Rabat in Morocco: The capital city, known for its historical landmarks, including the Kasbah of the Udayas

Rabat: Historical and Modern Attractions of The Capital

Rabat, the political and administrative capital of Morocco, is a city that beautifully blends modernity with tradition. Located on the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River, Rabat offers a unique mix of historic monuments, lush parks, and a vibrant cultural scene. Unlike the hustle and bustle of cities like Casablanca or Marrakech, Rabat is known for its calm, organized streets, and cosmopolitan vibe. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its rich history and impressive architecture.

Visitor Fee (If Applicable)

There is no fee to enter the city itself, but several historical sites and museums charge small admission fees:

Hassan Tower: Free to visit the site.
Mausoleum of Mohammed V: Free entry.
Kasbah of the Udayas: Free.
Chellah Necropolis: ~70 MAD.
Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: ~40 MAD for adults, ~20 MAD for students.

Transportation

Airport: Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA), located about 10 km from the city center. Taxis and buses are available for transfers.
Trains: Rabat is connected to major Moroccan cities via the ONCF railway network. High-speed trains (Al Boraq) link Rabat to Casablanca (1 hour) and Tangier (1.5 hours).
Buses: Public buses are available for city travel, while long-distance buses connect Rabat to other cities.
Trams: The Rabat-Salé tramway is a convenient way to travel within the city and between Rabat and the neighboring city of Salé.
Taxis: Petit taxis (local rides) and grand taxis (long-distance) are widely available.
Walking: The city center, medina, and key attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Things to Do

Hassan Tower: An unfinished minaret dating back to the 12th century, part of a grand mosque that was never completed. It stands as an iconic symbol of Rabat.
Mausoleum of Mohammed V: A stunning white marble mausoleum housing the tombs of King Mohammed V and his two sons, King Hassan II and Prince Moulay Abdallah. Its intricate design reflects traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.
Kasbah of the Udayas: A historic fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with beautiful Andalusian-style gardens and narrow blue-and-white streets. It offers stunning views of the river and the sea.
Chellah Necropolis: An ancient Roman and medieval Islamic site with ruins of Roman buildings, a mosque, and royal tombs, set amidst lush gardens and storks’ nests.
Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: This museum showcases Moroccan and international contemporary art, housed in a modern architectural masterpiece.
Royal Palace of Rabat (Dar al-Makhzen): Though not open to the public, visitors can admire the exterior of the palace, the official residence of the Moroccan king.
Rabat Medina: A smaller, quieter version of medinas found in other Moroccan cities. It’s a great place to shop for handicrafts, textiles, and traditional goods.
Andalusian Gardens: Located within the Kasbah, these gardens are a peaceful retreat with beautiful fountains, flowers, and shaded pathways.

Rabat, Morocco: Capital city known for its historic landmarks, including the Hassan Tower and the Royal Palace

Why People Enjoy Rabat

Visitors are drawn to Rabat for its calm, relaxed atmosphere combined with historical richness. The city offers a more laid-back experience compared to other Moroccan cities, making it an ideal destination for those who want to explore Morocco's heritage without the crowds. Its green parks, wide avenues, and cultural institutions give it a modern European flair, while the ancient medina, kasbah, and historical monuments keep it rooted in tradition. Many enjoy Rabat for its balance between history and modern living, with a cultural scene that includes galleries, theaters, and festivals.

How Old is Rabat?

Rabat’s history dates back to the 3rd century BC when it was a Roman settlement known as Sala Colonia. In the 12th century, it became an important Islamic city under the Almohad dynasty, which built the Hassan Tower. Since then, Rabat has grown into a key political and cultural hub, particularly after becoming Morocco’s capital in 1912 during the French Protectorate.

List of Activities

Visit the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V to experience Morocco's rich Islamic architecture.
Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas and enjoy the views from the fortress over the Atlantic Ocean.
Stroll through the Chellah Necropolis, where ancient Roman ruins meet Islamic history.
Discover modern art at the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.
Wander the narrow streets of the Rabat Medina and shop for traditional Moroccan goods.
Walk through the Andalusian Gardens, a serene space inside the Kasbah of the Udayas.
Admire the exterior of the Royal Palace.
Take a walk along the Bouregreg Riverfront, where cafés and parks offer relaxing views of the river and Salé.

Additional Nearby Attractions

Sale: A twin city across the river from Rabat, Salé is known for its medina, Great Mosque, and connection to pirate history. The two cities are connected by tram.
Plage des Nations: A beautiful beach located about 20 km from Rabat, offering a peaceful retreat and water activities.
Temara: A coastal town just south of Rabat, known for its sandy beaches and beachside cafés.
Mehdia: A town with a large beach located about 30 minutes north of Rabat, ideal for surfing and beach outings.

Rabat, with its blend of ancient heritage and modern sophistication, offers a unique experience as Morocco’s capital city. It’s a perfect destination for travelers seeking both cultural exploration and a tranquil environment.