Best Things To Do in Rabat

Located on the Atlantic coast, Rabat, the city of multisensory stimuli, is not only the political capital of Morocco, but also one of its great cultural jewels.

Here you can walk through the Kasbah of the Udayas, admire the palaces and discover hidden treasures around every corner. The gentle murmur of the Bouregreg River and the vibrant gastronomy make this city a place where the senses come alive. Visiting this capital is a unique opportunity to enjoy an authentic Morocco, where past and present coexist harmoniously in each of its corners and these are the 10 things to see and do in Rabat to achieve it.

If you like history and want to see Rabat from another angle, I recommend hiring a traditional boat ride on the Bouregreg River This tributary, which divides Rabat from the city of Salé, offers a panoramic view of the main attractions of the city, such as the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower, "the other sister" of the Giralda and the new Theater of Rabat.

During the tour, you can enjoy the tranquility of the river and the sea breeze, while delighting in the mix of modern and ancient landscapes that define the Moroccan capital. In addition, this tour is ideal for both those looking for a relaxing activity, and also for those who wish to learn about Rabat's contrasting architecture from the water, as many guides offer historical and cultural details along the way.

Details of interest

• Duration: between 1 and 2 hours.
• What you should know: the tour is suitable for all ages and sun protection is recommended, as the sun can be strong during certain times of the day.

Rabat is a feast for the senses, and its gastronomy is no exception. Imagine losing yourself among the colorful stalls of the souks, the aroma of spices filling your nostrils and the taste of a freshly made tajine melting in your mouth. From the classic couscous to the exotic pastilla, Moroccan cuisine will surprise you with its variety and richness of flavors. Dare to try a mint tea on a terrace overlooking the sea and feel the stress melt away.

I invite you to sign up for a gastronomic tour of Rabat to visit its markets and traditional restaurants, and do not miss any of these delicacies. In this type of experience, you will not only taste emblematic dishes, but you will also learn about the ingredients that define Moroccan cuisine. Undoubtedly, this activity will allow you to connect with the essence of the Rabat culture through its flavors.

Details of interest

• Duration: 2 to 3 hours, approximately.
• What you should know: it is ideal for lovers of good food, but keep in mind that many dishes are rich in spices, so it may not be suitable for those who prefer mild flavors.

Imagine getting lost in a maze of houses painted in cobalt blue, turquoise and indigo in a city that looks like the bottom of a swimming pool, that's what Chefchaouen offers you, the jewel of the Rif Mountains that will captivate you with its unique charm. The medina, founded in the 15th century, is famous for its cobbled alleys, its obvious Andalusian influence, whitewashed houses in shades of blue and its souks full of local crafts.

Stroll through Uta el Hammam square, where locals gather to chat and sip mint tea. Climb up to the fortress for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Sunlight dances on the facades, creating a visual spectacle that will take your breath away. Although this city is about a 4-hour drive away, bookings for excursions to Chefchaouen top the list of common day trips from Rabat.

The Blue City, Chefchaouen or Chaouen offers a picturesque landscape that looks like something out of a fairy tale, attracting not only regular globetrotters but also those with a passion for photography. At every corner there is an opportunity to capture unforgettable images.

Interesting details

• Duration: one-day excursion.
• What you should know: the trip from Rabat to Chefchaouen takes about 4 hours each way, so it is advisable to leave early. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes, as the city streets are steep and cobblestone.

If you are one of those who enjoy not only eating, but also preparing, some African culinary art lessons in Rabat will be the perfect experience for you. Sign up for a Moroccan cooking class and learn the secrets and craze of flavors characteristic of Moroccan gastronomy from a local chef. From how to select fresh ingredients to traditional cooking techniques, you will discover the flavors and aromas that make Moroccan cuisine one of the richest in the world.

Prepare tajine, kefta, couscous, a sumptuous harira or seasonal dishes. How do these workshops usually take place? First, you visit a traditional market to buy fresh ingredients and learn more about local spices and products. Then, you return to the kitchen where, step by step, you will be taught the techniques that make these dishes African delicacies. At the end of the class, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor and take home some recipes to surprise your friends and family.

Details of interest

• Duration: 4 to 5 hours.
• What you should know: no previous cooking experience is necessary. The workshop is suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks who want to learn something new. It is also a great opportunity to interact with locals and learn more about their culture.

Vibrant and modern Casablanca, the jewel of the land of the setting sun awaits you with its contrasts and energy. Booking an excursion to Casablanca from Rabat is the perfect way to discover this city full of life and legends. Start your tour at the Hassan II Mosque, the central axis of the medina with its minaret rising to the sky in the middle of a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Take a stroll along the Corniche, a promenade with the Atlantic in the background.

Afterwards, don't miss the opportunity to visit the old Jewish quarter of the Habous, with its narrow streets and traditional houses. Also, make your way through the maze of stores and stalls of Casablanca's Golden Triangle, with the Twin Center as a landmark. This is a real sensory journey.

