A Royal Weekend in Rabat
Morocco's Elegant Capital by the Atlantic
Trip Overview
Discover Morocco's sophisticated capital on this relaxed weekend getaway. Rabat offers a perfect blend of imperial grandeur, ancient ruins, and coastal charm without the overwhelming crowds of larger Moroccan cities. This two-day itinerary takes you through UNESCO-listed kasbahs, stunning royal monuments, and peaceful gardens, while allowing time to savor the city's laid-back Atlantic atmosphere. You'll explore ancient Roman-era ruins at Chellah, wander the blue-and-white streets of the historic Kasbah Oudaya, and admire contemporary Moroccan art. The pace is leisurely, with afternoon breaks for mint tea and evenings spent along the scenic Corniche. This itinerary balances cultural immersion with relaxation, making it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic yet comfortable Moroccan experience in a manageable, walkable city.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Imperial Heritage & Ancient Ruins
Where to Stay Tonight
Medina or Hassan district (Traditional riad or boutique hotel)
Central location provides easy walking access to major monuments and authentic Moroccan atmosphere with modern comforts
Art, Gardens & Atlantic Breezes
Where to Stay Tonight
Same as Day 1 (Continue at your chosen accommodation)
Staying in the same location avoids time lost to checking in/out and allows you to store luggage while exploring on your final day
Practical Information
Getting Around
Rabat is highly walkable for most major attractions in the historic center. Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive (agree on fare before departing or insist on meter). The modern tramway connects major districts efficiently. For Chellah and attractions outside the center, petit taxis (small blue taxis for city travel) are your best option. From the airport, take a taxi or train to Rabat Ville station. Walking between the medina, Kasbah Oudaya, and Hassan district takes 15-30 minutes and allows you to experience local neighborhoods.
Book Ahead
Museum tickets are purchased on-site. Consider booking accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall). No advance reservations needed for most attractions, though a licensed guide for Chellah can be arranged through your hotel.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for religious sites (covering shoulders and knees), sunscreen and hat, light layers for coastal breezes, camera, reusable water bottle, small daypack
Total Budget
$165-240 for 2 days (excluding accommodation and international travel)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in a budget medina guesthouse ($25-40/night), eat at local cafes and street food stalls serving brochettes and sandwiches ($3-6 per meal), skip museum entries and focus on free attractions like the Mausoleum, Kasbah Oudaya streets, and beaches. Use walking instead of taxis whenever possible. Shop at the Old Market for snacks rather than restaurants. Total daily budget can be reduced to $50-70 per day.
Luxury Upgrade
Book a five-star riad or luxury hotel with spa facilities ($200-400/night), hire a private guide for personalized tours of all sites with deeper historical context, enjoy fine dining at upscale restaurants featuring modern Moroccan gastronomy, arrange a private sunset cruise on the Bou Regreg river, add a hammam and massage experience, and include a private transfer to Les Jardins Exotiques de Bouknadel. Budget $300-500 per day.
Family-Friendly
Start Day 1 at Rabat Zoo (before the Mausoleum) where children can see African wildlife including lions and elephants. Replace the art museum with more time at the Botanical Garden and beach activities at the Corniche. Visit Urban Forest Ibn Sina for picnicking and playground areas. Choose family-friendly restaurants with simple grilled meats and fries. Break up walking with frequent snack stops and consider horse-drawn carriage rides in certain areas for tired little legs.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Rabat