Book a flight to Rabat

Travel to Rabat and you’ll be surrounded by history. The Kasbah of the Oudaias is the place to go bargain hunting, or head down to the Old Medina and wander the twisting, turning streets and alleyways in search of a bargain. To find out more about the history of this important sea port and its position as a key defensive location on the coast of Morocco, take a tour of the Almohadan fortress and citadel, which dominates the skyline and has the charming, tranquil Andalusian gardens at its base. 

Roman history has had a huge influence in this region, and there’s nowhere better to see it in all its glory than by visiting Chellah. This Carthaginian city was conquered by the Romans, but eventually nature took back control and today, in amongst the surprisingly well-preserved ruins, you’ll find this is an important nesting site for storks and other birds.

Art is important to Rabat, and you can see both traditional and modern interpretations in the various museums and galleries throughout the city. The Modern Art Museum is a must-see, as is the Bank Al Magrhrib Museum. For a great photo opportunity, the Royal Palace won’t disappoint, or you can climb to the top of the citadel for a great view of the sunset over the Atlantic.

Thanks to the excellent beach, Rabat holidays are ideal if you love water sports. The strong Atlantic swell means that surfing conditions are surprisingly good, with a stiff onshore breeze and rolling breakers that favour more experienced surfers. For beginners, the waves at Oudayes beach (close to the Kasbah) are gentler, perfect for children who want to play in the water in safety.

The Theatre Mohammed V puts on excellent performances all year round, and is a top spot for a sophisticated, cultured evening out. If you’re here during May then look out for the Mawazine Festival of World Music, which has attracted some of the biggest names in popular music over the years.

Hiring a 4x4 gives you the opportunity to head out of the city and explore the surrounding desert. Dune bashing has become increasingly popular in Morocco, but our advice is to book a trip with a local guide so that you don’t get lost or stray onto private land.

Rabat still has a great deal of French influence, and you’ll find this particularly illustrated in the fusion of North African and European cuisine throughout the city. If you want to try a more authentic taste of Morocco then head to the Old Medina, where you’ll find food vendors serving bowls of hot lubia (beans) home-made lamb and chicken tagines, and sweet treats. 

In the Old Medina itself you’ll find an excellent selection of restaurants serving traditional Moroccan food. Bear in mind that you may have to book in advance in the more upmarket and popular restaurants, particularly on a Friday evening.

Rabat has some excellent shopping on offer, and it’s well worth making the time to wander around the Rue des Consuls for artisan crafts, or the Kasbah for bargains and trinkets. The Medina is not as large as the ones you’ll find in Marrakesh or Fez, but it’s friendly, packed with interesting stalls, and there are plenty of bargains on offer. The Medina is great for clothes and some of the country’s famous leather goods. 

If you prefer mall shopping then the MegaMall is the place to head, where you can also spend a little down time with the children at the bowling alley or skating rink. Head to Oulja for traditional ceramics and pottery, or the shops off the Rue de Consuls for carved wood and furniture.