Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, a region on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. This guide will lead you through the best places to visit, the ideal times to plan your trip, activities to indulge in, transportation options, dining recommendations, famous street stalls, where to stay, and essential travel tips.
Places to Visit in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra
Kasbah of the Udayas: Wander through the charming streets of the Udayas, an old fortress that offers breathtaking views of the Bou Regreg River.
Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V: These historic monuments are architectural marvels and important symbols of Morocco’s heritage.
Royal Palace of Rabat: While you can’t enter, you can admire the palace’s beautiful gates and the palace from the outside.
Andalusian Gardens: Find tranquility in these lush gardens located in the Kasbah of the Udayas.
Chellah: Explore the ancient Roman ruins and the peaceful gardens at this historical site.
Best Time to Visit Rabat-Salé-Kénitra
The ideal time to visit Rabat-Salé-Kénitra is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are smaller.
Things to Do in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra
Stroll the Beaches: Enjoy the sun and surf at the beautiful beaches of Rabat and Salé, such as Plage de Rabat and Plage de Salé.
Explore Medina of Salé: Discover the charming medina of Salé with its narrow streets and traditional Moroccan atmosphere.
Visit the Chellah Necropolis: Wander through the ancient Roman ruins and the Chellah Gardens, which are home to a variety of storks.
Try Local Cuisine: Savor Moroccan dishes like couscous, tagines, and pastilla at local restaurants.
How to Get Around in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra
Trains: The rail network connects major cities within the region and offers a convenient mode of transportation.
Taxis: Petite taxis are a common way to travel within the cities, while grand taxis are used for longer journeys.
Walking: Rabat and Salé are pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.
Where to Eat in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra
La Sqala: Located in Rabat, this restaurant offers Moroccan cuisine in a historic fort-like setting.
Dar Rbatia: Enjoy traditional Moroccan flavors in a cozy and inviting atmosphere in Salé.
Al Marsa: This restaurant in Kénitra serves fresh seafood and offers lovely views of the sea.
Famous Street Stalls in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra
Café Maure: In Rabat, this café within the Kasbah of the Udayas offers Moroccan tea and pastries with a view.
Snack El Hassan: Try local snacks and street food in Salé for an authentic culinary experience.
Where to Stay in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra
Riad Kalaa: A charming riad with sea views in Rabat’s medina.
Le Dawliz Hotel & Spa: A luxury option in Rabat with a spa and sea-facing rooms.
Bouad Luxury Resort & Spa: Located in Kénitra, this resort offers a peaceful escape by the sea.
Travel Tips for Rabat-Salé-Kénitra
Dress Modestly: While Rabat is more liberal, it’s respectful to dress modestly in both Rabat and Salé.
Currency: The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available in cities.
Language: Arabic is the official language, but French is widely spoken, especially in Rabat.
Time: Morocco operates on Western European Time (WET), which is UTC+0.
Rabat-Salé-Kénitra is a region where the past and present coexist harmoniously. With this guide, you’re ready to immerse yourself in its history, culture, and stunning coastal beauty while enjoying the best experiences it has to offer.