Ignored by tourists, this Moroccan seaside town has nothing to envy Tangier or Agadir! (And it's accessible by direct flights)

Situated by the sea, Rabat, the capital of Morocco, is a little-known treasure, overshadowed by the bright lights of Tangier and Agadir. Yet this picturesque city offers an authentic immersion in Moroccan culture, untouched by the tourist influx. Accessible via direct flights from England, Rabat is an enchanting blend of tradition and modernity, with its labyrinthine medinas, lush gardens and fascinating architecture.

La Kasbah des Oudayas à Rabat, Maroc

La Kasbah des Oudayas à Rabat, Maroc

- © Kochneva Tetyana / Shutterstock
Rabat

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An open-air museum

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012, Rabat is the cradle of Moroccan history. The city reveals its past through architectural gems such as the preserved medina of the Kasbah des Oudayas, with its narrow, blue-tinted streets, and its ribat overlooking the ocean.

A seaside resort on the Atlantic coast

The immaculate beaches of Rabat offer a peaceful escape on the Atlantic coast, rivalling the most famous Mediterranean seaside resorts. Salé beach is a haven of relaxation. As for Rabat's Corniche, it's the ideal place for a digestive stroll after lunch in one of the many café-restaurants, which are always full until late at night.

Le coucher du soleil sur la ville de Rabat au Maroc avec en fond la tour Hassan

Le coucher du soleil sur la ville de Rabat au Maroc avec en fond la tour Hassan

- © Leonid Andronov / Shutterstock

A bustling capital

Bustling markets, traditional cafés and picturesque restaurants: Rabat seduces travellers with its unique lifestyle and imperial charm. The spicy flavours of the markets, the rustling teapots in the alleyways, all add up to an authentic immersion in everyday Moroccan life. It is also the country's cultural centre, with its various museums and festivals.

A few addresses not to be missed

👛The Es Sabate souk is located between the Great Mosque and Bab el Bahr, and specialises in leather goods and jewellery.

🍴The Dar Zaki restaurant, located in Rabat's old medina, is a must if you want to sample traditional Moroccan cuisine.

🫖There's no need to look far for agood mint tea: you'll find cafés on every street corner.

Some buildings and cultural sites to visit: the Museum of History and Civilisation to learn more about the history of Morocco, Saint-Pierre Cathedral for its art deco architecture and finally the Hassan Tower and Mohammed V mausoleum, the symbols of the country.

⭐ Where to sleep in Rabat?

Imperial Boutique Hotel Rabat Rabat
Booking.com

Imperial Boutique Hotel Rabat

Conveniently located near the Hassan Tower, this 4-star establishment offers breakfast in all its packages.
8.2 Very good
From
£60 /night
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by Val HANCOCK
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