroccan snacks

4. Chellah Necropolis

A Roman and medieval archaeological site — mystical, beautiful, and peaceful.

Roman ruins
Medieval walls
Gardens
Storks’ nests everywhere (a unique sight!)

A must-visit for history lovers.

5. Bouregreg Marina

Modern, elegant, and perfect for an evening walk.

Cafés
Restaurants
Views of Salé and the Kasbah
Boat rides

6. Mohammed VI Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art (MMVI)

The best modern museum in Morocco, featuring rotating exhibitions by African, Arab, and international artists.

7. Rabat Beaches

Rabat Travel Guide: has several beaches along the Atlantic coast, great for:

Surfing
Sunbathing
Relaxing walks
Photography

Best beaches:

Plage des Nations
Rabat Ville Beach
Temara Beach

Where to Stay in Rabat

Luxury Hotels

Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses
The View Hotel Rabat
Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Salé (one of Morocco’s best hotels)

Mid-Range Hotels

Budget Options

What to Eat in Rabat

Must-try foods:

Seafood dishes
Couscous with vegetables
Moroccan pastries
Mint tea
Tagines and grilled meats

Recommended restaurants:

Le Dhow — restaurant boat on the river
Ty Potes — French-Moroccan fusion
Dar Zaki — traditional Moroccan cuisine
Le Borjeddar — ocean-view dining

How to Get to Rabat

By Plane

Arrive at Rabat–Salé Airport.

By Train (Best option)

ONCF trains connect Rabat to:

Casablanca (1 hour)
Marrakech (4 hours)
Fes (2.5 hours)
Tangier (1 hour 20 minutes by Al Boraq high-speed train)

By Car

Highways are modern and easy to navigate.

Best Time to Visit Rabat

Spring (March–May) – best weather
Autumn (September–November) – comfortable and mild
Summer – warm and lively
Winter – cool and quiet

Is Rabat Safe?

Rabat Travel Guide: Yes. Rabat is one of the safest and cleanest cities in Morocco.
You can explore freely during the day and evening.

Suggested 2-Day Rabat Itinerary

Day 1

Day 2

Chellah Ruins
MMVI Museum
Lunch at Le Dhow
Walk along the Corniche

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7 “asked questions” concerning travel to Morocco

FAQs

1. Is Rabat worth visiting?

Yes. It’s one of Morocco’s cleanest, safest, and most beautiful cities.

2. How many days should I spend in Rabat?

2–3 days is perfect.

3. What is Rabat famous for?

Hassan Tower, Udayas Kasbah, Chellah Ruins, and its coastal beauty.

4. Is Rabat safe for tourists?

Extremely safe, calm, and organized.

5. What is the best area to stay in Rabat?

Medina, Agdal, or the Marina.

6. Can you visit Rabat in one day?

Yes, especially if coming from Casablanca.

7. Do people speak English in Rabat?

Yes, especially in tourist areas.

8. Does Rabat have beaches?

Yes — several Atlantic coastline beaches.

9. What is the best time to visit Rabat?

Spring and autumn.

10. Is Rabat expensive?

More affordable than Marrakech or Casablanca.

11. How far is Rabat from Casablanca?

Around 1 hour by train.

12. Does Rabat have nightlife?

Yes — lounges, cafés, and restaurants.

13. Is Rabat good for families?

Yes. Safe, clean, and easy to navigate.

14. What is the main train station?

Rabat Ville and Rabat Agdal.

15. Can I visit Salé from Rabat?

Yes — it’s just across the river.