Must-See Historical Sites in Rabat, Morocco’s City of Light [& Velotaxi Experience!]

Living in Salé, right next to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, I often do not care about the historical treasures surrounding me. 

But today, I’m putting on my tourist hat and local knowledge to show you the top historical sites you cannot miss, plus how to navigate in between them!

What is Rabat Famous For in Morocco?

Rabat, the capital city of the Kingdom of Morocco, was founded in the 12th century.

Located on the Atlantic coast, Rabat boasts a rich history influenced by various cultures and offers stunning ocean views. It’s a captivating blend of ancient history and modern life.

Tip: To enjoy Rabat’s beautiful weather and outdoor activities, plan your visit for the spring (March-May) or fall (September- November) when temperatures are comfortably mild.

Why Should You Visit Rabat and Not Just Marrakech?

Usually, Marrakech is a vibrant and popular destination, often crowded with tourists.

Rabat, on the other hand, offers a more peaceful atmosphere, numerous historical sites, ocean views, and many museums, and is generally more affordable than Marrakech

So If you are planning a trip to Morocco, be sure to include Rabat in your itinerary.

Two or Three Days is Enough to Explore This Charming Calm City.

So let me share with you what Rabat is famous for, and I’m sure you will love it, perhaps even more than Marrakech! 😉 

Plus If you explore Rabat in this order, it will be easy for you, as all these historical sites are located in the same area.

BAB Soufarae – Iconic Moroccan Royalty Residence

So first up on the list, is Bab Soufarae.

If you’re wondering where the Moroccan royal family resides, this is the place! To be exact, it’s from Bab Soufara to The Royal Palace of Rabat, or Dar al-Makhzen.

While the interior of the palace is closed to the public, the landscaped gardens, ancient fountains, and beautiful flower beds offer an ideal and lavish escape from the bustling city.

• Location

Tip: If you’re planning to visit Rabat, it’s crucial to check if any important political visits are scheduled during your stay. Recently, the French President visited Rabat, leading to historical site closures and traffic restrictions. It’s advisable to stay informed about such events to avoid any inconveniences during your trip.

Chellah – UNESCO World Heritage Site Not To Miss!

The Chellah archaeological site, located on the left bank of the Bouregreg River in Rabat, is of exceptional historical and cultural significance.

This site, which has undergone several phases of occupation over the centuries, offers a fascinating window into the region’s history, from antiquity to the Islamic era.

This introductory note highlights the key aspects of Chellah, emphasizing its importance, history, and remarkable archaeological discoveries.

You can also read about the nostalgic nights held at Chellah here (aka this article will give an insight on the best time to visit Chellah!)

The Hassan Tower – You Must Have Seen This Online!

Scroll any social media feed, this tower must have popped up multiple times when the travel content is about Morocco!

Indeed, The Hassan Tower is an iconic landmark of Rabat.

Built in the 12th century, the Hassan Tower was originally intended to be the tallest building in the world, but construction was halted after the sultan’s death. Today, it’s a popular tourist spot offering breathtaking city views.

You can easily find it, and the entrance is free.

For more information here in Visit Rabat

The Mohammed 5 Mausoleum

The Mohammed V Mausoleum, located in the same area as the Hassan Tower, is where Moroccan kings are buried. Next to it is the city’s first mosque, which uniquely lacks a minaret. Therefore, the call to prayer is made from the Hassan Tower.

The mosque is only open during prayer times.

• Location
• Opening hours every day from 9 am to 6 pm

Onto The Next Historical Site With a Velotaxi! [P/s: A Tip on How to Get Around These Historical Sites in Rabat]

Wondering what are the best ways to get to your next Historical site in Rabat?

For our next destination, the Oudayas Kasbah, we could walk, take a taxi, or a Vélotaxi.

In my experience not too long ago, my friends and I chose to take a Vélotaxi because it was so sunny. And the driver offered to take us on a little tour from Hassan to the big theater, the marina, and a bit of the old medina.

