Things to do in Rabat: Historical Landmarks and Modern Attractions

Looking for exciting things to do in Rabat? Morocco's capital city offers a perfect blend of historical richness and contemporary charm, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both cultural immersion and modern experiences. From ancient monuments dating back centuries to cutting-edge art museums, Rabat presents visitors with a diverse array of activities and attractions that showcase Morocco's fascinating heritage and its progressive vision for the future. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or an adventure seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Rabat that will make your visit truly memorable.

Must-See Historical Landmarks in Rabat

Rabat's rich history is evident in its well-preserved landmarks that tell the story of Morocco's illustrious past. These historical sites should be at the top of your itinerary when visiting the capital.

Visiting the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V

The iconic Hassan Tower stands as a testament to ambitious 12th-century architecture. This minaret of an incomplete mosque was intended to be the largest in the world when construction began in 1195 under Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour. Though never finished after the Sultan's death, the 44-meter tower remains an impressive sight with its intricate stonework and imposing presence.

Adjacent to the tower lies the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of modern Moroccan architecture completed in 1971. This ornate mausoleum contains the tombs of King Mohammed V and his sons, King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. The building features stunning zellige tilework, carved cedar ceilings, and magnificent marble columns. Royal guards in traditional attire stand at attention, adding to the site's solemn grandeur.

Exploring the Oudayas Kasbah and its History

Photo credit: Bob R

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Bou Regreg River, the Oudayas Kasbah is a picturesque fortress with white and blue-washed buildings reminiscent of Greece's Santorini. Dating back to the 12th century, this ancient citadel offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere away from the city's hustle.

Within the Kasbah, you'll find charming narrow streets, the Andalusian Garden with its exotic plants and flowers, and the Oudayas Museum housed in a 17th-century palace. Don't miss the chance to enjoy traditional Moroccan mint tea at Café Maure, which offers spectacular views of the river and the neighboring city of Salé.

Visit the Royal Palace of Rabat

Touring the Royal Palace Grounds

While the interior of the Royal Palace (Dar al-Makhzen) remains closed to the public as it serves as the official residence of King Mohammed VI, visitors can still admire its impressive exterior and expansive grounds. The palace complex, built in 1864, features stunning Islamic architecture with its massive ornate gates, intricate tilework, and meticulously manicured gardens.

The palace's grand entrance, guarded by the Royal Moroccan Guard in their traditional red uniforms, offers excellent photo opportunities. The sprawling plaza in front of the palace often hosts ceremonial events and provides a glimpse into Morocco's monarchical traditions. The surrounding Mechouar is particularly impressive during royal ceremonies when the grounds come alive with pageantry.

Explore the Medina of Rabat

Strolling Through the Medina of Rabat

Unlike the labyrinthine medinas of Fez or Marrakech, Rabat's medina is more navigable while still offering an authentic Moroccan experience. This ancient walled quarter dates back to the 17th century and serves as the heart of traditional commerce and culture in the capital.

As you wander through the narrow, winding streets, you'll encounter local artisans crafting leather goods, textiles, jewelry, and pottery. The commercial streets of Souk es Sebat and Rue Souka offer a variety of traditional Moroccan products, from spices and oils to handcrafted souvenirs.

The medina is also home to several historical monuments, including the Great Mosque and the Merinid Fountain. For a taste of local life, visit in the late afternoon when residents go about their daily shopping and the streets buzz with activity.

Modern Attractions in Rabat

While Rabat holds fast to its historical heritage, the city also embraces modernity with contemporary attractions that showcase Morocco's progressive vision.

Discovering the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

Photo credit: Destination_Partners

Opened in 2014, the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMVI) represents Morocco's commitment to the arts. This striking white building with its Moorish-inspired architecture houses an impressive collection of Moroccan art dating from the early 20th century to the present day.

The museum's permanent and temporary exhibitions feature works by renowned Moroccan artists as well as international contributors. With spacious, well-lit galleries spread across multiple floors, the MMVI offers a refreshing contrast to Rabat's historical attractions and provides insight into the country's evolving artistic identity.

Exploring the Rabat Marina and Bouregreg Valley

The recently developed Rabat Marina along the Bouregreg River offers a glimpse of the city's modern face. This upscale area features a yacht harbor, waterfront promenades, and contemporary architecture. The Bouregreg Valley project has transformed the riverfront into a leisure destination with restaurants, cafes, and shops that attract both locals and tourists.

The ultramodern Rabat-Salé tramway crosses the river here via the Hassan II Bridge, connecting Rabat to its sister city of Salé. For panoramic views of both cities and the Atlantic Ocean, take a boat tour from the marina that navigates along the scenic Bouregreg River.

