Rabat, Morocco: where to find it, when to go, and what to see

Rabat, overlooking the Atlantic coast, is the capital of Morocco. It is a city where the past and tradition blend with modernity. You can spend your days strolling through the wonderful and typical markets or relaxing on the lengthy beaches. A city not to be missed during a trip to this country with a millennia-old history.
Here are all our tips for organizing a trip to Rabat, Morocco.

Population 2,504,000

Language Arabic and Amazigh, French widely spoken

Local currency Moroccan dirham (MAD) / Exchange Rate: $1.00 = 10.50 MAD

Climate Mediterranean, with mild and rainy winters, and hot, sunny summers. Average temperature in January is 12°C, in August 23°C. The rainiest month is December.

Time Zone GMT+1 (-1h compared to the East Coast but only from March to October when Daylight Saving Time is observed)

Entry Requirements passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining. Visa not required for tourist stays of less than three months. A form will be provided at the airport to fill in with traveler information and reasons for the trip.

Safety Information visit the Morocco section on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website

Nearest Airports Rabat-Salé International Airport (116 km)

Rabat is located in Northern Morocco, facing the Atlantic Ocean, on the left bank of the Bou Regreg River. It is about 90 km from Casablanca and 320 km from Marrakech. It is the capital of the country.

From the United States, there are direct flights only from New York with Ryanair, the only company covering this route with an average duration of 3 hours. From other cities, a layover in European cities like Paris, Madrid, or Brussels is expected with airlines like Royal Air Maroc, Ryanair, and Air France (Compare flights).
See also: Things to see in Morocco: imperial cities, attractions, and itineraries

Climate Mediterranean, with mild and rainy winters, and hot, sunny summers. Average temperature in January is 12°C, in August 23°C. Rainfall concentrated between November and March.

Best Period from May to October, for sunny days, with almost no rainfall between June and August. Best for swimming are July, August, and September.

Period to Avoid from November to March, with lower temperatures, wind coming from the Atlantic Ocean, and abundant rainfall.

Advice in your summer luggage pack lightweight and breathable clothing, preferably natural fabric, a sweater for cooler evenings, necessary for the beach (towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses). In winter, warm clothing, windbreaker, and raincoat or umbrella.

The Hassan Tower is the true symbol of the city and a testimony of its past. It is, in fact, a minaret made of red sandstone that was meant to belong to a great mosque that was never built. From its summit, you can admire a unique spectacle. Get directions

The Mausoleum of Mohammed V, located in the same area as the Hassan Tower, houses the remains of several Moroccan kings. The interior is richly decorated in Moroccan style, featuring bronze, wood, and marble. A true masterpiece. Get directions

The Medina is the oldest part of Rabat, where you can stroll among ancient buildings and traditional markets selling all kinds of products. If you want to shop, remember to always haggle to get the best price. Don't miss Rue des Consuls, the liveliest street in the Medina. Get directions

The Kasbah of the Udayas is the symbol of the city along with the Hassan Tower. It is an ancient fortified neighborhood characterized by the presence of houses with white and blue facades. A wonderful and very Instagrammable location, where you can take countless photos. Get directions

If you are in Rabat, you must visit Bab al Kabir, a name that immediately evokes its importance: "The Great Gate". This is not just any gate, but one of the most imposing and historic in the city, a true triumphal arch that introduces you to the heart of the ancient Kasbah des Oudaias. You will feel as if you are about to cross a threshold in time, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the modern city to immerse yourself in an otherworldly atmosphere. Its sturdy walls, decorated with intricate carved motifs, tell centuries of history and passage. It is a focal point for anyone who wants to explore the Kasbah, with its famous white and blue houses, its picturesque alleys, and its fragrant gardens. Here you can take incredible photos, admire the majestic architecture, and simply feel the history enveloping you. It's a perfect introduction to the most authentic soul of Rabat.

How to Get There: Bab al Kabir is located at the entrance of the Kasbah des Oudaias, in the northwestern part of Rabat. It is easily reachable on foot from the city center or by taxi (Get directions)

Visiting Time: 15 min

Do not expect a sad and somber place; the Muslim Cemetery is a cemetery different from the usual. It is located on a hill that gradually descends towards the sea, a place that conveys peace and tranquility. Visiting this site, you can feel the breeze in your hair, and it is truly a place of peace. Get directions

The Royal Palace, or Dâr-al-Makhzen, is the official residence of the king of Morocco and his family. Built in 1864, it is obviously not possible to visit the interior, but it is worth a visit from the outside, more precisely from the Arms Square. Get directions

Plage de Rabat is the beach of Rabat, located a few steps from the Medina and near the city's great lighthouse. Ideal for enjoying some sea and relaxation. But not only that: being an ocean beach, it often has wonderful waves that attract surfing and other water sports enthusiasts. Get directions

Chellah is an important archaeological site 2 km from the center of Rabat, where you can still admire the remains of significant buildings and necropolises. It is, in fact, an ancient citadel where mainly Roman ruins and royal tombs can be found. A must-see for history lovers. Get directions

Finally, if you have enough time, we recommend visiting Salé, Rabat's "twin" city, located on the opposite bank of the Bouregreg River. It is worth a visit for its colorful Medina, rich in typical markets and attractions. Get directions

When you are in Rabat, and you want a truly unique viewpoint of the city and the sea, you absolutely must reach the Semaphore Platform. This panoramic platform, located within the picturesque Kasbah des Oudaias, offers you one of the most spectacular views you can desire. You will find yourself on a promontory that overlooks the estuary of the Bou Regreg River and the shores of Salé, with fishing boats gently swaying and the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean stretching infinitely. The name "Semaphore" comes from the presence of an ancient maritime semaphore that once regulated naval traffic. It's a perfect place to relax, take breathtaking photos, especially at sunset when the sky is painted with incredible colors, or simply to sit on a bench and enjoy the sea breeze, letting your mind wander into the horizon.

How to Get There: The Semaphore Platform is located at the western end of the Kasbah des Oudaias, easily reachable on foot once you enter the Kasbah (Get directions)

Visiting Time: 30 min

The Archaeological Museum of Rabat is one of the most important museums in the country. Inside, it displays historical artifacts from all over Morocco, such as ancient tools, art, and artifacts recovered during excavations. Here you can take a real step back in time and learn about the history of Morocco. Get directions

Rabat, like the rest of Morocco, is a low-cost destination. However, unlike other cities like Marrakech or Casablanca, it is certainly more difficult to reach. Direct flights only depart from New York with the low-cost airline Ryanair. A good alternative is to arrive in Casablanca and then travel by land.

The cost of living is lower than in the USA and you can also find great options at affordable prices in the Medina: there are accommodations and riads from $20.00 per night, but at the same time, you can find various luxury hotels. Attractions also have low costs! You can mainly move around on foot, especially in the Medina. If you need to take a taxi or shop in a souk, remember the golden rule: always bargain! You can really make great deals!

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