Why 2026 is the year to explore Rabat—Morocco’s understated capital
Far from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech and Casablanca, Morocco’s coastal capital is finally getting its due. Learn when to visit, where to stay, what historic sites to explore, and more.
A world away from the hubbub of Marrakech and Casablanca, Rabat moves at a relaxed pace. In the Kasbah des Oudaias, skinny alleyways lead to sweeping ocean views. The Ville Nouvelle’s orderly palm-lined boulevards nod to its days as a French Protectorate, and the recently restored archaeological treasure of Chellah reveals more of the city's layered history.
Morocco’s coastal capital was founded in the 12th century on a rocky promontory overlooking the Atlantic, and is recognized by UNESCO for combining contemporary culture and historic heritage.
There are modern masterpieces, too. Architect Zaha Hadid took inspiration from the Bouregreg River for her undulating Grand Theatre of Rabat, one of Africa’s largest performing arts spaces. And across the river in Salé, the rocket-shaped Mohammed VI Tower soars 820 feet above the city, with out-of-this-world views from its observation deck.
The tower’s Waldorf Astoria Rabat Salé boasts the same views, one of a flurry of new five-star hotel openings, including the Four Seasons, set in a restored 18th-century sultan’s summer palace, and the Hilton Rabat, set to open in 2026.
And Rabat’s cultural cachet is on the rise. The city's passion for books has earned it the title of UNESCO World Book Capital for 2026, and art is everywhere, from its flagship modern Moroccan art museum to the monumental murals left behind by the Jidar Street Art Festival. And every summer, music rings out across the medina as millions of festival-goers flock to Mawazine for the eclectic line-up, from global superstars to Sufi chanters.
(See all 25 destinations that made our list of the best places to visit in 2026.)
What to do
Kasbah des Oudaias: Perched above the river and the ocean, this 12th-century clifftop fortress, encircled by impenetrable walls and a monumental gate, is where modern Rabat began. Today, its winding, whitewashed alleyways are ideal for wandering. Drop into the serene Andalusian Gardens and the National Museum of Jewelry before a mint tea break at Café des Oudayas.
Rabat medina: The 17th-century old city is smaller and more relaxed than Marrakech and Fez but still twisty enough to lose your way. Rue des Consuls is the shopping hub, home to former grand diplomatic residences and Souk Tahti, with its sparkling jewelry shops. Look out for highly prized red Rbati rugs.
Hassan Tower: This city icon was part of an ambitious 12th-century project to build a vast mosque. Sultan Yacoub Al Mansour died before he could complete it, and the Lisbon earthquake of 1755 destroyed most of it. Now, the 144-foot minaret and photogenic forest of shattered stone pillars are all that remain of his grand design.
Mausoleum of Mohammed V: This marble mausoleum is the resting place of the Moroccan king’s grandfather, father, and uncle, watched over by the Moroccan Royal Guard in traditional dress. Inside, it’s a masterclass in Moroccan craftsmanship, from the glittering zellige tilework to the dazzling gilded ceiling.
Chellah: The Phoenicians and then the Romans took ownership of this beautiful hilltop site. From 1154, it lay abandoned until the 14th century, when a Marinid sultan built a necropolis on top of the Roman ruins. Spot the storks nesting atop crumbling minarets and linger at the panoramic viewpoints.
Mohammed VI Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art: This landmark museum's permanent collection features the work of more than 200 modern Moroccan artists, including Pop-art portraitist Hassan Hajjaj and the pioneering Farid Belkahia, who mixed up abstraction with Amazigh culture. And, it’s the first museum in Africa to use solar energy.
When to go
Rabat has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild, rainy winters. Even in July and August, when average highs hit around 82°F (28°C), the Atlantic breeze makes it more tolerable. Domestic tourism is at its peak in summer, so expect packed beaches; it’s also festival season, so book your accommodations well in advance.
December to February are the coldest and wettest months, with average highs of around 63°F (17°C). Most travelers opt to visit in spring (mid-March through May) or fall (September through October) for warm weather and fewer crowds.
Where to eat
Dar Zaki: Dine on traditional Moroccan dishes with a twist at this lovely medina riad restaurant. Choose from an array of sweet-and-savory pastillas, classic fluffy couscous and flavorsome tagines—perhaps chicken with candied apricots or fall-apart tender lamb shanks with figs.
Marea: This modern, Mediterranean-inspired restaurant is perfect for seafood lovers. Enjoy just-caught fish, such as John Dory with basil and black olive sauce, or sea bream on a bed of mushroom and spinach duxelles. There’s plenty for vegetarians, too.
Ty Potes: Set in a 1930s house, the menu at this French bistro showcases Breton galettes (savory pancakes), cheese, charcuterie, and sweet crêpes, all washed down with French and Moroccan wines. Try to get a table in the leafy garden.
Tangerino: At this stylish restaurant in upscale Souissi, the motto is "Eat. Drink. Chill." Expect authentic Spanish flavors from tasty tapas, including patatas bravas, Ibérico ham, and seafood paella. Don’t miss the sangria, and there are creative cocktails on offer, too.
Sufra: This cozy Palestinian eatery serves up delicious Middle Eastern fare. Think tangy tabbouleh, stuffed vine leaves, and lamb maqluba layered with rice and vegetables. Round off with an indulgent, creamy dessert, such as kunafah.
Where to stay
Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr: Set in lush gardens overlooking the Atlantic, this 18th-century sultan’s summer palace has had a luxe makeover. Decorated in neutral tones, it’s a showcase for Moroccan craftsmanship, along with several restaurants, three pools, and a sumptuous spa.
Euphoriad: Housed in the historic former residence of the Pacha of Rabat, this elegant boutique hotel on the edge of the medina mixes Moroccan architecture and modern design. Cool off in the rooftop pool and indulge in traditional cuisine at the in-house restaurant.
Dar Shâan: In the heart of the medina, the colorful rooms in this stylish riad blend contemporary art with vintage finds. Head to the sun-drenched roof terrace for a dip in the pool and 360-degree city views. There’s a hammam, too.
Getting around
Flights from the U.S. arrive at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, a 90-minute drive from Rabat. The train from the airport to Rabat Ville takes around two hours.
Rabat-Salé Airport is a hub for European budget airlines and domestic flights, and a taxi to the city takes around 20 minutes. ALSA operates a bus to Rabat Ville, which takes 40 minutes.
The Al Boraq high-speed train can whizz you north from Casablanca in two hours or south from Tangier in 80 minutes, arriving at Rabat Agdal.
Driving in the city—and finding a parking spot—isn’t easy, but much of it is walkable, including the medina, Kasbah des Oudaias, and the Hassan district. Travel between districts by metered petits taxis or modern tramway.
You can navigate between Rabat and its sister city, Salé, by grand taxi or tram. Or, for a more traditional way to travel, cross the Bouregreg River in a shared flouka, a wooden rowing boat.
