Things to Do in Morocco: Exploring Rabat and Beyond

Exciting news! IVI will soon be opening in Morocco! Our programs will include teaching languages (English and French), NGO support, life skills, sports coaching, childcare and women’s education.

Keep an eye out for our new projects coming soon! In the meantime, here all the things to do in Morocco….

When people think of Morocco, cities like Marrakech, Fes, or Chefchaouen often spring to mind first. But here’s a little secret: Morocco’s capital, Rabat, might just be the country’s most underrated gem. This is where our programs are based! A fascinating mix of history, coastal beauty, relaxed vibes, and vibrant modern culture, Rabat offers a perfect starting point for exploring Morocco as a whole.

If you’re planning a trip, whether for volunteering, travel, or both, this guide will walk you through the best things to do in Rabat — plus highlights across the wider country that you won’t want to miss.

Why Start in Rabat?

Unlike the buzzing chaos of Marrakech or the maze-like streets of Fes, Rabat has a calmer, more laid-back energy. It’s a political capital, yes, but it’s also a cultural hub with wide boulevards, museums, historical landmarks, and a breezy Atlantic coastline. Rabat is safe, modern, and manageable — the kind of place where you can sip mint tea in a centuries-old medina in the morning and watch surfers on the beach in the afternoon.

For many travellers, Rabat is a refreshing entry point into Morocco. It gives you space to breathe, to adjust, and to slowly peel back the layers of Moroccan culture before diving into the country’s busier destinations.

Top Things to Do in Rabat

1. Wander the Kasbah of the Udayas

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Kasbah of the Udayas is a fortified district perched above the Atlantic Ocean. Its narrow lanes are painted in bright blue and white, giving it a Greek-island feel, but with a distinctly Moroccan soul.

Inside, you’ll find charming homes, artisan workshops, and the Andalusian Gardens — a lush space perfect for a peaceful stroll. Don’t miss the Café Maure, perched on the edge of the kasbah, where you can sip sweet mint tea while gazing over the river and the ocean.

2. Visit Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V

These two landmarks sit side by side and are among Rabat’s most iconic sights.

• Hassan Tower is the unfinished minaret of a 12th-century mosque that was meant to be the largest in the world. Today, its towering presence and surrounding stone columns make for an unforgettable photo spot.
• Right next to it is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the resting place of Morocco’s beloved king and his sons. The building itself is a masterpiece, with stunning marble, mosaics, and a green-tiled roof that glows in the sunlight.

3. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Chellah

Step back in time at Chellah, a walled necropolis on the edge of Rabat. Once a Roman settlement and later a medieval Islamic burial ground, Chellah is now a hauntingly beautiful ruin filled with crumbling arches, minarets, and wild gardens.

Storks nest on the ancient walls, creating an atmospheric mix of history and nature. It’s less crowded than many Moroccan sites, which makes it even more magical.

4. Get Cultured at Rabat’s Museums

Rabat is Morocco’s cultural capital, so take advantage of its impressive museums:

• Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – showcasing Moroccan and international artists in a sleek, modern space.
• National Jewellery Museum – housed inside the old Oudayas palace, with dazzling examples of Berber, Arab, and Jewish craftsmanship.
• National Photography Museum – inside a former fortress, this museum highlights Moroccan life through the lens of talented photographers.

5. Relax in Rabat’s Gardens and Parks

Need a breather? Rabat is known for its green spaces. Nouzhat Hassan Garden is a favourite among locals, while the Andalusian Gardens inside the Kasbah offer a serene escape. Pack a picnic, grab a book, or simply people-watch under the shade of orange trees.

6. Hit the Beaches

Being a coastal capital has its perks. Rabat has several sandy beaches where you can relax or even try surfing. Plage de Rabat and Plage des Nations are local favourites. While they may not have the glamour of Essaouira or Agadir, they’re great for a quick dip or beach stroll after sightseeing.

