Rabat, overlooking the Atlantic coast, is the capital of Morocco. It is a city where past and tradition combine with modernity. You can spend your days strolling through the wonderful and typical markets or relaxing on the kilometre-long beaches. This is a city that you absolutely must not miss on a trip to this country with its millennial history.
Here are all our tips for planning a trip to Rabat, Morocco.
Where it is located
Rabat is located in northern Morocco, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, on the left bank of the Bou Regreg river. It is about 90 km from Casablanca and 320 km from Marrakech. It is the country's capital.
SEE ALSO: Things to see in Morocco: imperial cities, attractions and itineraries
Getting there
From Italy: direct flights only from Rome with Ryanair, the only company covering the route. Average duration 3 hours. From Milan, Venice and other cities there is a stopover - Compare flights
Frommajor European capitals: direct flights from capitals such as Paris, Madrid, Brussels. Main airlines Royal Air Maroc, Ryanair, Air France. Average duration from 1 h 50 min to 3 h 15 min depending on airport of departure - Compare flights to Rabat
When to go? Info on climate and best time
Month | Average temperatures (min/max) | Rainfall (days/mm) |
|---|---|---|
January | 7 / 17° | 9 days / 85 mm |
February | 7 / 18° | 8 days / 55 mm |
March | 9 / 20° | 7 days / 60 mm |
April | 11 / 21° | 8 days / 40 mm |
May | 13 / 24° | 5 days / 20 mm |
June | 16 / 26° | 2 days / 4 mm |
July | 18 / 27° | 1 day / 2 mm |
August | 18 / 28° | 1 day / 3 mm |
September | 17 / 27° | 3 days / 30 mm |
October | 14 / 25° | 6 days / 40 mm |
November | 10 / 21° | 9 days / 75 mm |
December | 8 / 19° | 9 days / 95 mm |
Climate: Mediterranean, with mild, rainy winters and warm, sunny summers. Average temperature in January 12°, in August 23°. Precipitation concentrated between November and March
Best period: May to October, for sunny days, almost no rainfall between June and August. For swimming July, August and September
Period to avoid: November to March, with lower temperatures, wind from the Atlantic Ocean and heavy rainfall
Tips: pack light, breathable clothing in summer, preferably in natural fabric, a sweatshirt for cooler evenings, beach essentials (towel, swimming costume, sun cream, sunglasses). In winter, warm clothes, windbreaker and mackintosh or umbrella
10 things to see in and around Rabat
1 - Hassan Tower
Symbol of the city and testimony to its past. It is a minaret that must have belonged to a large mosque that was never built. A unique spectacle can be admired from its top.
2 - Mausoleum of Mohammed V
Inside, it houses the remains of several kings of Morocco. The interior is richly decorated in Moroccan style, including bronze, wood and marble. A true masterpiece.
3 - Medina
The oldest part of Rabat, where you can stroll among ancient buildings and traditional markets selling all kinds of products (remember to always haggle when shopping). Don't miss Rue des Consuls, the liveliest street in the Medina.
4 - Kasba of the Oudaia
Symbol of the city along with the Hassan Tower. It is an old fortified quarter, characterised by houses with blue and white lime facades. A wonderful place and also very Instagrammable.
5 - Muslim Cemetery
This is a cemetery that is different from the usual. It is in fact located on a hill that gradually slopes down towards the sea. Visiting this place you can feel the breeze in your hair and it is truly a place of peace.
6 - Royal Palace
This is the official residence of the ruler of Morocco and his family. Of course, it is not possible to visit it inside, but it is still worth a visit from the outside, more precisely from the Square of Arms.
7 - Archaeological Museum
One of the most important museums in the country. Inside, historical artefacts from all over Morocco are on display.
8 - Plage de Rabat
Rabat's beach, located a stone's throw from the Medina and close to the city's great lighthouse. Ideal for enjoying a bit of sea and relaxation.
9 - Chellah
An important archaeological site 2 km from the centre of Rabat, where you can still admire the remains of important buildings and necropolises.
10 - Salé
Rabat's 'twin' city, situated on the opposite bank of the Bouregreg river. Well worth a visit for its colourful Medina, full of typical markets and attractions.
What to do in Rabat: excursions and tours
Informed travel: useful info
Inhabitants: 2,504,000
Language: Arabic and Amazigh, French widespread
Local currency: Moroccan dirham (MAD) / Exchange rate: €1.00 = 10.50 MAD
Climate: Mediterranean, with mild, rainy winters and hot, sunny summers. Average temperature in January 12°, in August 23°. Wettest month December
Time zone: GMT+1 (-1h compared to Italy)
Entry requirements: passport with residual validity of at least 6 months. Visa not necessary for tourist stays of less than three months. At the airport you will be given a special coupon to fill in with the traveller's data and reasons for the trip.
Security information: visit the Morocco section on the Farnesina website
Closest airports: Rabat-Sale International Airport (116 km)
How much does it cost to visit Rabat? Prices, offers and advice
Rabat, like the rest of Morocco, is a low-cost destination. However, unlike other cities such as Marrakech or Casablanca, it is certainly more difficult to reach. Direct flights only leave from Rome with the low-cost airline Ryanair. A good alternative is to perhaps arrive in Casablanca and then travel overland.
The cost of living is lower than in Italy and even in the Medina you can find good solutions at affordable prices: there is no shortage of accommodation and riads from €20.00 per night, but at the same time you can find several luxury hotels. Even the attractions are inexpensive! Getting around is mainly on foot, especially in the Medina. If you have to take a taxi or go shopping in a souk, remember the golden rule: always haggle! You will really get good bargains!
Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €20.00 per room
Cheap flights: from €135.00 - look at the offers
Flight + hotel: 7 days from €360.00 per person - look at the offers
