Best Things To Do in Rabat

Situated on the Atlantic coast, Rabat, the city of multi-sensory stimuli, is not only **Morocco'**s political capital, 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 every corner, and these are the 10 things to see and do in Rabat to do just that.

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

During the trip, you can enjoy the tranquillity 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 those looking for a relaxing activity, as well as for those who wish to experience 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 at certain times of the day.

Rabat is a feast for the senses, and its cuisine is no exception. Imagine losing yourself among the colourful stalls of the souks, the aroma of spices filling your nostrils and the taste of a freshly made tajine melting in your mouth. From classic couscous to exotic pastilla, Moroccan cuisine will surprise you with its variety and richness of flavours. 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 explore its markets and traditional restaurants, and don't miss out on 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. Without a doubt, this activity will allow you to connect with the essence of the Rabat culture through its flavours.

Details of interest

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

Imagine losing yourself 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 streets, its Andalusian influence, its 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 Chefchaouen is about a 4-hour drive away, bookings for excursions to Chefchaouen top the list of regular outings from Rabat.

The Blue City, Chefchaouen or Chaouen offers a picturesque landscape that looks like something out of a fairytale, appealing not only to the globetrotting regulars but also to those with a passion for photography. Everywhere there is an opportunity to capture unforgettable images.

Interesting details

• Duration: one-day trip.
• What you should know: the journey from Rabat to Chefchaouen takes approximately 4 hours each way, so an early start is recommended. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes, as the city's streets are steep and cobbled.

If you are someone who enjoys not only eating, but also cooking, then a lesson in African culinary arts in Rabat will be the perfect experience for you. Sign up for a Moroccan cooking class and learn the secrets and flavour craze of Moroccan cuisine from a local chef. From how to select fresh ingredients to traditional cooking techniques, you will discover the flavours and aromas that make Moroccan cuisine one of the richest in the world.

Prepare tajine, kefta, couscous, 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 produce. 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 labour 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 soaring skywards amidst 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 labyrinth of shops and stalls in Casablanca's Golden Triangle, with the Twin Center as a landmark. This is a real sensory tour.

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 just a day trip from Rabat, you'll get to see another side of Morocco, full of contrasts and modernity.

Interesting details

• Duration: one-day trip.
• What you should know: Casablanca is a large city, so it is advisable to plan your visits well in order to make the most of your time. The tour is ideal for those who want to get to know the area around Rabat in 2 days or more.

The historic centre of Rabat is a labyrinth of shops, craft stalls, colourful 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 through the Bab El Had gate, but keep your eyes peeled as the tramway and passers-by compete for space.

You can also visit iconic sites such as the Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret dating from the 12th century, the Traffic Light Platform, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the pantheon of two kings, one of Morocco's most important monuments. It is also worth wandering through its narrow streets, although it is important to note that entry to non-Muslims is forbidden in many places. Booking a guided tour of Rabat is therefore a more advisable option.

Useful details

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

Unleash your creativity and create a unique piece of jewellery inspired by Moroccan designs. Booking a cow horn jewellery 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 back with you as a souvenir of your trip.

Craftsmanship is a fundamental part of Moroccan culture, and participating in a traditional jewellery 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 enamelling. This type of experience is ideal for those who wish to take home a handmade souvenir with their own 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 relaxing 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 Jewellery and Caftans, making it a perfect place to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Interesting details

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

Chellah is one of Rabat's most fascinating archaeological sites. 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, but the greatest intervention on the site came with the Benimerins, a Berber dynasty who, in the 14th century, transformed Chellah into a great acropolis.

As you pass through its monumental gates, you are greeted by semi-octagonal towers and an imposing minaret that evoke its past splendour. As you proceed, you are surprised by its forum, a small oratory and the funeral halls of influential figures, notably 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 surroundings, creating an almost mystical atmosphere, accentuated by the storks that nest in its towers.

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

Interesting details

• Duration: 2 to 3 hours.
• What you should know: the site is fairly quiet, allowing you to enjoy the visit at your own pace. Opening hours are Monday to Sunday, during the 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-sees on a trip to Rabat is the Kasbah of the Udayas, an ancient fortress whose white and blue walls take you back to a time of sultans and warriors. The Kasbah of the Udayas is one of the most picturesque corners of Rabat and a place steeped in history. Located at the mouth of the Bouregreg River, it was built in the 12th century and has seen many transformations over the centuries.

As you wander through 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 neighbouring city of Salé. Don't miss the interesting collection of Moroccan art and jewellery 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're lucky, you might even come across a local craftsman at work 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.