Discover Rabat: Morocco's Atlantic capital

Rabat, an Atlantic capital

Rabat is a capital apart: set facing the Atlantic Ocean, at the mouth of the Bouregreg river, it blends royal heritage, modern districts and nature. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2012, it offers a calm, green atmosphere, far from the bustle of the great metropolises.

Here, everything is done on foot or by tram: palm-lined avenues, gardens, museums and terrace cafés. Rabat can be explored without stress, at your own pace — a real advantage when you are also here for treatment.

Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V

The city's symbol, Hassan Tower is an unfinished 12th-century minaret: 44 metres high, it was meant to crown the largest mosque in the Muslim world. Around it, an esplanade of stone columns traces the plan of this never-completed building.

Just opposite, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V houses the tombs of King Mohammed V and his sons. White marble, zellige tiles, carved cedar wood and royal guards in ceremonial dress: it is one of Morocco's most moving monuments, open to all visitors.

The Kasbah of the Udayas and the Andalusian gardens

Perched above the mouth of the Bouregreg, the Kasbah of the Udayas is a village within the city: white and blue alleyways, a monumental 12th-century gate, and one of Rabat's finest viewpoints, between river, ocean and Salé, the sister city on the opposite bank.

Inside the kasbah, the Andalusian gardens offer a shaded pause: fountains, orange trees and bougainvillea, scented with orange blossom. Do not miss the Moorish café, a legendary terrace facing the Atlantic.

Chellah, the necropolis of the storks

A few minutes from the centre, Chellah is a place out of time: a Roman city, Sala Colonia, which became a Marinid royal necropolis in the 14th century. Minaret, pools, tombs and wild gardens make up a site of singular beauty.

Chellah is also the kingdom of the storks, which nest atop the ruins. In spring, the gardens burst into flower and the site becomes one of the favourite walks of Rabat's residents.

The medina and the Bouregreg waterfront

Rabat's medina, more intimate than those of Fez or Marrakech, is a pleasure to explore: covered souks, carpets, babouche slippers, jewellery and spices, in an authentic and welcoming atmosphere.

Below, the Bouregreg waterfront has been completely redeveloped: corniche, marina, restaurants and waterside promenades. Across the river, Salé and its white medina complete the visit, a few minutes away by tram or boat.

Beaches and Atlantic light

Rabat is a seaside city: long sandy beaches, promenades facing the ocean, and a changing Atlantic light that has inspired painters and photographers. Sunsets on the corniche are among the finest in the kingdom.

In summer, the ocean breeze tempers the heat; the rest of the year, the beaches remain a favourite place for walks, between surfing, fishing and cafés with their feet in the sand.

Your stay, taken care of from start to finish

Are you coming from abroad for treatment? We organise your trip: pickup from Casablanca airport — Rabat is only about forty minutes away — and accommodation arranged for the whole length of your stay, if you have not planned any.

Between appointments, Rabat can be discovered gently: a walk in the kasbah, a mint tea facing the ocean, a stroll through the souk. Your companion can also enjoy the city while you rest. Tell us about your plans: we will help you organise a peaceful stay, treatment and discovery combined.

Rabat, a modern city

Rabat's face is changing fast. The Prince Moulay Abdellah Grand Stadium, rebuilt and reopened in September 2025 with almost 70,000 seats, hosted the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and will host matches of the 2030 World Cup. Across the Bouregreg, the Mohammed VI Tower — 250 metres, 55 floors, inaugurated in April 2026 — is now Morocco's tallest building. Nearby, the Royal Theatre, designed by Zaha Hadid, unfolds its white curves along the river.

Getting around is easy: the tramway has linked Rabat and Salé since 2011 across the Hassan II Bridge, two lines running through the city. Down by the river, the Bouregreg Marina and the Bab Al Bahr district offer promenades, cafés and restaurants facing the kasbah. And in the evening, Rabat lights up: the corniche, Rabat-Ville station and the city-centre squares stay lively, between terraces and waterside walks.

Rabat is changing without denying itself: new districts, stadiums and towers rise beside the ramparts, gardens and medina. It is this combination — preserved heritage and a city moving forward — that makes the capital so charming today.