Our final destination was The Oudayas Kasbah. The entire tour cost (50 DH / 5$), but if we didn’t want a tour, he would have taken us directly to our destination for (30 DH/ 3$).

Why Do You Need To Try Vélotaxi (or Bike Taxis)?

I recommend taking the Velotaxi because it’s eco-friendly and a unique Moroccan way for exploration.

Plus, in my experience, the driver was so nice and friendly. He even stopped at some hot spots and took a lot of photos of the three of us. I’m pretty sure you’ll get experience Moroccan hospitality as well as tourists are known to take velotaxis.

How Do You Get Vélotaxi?

There is no app for VeloTaxi, So if you want to take one, you’ll find them near the city’s historical sites. Or you simply call them by the roadside

We found one in front of the entrance to the Hassan Tower, but when we tried to take it, the driver said it was already reserved. He was waiting for his clients to finish visiting Hassan to take them to another spot.

The Vélotaxi prices start at (10 DH/$1) for a one-person trip to a single destination.

For a 30-minute tour, it’s (40 DH/$4).

A one-hour tour costs (80 DH/$8), and a 1-hour and 45-minute tour is 120 DH/12$.

Some of them can understand English, but if not just try to show them a picture of your destination, or use Google Translate.

The Vélotaxi are available in Rabat, and Casablanca but only near to the historical site, like the Old Medina.

Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask the driver if he can call someone else to take you or give you their phone number. The driver we spoke to was very kind and called another driver to take us.

If the driver is specifically coming to pick you up, they might add 10 DH/ $1 to the cost

Taking a vélotaxi is a great way to experience authentic Moroccan vibes.

The friendly locals often greet strangers with smiles, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. You’ll hear the lively Moroccan dialect spoken all around, The drivers, known for their friendly attitude, chat with passengers and greet people along the way.

The overall experience is incredibly welcoming and memorable, unlike a traditional car ride.

The Oudayas Kasbah – Step Inside This Mini City!

Climb the ramparts of the kasbah and take in the panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Admire the imposing fortifications, once designed to protect the kingdom from invaders. Imagine the fierce battles that raged here.

History time! The Oudayas Kasbah was originally a military fortress built by the Almoravid sultan Yusuf ibn Tashfin in the early 12th century.

It served as a strategic base for his campaigns in both North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula. Over the centuries, the kasbah gained further significance under the Almohad dynasty and was later expanded by the Alaouite sultan Moulay Rachid in the 17th century.

The Kasbah is open to the public and there is no entrance fee. The Kasbah is located within the Medina of Rabat and can be easily reached by foot or taxi.

🤔 So, what is Kasbah? Kasbah is like a mini city in the big city it’s usually walled with bog walls and doors, and used also for military support.

• Location
• There’s no specific opening hours because people still live in the old houses within the Kasbah

Tip: For the best experience, I recommend visiting the Kasbah in the evening to enjoy the atmosphere and the sunset.

Café des Oudayas

While exploring the Kasbah, take a break at the famous coffee Café des Oudayas.

Enjoy a traditional Moroccan tea and some delectable sweets while admiring the magnificent view of the Bouregreg River.

Keep in mind that prices might be slightly higher than outside, as it’s a popular tourist spot. If you’re not thirsty, you can still enjoy the breathtaking view and capture unforgettable moments. The timeless atmosphere is truly serene.

• Location
• Opening hours every day from 10 am to 8 pm

Tip: From the Ouadayas cafe, you can easily access the Andalusian Gardens, they have a door that provides direct access to the garden.

The Andalusian Garden – Reminiscent of Spain in Morocco

If you’ve recently visited Granada, the Andalusian garden in Rabat will evoke nostalgic memories. Its breathtaking natural setting and intricate design will transport you back to the enchanting gardens of the Alhambra.

• Location here
• Free admission
• Open to the public from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Tip: Before planning your visit to the Andalusian garden, be sure to check the opening hours and any potential closures due to national holiday

The Old Medina

In Morocco, you may see a diverse culture.