7. Explore Rabat’s Medina and Souks

Rabat’s medina is a calmer, friendlier version of those in Marrakech or Fes. Here, you can browse handmade rugs, leather goods, spices, and jewellery without the overwhelming hustle. Rue des Consuls is a particularly good spot for finding artisan crafts.

8. Stroll the Bou Regreg Marina

The Bou Regreg River separates Rabat from its sister city, Salé. Along the Rabat side, you’ll find a modern marina with restaurants, cafés, and a stunning promenade. Take a boat ride across to Salé for a different perspective — and fewer tourists.

9. Experience the Grand Theatre of Rabat

Designed by the late Zaha Hadid, this futuristic cultural centre is a striking contrast to Rabat’s ancient sites. It hosts concerts, performances, and cultural events, making it a symbol of the city’s forward-looking spirit.

10. Sample Moroccan Food in Rabat

Don’t leave Rabat without indulging in Moroccan cuisine. From hearty tagines to couscous Fridays, the city’s restaurants and street stalls offer plenty of flavour. Try harira soup (a traditional Ramadan dish), briouats (savoury pastries), and of course, endless cups of mint tea.

Day Trips from Rabat

One of Rabat’s perks is its location. From here, you can easily explore nearby cities and towns.

• Salé – Just across the river, Salé is quieter and more traditional, with its own medina and the Great Mosque.
• Casablanca – Morocco’s modern business hub, only an hour away by train. Visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque, perched right over the Atlantic.
• Kenitra – A coastal city with lively markets and nearby beaches.
• Meknes and Volubilis – A couple of hours inland, Meknes is an imperial city with grand gates and palaces. Nearby, the Roman ruins of Volubilis are some of the best-preserved in North Africa.

Beyond Rabat: Highlights of Morocco

Once you’ve soaked up Rabat, it’s time to explore the rest of Morocco. Here are the must-see spots:

Marrakech – The Red City

Love it or hate it, Marrakech is Morocco’s most famous city. The main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, bursts with life — snake charmers, storytellers, food stalls, and musicians. Explore the colourful souks, the Bahia Palace, and the stunning Majorelle Gardens.

Fes – The Spiritual Capital

Step into the medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO site and one of the largest car-free zones in the world. Lose yourself in its labyrinth of alleys, discover traditional tanneries, and visit Al Quaraouiyine, the world’s oldest university.

Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl

Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is famous for its blue-washed streets. It’s a photographer’s dream and a laid-back place to relax after busier cities.

Sahara Desert – Merzouga or Zagora

No trip to Morocco is complete without a desert adventure. Ride camels across the golden dunes, sleep under the stars in a Berber camp, and watch the sunrise over the Sahara.

Atlas Mountains

Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or simply admiring dramatic landscapes, the Atlas Mountains are breathtaking. Visit Berber villages, trek up Mount Toubkal (North Africa’s highest peak), or take scenic drives through valleys like Ourika or Dades Gorge.

Essaouira – The Windy City

A coastal town with Portuguese fortifications, laid-back vibes, and a thriving arts scene. Perfect for seafood lovers and kite surfers.

Agadir – Sun and Sand

If beaches are your thing, Agadir offers long sandy stretches, a modern promenade, and plenty of resorts.

Tips for Traveling Around Morocco

• Transport: Morocco’s train network is excellent — fast, clean, and affordable. Buses and shared taxis fill the gaps.
• Language: Arabic and French are widely spoken, but English is increasingly common in tourist areas.
• Culture: Dress modestly, especially outside big cities and at religious sites.
• Food safety: Street food is delicious, but stick to busy stalls with high turnover.
• Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather. Summers can be scorching, especially inland.

Conclusion

Rabat might not have the fame of Marrakech or the mystique of Fes, but it’s a city that sneaks into your heart. With its combination of history, culture, ocean breezes, and relaxed charm, it’s the perfect place to start (or end) your Moroccan adventure. From Rabat, the entire country opens up — from blue cities and golden deserts to snow-capped mountains and bustling souks.

Whether you’re volunteering, traveling, or both, Morocco promises adventure, connection, and memories you’ll carry forever.