Things to Do in Hassan Tower
Hassan Tower, Maroc ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ المغرب - Complete Travel Guide
Hassan Tower stands as one of Rabat's most iconic landmarks and a testament to Morocco's rich architectural heritage. Built in the 12th century during the reign of Almohad Caliph Yacoub al-Mansour, this incomplete minaret was intended to be the world's largest mosque. Today, the 44-meter red sandstone tower overlooks the Bou Regreg River and serves as a symbol of Morocco's imperial past, surrounded by the ruins of what would have been a magnificent mosque.
The site has gained even greater significance with the addition of the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, where Morocco's beloved king and his sons rest in elaborate marble tombs. The complex represents a perfect blend of traditional Moroccan architecture and modern craftsmanship, making it not just a historical monument but a living piece of Moroccan identity. Visitors can explore the tower's intricate geometric patterns, stroll among the forest of columns that mark the mosque's original footprint, and witness the changing of the guard at the mausoleum.
Top Things to Do in Hassan Tower
Explore Hassan Tower and Mausoleum Complex
Marvel at the 12th-century minaret and visit the ornate Mausoleum of Mohammed V with its stunning marble work and colorful zellij tiles. The site offers panoramic views of Rabat and the Bou Regreg River, while the remaining columns create a mystical forest-like atmosphere.
Booking Tip: Entry is free and the site is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and to avoid crowds. Guided tours cost around 150-200 MAD and provide valuable historical context.
Discover Rabat's Medina and Kasbah des Oudaias
Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Kasbah des Oudaias with its blue and white painted houses, traditional Andalusian gardens, and stunning ocean views. The nearby medina offers authentic shopping experiences and traditional crafts without the overwhelming crowds of larger Moroccan cities.
Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is easy and free, but hiring a local guide for 200-300 MAD provides deeper cultural insights. Visit the Andalusian Gardens early morning when they're less crowded and the light is perfect for photos.
Take a Day Trip to Casablanca
Visit Morocco's economic capital and see the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world with its stunning oceanfront location. Explore the Art Deco architecture of downtown Casablanca and experience the bustling Corniche waterfront.
Booking Tip: Train tickets to Casablanca cost around 30-50 MAD and take about 1 hour. Book Hassan II Mosque tours in advance (120 MAD for adults) as they're required for non-Muslim visitors and fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Experience Traditional Moroccan Cuisine
Sample authentic Moroccan dishes like tagines, couscous, and pastilla in local restaurants around Hassan Tower area. Many establishments offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes using local spices and techniques.
Booking Tip: Cooking classes range from 300-600 MAD per person and typically include market visits and lunch. Book through reputable operators and confirm what's included. Restaurant meals near Hassan Tower cost 80-200 MAD per person for a full meal.
Stroll Along the Bou Regreg Riverfront
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the modern waterfront promenade with views of Hassan Tower and the historic Salé across the river. The area features contemporary cafes, art installations, and boat trips that offer unique perspectives of Rabat's landmarks.
Booking Tip: The promenade is free to explore and best visited during sunset hours. Boat trips along the river cost 50-100 MAD per person and operate daily weather permitting. Check with local operators near the marina for current schedules.
Getting There
Hassan Tower is located in central Rabat, easily accessible from Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca (about 1.5 hours by train or taxi). The ONCF train connects the airport directly to Rabat Ville station for around 43 MAD, with trains running every hour. From within Morocco, Rabat is well-connected by train and bus to major cities like Casablanca (1 hour), Fez (2.5 hours), and Marrakech (4 hours). Taxis from the airport cost 300-400 MAD, while grand taxis and CTM buses offer budget-friendly alternatives from other Moroccan cities.
Getting Around
Hassan Tower is within walking distance of most central Rabat attractions, making it an ideal starting point for city exploration. Local blue petit taxis are abundant and inexpensive (starting fare 7 MAD), though ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand. The modern tram system connects major areas of Rabat and Salé for just 6 MAD per ride. For longer distances or day trips, grand taxis operate on fixed routes, while ride-sharing apps like Careem and Uber are available. Renting a car provides flexibility for exploring surrounding areas, with major international companies represented at the airport and city center.
Where to Stay
Hassan District (near the tower)
Agdal (upscale residential area)
Ocean/Temara (beachfront)
Medina (old city)
Souissi (diplomatic quarter)
City Center/Ville Nouvelle
Food & Dining
Rabat's dining scene around Hassan Tower offers everything from traditional Moroccan cuisine to international fare. The Hassan district features numerous cafes and restaurants with views of the landmark, serving tagines, couscous, and fresh seafood from the Atlantic coast. Local favorites include Restaurant Dinarjat for upscale Moroccan cuisine and Café Maure in the Kasbah for traditional mint tea with ocean views. The nearby Ville Nouvelle offers French-influenced bistros and modern Moroccan fusion restaurants, while street food vendors around the medina serve authentic and affordable local specialties like msemen, chebakia, and fresh fruit juices. Many restaurants offer rooftop terraces with panoramic views of the Hassan Tower, especially beautiful during sunset dining.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Rabat
Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)
When to Visit
The ideal time to visit Hassan Tower is during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are comfortable (18-25°C) and rainfall is minimal. Summer months can be hot and humid due to Rabat's coastal location, though Atlantic breezes provide some relief. Winter visits are pleasant with mild temperatures, though occasional rain is possible. The tower and mausoleum are particularly stunning during the golden hour before sunset year-round. Avoid major Islamic holidays when the mausoleum may have restricted access, and consider that Friday afternoons can be busier due to prayer times. The site is beautiful in all seasons, but spring offers the added bonus of blooming gardens in the nearby Kasbah des Oudaias.
Insider Tips
Visit Hassan Tower at sunset when the red sandstone glows golden and the call to prayer echoes across the site - it's truly magical and perfect for photography
Combine your Hassan Tower visit with the nearby Kasbah des Oudaias and end at Café Maure for mint tea with panoramic ocean views - the entire circuit takes about 3-4 hours
Dress modestly when visiting the Mausoleum of Mohammed V (covered shoulders and long pants) and remove shoes before entering - guards are strict about this dress code