Rabat

الرباط

Morocco's elegant capital sits on the Atlantic coast with a harmonious blend of historic medina, French colonial quarters, and the magnificent Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V. The riverside location and refined atmosphere make it one of North Africa's most pleasant capitals.

Things to do

• Hassan Tower — Climb the minaret of this 12th-century unfinished mosque for panoramic views of the Bouregreg River and the Atlantic coast.
• Mausoleum of Mohammed V — Visit this stunning white marble mausoleum next to Hassan Tower, a sacred royal monument open to visitors with strict dress codes respected.
• Medina of Rabat — Wander the narrow souks and traditional alleyways of the old medina, discovering local crafts, spice vendors, and authentic street food stalls.
• Kasbah of the Udayas — Explore this fortified palace complex with blue-and-white painted streets, traditional gardens, and a museum showcasing Moroccan crafts and history.
• Bouregreg River Walk — Stroll along the riverside promenade between Rabat and Salé for sunset views, cafés, and access to the modern Bouregreg development.
• Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art — Experience Morocco's vibrant contemporary art scene with rotating exhibitions in this striking modern building.
• Chellah Ruins — Discover the atmospheric Roman and Islamic archaeological site just south of the medina, featuring ancient walls, tombs, and a peaceful garden sanctuary.

Food to try

• Harira — A warming spiced tomato and lentil soup traditionally eaten at sunset during Ramadan, rich with chickpeas and lamb or beef.
• Tagine of Fish with Chermoula — Fresh Atlantic fish slow-cooked in an earthen pot with vibrant green herb paste, lemon, and spices reflecting Rabat's coastal bounty.
• Pastilla — Crispy phyllo pastry enveloping spiced meat or seafood filling, dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon, a refined Moroccan classic.
• Couscous Friday — Experience the tradition of eating couscous with seven vegetables every Friday at lunch, the most important family meal in Moroccan culture.
• Fresh Seafood at Oudaya Café — Enjoy grilled sardines, prawns, or hammour fish at waterfront cafés in the Kasbah overlooking the river with mint tea service.
• Msemen and Honey — Tear into flaky pan-fried pastry layers drizzled with locally sourced argan oil and wildflower honey at a traditional breakfast.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Respectfully — Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting mosques or the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, where shoulders and knees should be covered and shoes removed.
• Bargaining in Souks — Haggling is expected in medina markets but not in fixed-price shops; start at half the asking price and engage respectfully for the best experience.
• Greetings and Hospitality — Always greet shopkeepers and locals with 'Assalamu alaikum' (peace be upon you) and accept offered mint tea graciously, as refusing hospitality can be considered rude.
• Friday Observance — Many shops and restaurants close or have reduced hours on Friday afternoons during midday prayers, so plan visits accordingly and respect prayer times.

Nearby

• Rabat Beaches (Rabat & Northern Atlantic) — 1 km
• Salé — 6 km
• Salé Medina (Rabat & Northern Atlantic) — 23 km
• Bou Regreg Estuary (Rabat & Northern Atlantic) — 23 km