The Ultimate Travel Guide to Rabat: 15 Best Things to Experience in the City
Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, is a stunning destination with a rich history, culture, and architecture. The city has something for everyone, from ancient historical sites to modern museums, from peaceful gardens to bustling souks. In this blog post, we'll explore the 15 best things to see and do in Rabat, Morocco.
Visit the Grand Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V
The Grand Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V is a must-visit site in Rabat. The Grand Hassan Tower is an unfinished mosque that was intended to be the largest mosque in the world, while the Mausoleum of Mohammed V is the final resting place of King Mohammed V and his two sons, King Hassan II and Prince Moulay Abdallah. Both the tower and the mausoleum are rich in history and architectural beauty, making them a must-visit site for anyone visiting Rabat.
Wander the Ancient Kasbah des Oudaias
The Kasbah des Oudaias is a historic neighborhood that dates back to the 12th century. The Kasbah is located on a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by walls that were once used to protect the city from pirates. Today, the Kasbah is a peaceful neighborhood with narrow streets, blue-painted houses, and a charming atmosphere. Visitors can wander the streets and take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful neighborhood.
Wander the Narrow Streets of Rabat’s Old Medina
Rabat's old medina is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets that lead to the heart of the city. The medina is a great place to explore, with street vendors selling spices, textiles, and souvenirs. Visitors can also find traditional Moroccan restaurants and shops selling handmade goods.
Sip Mint Tea in the Peaceful Andalusian Gardens
The Andalusian Gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of Rabat. The gardens are located in the old medina and are surrounded by walls that were once part of a palace. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful gardens and sip on mint tea while taking in the stunning views of the city.
Explore Ancient Berber Art at Oudaias Craft Museum
The Oudaias Craft Museum is a unique museum that showcases ancient Berber art and handicrafts. Visitors can learn about the traditional techniques used by Berber artisans, and admire the intricate designs and patterns found in the museum's collections.
Cross the Bou Regreg River to Salé by Boat
The Bou Regreg River is a beautiful river that separates Rabat from the neighboring city of Salé. Visitors can cross the river by boat, and enjoy the stunning views of the river and the cities along its banks.
Go Wild at the Rabat Zoo
The Rabat Zoo is a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, monkeys, and giraffes, as well as a petting zoo for children.
Visit the Slave Prison of Pirates of Salé
The Slave Prison of Pirates of Salé is a historic prison that dates back to the 17th century. The prison was used to hold pirates who were captured by the Moroccan army, and is now open to visitors as a museum. Visitors can learn about the history of the prison and the lives of the prisoners who were held there.
Visit Mohammed VI Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art
The Mohammed VI Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art is a modern museum that showcases the work of contemporary Moroccan artists. Visitors can admire a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations, and learn about the contemporary art scene in Morocco. The museum is located in a stunning modern building and is a must-visit site for art lovers.
Stroll the Promenade at the Bou Regreg Marina
The Bou Regreg Marina is a beautiful promenade along the river that offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding cities. Visitors can stroll along the promenade and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, or relax in one of the many cafes and restaurants that line the marina.
View the Third-Largest Mosque in Morocco
The Third-Largest Mosque in Morocco is a stunning mosque that was built in the 1960s. The mosque is renowned for its intricate architecture and beautiful tile work, and is a must-visit site for anyone interested in religious architecture. Visitors can admire the mosque's beauty both inside and out.
Watch Blacksmiths and Potters Craft Handmade Souvenirs at the Souk El Oulja
The Souk El Oulja is a bustling market located in the heart of Rabat. Visitors can watch blacksmiths and potters at work, and purchase handmade souvenirs, including traditional jewelry, textiles, and ceramics. The souk is a great place to experience the vibrant culture of Rabat.
Visit a Royal Residence at the Royal Palace of Rabat
The Royal Palace of Rabat is a stunning palace that is used as a residence by the King of Morocco. Visitors are not allowed inside the palace, but they can admire its beauty from the outside and learn about its history. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens, making it a peaceful and relaxing place to visit.
Visit the Abou Hassan Medersa in Salé
The Abou Hassan Medersa is a historic religious school located in Salé. The medersa was built in the 17th century and is renowned for its intricate architecture and beautiful tile work. Visitors can admire the beauty of the medersa and learn about its history and importance as a religious institution.
Day Trip to the Sites around Kenitra
Kenitra is a city located just a short drive from Rabat, and is home to several important historical sites. Visitors can take a day trip to Kenitra and visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the stunning Royal Palace of Moulay Ismail, and the beautiful Botanical Garden of Kenitra. These sites offer a glimpse into Morocco's rich history and culture, and are a must-visit for anyone visiting Rabat.
In conclusion, Rabat is a stunning city with a rich history, culture, and architecture. Whether you're interested in history, art, nature, or simply experiencing a vibrant and exciting city, Rabat has something for everyone. Be sure to include these 15 best things to see and do in your itinerary to make the most of your visit to Rabat, Morocco.
