The Top Sightseeing Attractions of Rabat: Explore Morocco’s Capital City

Rabat, one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, is the capital city and has significant cultural and historical importance. The city is known for its elegant architecture, beautiful gardens, and the fusion of the ancient and the modern. Rabat welcomes millions of tourists every year due to its fascinating cultural heritage, authentic street markets, and scenic coastline. In this blog post, we will guide you through the top sightseeing attractions of Rabat that you must visit to experience the true essence of the city.

1. Hassan Tower

Hassan Tower is a towering minaret located in the heart of Rabat that dates back to the 12th century. The tower was initially constructed to be the tallest mosque in the world, but unfortunately, it was incomplete when its architect, Sultan Yacoub Al-Mansour, died in 1199. Although the tower was never finished, it is now one of the most recognizable landmarks of Rabat. Visitors can climb the tower and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

2. Chellah Necropolis

Chellah Necropolis is an ancient Roman archaeological site located in the outskirts of Rabat. It was initially a Phoenician trading post that transformed into a Roman settlement. The ruins of the ancient city have been well-preserved and showcase the grandeur of the Roman architecture. The site also features intricately designed tombs and gardens that add to its serene and peaceful atmosphere.

3. Rabat Medina

Rabat Medina is the vibrant and bustling old town of Rabat and is the heart of Moroccan culture. The narrow streets of the Medina are steeped in history and are dotted with authentic Moroccan shops, spice markets, and street vendors selling traditional handcrafted items. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture, trying the local street food, and haggling for souvenirs.

4. Kasbah of the Udayas

Kasbah of the Udayas is a fortress located on the banks of the Bou Regreg river in Rabat. The structure dates back to the 12th century and was initially built to protect the city from invaders. It is an architectural marvel that features a beautiful array of blue-and-white buildings and stunning gardens that offer a mesmerizing view of the river.

5. Mohammed V Mausoleum

Mohammed V Mausoleum is a tomb that houses the remains of King Mohammed V and his two sons King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. It is a masterpiece of elegant craftsmanship and a fantastic example of traditional Moroccan Islamic architecture. Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings and tiled patterns that adorn the walls of the chamber.

6. Royal Palace of Rabat

Royal Palace of Rabat is an opulent palace that serves as the official residence of the King of Morocco. The palace was originally built-in 1864 and sits on a vast area of land in the heart of Rabat. Visitors can observe the grandeur of the palace from the outside and watch the changing of the guard. Unfortunately, the palace is not open to the public, but simply seeing its grandeur is an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Rabat is a city that offers a perfect amalgamation of ancient architecture and modern culture, making it an exciting destination for travelers. With its attractive landmarks, rich culture, and heartening experiences, the capital city of Morocco nails the ideal blend of a cultural, historical and modern metropolis. If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, Rabat should undoubtedly be on your list of must-visit cities. Experience the city’s rich cultural heritage, taste the aromatic street food, and enjoy the stunning views that this beautiful city has to offer.

The Top Sightseeing Attractions of Rabat: Explore Morocco’s Capital City

Rabat is the capital city of Morocco and full of history and culture that visitors will enjoy exploring. The city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its stunning architecture, traditional markets, and ancient monuments. This insider’s guide will help you make the most out of your trip to Rabat, Morocco.

Top Attractions in Rabat

The city of Rabat has a myriad of attractions that you won’t want to miss. The following are some of the top must-see tourist destinations in Rabat:

Kasbah of the Udayas:

Kasbah of Udayas is a fortified ancient city located at the mouth of Bou Regreg River, constructed in the 17th century. It is a picturesque location with its narrow streets, white and blue whitewashed walls and beautiful gardens. Take a walk, sit by the riverside with a cup of coffee and marvel at the beauty of this place.

Rabat Old Medina

The old Medina of Rabat is a true gem of the city. The Medina is a maze of narrow streets filled with shops, markets, and souks. You can easily spend a full day getting lost in the Medina, taking time to sample local food such as staples like couscous, harira or pastilla. Chat with the friendly shopkeepers and pick up some traditional souvenirs.

Royal Palace of Rabat

The Royal Palace of Rabat is a spectacular piece of architecture that will leave you awe-struck. Built-in the 18th century, the palace is the residence of King Mohammed VI of Morocco. Visitors can tour the palace gardens and take pictures of the magnificent gates, arches and relief carvings.

Local Dining Spots

When it comes to dining in Rabat, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to satisfy your cravings and soak up local vibes:

Cafe Maure:

Cafe Maure is an iconic spot located in the Kasbah of Udayas, beside the Oudaya museum. It provides great coffee, Moroccan mint tea, and meals. The views of the Bou Regreg river and the sea from the balcony are simply breathtaking.

La Table du Marche:

La Table du Marche is one of the finest restaurants in Rabat, offering French cuisine with a Mediterranean touch. With its beautiful decor, elegant ambiance, and sumptuous dishes, it’s no wonder La Table du Marche is a favourite among locals.

Street Food:

Morocco is known for its street food, and Rabat has some of the best. Don’t miss out on the chance to try bissara- a local pea soup, the sardine grillades, and Moroccan sweets. The street stalls inside the old Medina are a great place to savour these delicacies.

Cultural Experiences in Rabat

If you want to experience the true flavour of Rabat’s culture, there are a few activities you should add to your itinerary.

Wander around the traditional souks:

Rabat has a thriving local market scene, providing traditional goods, artisanal handicrafts, and clothing styles. Speaking with the shop keepers and selecting one of kind pieces may turn out to be your favourite memory of the trip.

Visit the House of the Gatekeeper:

The House of the Gatekeeper is a small museum located within the Kasbah of Udayas. Visitors can learn more about the history and culture of the city and admire traditional art and craft.

Walk through the Andalusian Gardens:

These lush gardens are located in the heart of the city, close to the Kasbah of Udayas. Take a leisurely walk inside the gardens, admire the blooming flowers, and relax in a tranquil atmosphere.

Local History & Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

In addition to the popular tourist attractions, Rabat has a rich history and hidden spots that can only be uncovered by venturing off the beaten path.

Visit the Chellah:

Chellah is an ancient site composed of Roman ruins, a mosque, a garden and a royal cemetery. Notably tourists can marvel at the archaeological site’s rich history which dates back to the Phoenician era. The sight is also a bird sanctuary.

Experience local Hammam:

Traditionally, locals in Morocco visit the Hammam as part of their weekly routine, which is an essential part of their culture. For an authentic experience, find a local Hammam (bathhouse). A Hammam offers a unique spa treatment and a chance for you to relax and socialize with locals.

Take a stroll on the beach:

If you want to experience Rabat’s coastline, visit the beach of Bouknadel and watch the Atlantic waves. It is a spot commonly frequented by local families.

Having explored Rabat’s top attractions, tried local delicacies, learned about the city’s history and its people’s traditions, and ventured off-the-beaten-path, Rabat will surely hold a place in your heart.