If you prefer to focus on its history, I encourage you to enter its Villa des Arts Museum. If you are passionate about cinema, you will love visiting the places that inspired the legendary film Casablanca. And if you feel like joining the good vibes, the city's vibrant nightlife opens its doors for you among its high-end restaurants and art deco architecture. Even if it's a day trip from Rabat, it will allow you to see another side of Morocco, full of contrasts and modernity.

Details of interest

• Duration: one day tour.
• What you should know: Casablanca is a large city, so it is recommended to plan your visits well to make the most of your time. The visit is ideal for those who want to see the surroundings of Rabat in 2 days or more.

The historic center of Rabat is a maze of stores, craft stalls, multicolored stalls, aromas and modern art in the shade of palm groves. It is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the daily life of Rabat's inhabitants. Walk through the souk, after passing the Bab El Had gate, but always keep an eye on all sides because its streetcar and pedestrians compete for space.

You can also visit iconic places such as the Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret dating from the twelfth century, the Platform of the Traffic Light, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the pantheon of two kings, one of the most important monuments of Morocco. It is also worth getting lost in its narrow streets, although it is important to note that entry to non-Muslims is prohibited in many places. Therefore, booking a guided tour of Rabat is a more advisable option.

Details of interest

• Duration: between 2 and 3 hours.
• What you should know: comfortable shoes are recommended, as you will be walking for several hours. A tour of the capital will allow you to better understand the history and culture of Rabat, while enjoying its impressive architecture.

Unleash your creativity and create unique jewelry inspired by Moroccan designs. Booking a cow horn jewelry workshop in Rabat is an experience that will allow you to explore an authentic facet of local craftsmanship. In a traditional workshop, you will learn how to work with silver, copper and precious stones. Under the guidance of an expert craftsman, you can create a necklace, earrings or a ring to take with you as a souvenir of your trip.

Craftsmanship is a fundamental part of Moroccan culture, and participating in a traditional jewelry workshop in Rabat immerses you in one of the oldest forms of local art. You can choose to design a ring, bracelet or pendant, and you will learn techniques such as engraving, polishing and enameling. This type of experience is ideal for those who wish to take home a handmade souvenir with their personal stamp.

Details of interest

• Duration: between 2 and 3 hours.
• What you should know: no previous experience is required, as the workshop is designed for beginners. Materials and tools are usually included, and the piece you create will be yours at the end of the activity.

Located in the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Andalusian gardens are a haven of peace in the heart of Rabat. Dating back to the 17th century, this green space is designed in the style of Arab-Andalusian gardens, with water fountains, fruit trees and lush ornamental plants.

Here you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while admiring the neat symmetry of the garden, surrounded by the historic walls of the kasbah. In addition, the gardens offer breathtaking views of the Bouregreg River and the Atlantic Ocean, and now also house the Museum of the History of Jewelry and Caftans making it a perfect place to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Details of interest

• Duration: between 1 and 2 hours.
• What you should know: the gardens are an ideal place to take a break and enjoy the tranquility. Its opening hours are from Wednesday to Monday from 10:00 to 18:00 hours.

Chellah is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Rabat. Located on the outskirts of the city, this ancient necropolis was founded by the Phoenicians and later used by the Romans and the Marinids. This site, steeped in history, witnessed the arrival of the Romans and Carthaginians, although the greatest intervention on the site came with the Benimerins, a Berber dynasty that, in the 14th century, transformed Chellah into a great acropolis.

As you cross its monumental gates, you are greeted by semi-octagonal towers and an imposing minaret that evoke its past splendor. As you advance, you are surprised by its forum, a small oratory and the funeral halls of influential figures, highlighting the tomb of Abu Al-Hasan, the great king of the Benimerins. The ruins of mausoleums, Roman columns and decaying mosques coexist with the natural environment, creating an almost mystical atmosphere, accentuated by the storks that nest in its towers.

This place is a must for lovers of history and archeology, as it offers a complete view of the mark left by all the civilizations that have built Morocco.

Details of interest

• Duration: 2 to 3 hours.
• What you should know: the site is quite quiet, allowing you to enjoy the visit at your own pace. Its opening hours are from Monday to Sunday, during winter from 09:00 to 17:00, during Ramadan from 09:00 to 15:00 and in summer from 09:00 to 19:00.

The last of the must-see on a trip to Rabat is the Kasbah of the Udayas, an ancient fortress that, with its white and blue walls, transports you to a time of sultans and warriors. The Kasbah of the Udayas is one of the most picturesque corners of Rabat and a place full of history. Located at the mouth of the Bouregreg River, it was built in the 12th century and has witnessed numerous transformations over the centuries.

As you enter its labyrinthine alleys, you will feel the sea breeze caressing your face and the scent of flowers filling your senses. Strolling through its narrow streets, lined with whitewashed houses in white and blue, is like stepping back in time. From the kasbah, you also get spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the neighboring city of Salé. Don't miss the interesting collection of Moroccan art and jewelry housed in the Udayas Museum, one of the few in the city, by the way, with material in Spanish.

From the ramparts, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the medina. And if you are lucky, you might even find a local craftsman working in his workshop.

Details of interest

• Duration: approximately 1 to 2 hours.
• What you should know: the Kasbah is one of the most photographed places in Rabat, so it is advisable to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.