Explore the historical capital of Morocco, where tradition and modernity intertwine.
Customized Circuit for Morocco
Are you looking to hire a travel agency to plan your trip to Morocco?
Compare the offers from our partners.
Rabat is one of the largest cities in Morocco, located in the northwest region of the country. The city is surrounded by mountains and valleys and is known for its year-round Mediterranean climate, as well as its rich culture and history.
POPULATION
The city of Rabat has approximately 700,000 inhabitants, making it the ninth most populous city in Morocco after Oujda.
CLIMATE
Rabat enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot and dry summers, and mild winters. Summer temperatures typically range between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, while winters are milder, with temperatures fluctuating between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius.
CURRENCY
The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (DH, MAD).
LANGUAGE
The official language is Arabic, but the majority of people in Rabat also speak English and French.
In the 3rd century BCE, Rabat was a Roman colony known as "Chellah." The Romans established an important port and developed the city as a commercial and military center.
After the Roman period, Rabat was successively occupied by the Vandals, Byzantines, and Muslim Arabs. Under the rule of the Almohads in the 12th century, the city was chosen as a royal residence by Sultan Abd al-Mumin. He ordered the construction of the famous Kasbah of the Udayas, a fortified citadel that overlooks the Bou Regreg River and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
In the 13th century, the Marinids, a Berber dynasty, took control of Rabat and transformed it into a prosperous city. They built numerous palaces, mosques, and madrasas (religious schools) that contributed to the city's embellishment.
In the following centuries, Rabat was alternately under the control of the Wattasids, Saadians, and Alaouites, the current reigning dynasty in Morocco. In the 19th century, the city experienced a period of decline, primarily due to the rise of the neighboring city of Salé, which attracted commercial and maritime activities.
After Morocco's independence in 1956, Rabat became the official capital of the country. Since then, the city has experienced rapid development and has become a significant political, administrative, economic, and cultural center. Rabat is home to numerous government institutions, embassies, universities, museums, and important historical sites.
If you're looking for ideas to discover the best places in Rabat, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present the main attractions and activities not to be missed during your visit to the Moroccan capital.
If you're seeking inspiration to explore the finest destinations in Rabat, you've come to the right place! In this section, we showcase the top attractions and activities that you shouldn't miss during your visit to the Moroccan capital.
In summary, if you prefer drier and sunnier weather and want to enjoy the beach, the best time to visit Rabat would be during the summer season. If you prefer moderate temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold, then the spring season is ideal.
If you're looking for cities to visit around Rabat, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present the best destinations near the capital, whether they are charming towns, natural sites, spectacular historical sites, or traditional villages. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the wonders of the region during your stay in Rabat.
Customized Circuit for Morocco
Are you looking to hire a travel agency to plan your trip to Morocco?
Compare the offers from our partners.
If you're looking for the best restaurants to experience Moroccan cuisine, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present the top establishments to savor local specialties and explore new tastes and flavors in the region.
Discover the most popular events in the city, whether it's festivals, concerts, sports competitions, or other cultural events. Don't miss these opportunities to experience the lively atmosphere of the city and discover its unique traditions and way of life.
The Mawazine Festival is an annual music festival held in Rabat, Morocco. It is one of the largest music festivals in Africa and the Middle East, attracting renowned international artists as well as a large audience. The festival takes place over several days and offers a diverse program, ranging from pop, rock, and electronic music to traditional Moroccan genres such as raï, chaâbi, and Sufi music. Renowned Moroccan artists and international stars perform on the various stages of the festival.
The Festival des Remparts offers various activities and entertainment, including music performances, dance shows, theater plays, art exhibitions, fashion parades, film screenings, conferences, and workshops. The activities often take place in the historical spaces of Rabat, such as the medina ramparts, public squares, gardens, and historical monuments.
Rabat is one of the few cities in Morocco to have a metro system, which is fast, safe, and cost-effective. It is generally priced very affordably.
Buses are also an economical option for getting around in Rabat. There are urban buses that operate throughout the city, as well as intercity buses that connect Rabat to other cities in Morocco.
Taxis are also available throughout the city, but it's important to make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid scams. Taxis can be hailed on the street or called by phone.
The cost of living in Rabat is generally lower compared to major cities in Europe, making it an affordable destination for travelers. Here are a few examples of common costs in Rabat.
The cost of renting an apartment varies depending on the location and size. Generally, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood near the medina can range from $20 to $50 per night.
Restaurants and grocery stores in Rabat are relatively affordable. A meal at a cheap restaurant can cost around $2 to $10, while a meal at a higher-end restaurant can range from $15 to $50.
The public transportation system in Rabat is affordable, with metro and bus fares ranging from $0.50 to $1.50. Taxis are also relatively affordable, with fares starting from $1.50.
Cinemas, museums, and cultural events are generally affordable in Rabat, with entrance fees ranging from $2 to $10.
It is recommended to research safe areas of the city and consult with local authorities' advice and recommendations before going on excursions or traveling outside the city. Additionally, it is advised to stay informed about the latest updates on the city's security situation by checking local and international media.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR Rabat
Travel insurance is particularly important if you are planning to travel to Rabat, Morocco.
Although the city is relatively safe for tourists, it is still possible to encounter unexpected situations such as health issues, lost or stolen luggage, or transportation delays.
In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications.
MONEY / BANKS
When traveling to Rabat, it is important to consider several practical aspects to manage your money effectively. First and foremost, it is recommended to use ATMs to withdraw Moroccan Dirhams in cash.
However, make sure to withdraw money from safe and well-lit locations such as shopping centers or banks. Avoid exchanging money in the streets or non-official locations as it can be risky and you may be scammed.
It is also important to travel with international credit or debit cards, such as Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank for transaction fees that may apply to using these cards abroad. It is also recommended to notify your bank of your international travel to avoid any blockage of your card due to suspicious activity.
Lastly, it is recommended to use online payment applications such as Revolut to avoid transaction fees and benefit from competitive exchange rates. Make sure to download the application and set it up before your trip to Morocco.
