bigtravelbuzzRabat, the capital of Morocco, is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with a modern, vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing by the sea, Rabat has something to offer every traveler. This guide will help you discover the best places to visit, the ideal time to plan your trip, activities to enjoy, transportation options, dining recommendations, famous street stalls, where to stay, and travel tips for your visit.
Places to Visit in Rabat
Kasbah of the Udayas: Explore the charming streets of this ancient fortress that offers stunning views of the Bou Regreg River.
Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V: Admire the grand Hassan Tower and the royal mausoleum, which are iconic landmarks of Rabat.
Royal Palace of Rabat: While you can’t enter the palace itself, the palace gates are intricately designed and impressive to view.
Chellah: Discover the historical site of Chellah, featuring Roman ruins, Islamic architecture, and tranquil gardens.
Andalusian Gardens: Stroll through these serene gardens located within the Kasbah of the Udayas.
Best Time to Visit Rabat
The best time to visit Rabat is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller.
Things to Do in Rabat
Visit the Beaches: Rabat offers beautiful beaches like Plage de Rabat, where you can relax by the sea.
Explore the Medina: Wander through the historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to experience the traditional Moroccan way of life.
Enjoy Moroccan Cuisine: Savor authentic Moroccan dishes such as tagines, couscous, and pastilla at local restaurants.
How to Get Around in Rabat
Trains: Morocco has a well-connected train network, and Rabat’s main train station is ideal for intercity travel.
Taxis: Petite taxis are available for in-city transportation, and grand taxis are suitable for traveling between cities.
Walking: Rabat is a pedestrian-friendly city, and you can explore many areas on foot.
Where to Eat in Rabat
La Sqala: Located in the Kasbah of the Udayas, this restaurant offers Moroccan cuisine in a historic fort-like setting.
Dinarjat: A restaurant specializing in traditional Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes in the heart of Rabat.
Le Ziryab: A rooftop restaurant offering a mix of Moroccan and international flavors with stunning views.
Famous Street Stalls in Rabat
Café Maure: Found in the Kasbah of the Udayas, this café offers Moroccan tea and pastries in a picturesque setting.
Street Food near the Medina: Explore the streets near the medina to find stalls serving delicious Moroccan street food.
Where to Stay in Rabat
Riad Kalaa: A charming riad with sea views, located in Rabat’s medina.
Le Dawliz Hotel & Spa: A luxury hotel in Rabat offering comfortable rooms and a spa.
Hotel La Tour Hassan Palace: A five-star hotel with elegant rooms and excellent amenities.
Travel Tips for Rabat
Dress Modestly: It’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and the old medina.
Currency: The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency, and ATMs are widely available.
Language: Arabic is the official language, but French is widely spoken, and many locals understand English.
Time: Morocco operates on Western European Time (WET), which is UTC+0.
Rabat’s unique blend of history, culture, and modernity makes it a captivating destination. This guide equips you with the information you need to make the most of your visit to this fascinating Moroccan capital.