Car Hire Rabat

Rabat Mini Guide

Rabat, the capital city of Morocco in contrast to most other cities in the country is extremely relaxed and westernised.  It has wide tree lined boulevards built during the French Morocco period of the early 20th century. There are also modern hotels and buildings which sit side by side with the old walled Medina.

A varied history
The buildings in Rabat vary from those of the Medina and the ancient Kasbah des Oudaia right through to those built under French rule in the early 1900's, culminating with the Mohammed V mausoleum which houses the tomb of Mohammed V who died in 1961. It was inaugurated in 1967 and was built by the finest craftsmen using the very best of materials, there is plenty of architecture to take in as you walk around – surprisingly, it was designed by a Vietnamese architect.  It has the status of being a Muslim shrine but is open to anyone, just remember to dress accordingly when visiting.

A green oasis
For something a little different to the history and ruins of the old city why not take a trip to the Andalucian Gardens?  Although these give the impression of being old, they were actually designed by the French colonial authorities in the 20th century.  As well as being a green space in the city they also house the Museum of Moroccan Arts which has some interesting traditional antique doors in it's walls.

Look out to sea
If you walk to the very northern end of the Kasbah des Oudaia you will find a viewing platform with spectacular views over Rabat's city centre and harbour to one side, it's neighbour Sale to the other and the water of the Atlantic Ocean stretching out in front of you.  After a pleasant stroll through the streets of the Kasbah it is a popular spot for both locals and tourist alike.

From guest house to luxury
Wherever you choose to stay in Rabat you should not be disappointed, there are guest houses such as the House of Sara Rabat offering a room in a shared house.  There are luxury 5 star hotels by chains such as Sofitel or you can opt to stay inside the walls of the old Medina in a Riad which is a traditional Moroccan style of hotel and which receive excellent reviews. 

Rabat is the bustling capital of the country and has lots for the visitor, especially those with a hire car. The city’s Kasbah is quite stunning, especially at sunset when the sun turns the walls a fiery red.

Entering the Kasbah, you’ll come to the city’s old quarter with narrow paved streets, barely wide enough for a person to walk through, and colourful market places full of the products of Morocco. From there, head to the Royal Palace. It’s heavily guarded and entry isn’t allowed but you can look through the gates and marvel at the beauty inside.