Day-by-Day Itinerary
Settle into Rabat and explore the enchanting Kasbah Oudaya, the city's most picturesque quarter perched above the Atlantic Ocean.
Morning
Arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at Rabat-Salé Airport and transfer to your accommodation in the
medina area. Take time to settle in, freshen up, and orient yourself with the neighborhood. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan mint tea at your riad or a nearby café to acclimate to the relaxed Moroccan pace.
2-3 hours
$15-25 (airport taxi)
Arrange airport pickup through your accommodation for convenience and fair pricing
Lunch
A traditional Moroccan restaurant near the
medina serving tagines and couscous
Moroccan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Kasbah Oudaya exploration
Wander through the iconic Kasbah Oudaya with its distinctive blue and white painted walls. Explore the narrow winding streets, visit the platform overlooking the Bou Regreg River and Atlantic Ocean, and discover the peaceful Andalusian Gardens within the kasbah walls. The kasbah offers stunning photo opportunities and a glimpse into traditional Moroccan architecture.
3-4 hours
$3-5 (garden entry)
Evening
Sunset at Viewpoint Oudayas and dinner
Watch the sunset from Viewpoint Oudayas overlooking the Atlantic, then enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant along the waterfront
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina or near Kasbah Oudaya (Traditional riad or boutique hotel)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and authentic atmosphere for your first nights
Visit the kasbah in late afternoon when the light is perfect for photography and the heat has subsided
Day 1 Budget: $70-90
Explore Rabat's most iconic monuments and delve into Morocco's contemporary art scene.
Morning
Mausoleum of Mohammed V and Hassan Tower
Visit the magnificent Mausoleum of Mohammed V, one of Morocco's most important royal monuments featuring stunning zellige tilework, intricate carved plaster, and a soaring marble interior. Adjacent to it stands the Hassan Tower, the minaret of an incomplete 12th-century mosque that would have been the world's largest. The esplanade offers excellent views and historical context about the Almohad dynasty.
2-3 hours
Free
Arrive early morning to avoid tour groups and enjoy cooler temperatures
Lunch
A café in the Agdal neighborhood with modern Moroccan fusion cuisine
Contemporary Moroccan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Mohammed VI Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art
Explore Morocco's premier contemporary art museum showcasing Moroccan and African modern art. The museum features rotating exhibitions of painting, sculpture, photography, and installation art, providing insight into Morocco's vibrant contemporary cultural scene. The building itself is an architectural highlight with excellent natural lighting and thoughtful exhibition spaces.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Evening
Stroll through Nouzhat Hassan Garden and dinner
Walk through the peaceful Nouzhat Hassan Garden near the parliament, then dine at a restaurant in the Hassan district
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina or Hassan district (Traditional riad or boutique hotel)
Staying central keeps you close to major attractions and dining options
The mausoleum has a dress code; ensure shoulders and knees are covered, and remove shoes before entering
Day 2 Budget: $65-85
Step back in time at the mystical Chellah ruins and admire the grandeur of Morocco's
Royal Palace.
Morning
Chellah Castle exploration
Discover the enchanting Chellah, a medieval fortified necropolis built on Roman ruins. Walk through the monumental gate into gardens filled with storks nesting atop ancient minarets, explore Roman columns and Islamic tombs, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this archaeological site. The blend of Roman, Islamic, and natural elements creates a uniquely atmospheric experience.
2-3 hours
$7-10
Consider hiring a guide at the entrance for deeper historical context
Lunch
A garden restaurant near Chellah serving traditional Moroccan salads and grilled meats
Moroccan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Visit the impressive
Royal Palace, the official residence of Morocco's king. While the interior is not open to visitors, the exterior walls, grand gates, and surrounding mechouar (parade ground) showcase magnificent Moroccan architecture. Walk around the perimeter to appreciate the scale and craftsmanship, and observe the royal guards in traditional dress.
1-2 hours
Free
Evening
Old Market exploration and dinner
Browse the Old Market for spices, textiles, and local crafts, then enjoy dinner at a nearby traditional restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina (Traditional riad)
Central location for easy access to markets and evening atmosphere
Chellah is home to hundreds of storks; bring binoculars for birdwatching and visit in spring to see chicks in nests
Day 3 Budget: $70-90
Deepen your understanding of Moroccan history and culture through world-class museums and local experiences.
