Things to Do in Rabat in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Rabat
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect temperature for exploring medina alleys - 18°C (65°F) highs mean comfortable walking without overheating in narrow stone passages
- Fewer crowds at Hassan Tower and Royal Mausoleum - 40% fewer tourists than peak season means better photos and authentic experiences
- Hotel rates drop 30-50% from November peaks - luxury riads in Medina available for €80-120 instead of €150-200
- Orange season begins - fresh oranges from Salé groves sold street-side, and cafés serve seasonal orange-almond pastries
Considerations
- Atlantic coast too cold for swimming - ocean temperature drops to 17°C (63°F), limiting beach activities to walks only
- Rain disrupts 1 in 3 days - sudden downpours flood medina streets for 30-45 minutes, requiring flexible schedules
- Shorter daylight hours - sunset at 5:45pm limits afternoon sightseeing and outdoor dining compared to summer months
Best Activities in December
Hassan Tower Complex and Archaeological Tours
December's cool weather makes exploring the massive Hassan Tower ruins and Royal Mausoleum complex ideal. The 8°C (47°F) morning temperatures warm to perfect 16°C (61°F) by midday, avoiding summer's scorching stone surfaces. Fewer crowds mean unobstructed views of the 12th-century minaret and better access to Mohammed V's tomb. The complex stays dry even during December's brief showers thanks to covered walkways.
Oudayas Kasbah Walking Tours
The 12th-century fortress overlooking the Bou Regreg River is spectacular in December's clear, crisp air. Cool temperatures make climbing the kasbah's steep stone steps comfortable, while winter's lower humidity provides crystal-clear Atlantic views. December's reduced tourist numbers mean authentic interactions with local artisans in the Andalusian Gardens, and the fortress walls provide shelter during brief rain showers.
Rabat Medina Food Tours
December brings seasonal specialties like harira soup and fresh orange-based desserts perfect for cool weather. The medina's covered souks provide shelter from December rains while sampling traditional foods. Cooler temperatures mean longer shelf life for street food and more comfortable spice market exploration. Local vendors offer winter comfort foods like chebakia pastries and mint tea that taste best in 15°C (59°F) weather.
Chellah Necropolis Archaeological Walks
The Roman and Islamic ruins at Chellah are perfect for December exploration when cool weather makes the 2 km (1.2 mile) walking circuit comfortable. December's clear skies provide excellent views of ancient columns and medieval minarets. The site's gardens bloom with winter flowers, and reduced crowds mean peaceful exploration of the 14th-century mosque ruins and Roman baths without rushing.
Salé Day Trips and Pottery Workshops
December's cool, dry weather is ideal for crossing the Bou Regreg River to explore Salé's pottery quarter and traditional workshops. The city's covered markets provide shelter from December rains, while cooler temperatures make the 30-minute walk through Salé's medina comfortable. Winter months offer pottery-making workshops in heated studios, perfect when outdoor activities are limited by weather.
Royal Palace District and Gardens Walks
December weather is perfect for exploring the Royal Palace's exterior and surrounding Mechouar district. Cool temperatures make the 3 km (1.9 mile) walking route comfortable, while winter's clear air provides excellent views of the palace's ornate gates and walls. The nearby Necropole gardens are less crowded in December, offering peaceful walks among orange trees during their fruiting season.
December Events & Festivals
Mawlid Festival Celebrations
Religious celebrations honoring Prophet Muhammad's birthday typically occur in early December, featuring special prayers, traditional music performances, and communal meals in mosques throughout Rabat. The Royal Mosque hosts evening gatherings with Andalusian music, while local neighborhoods organize charity meals and religious recitations.
International Film Festival of Morocco
While centered in Marrakech, Rabat hosts satellite screenings and cultural events at Cinema Renaissance and Institut Français. December programming includes North African cinema showcases and director talks, attracting film enthusiasts during the cooler winter months when indoor cultural activities are preferred.