Morocco's capital blends ancient history with modern life. Home to the 12th-century Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower, it also has chic beaches and lively markets along the Atlantic coast.
Rabat, Morocco's capital city, is located on the Atlantic coast. As you explore, you'll see the 12th-century Hassan Tower, walk through the Kasbah of the Udayas with its distinctive blue and white houses, and examine ruins at Chellah. Rabat also has museums like the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, beaches such as Plage de Rabat, and restaurants serving Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous.
Getting Around Rabat
Rabat has a tram system connecting major areas, including the medina, the central train station, and the Agdal neighborhood. You can easily find taxis in two types: small blue "petite taxis" for trips within the city, and larger white "grand taxis" for longer journeys.
For trips to nearby cities like Casablanca or Fez, use the train connections from Rabat Ville station in the city center. Trains to major Moroccan cities run frequently.
Experiencing Rabat's Medina and Markets
In Rabat's old city, you can browse Moroccan items like carpets, ceramics, and leather goods at a relaxed pace. Start your shopping on Rue Souika, the main market street.
Visit the Central Market in the modern part of the city to observe locals going about their day. Here, you'll find stalls selling fresh produce, spices, and seafood. Small restaurants in the market serve Moroccan dishes like harira soup and grilled meats.
Contemporary Culture and Museums
At the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, you can view works by Moroccan and international artists. The museum's collection spans from the early 20th century to present day, showing the evolution of Moroccan art.
In the Udayas Museum, located in a 17th-century palace within the Kasbah, you'll see exhibits of Moroccan crafts, jewelry, and clothing. These displays provide context for the goods you might encounter in Rabat's markets.
Exploring Rabat's Historical Sites
The Hassan Tower is an incomplete 12th-century minaret that was originally planned to be the world's tallest. You can walk among the remaining columns of the unfinished mosque and visit the adjacent Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which has intricate architectural details.
In the Kasbah of the Udayas, you'll find narrow streets lined with blue and white buildings dating back to the 12th century. As you explore, you'll come across cafes, art galleries, and viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Bou Regreg River.
At Chellah, an ancient necropolis, you can walk among ruins from both Roman and medieval Islamic periods. You might spot storks nesting on top of old minarets as you explore the crumbling walls and columns.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
Plage de Rabat, the city's main beach, stretches for several kilometers along the Atlantic coast. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors, though strong currents make swimming challenging. You can take walks along the shore or watch the sunset.
About 15 kilometers north of the city center, you'll find Plage des Nations. This wide, sandy beach has fewer visitors and basic facilities including umbrellas and cafes.