Morning
Museum of History & Civilizations
Explore Morocco's national
archaeological museum, featuring artifacts from prehistoric times through the Islamic period. Highlights include impressive Roman bronzes from Volubilis, ancient pottery, coins, and exhibits on Morocco's Berber heritage. The museum provides essential context for understanding Morocco's diverse cultural influences and long history as a crossroads of civilizations.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A modern café near the museum district with sandwiches and Moroccan pastries
International/Moroccan fusion
Budget
Afternoon
Villa des Arts visit and neighborhood walk
Visit Villa des Arts, a beautiful early 20th-century villa converted into an art gallery showcasing contemporary Moroccan artists. The rotating exhibitions feature painting, sculpture, and multimedia works. After your visit, explore the surrounding Agdal neighborhood with its Art Deco architecture, modern cafés, and tree-lined boulevards that showcase Rabat's French colonial heritage.
2-3 hours
$2-3
Evening
Cooking class or food tour
Participate in a Moroccan cooking class to learn tagine and couscous preparation, or join an evening food tour through the
medina
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina or Agdal (Riad or modern hotel)
Central location with good restaurant access for your culinary evening
Museums in Morocco are typically closed on Tuesdays; verify opening hours before visiting
Day 4 Budget: $75-100
Enjoy Rabat's beautiful Atlantic coastline with beach time, coastal walks, and fresh seafood.
Morning
Corniche Rabat exploration
Stroll along Corniche Rabat, the city's scenic coastal promenade stretching along the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy ocean views, watch surfers riding the waves, and observe local life as Rabatis jog, cycle, and socialize along the waterfront. The corniche offers a refreshing contrast to the historic sites and showcases Rabat's modern, relaxed lifestyle.
2-3 hours
Free
Lunch
A beachfront seafood restaurant along the corniche serving fresh grilled fish
Seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
Beach time and Lighthouse of Rabat
Relax at the beach near the corniche, take a swim if weather permits, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. Walk to the Lighthouse of Rabat for panoramic views of the coastline and city. The area around the lighthouse offers excellent photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere away from the city center.
3-4 hours
$5-10 (beach chair rental optional)
Evening
Sunset viewing and seafood dinner
Watch the sunset from View on the Atlantic Ocean viewpoint, then enjoy fresh seafood at a restaurant near the marina
Where to Stay Tonight
Near the corniche or Agdal (Modern hotel with ocean views)
Stay near the coast to maximize beach access and enjoy ocean breezes
The Atlantic can be rough and cold; check conditions before swimming and be cautious of strong currents
Day 5 Budget: $65-85
Immerse yourself in Rabat's lush gardens and botanical collections, perfect for a peaceful day.
Morning
Les Jardins Exotiques de Bouknadel
Visit the stunning Exotic Gardens of Bouknadel, located just north of Rabat. These beautifully landscaped gardens feature distinct themed sections including Polynesian, Japanese, Congolese, and Andalusian gardens. Wander through bamboo groves, past tranquil ponds, and among exotic plants from around the world. The gardens offer a serene escape and showcase impressive horticultural diversity.
3-4 hours
$5-7 (including transport)
Take a petit taxi or arrange transport through your hotel; gardens are about 15km north
Lunch
A café near the gardens or return to central Rabat for lunch at a garden restaurant
Moroccan/International
Mid-range
Afternoon
Botanical Garden and Urban Forest Ibn Sina visit
Explore the Botanical Garden with its collection of native and exotic plant species, then walk through the Urban Forest Ibn Sina near the Hilton area. This green space offers shaded paths, picnic areas, and a refreshing natural environment within the city. It's a favorite spot for locals and provides insight into Morocco's flora.
2-3 hours
$2-3
Evening
Relaxed evening in Agdal
Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a modern restaurant in the Agdal neighborhood, followed by Moroccan pastries at a local patisserie
Where to Stay Tonight
Agdal or city center (Comfortable hotel or riad)
Central location for easy access to various neighborhoods
Bring insect repellent for garden visits, especially in warmer months
Day 6 Budget: $60-80
Spend a relaxing day at one of Africa's finest zoos and enjoy leisure time in the city.
Morning
Rabat Zoo exploration
Visit the award-winning Rabat Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals representing African wildlife including lions, elephants, rhinos, and the endangered Barbary lion. The zoo is designed with natural habitats and spacious enclosures, making it one of Africa's most modern facilities. Educational exhibits provide information about conservation efforts and Moroccan wildlife.
3-4 hours
$7-10
Arrive when the zoo opens for cooler temperatures and more active animals
Lunch
The zoo has on-site cafeterias, or return to the city for lunch at a restaurant in Hassan district
International/Moroccan
Budget to Mid-range
Afternoon
Leisure and personal exploration
Enjoy free time to revisit favorite spots, do some shopping in the Old Market, relax at your accommodation, or explore neighborhoods at your own pace. This half-day break allows you to pursue personal interests, rest, or catch up on any sites you may have missed earlier in the week.