So in almost every city, you will find an old medina

A Medina in Arabic simply means ‘city’ and the old Medina is Al Madina Elkadima, elKadima means ‘old’, so when you enter an old Median, it’s like stepping back in time.

In almost every big city in Morocco, especially those with a historical background, you can find an old Medina. Examples include Marrakech, Fes, Tangier, and Tetouan. The term ‘Medina’ refers to the old, walled part of the city.

In the old Medina, you will find everything you need; merchants, a lot of mosques, restaurants, and hotels. and you will remember that everyone knows each other.

Moroccans are Well-Known For Their Hospitality; They Might Invite You for Some Tea, or Even Gift You Something!

However, if you receive a random invitation to someone’s house, they might be expecting you to give them some money. Not everyone is like this, but you never know, so if someone invites you to a place you don’t know, it’s best to say ‘no, thank you.’

The Old Medina is a must-visit for any tourist. With its vibrant atmosphere, bustling markets, and delicious street food, it feels like stepping into a real-life Arabian Nights tale. Each Moroccan city has its unique Old Medina, offering a distinct charm and experience.

The Great Mosque of Rabat

The Great Mosque of Rabat, a historic landmark in the heart of the old Medina, offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich heritage. Easily accessible from Bab Chellah, this 14th-century mosque has been a spiritual and educational center for centuries and is still used today.

• Location
• The mosque is typically open during prayer times and for educational classes

Here’s another entrance to the Old Medina (location here). It’s a historical spot, so you’ll find a lot of velotaxis there.

Bab El Had

What does Bab El Had means?

• Bab means ‘door’ in Arabic El Ahad or El Had, on the other hand means ‘Sunday’

And why Bab El Had?

Named for the weekly market that once thrived near its location, the ‘Sunday Gate’ stands as one of only two Almohad-era gateways into the southern part of the medina, alongside Bab Laalou. Erected in the late 12th century under the rule of Ya’qub al-Mansour, it underwent restoration in 1814 at the hands of Sultan Moulay Slimane.

You will finish your tour at this gate, where you will find the mosque right next to the door of Bab El Had.

• Location
• Open from 7 AM to 10 PM

So Because It’s The First Article About Rabat, Let’s Answer Some Common Questions.

Is Rabat Safe for Muslimah Solo Travelers to Visit?

Yes, it’s safe, but as a local I recommend not walking outside after midnight. it can be safe but at night no one knows what can happen.

Language, Arabic, French, or English?

For language, in Morocco, we speak Moroccan Arabic dialect. It’s similar to classical Arabic, but it’s not the same. If you only know classical Arabic, you might find it difficult to understand Moroccan Darija.

So, try to learn some Darija phrases or French. You can also use Google Translate.

Some Moroccan phrases that you will need:

Hello or Hi: SALAM! / Please: AFAK / I want to go: BGHIT NMCHI / how much? : BCHAAL?

Reduce the price: NQASS CHWIYA / Bye: BSLAMA / Thank you: CHOUKRAN /

Too much: BZAF / Give me: Attini

But don’t worry too much because the people are so kind and they will help you as Moroccans are used to receiving tourists.

Money, Cash or Credit Card?

For money, especially in the old Medina, many shops don’t accept credit cards, so you’ll need cash

For more tourist information, you can check Visit Morocco.

Still Have Another Question, You Can Join Our Muslimah Solo Travelers Group!

If you’re planning to visit Rabat as a Muslimah Solo Traveler, please let us know in the Facebook group. We’re happy to help with any questions or information you may need.

And why not, we could even meet up! 😉

Time To Immerse Yourself in The History of Rabat!

So, this brings our virtual visit to Rabat to an end.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about the different historical gems in the City of Light.

Now that you know where to go, and you understand how to move around in between the historical sites of Rabat, you should definitely consider adding this charming, calm, and beautiful city to your Morocco itinerary!