Quick answer: The best things to do in Rabat are the blue-and-white Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the Chellah necropolis, the relaxed medina and the Atlantic corniche. Rabat is calm, clean and easy to visit in one day, about 1 hour from Casablanca by train.
Morocco’s capital is often skipped, yet it is one of the most pleasant cities in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are the top things to do in Rabat.
1. Kasbah of the Udayas
A 12th-century fortress above the mouth of the Bou Regreg river, with blue-and-white alleys (a mini Chefchaouen), the Andalusian Gardens and a café overlooking the ocean.
2. Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V
The unfinished 12th-century minaret stands among the columns of a mosque that was never completed. Opposite, the royal mausoleum is guarded by horsemen in traditional uniform and is open to visitors.
3. Chellah
A peaceful site mixing Roman ruins and a Marinid necropolis, with gardens and nesting storks.
4. The medina and souks
Less hectic than Marrakech or Fez – ideal for relaxed shopping on Rue des Consuls.
5. The corniche and beaches
Walk along the ocean at sunset or cross to Salé by tram or small boat.
6. Museums
The Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the archaeological museum.
How to fit Rabat into your trip
- Between Casablanca and Chefchaouen or Fez on a circuit such as the 6-day imperial cities tour or the 3-day Casablanca–Fez–Chefchaouen tour.
- On the 8-day Morocco highlights tour.
- By Al Boraq high-speed train from Tangier, or regular trains from Casablanca and Fez.
Tips
- One full day is enough for the main sights.
- Friday is the main prayer day: some sites close at midday.
- Combine with the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca and Volubilis and Meknes.
Tours related to this guide
- 6-Day Imperial Cities Tour – Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, Fez & Chefchaouen
- 3-Day Tour From Casablanca to Fez & Chefchaouen (Blue City)
- 8-Day Tour – Explore Key Highlights: Marrakech, Desert, Fez, Chefchaouen, Rabat & Casablanca
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Frequently asked questions
Is Rabat worth visiting?
Yes. Rabat is calm, green and elegant, with the Kasbah of the Udayas, Hassan Tower and Chellah, and it is easy to include between Casablanca and Fez or Chefchaouen.
How many days do you need in Rabat?
One day is enough to see the main sights; stay two if you want a slower pace with the beach and museums.
How far is Rabat from Casablanca?
About 90 km, roughly 1 hour by train or car.
Is Rabat the capital of Morocco?
Yes. Rabat is the political and administrative capital, while Casablanca is the economic capital.
Written by the Todo Marruecos Tours travel team, local tour operators based in Morocco. Last updated: September 2026.