Hotels in Rabat

Rabat — Morocco's Regal Capital

Rabat sits where the Bou Regreg River meets the Atlantic, serving as Morocco's political capital and one of the country's four imperial cities. Less frenetic than Marrakech or Casablanca, Rabat rewards visitors with well-preserved historic monuments, a walkable medina, and a relaxed pace that makes exploring genuinely enjoyable. Whether you're here for a short business trip or a deeper dive into Moroccan heritage, the city delivers.

Historic Landmarks Worth Your Time

The Hassan Tower is perhaps Rabat's most recognisable sight — a 12th-century minaret that was never completed, standing alongside the ruins of what would have been one of the largest mosques in the world. Right beside it, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V is an elegant tribute to Morocco's first post-independence king, with intricate tilework and carved cedar ceilings that draw visitors from across the globe.

The Kasbah of the Udayas crowns a cliff above the river estuary, offering sweeping views over the Atlantic and the neighbouring city of Salé. Its blue-and-white alleys and Andalusian garden make it one of the most photogenic corners of North Africa. Further south, the ancient necropolis of Chellah combines Roman ruins with a medieval Marinid complex, surrounded by gardens where storks nest in the towers — an atmospheric and largely crowd-free experience.

Medina and Ville Nouvelle

Rabat's Medina is compact and relatively hassle-free compared to other Moroccan cities, making it ideal for first-time visitors. The main artery, Rue Souika, is lined with spice stalls, textile shops, and local bakeries. For a contrast, the Ville Nouvelle — the French colonial new town — offers wide boulevards, pavement cafés, and the city's main commercial district. The two neighbourhoods sit side by side, making it easy to move between traditional and contemporary Morocco in a single afternoon.

Getting Around Rabat

Rabat is well connected by rail via Rabat Ville Station, which links the capital to Casablanca in under an hour and to Fez in roughly three hours. Rabat–Salé Airport handles domestic flights and a growing number of international routes. Within the city, trams run between the medina, Ville Nouvelle, and the university district, making public transport a practical choice. Taxis are metered and affordable for shorter hops.

Practical Tips

• Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild temperatures ideal for sightseeing.
• Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are widely available in Ville Nouvelle.
• Language: Arabic and French are the main languages; basic French phrases go a long way.
• Dress code: Modest dress is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites like the Mausoleum.
• Day trips: Salé, directly across the river, and the Roman ruins at Volubilis are both accessible within a half-day.