Rabat, Morocco-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) and take a taxi or bus (Line 17) to your accommodation in the city center.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Hassan Tower, a 12th-century mosque that offers stunning views of the city. Entrance fee: MAD 30 (approx. $3 USD).
  • Evening: Head to the Medina for dinner and exploration. Try traditional Moroccan cuisine at:
    • Al Fassia Restaurant: A highly-recommended spot for delicious tagines and couscous.
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in the city center, such as:
    • Hotel Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses: A 5-star hotel with comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere. Rates start around MAD 2,500 (approx. $250 USD) per night.
  • Transportation: Use taxis or buses to get around the city, or walk whenever possible. Renting a car is not recommended due to narrow streets and heavy traffic.
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
    • Try some traditional Moroccan sweets, like ghriba or makroud.
    • Don’t forget to haggle when shopping in the medina.

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Bab El Had (Gate of Victory), a historic entrance to the Medina. Explore the surrounding streets and alleys for local shops, cafes, and food vendors.
  • Afternoon: Stop by the Rabat Archaeological Museum, which showcases the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Entrance fee: MAD 20 (approx. $2 USD).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at:
    • Le Relais de Paris Restaurant: A cozy spot serving French-inspired cuisine with a Moroccan twist.
  • Other Recommendations:
    • Visit the nearby Chellah Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.
    • Explore the local markets, like the Souk des Alouin, for traditional crafts and souvenirs.

Day 3: Royal Palace and Gardens

  • Morning: Visit the Royal Palace (Palais de la Makhazine), the official residence of the King of Morocco. While you can’t enter the palace itself, the surrounding gardens are worth a visit.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Andalusian Garden, a beautifully restored 16th-century palace with stunning views of the city. Entrance fee: MAD 20 (approx. $2 USD).
  • Evening: Try some local street food at:
    • Food stalls near the Hassan Tower: Enjoy traditional Moroccan snacks and desserts.
  • Other Recommendations:
    • Take a stroll along the seaside promenade, which offers great views of the city skyline.
    • Visit the nearby Museum of Islamic Art, which showcases a collection of Islamic artifacts.

Day 4: Beach Day

  • Morning: Spend some time relaxing on the beach at Plage des Oulja, a beautiful stretch of coastline with calm waters. Entrance fee: MAD 10 (approx. $1 USD) for parking.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Casablanca (yes, you read that right!), which is only a short drive or bus ride away. Explore the famous Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Entrance fee: MAD 50 (approx. $5 USD).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at:
    • Le Jardin des Roses Restaurant: A lovely spot serving traditional Moroccan cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 5: Nature and Wildlife

  • Morning: Visit the Rabat Zoo, which is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world. Entrance fee: MAD 20 (approx. $2 USD).
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Parc de l’Océan, a beautiful park with walking trails and stunning views of the coastline.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at:
    • La Grande Table Restaurant: A highly-recommended spot serving creative, farm-to-table cuisine.

Day 6: Last Day in Rabat

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Souk des Alouin, a bustling marketplace with traditional crafts and local goods.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at:
    • Le Relais de Paris Restaurant (again!): A cozy spot serving delicious French-inspired cuisine.

Other Things to Know

  • Morocco is a Muslim country, so dress modestly when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.
  • Try some local transportation options, like taxis or buses, for a more authentic experience.
  • Don’t be afraid to try new foods and drinks, but also don’t forget to stay hydrated in the hot Moroccan sun!
  • Tipping is not required but appreciated (10-15% is standard).
  • Morocco has strict laws regarding photography of certain sites or areas; be sure to follow local guidelines.

Tips for Getting Around

  • Use taxis or buses (Line 17) to get around the city.
  • Renting a car is not recommended due to narrow streets and heavy traffic.
  • Walking is always an option, especially in the Medina.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.