An elegant capital where history meets modernity — ancient fortresses, Roman ruins, royal palaces and a vibrant contemporary art scene.
Rabat is Morocco's best-kept secret. As the royal capital, it has the grandeur of a great city without the tourist crush of Marrakech or Fès. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012 for its exceptional blend of historic Islamic heritage and 20th-century French urban planning.
The city offers easy exploration — a walkable medina, the stunning Kasbah of the Udayas perched above the Atlantic, the soaring Hassan Tower, and the Roman ruins of Chellah, all within a few kilometres of each other. It is the most sophisticated and relaxed of Morocco's imperial cities.
An unfinished 12th-century minaret that would have been the world's tallest — surrounded by hundreds of broken columns and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.
A 12th-century riverside fortress with blue-and-white alleys reminiscent of Chefchaouen — stunning sunset views over the Bou Regreg river.
A walled garden of Roman and Merenid ruins — haunted by storks nesting on medieval minarets and home to a sacred eel pond.
Smaller and less hectic than Fès or Marrakech — a relaxed medina perfect for browsing antiques, carpets and Moroccan art galleries.
A stunning piece of Moroccan architecture — the resting place of King Mohammed V and Hassan II, with royal guards in traditional dress.
A serene walled garden inside the Kasbah — orange trees, roses and fountains, modelled on Andalusian palace gardens.
A magnificent 5-star resort in a 10-hectare rose garden — spa, pools, and elegant Moroccan-French dining.
An intimate 35-room hotel set in a working orange grove — serene garden pool, acclaimed restaurant and personalised service.
A 1932 Art Deco landmark overlooking the Parliament — famous terrace café and central location in the ville nouvelle.
Chellah Jazz Festival in May. Gardens in bloom, mild Atlantic breezes, perfect sightseeing weather.
Hot but coastal breezes make it bearable. Summer concerts at Chellah. Beach season.
Warm, uncrowded, ideal. The Mawazine Festival (world music) runs in late September.
Mild Atlantic winters, occasional rain. Excellent for museums and café culture.