What is the name of Morocco’s capital? Many people think it’s Casablanca, however, the capital is Rabat. The capital was shifted from Fez to Rabat in 1912 when the French protectorate of Morocco began. When the country achieved independence in 1956, it was determined that the capital would remain in the same location. Rabat isn’t well-known among tourists, yet there are numerous reasons to include it in your itinerary.
Rabat is a bit of an underrated gem when it comes to exploring Morocco. The administrative capital is frequently overlooked by tourists, who prefer to visit and stay in the hotels in Marrakech, Morocco in the south, and Fes, as well as Tangier and Chefchaouen in the country’s middle and northern regions.
Casablanca, which is home to Morocco’s busiest international airport and the largest mosque in North Africa, Hassan II, is expected to receive more attention than Rabat.
Rabat, on the other hand, is a fantastic destination and is undoubtedly Morocco’s most “cool” city. Continue reading to learn about our favorite places in Rabat and to start organizing your trip to this laid-back, medieval city. The small-but-mighty Salé/Rabat airport is an added bonus, with many planes arriving from all across Europe. It’s a big benefit because it’s quiet and speedy!
Readers’ tip: Rabat is the place to go if you want to find beautiful, high-quality handicrafts without having to deal with pushy vendors. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite Moroccan eateries and the best Morocco bars & clubs. We recently went on a trip to explore the best of Rabat in order to assist you in planning your trip!
How to Get to Rabat | How to Get Around Rabat
The main airport in Morocco is in Casablanca, however, there is also one in Rabat. The majority of flights arriving here are domestic or short-haul European flights. You’ll most likely arrive in Rabat by rail, bus, or vehicle from a land entry point. Depending on your budget and how you plan to travel in Morocco, you may have to choose between the two.
The train is perhaps the most convenient way to go from Rabat to Casablanca (or vice versa). There are three train stations in Casablanca from which you can go to Rabat. Casa Oasis, Casa Voyageur, and Casa Port are three different types of houses. If you’re riding the train from Casablanca airport to the city, Casa Oasis is the first stop you’ll arrive at.
From here, you’d change trains and travel to Casa Voyageur, the second station, before continuing to Rabat. You will need to purchase a ticket to Rabat Ville, the city’s primary train station. If you’re checking out in one of the business hotels in Morocco and leaving Casablanca, go to Casa Port Station, where there are regular commuter trains to Rabat that leave every hour. (Full-time tables can be seen on the ONCF website.)
Rabat is also accessible from other cities. Simply consult the schedule and purchase a ticket for the correct station.
Taking the bus is a second alternative for getting to Rabat. Supratours buses are trustworthy, comfortable, and have minimal technical problems, thus I suggest them. From all around Morocco, CTM buses go to Rabat.
Car travel is a third method for getting to Rabat. You can either purchase a seat in a shared grand cab or hire a private driver. Take a look at this guide on traveling around Morocco if you want to learn how to use the taxi system.
Arrangements for private drivers can be made through your 4-star accommodation. They usually have direct contact with taxi drivers or drivers who can take you to your desired location. This is often the quickest mode of transportation, but it is also the most expensive.
How to Get Around Rabat
The Rabat tram (Rabat-Sale tramway) has made it much easier to navigate around the city. The system is not only well-kept and well-used, but it is also clean and will take you to practice all of the important sites. At most stops, there are ticket booths with personnel who know some English and can assist you. Tickets are 6dh and reloadable.
It’s simple to navigate because there are just two lines: Line 1 and Line 2. Every 20 minutes, a service is available.
Where Should You Stay in Rabat?
If you’re planning a trip to Rabat, Story Rabat is the place to stay. STORY Rabat is a luxurious boutique hotel in Rabat’s Ambassador’s district. One of the best hotels in Morocco this hotel is known for its personalized service style, thoughtful furnishings, and spacious lodging spaces, and it gives true and discreet tourists a serene experience of unrivaled luxury in Morocco. It has 27 well-decorated guest rooms, ten suites, and a distinctive private villa, as well as an intimate dining experience.
Where to Eat in Rabat?
Finding amazing cuisine is always at the top of my to-do list when I travel. It’s no different in Rabat, and every time we arrive, I’m on the lookout for new spots to try.
Le Dhow
This perfect site, fashioned in the shape of a traditional dhow boat, is located on the Bou Regreg River, adjacent to the Atlantic Bay, directly in front of the medina. European, Moroccan, and Mediterranean cuisines are included on the menu. With a glass of wine or beer, take in the beautiful view of the harbor and the water beyond.
Sultan Saray
In the Agdal area, this is a nice place to go for simple Turkish food. The grilled cuisine, as well as the appetizers, are excellent. But the kunafa, which is hard to obtain in Morocco, was by far my favorite. There is plenty of seating, however, reservations are recommended on weekends.
Ty Pots
Ty Pots, located in the bustling Hassan neighborhood of downtown Rabat, is the ideal spot for a sunny lunch in their charming little garden. Salads and warm sandwiches are delectable.
Ty Pots also has a fantastic deli with fresh European cheeses, meats, and sausages; it’s a little costly, but worth it for a special occasion. The personnel is also pleasant; the only drawback is the lack of parking in Hassan, which is a congested location.
However, there are numerous small side streets surrounding the restaurant, so be patient and you will most likely find a parking spot.
That’s it! I hope this information helps you organize your trip to Morocco so that you can visit Rabat!