Flexible
$10-20 (shopping/activities)
Evening
Traditional hammam experience and dinner
Experience a traditional Moroccan hammam (bathhouse) for relaxation and cultural immersion, followed by dinner at a
medina restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina (Traditional riad)
Authentic atmosphere and proximity to hammams and traditional restaurants
The zoo is located about 15km from the city center; allow time for transport via taxi or arranged transfer
Day 7 Budget: $70-95
Spend a full day exploring the
medina's hidden corners, artisan workshops, and traditional markets.
Morning
Medina walking tour and artisan workshops
Navigate the
medina's winding streets with focused attention on artisan quarters. Visit carpet weavers, leather workers, and traditional craftspeople practicing centuries-old techniques. The
medina, while smaller and less chaotic than Fez or Marrakech, offers authentic experiences and opportunities to observe traditional crafts without overwhelming tourist crowds.
3-4 hours
$15-25 (optional guide)
Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into
medina history and culture
Lunch
A traditional restaurant in the
medina serving Moroccan specialties like pastilla and mechoui
Traditional Moroccan
Budget to Mid-range
Afternoon
Old Market shopping and tea time
Spend the afternoon browsing the Old Market's stalls selling spices, dried fruits, olives, traditional clothing, and handicrafts. Practice your bargaining skills, sample local products, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Conclude with mint tea at a traditional café where you can watch
medina life unfold.
3-4 hours
$20-40 (shopping)
Evening
Rooftop dinner with
medina views
Dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the
medina, enjoying traditional music and city lights
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina (Traditional riad with rooftop terrace)
Immersive medina experience with evening atmosphere access
Prices in the
medina are often negotiable; expect to pay 50-70% of the initial asking price after friendly bargaining
Day 8 Budget: $75-100
Discover Rabat's sister city Salé across the Bou Regreg River and explore the riverfront area.
Morning
Take the tram across the Bou Regreg River to Salé, Rabat's historic sister city. Explore Salé's authentic
medina, which receives fewer tourists than Rabat's. Visit the Grand Mosque, browse traditional souks, and experience a more local, less touristy Moroccan city atmosphere. The pottery souk is particularly notable for traditional ceramics.
3-4 hours
$5-10 (tram and small purchases)
Lunch
A local restaurant in Salé
medina serving home-style Moroccan cooking
Traditional Moroccan
Budget
Afternoon
Bou Regreg riverfront and marina
Return to Rabat and explore the redeveloped Bou Regreg riverfront area featuring modern architecture, walking paths, and the marina. This contemporary development contrasts beautifully with the historic medinas on both shores. Enjoy the river views, watch boats, and appreciate Rabat's blend of old and new.
2-3 hours
Free
Evening
Marina dining and evening stroll
Dine at a modern restaurant near the marina with river views, then stroll along the illuminated waterfront
Where to Stay Tonight
City center or near the river (Modern hotel)
Convenient location between old and new Rabat
The tram connecting Rabat and Salé is efficient, modern, and inexpensive; purchase tickets at machines before boarding
Day 9 Budget: $60-80
Appreciate Rabat's architectural heritage and contemporary culture through a leisurely day of art and café-hopping.
Morning
Art Deco architecture walking tour
Explore Rabat's impressive Art Deco and colonial-era architecture in the Agdal and Ocean neighborhoods. The city features some of North Africa's finest examples of 1920s-1940s architecture. Walk along Avenue Mohammed V and surrounding streets to admire buildings with geometric patterns, decorative facades, and period details that reflect Rabat's French protectorate era.
2-3 hours
Free
Lunch
A French-Moroccan bistro in Agdal serving contemporary cuisine
French-Moroccan fusion
Mid-range to Upscale
Afternoon
Return to favorite museum or gallery
Revisit the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art or Villa des Arts if exhibitions have changed, or explore at a more leisurely pace. Alternatively, spend time in one of Rabat's excellent bookshops or cultural centers, or simply enjoy Moroccan café culture with mint tea and people-watching.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Upscale dining experience
Enjoy a refined dinner at one of Rabat's upscale restaurants featuring modern Moroccan cuisine with international influences
Where to Stay Tonight
Agdal or Hassan (Boutique hotel)
Sophisticated neighborhood matching the day's cultural focus
Many of Rabat's best cafés are in the Agdal neighborhood; try several to find your favorite atmosphere
Day 10 Budget: $80-110
Experience Rabat's spiritual side through gardens, quiet reflection, and cultural understanding.
