Hello and as-salamu alaykum / Hi and high welcome to your friends at Distinctive Experience! Visions of hustling and bustling Marrakesh Souks, the ancient city of Fes or the dunes that seem endless under the Sahara will often be images that are top of mind when you dream of travelling to Morocco. What things to do in rabat Morocco? Being recognized as the modern capital of the country and UNESCO World Heritage site, Rabat presents its own unique and indispensable fragment of the Moroccan puzzle. It is a peaceful, elegant city with broad boulevards that cross historical medina walls, and where rich history is enveloped by a serene atmosphere of the coast.
Distinctive Experience is of the opinion that in order to know Morocco, you have to see it layered. That is why we like to see travellers exploring the beauty of Rabat before heading to the mountains or the desert. This complete guide will tell you all of the amazing things to do in rabat morocco, and how this beautiful city can be the ideal, relaxing beginning to your memorable journey with us.
Why Rabat is a Must-Visit on Your Trip to Morocco
Rabat is a contrasting city that incorporates old and new. It is the political capital where the official residence of the King is also located along with several foreign embassies making it a well maintained and polished city. Whilst (simultaneously), its medina and kasbah are deeply rooted in centuries of history, telling you stories out of ancient civilizations.
The atmosphere is the only thing that transforms Rabat into a city different than others such as Marrakech. The medina in Rabat is much less busy and touristic, it is a pleasure to spend time there and not constantly feel like you need to buy something just to get doubted. The location of this city along the ocean gives it a cool ocean breeze, and so many green areas and vast open plazas keep the city spacious and calm. Rabat is the right choice when it comes to people who prefer to take their trips in morocco at a nice and slow pace.
The Essential Things to Do in Rabat, Morocco: A Local’s Guide
When one goes to Rabat it is like a stroll through history with each of these main attractions narrating a story of what the city was. Now it is time to make a list of activities and sights you simply cannot miss when you are here.
It is, unarguably, one of the most beautiful localities of Rabat and this is the place the residents and visitors like most of all. The Kasbah of the Udayas is an old castle built on the river banks of Bou Regreg on a cliff at the mouth. The walls date back to the 12 th century.
The Blue and White Streets: When you go through the impressive Almohad gateway, you will be inside a labyrinth of tiny, winding alleys bursting with gorgeous blue and white paint. This very unique style that can be compared with that of Chefchaouen makes the neighborhood magical and peaceful.
- Andalusian Gardens: On the gates of the Kasbah these gardens are heavenly landmarks to rest under the apple trees and bougainvilleas. They created in the early 20 th century resembling Moorish Spanish gardens.
̢٠Facebook Connect Out; Facebook Connect Icon; Facebook Connect Block; Web Log; Sit and watch the boats drift by over a traditional mint tea and some Moroccan pastries- the perfect place to absorb the atmosphere.
Explore the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V
This is the most popular iconic sight of Rabat and an effective symbol of the Moroccan past. Hassan tower was the minaret of an unfinished massive mosque. It commissioned in the 12 th century and was to be the largest mosque in the world but work stopped at this stage when the sultan who commissioned it died. The huge unfinished tower grows today above a landscape of stone columns which are all that remain of the original mosque.
The Mausoleum of Mohammed V is next to the tower and lies in a most elegant garden. It is a magnificent building which now houses the tomb of the grandfather and father of the current king. It is a masterpiece of the Moroccan skills, having elaborate zellij tiles, carved cedar wood ceilings and lavish marble. Non-Muslims are invited to look at the impressive decoration of the tomb chamber through a terrace that elevated.
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Wander Through the Ancient Ruins of Chellah Necropolis
This archaeological site is one of the most singular and moody sight you can visit in Rabat. The Chellah Necropolis is a massive rubble of a Roman town, as well as a necropolis of the medieval age. There is a feeling of history, that has formed the country, as you pass between the disintegrating arches and the old stone walls.
Roman and Islamic History: There is the ruins of a Roman forum, a triumphal arch and temple on the site. Between these ruins are some more recent remains of the Merinid necropolis, a mosque and a minaret, which have acquired now a decidedly feera-like touch since storks have taken to nesting on the former.
- A Placid Mine: All around the site constructed with breathtaking greeneries and wonderful gardens which makes the place a haven away from the urbanity.
Discover Rabat’s Authentic Medina
- A trip to morocco may be called by the souks of Marrakech but the medina in Rabat is totally different. It is less formal, and less tourist oriented. It offers people a chance to see locals who spent their days obtaining spices, fresh vegetables and fruits, and domestic items.
- The Rue des Consuls: It is the most renowned street in the medina, which is renowned to be a traditional craftsmanship. Beautiful rugs, brassware and leather goods can be found in this place. It is a good shopping place to buy a good quality souvenir at the good price.
- • Casual mood: You may be able to meander away the hours, sponging up the sites and the sounds without the whiff of pressure you could have in a different place. This makes the medina of Rabat an ideal place to get acquainted with the culture of Moroccan markets.