Relaxing at Rabat's Beaches

When you need a break from sightseeing, Rabat's coastline offers several beautiful beaches where you can unwind and enjoy the Atlantic breeze.

Enjoying Water Sports at Plage de Rabat

Plage de Rabat (Rabat Beach), also known as Plage des Nations, stretches along the city's Atlantic coast and provides a perfect setting for relaxation and recreation. During summer months, the beach comes alive with locals and visitors swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach volleyball.

For adventure enthusiasts, the beach offers various water sports options, including surfing, jet skiing, and windsurfing. The consistent Atlantic waves make Rabat a growing destination for surf enthusiasts. Several surf schools along the beach offer lessons and equipment rental for beginners.

Visiting Temara Beach and Skhirat

Just a short drive south of Rabat lies Temara Beach, a less crowded alternative to Plage de Rabat. With its golden sands and clear waters, Temara offers a more relaxed beach experience. The nearby Harhoura Beach also features excellent facilities and beachfront cafes where you can enjoy fresh seafood.

Further south, the upscale beach town of Skhirat boasts pristine shores and luxury beach clubs. Though technically outside Rabat, these nearby coastal areas make for perfect half-day excursions when you want to escape the city center.

Dining in Rabat: Traditional and Contemporary Cuisine

Rabat's culinary scene reflects its dual identity, offering both traditional Moroccan flavors and international dining options.

Photo credit: hicham b

Dining at La Mamma and Other Notable Restaurants

For an authentic taste of Morocco, visit the restaurants in Rabat's medina, where you can savor traditional dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla in atmospheric settings. Dar El Medina offers excellent Moroccan cuisine in a beautifully restored riad, while Dinarjat provides a refined dining experience with live music in a traditional setting.

For international flavors, La Mamma serves authentic Italian cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Le Dhow, a restaurant housed in a wooden boat moored on the Bouregreg River, offers fusion cuisine and spectacular views of the Kasbah. For contemporary Moroccan cuisine with a creative twist, Le Ziryab blends traditional recipes with modern presentation techniques.

Don't miss the opportunity to sample street food at the many local stalls and small eateries, where you can try specialties like harira soup, msemen (Moroccan pancakes), and freshly squeezed orange juice at budget-friendly prices.

Shopping in Rabat

From traditional handicrafts to modern fashion, Rabat offers diverse shopping experiences that cater to all preferences and budgets.

Shopping at the Mega Mall and Souks

For traditional Moroccan goods, the souks within the medina provide an authentic shopping experience. Here you'll find handcrafted leather goods, pottery, textiles, spices, and jewelry. The Souk El Had in the neighboring city of Salé is also worth visiting for its lively atmosphere and wide variety of products.

For modern shopping, head to Mega Mall, Rabat's largest shopping center, which houses international brands, a food court, and entertainment facilities. The Agdal neighborhood is known for its fashionable boutiques and specialty shops, while Rue des Consuls in the medina is famous for its carpet shops and artisanal workshops where you can watch craftsmen at work.

For a unique souvenir, consider purchasing Rabat carpets, known for their distinctive geometric patterns, or pottery from the nearby town of Salé, recognized for its intricate designs and vibrant colors.

Day Trips from Rabat

Rabat's central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other fascinating destinations in Morocco.

Visiting Salé, Casablanca, and Volubilis

Just across the Bouregreg River lies Salé, Rabat's sister city with a history of piracy and traditional craftsmanship. The Grand Mosque of Salé, built in the 12th century, is one of Morocco's most important religious monuments. The Medersa Bou Inania, a 14th-century Islamic school, showcases exquisite Marinid architecture and intricate decorations.

A day trip to Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and economic hub, is easily arranged via train (about one hour journey). Here you can visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque—one of the largest mosques in the world—and explore the city's Art Deco architecture and vibrant dining scene.

History enthusiasts should consider a trip to Volubilis, an ancient Roman city and UNESCO World Heritage site located about two hours from Rabat. The well-preserved ruins include impressive mosaics, triumphal arches, and Roman baths that offer insight into Morocco's diverse historical influences.

Conclusion

From ancient monuments to modern museums, traditional souks to contemporary shopping malls, Rabat offers a diverse range of experiences that showcase Morocco's rich heritage and forward-looking vision. The city's manageable size makes it possible to explore many attractions within a few days while still enjoying a relaxed pace. Whether you're interested in history, art, cuisine, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this elegant capital, there are countless things to do in Rabat that will make your visit unforgettable. As you plan your trip to Morocco, consider spending at least three days in this charming coastal city to fully appreciate all it has to offer.