Rabat- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Located where the Bou Regreg river meets the Atlantic, Rabat blends the calm of the coast with the deep history of Morocco’s dynastic past. As the country’s administrative capital, it also holds an important place in heritage and contemporary culture.

Rabat rests on Morocco’s north-western Atlantic coast. Its setting at the river’s mouth gives it a unique mix of sea-breeze, riverfront promenades and strategic defensibility. Modern Boulevards and a relaxed seaside pace mean it feels less frenetic than some other Moroccan cities.

The city’s roots stretch back through Berber, Roman and Islamic eras. Its imperial status (one of the “Imperial Cities” of Morocco) and the walls, gates and ancient quarters reflect this layered legacy. In the 12th century the city’s Almohad rulers began major building projects such as the tower later known as Hassan Tower. After independence, Rabat was designated as the administrative capital, giving it a contemporary role alongside its historic one.

Today Rabat serves as the seat of government, host to embassies and cultural institutions, and offers a quieter alternative to Morocco’s larger tourist hubs. Its coastal location adds a different dimension: strolls along the riverfront marina or the ocean-edge corniche come naturally. Its modern transport links and visitor-friendly layout make it accessible, yet its heritage sites ensure rich depth.

• One of Rabat’s highlights is the old medina: narrow streets, vendors, tradition and a more relaxed pace than heavier-tourist cities.
• The Kasbah of the Udayas (12th century citadel) sits at the mouth of the river, with whitewashed-and-blue houses, gardens and wide views across to Salé.
• The nearby Chellah Necropolis offers Roman-era ruins in peaceful gardened surroundings — historic gravitas meets bird-and-garden tranquillity.

• The splendid but incomplete minaret known as Hassan Tower still stands as a reminder of ambition and history. Adjacent is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V with carved marble, tilework and royal sepulchres.
• For modern art lovers, the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (opened 2014) showcases more than 200 Moroccan artists and bridges heritage with present-day creativity.

• Getting to Rabat is straightforward: the airport and train links connect it from Casablanca, Fès and other cities.
• Within the city, much can be done on foot or via tramways, and the pace is more relaxed than in larger centres.
• For the best experience: plan your visit in spring (March-May) or early autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds. Sample Moroccan cuisine in cafés around the medina or at seaside restaurants by the marina — tagine, couscous or fresh Atlantic fish.
• At the end of the day, a sunset stroll along the riverfront or corniche brings the city’s history and coast together in one frame.