Morning
Return to Andalusian Gardens and Kasbah Oudaya
Revisit the peaceful Andalusian Gardens within Kasbah Oudaya for a more contemplative experience. Spend time sitting quietly among the orange trees and flowering plants, listening to birdsong and fountain water. This return visit allows deeper appreciation of the space without rushing, and the morning light offers different photographic opportunities.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A traditional café in the kasbah serving mint tea and Moroccan pastries
Moroccan café fare
Budget
Afternoon
Nouzhat Hassan Garden and quiet reflection
Spend a peaceful afternoon in Nouzhat Hassan Garden, one of Rabat's most serene public spaces. Bring a book, journal, or simply sit and observe local families and individuals enjoying the green space. This slower-paced afternoon provides balance to busier sightseeing days and offers insight into everyday Rabat life.
2-3 hours
Free
Evening
Traditional music performance or cultural event
Attend a traditional Andalusian music performance or cultural event if available, or enjoy a quiet dinner at a
medina restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina (Peaceful riad with courtyard)
Tranquil setting continues the day's contemplative theme
Check with your hotel or tourist office about cultural events, concerts, or exhibitions happening during your stay
Day 11 Budget: $55-75
Venture beyond tourist areas to experience authentic Rabat neighborhoods and local daily life.
Morning
Local market and neighborhood exploration
Visit a neighborhood market where Rabatis shop for daily needs rather than tourist markets. Observe produce vendors, butchers, and spice sellers conducting business with local customers. Explore residential areas to see everyday architecture, neighborhood mosques, and local bakeries where residents bring dough to be baked in communal ovens.
3-4 hours
$10-15 (snacks and small purchases)
Lunch
A neighborhood restaurant frequented by locals, serving daily specials and home-style cooking
Traditional Moroccan
Budget
Afternoon
Urban Forest Ibn Sina walk and relaxation
Return to Urban Forest Ibn Sina for a leisurely walk through this local favorite green space. Join Rabatis walking, jogging, or picnicking in the forest. The area provides a window into how residents spend leisure time and offers a refreshing natural environment for relaxation and reflection on your travels.
2-3 hours
Free
Evening
Farewell dinner at a favorite restaurant
Return to your favorite restaurant from the trip for a farewell meal, or try a final new spot recommended by locals you've met
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina or preferred neighborhood (Your favorite riad or hotel)
Stay in the area you've enjoyed most during your visit
Learning a few Arabic or French phrases goes far in neighborhood areas; locals appreciate the effort
Day 12 Budget: $60-80
Revisit favorite spots, complete souvenir shopping, and savor final experiences in Rabat.
Morning
Return to Chellah Castle or favorite site
Revisit Chellah Castle or another favorite attraction for a final visit. With familiarity from your first visit, you'll notice details you missed initially and can spend time in areas that most interested you. Alternatively, visit any site from your list that deserves more time or that you'd like to experience once more.
2-3 hours
$7-10
Lunch
A beloved restaurant from earlier in your trip, or a final new experience
Moroccan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Final shopping and souvenir hunting
Complete your souvenir shopping in the Old Market and
medina. Purchase spices, argan oil, traditional slippers, ceramics, textiles, or other items you've been considering. With two weeks of experience, you'll have better judgment about quality and fair prices. Allow time for careful selection and final bargaining.
3-4 hours
$40-80 (souvenirs)
Evening
Final sunset and special dinner
Watch a final sunset from Viewpoint Oudayas or the corniche, then enjoy a special farewell dinner at an upscale restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina or city center (Comfortable hotel or riad)
Central location for final evening and easy departure access
Save room in your luggage for purchases, or bring a foldable bag for souvenirs; fragile items can often be shipped
Day 13 Budget: $90-130
Final morning in Rabat before departure, with time for last-minute experiences and airport transfer.
Morning
Leisurely breakfast and final walk
Enjoy a relaxed final breakfast at your accommodation or a favorite café. Take a last walk through your neighborhood, perhaps visiting the Mausoleum of Mohammed V once more if time permits, or simply strolling streets that have become familiar. Reflect on your two weeks of experiences and say goodbye to Rabat's unique blend of history and modernity.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Lunch
Light lunch near your hotel or at the airport depending on departure time
Moroccan or International
Budget to Mid-range
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Transfer to Rabat-Salé Airport for your departure flight. The airport is modern and well-organized; arrive with sufficient time for check-in and security. Consider purchasing final items like dates, argan oil, or pastries at airport shops if you haven't already stocked up in the
medina.
Variable based on flight time
$15-25 (taxi to airport)
Book airport transfer the day before; allow 30-40 minutes travel time depending on traffic
Evening
Departure
Depart Rabat with memories of Morocco's most elegant and livable capital city
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Keep some Moroccan dirhams for airport purchases or future visits; currency can be difficult to exchange outside Morocco
Day 14 Budget: $40-60