After touching down and leaving the airport, the air in Rabat feels different as the Atlantic breeze meets the scent of old stone and orange blossoms. This city greets you with a calm energy that balances its role as a modern capital with the quiet dignity of its ancient coastal walls.
Oudaia Kasbah
This fortress sits on a cliff overlooking the ocean, where you can walk through a massive 12th-century gate into a world of blue-and-white houses. The narrow winding paths lead to a communal garden and a terrace with wide views of the Bou Regreg river.
Hassan Tower
This red sandstone minaret is the most recognisable part of the city skyline and was intended to be the largest in the world. Today, it stands as a majestic unfinished monument surrounded by hundreds of marble columns that glow during sunset.
Mausoleum of Mohammed V
Located across from the tower, this building is a masterpiece of modern Moroccan architecture with its white marble walls and green tiled roof. Inside, the intricate wood carvings and gold leaf work show the incredible skill of local artisans.
Chellah
This walled site is where Roman ruins and medieval Islamic architecture exist side by side under the shade of fruit trees. It is a peaceful place where storks build large nests on top of ancient ruins and stone minarets.
The Medina
Unlike the more hectic markets in other cities, this walled district feels more relaxed and allows you to browse for leather goods and carpets at a slower pace. The wooden doors and narrow alleys are filled with the smell of fresh bread and mint tea.
Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
This gallery is the first large-scale museum in the country dedicated to modern works and provides a look into the creative spirit of the region. The building itself is beautiful, using traditional motifs in a sleek, contemporary design.