For years, travellers to Morocco have flocked to the vibrant, bustling streets of Marrakech. Now, the nation's elegant coastal capital, Rabat, is finally stepping into the spotlight. Offering a fabulous food scene, a historic yet hassle-free medina, and a compelling blend of ancient and modern architecture, Rabat presents a captivating and relaxed alternative for a city break.
Where to Stay: From Historic Riads to Art Deco Elegance
Rabat's accommodation caters to all tastes, with a strong focus on authentic riads and guesthouses. Dar LalZohra provides a peaceful retreat within the medina's residential streets, featuring a central patio, uniquely decorated rooms, and a charming rooftop terrace. Doubles start from £84, including breakfast.
For an unbeatable location, Dar Korsan is an 18th-century guesthouse nestled in the car-free lanes of the historic Kasbah des Oudaias, boasting stunning views over the Bou Regreg River. Its six simple, spotless rooms are spread across sun-filled terraces. Prices start from £74 with breakfast.
Those seeking great value should consider Riad Louane, a colourful medina property where seven unique bedrooms surround a light-filled patio. Guests can relax on the roof with mint tea, enjoying sun loungers and a plunge pool. Doubles are from £64, breakfast included.
For a more contemporary stay, the Onomo Hotel impresses with its Art Deco exterior opposite Rabat's main train station. The 118 modern rooms feature Deco touches, and amenities include a spa, fitness centre, and a rooftop bar. Rooms with breakfast start from £69.
Eat, Drink, and Soak Up the Scene
Rabat's dining scene is both authentic and diverse. In the kasbah, seek out the legendary, family-run Dar El Karam Fatima. Its higgledy-piggledy rooftop terraces offer river views and well-priced local fare, like a cheese omelette for £2 or a delicious chicken and almond pastilla for £5.25.
For spectacular vistas, head to Bleu River Café & Restaurant. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a vast terrace overlooking the river to the Kasbah, it's perfect for watching traditional flouka boats. Menu highlights include banana crepes for £3.50 and a lemon chicken tajine for £8.
Within the medina, Restaurant Dinarjat offers a magical setting in the candle-lit courtyard of a historic 19th-century home. It serves top-notch classic Moroccan cuisine, such as tajines and kebabs, accompanied by nightly live traditional music. A lamb shish with almonds costs around £14.
For a classic Rabat experience, Café des Oudayas, next to the Andalusian Gardens, is the place for mint tea and pastries like coconut macaroons (80p) under a pretty pergola. For an upmarket sundowner, Bar Atlantique at the Four Seasons Rabat serves cocktails from £15 on a terrace with sea views, often with live music.
Exploring Rabat's Rich Tapestry
Rabat's 17th-century medina is a hassle-free grid, ideal for wandering. Rue des Consuls is the main thoroughfare for artisanal goods, while the street food near Marche Central is perfect for a cheap lunch. Don't miss the small concept stores at Babshik.
The Kasbah des Oudaias, a 12th-century fortress, feels like a Greek island with its white-washed walls and flower-filled balconies. Its enormous Bab Oudaia gate (built in 1195) is pure Moroccan grandeur, and the adjacent Andalusian Gardens are a floral highlight.
The city's architecture spans ages: from the ancient stork-inhabited ruins of Chellah and the iconic Tour Hassan (built 1195 AD), to Art Deco gems in the Ville Nouvelle and Zaha Hadid's new Grand Theatre de Rabat. The rocket-shaped Mohammed VI tower is set to open this year.
While the Royal Palace (built 1864) can only be viewed from outside, visitors can enter the stunning Mausoleum of Mohammed V. For £4 entry (free on Sundays), the National Jewellery Museum in a 17th-century pavilion showcases royal and Berber treasures.
Finally, join locals at Rabat's lively beach to surf, fly kites, or picnic, and end the day watching the sunset over the sands.
TRAVEL FACTS: Return flights from London Stansted and Manchester to Rabat start from £44 with Ryanair. For more information, visit visitrabat.com.