From Rabat to the Rest of Morocco: Your Seamless Journey
A visit to moroccan travel agency such as ours starts with your arrival. Once you have taken the time to do the numerous activities in rabat morocco, we will be in position to take you through the next leg of your journey hassle free. You do not need to worry about trains, taxis, and directions the usage of Distinctive Experience implies that we look after all logistics.
Rabat as an Access to Exploration
Although Rabat is an amazing destination on its own right, it is also an ideal starting point to all those amazing best morocco tours that are located beyond the city. Our tailor made tours will become a unique experience that will start in Rabat.
Marrakech Day Trips and Beyond
When you done in Rabat we can even take you on a magical flight to the sprawling city of Marrakech. Off of this we have endless potentiality. We have several fun day trips to explore surrounding areas and maybe it is the coastal city of Essaouira with its peaceful breakwaters, or a ride through stunning Ouzoud Waterfalls.
The extended Atlas Mountains Tour
Any nature/adventure loving person must visit the Atlas Mountains. Certainly, an atlas mountains tour may take you deep into the core of this great range, where you may go trekking through beautiful valleys and explore original Berber villages. We also have atlas mountains day trip to marrakech added in case you need to taste the mountains but not a long trip commitment.
The Ultimate Journey: Morocco Desert Trips
The trip to the Sahara Desert is perhaps the most famous vacation in morocco. We can begin in Rabat and then take you on a multi day adventure where we travel through the gorgeous mountain passes and spend a wonderful night under the stars.
- Your Morocco desert tour: A morocco desert tour is a tour to remember. You will be comfortable in a private vehicle with the professional driver-guide to visit ancient kasbahs along the way and admire the grand landscape changes.
A Night in the Desert: Our moroccan desert tours end with a camel ride to our tent in the dunes at sunset, dinner and performance around a campfire at a traditional Berber camp. It is something really beautiful and tranquil experiencing which you will never forget.
Designing a Unique Experience with us
People realize that no traveler is the same. This is the reason why we design personal morocco custom tours according to your interests and preferences.
The Discerning Traveler: Our morocco all inclusive packages start with your arrival in Rabat and offers you to experience stays in the most beautiful riads, have a personal guide and special experiences.
Upon request of the Adventurer- We will design a program that will provide a trek, quad biking experience, and a more extended desert trips morocco adventure.
- For the Culture Seeker: We will be able to extend the historic cities such as Fes and Meknes into your Rabat program.
Distinctive Experiences, being our name tells you it is what we guarantee to provide. Our company is based on the idea of designing trips in morocco that are safe, comfortable, and altogether unforgettable. You do not have to worry about anything, we take care of all turnarounds, airport pick up, professional guiding, etc.
Your Rabat Adventure and Beyond Awaits
Rabat is a city that boasts of elegance, history and a modern stance that awaits exploration. It is our hope that this guideline on things to do in rabat morocco has enlightened you to its beauty as well as made you understand why it should be in your itinerary.
Not even to consider the question of planning, which should not prevent one to get an adventure of lifetime. We can be your guide. Reach out to Distinctive Experience now and we will begin creating the morocco tour of your dreams to last a lifetime.
FAQs about Things to Do in Rabat, Morocco
Normal time that is enough to visit Rabat?
We suggest that anyone coming to Rabat plan to allow at least two days in this big city so as to have time to enjoy the main sites at easy pace. This gives you the chance to visit the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower and the Chellah Necropolis and you have time to relax amid the coastal air.
Does Rabat make a good base to take day trips?
Sure, Rabat is a stunning central point of excursions. You can also travel easily to a place full of treasures such as Casablanca, Fes and Meknes with train. Private day tours to visit the local sights on history, or even a long trip to morocco is also possible to organize.
Is the medina of Rabat rather touristy and busy?
The medina of Rabat is very much calmer and less tourist oriented than the one in Marrakech or Fes. It is also the place to feel the real life of local people, get good bargain on products and have a leisured walk without throngs.
How best to move around rabat?
A modern, clean and efficient tram line links much of the main sights in the city of Rabat. There are also cheap taxis abundant. And all the morocco tours will have their own private vehicle with a professional driver so that you could have the most convenient and individual experience possible.
Is the Kasbah of the Udayas to enter into?
Walking on the streets of the Kasbah of the Udayas and taking advantage of its marbled calmness is free, yes. You can pay a small amount to visit the adjacent Andalusian Gardens or even the museum in the kasbah, however, the center is free.
Am I to buy the tickets to the major attractions in advance?
Ticket charges are not necessary in most of these major attractions such as the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V since they are open spaces. Nevertheless, when you visit a museum or a certain historical site, it is helpful to research working hours and admissions first.
Is it possible to visit the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V within the same visit?
Actually, they situated neighbors on the same huge square. That is why it is highly convenient to check out both of these major landmarks with the same visit.
How do I travel Rabat to Sahara Desert?
The Sahara Desert is not nearby Rabat but it is an attractive trip. You can start right at Rabat with our morocco desert tours that involve a multi-day tour with a private ride, camel ride, and overnight stay in the desert.