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Hassan Tower, Maroc ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ المغرب - Things to Do in Hassan Tower

Things to Do in Hassan Tower

Hassan Tower, Maroc ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ المغرب - Complete Travel Guide

Rabat, Morocco's capital city, stands as a testament to the country's rich imperial history and modern governmental significance. Home to the iconic Hassan Tower, this UNESCO World Heritage site seamlessly blends ancient Almohad architecture with French colonial influences and contemporary Moroccan culture. The city sits gracefully along the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River, offering visitors a more relaxed alternative to the bustling medinas of Marrakech or Fez. As one of Morocco's four imperial cities, Rabat boasts remarkable historical monuments including the unfinished Hassan Tower and the adjacent Mausoleum of Mohammed V, alongside the ancient Chellah necropolis and the well-preserved Kasbah of the Udayas. The city's wide boulevards, manicured gardens, and diplomatic quarter reflect its role as the political heart of Morocco, while traditional souks and the historic medina maintain authentic Moroccan charm.

Top Things to Do in Hassan Tower

Explore Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V

Visit Morocco's most iconic minaret, the 12th-century Hassan Tower, standing 44 meters tall as part of an unfinished mosque that was intended to be the world's largest. The adjacent Mausoleum of Mohammed V showcases exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship with its white marble, intricate mosaics, and golden dome. The site offers stunning views over the Bou Regreg River and represents the spiritual heart of modern Morocco.

Booking Tip: Entry is free and the site is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Consider hiring a local guide for 100-150 MAD to learn about the historical significance and architectural details.

Wander Through Kasbah of the Udayas

Stroll through this 12th-century fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, traditional blue and white painted houses, and the beautiful Andalusian Gardens. The kasbah offers panoramic ocean views and houses the Museum of Oudayas, showcasing traditional Moroccan arts and crafts. End your visit at the scenic Café Maure for traditional mint tea with ocean views.

Booking Tip: Free to explore, but the museum costs 20 MAD. Best visited in late afternoon for golden hour photography. The café gets busy during sunset, so arrive early to secure a terrace table with ocean views.

Discover Ancient Chellah Ruins

Explore this fascinating archaeological site that layers Roman ruins beneath a medieval Islamic necropolis, surrounded by beautiful gardens filled with orange trees and storks' nests. The site offers a peaceful retreat from the city while showcasing 2,000 years of history through ancient Roman columns, Islamic minarets, and decorative tilework. The gardens are particularly beautiful during spring when flowers are in bloom.

Booking Tip: Entry costs 70 MAD and the site is open daily 8:30 AM to 6 PM. Visit during spring (March-May) for the best garden experience. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes as the site involves walking on uneven ancient stones.

Experience Rabat's Medina and Souks

Navigate the UNESCO-listed medina with its traditional markets selling everything from handwoven carpets and leather goods to spices and traditional clothing. Unlike other Moroccan medinas, Rabat's old town is more relaxed and less touristy, offering authentic interactions with local artisans. Visit the Grand Mosque and explore the residential areas to see traditional Moroccan daily life.

Booking Tip: Free to explore, but budget 200-500 MAD for shopping depending on your interests. Mornings are best for photography and cooler temperatures. Bargaining is expected - start at 30-40% of the asking price for souvenirs.

Visit Mohammed VI Museum of Modern Art

Discover Morocco's premier contemporary art museum, showcasing works by leading Moroccan and international artists in a stunning modern building. The museum features rotating exhibitions, sculpture gardens, and educational programs that highlight Morocco's evolving artistic landscape. The architecture itself is a work of art, blending traditional Moroccan elements with contemporary design.

Booking Tip: Entry costs 30 MAD for adults, 10 MAD for students. Open Wednesday to Monday, closed Tuesdays. Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience. Special exhibitions may have additional fees, so check the current program online before visiting.

Getting There

Rabat is easily accessible via Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca, located 90 kilometers away, with regular train connections taking about 1 hour and costing around 50 MAD. The city is well-connected by Morocco's excellent train network, with direct services from Casablanca (1 hour), Marrakech (4 hours), Fez (2.5 hours), and Tangier (4.5 hours). For those driving, Rabat sits on the A1 highway connecting major Moroccan cities, and grand taxis or buses provide budget-friendly options from nearby destinations.

Getting Around

Rabat's compact size makes it ideal for walking, especially in the medina and around major monuments. The city has an efficient tram system with two lines connecting the main districts, costing 6 MAD per journey. Petit taxis (small blue taxis) are abundant and metered for short trips within the city, while grand taxis serve longer distances. Many major attractions are within walking distance of each other, and the waterfront Corniche provides a scenic route between the Kasbah and Hassan Tower.

Where to Stay

Agdal District
Hassan District
Medina
Kasbah of the Udayas
Souissi
Ocean/Corniche Area

Food & Dining

Rabat's dining scene reflects its status as a cosmopolitan capital, offering everything from street food in the medina to upscale restaurants serving modern Moroccan cuisine. The medina's food stalls serve excellent tagines, couscous, and fresh seafood at budget prices, while Avenue Mohammed V features numerous cafés and mid-range restaurants. For fine dining, head to the Agdal or Hassan districts where you'll find restaurants serving fusion cuisine and international dishes. Don't miss trying pastilla (savory-sweet pastry), fresh Atlantic seafood, and traditional mint tea at waterfront cafés along the Corniche.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Rabat

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Dar Al Fawakih Medina

4.8 /5
(6153 reviews)

Boho Café

4.7 /5
(3037 reviews) 2
cafe store

Restaurant Dar Larsa

4.5 /5
(1787 reviews)

Dar Rbatia

4.5 /5
(1389 reviews) 2

Restaurant Marea

4.7 /5
(1035 reviews)

Kasr al Assil

4.8 /5
(797 reviews)

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Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Rabat is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are comfortable (20-25°C), rainfall is minimal, and the city's gardens are at their most beautiful. Summer can be warm but is moderated by Atlantic breezes, making it more pleasant than inland Moroccan cities. Winter (December to February) is mild but can be rainy, though it's still suitable for sightseeing with fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. Avoid visiting during Ramadan if you want to experience the full dining scene, though it offers unique cultural insights.

Insider Tips

Visit the Hassan Tower at sunset for spectacular golden lighting and fewer tour groups
Take the tram to Salé across the river to explore the sister city's authentic medina and traditional pottery workshops
The Royal Palace gardens are closed to public but you can admire the impressive gates and architecture from outside during the weekly changing of the guard ceremony on Fridays

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