Where to stay in Rabat 2025
Rabat city skyline, including the Grand Theatre and Bou Regreg River
Rabat, Morocco’s capital, is surprisingly clean, green and modern.
The city perfectly blends beautifully presented historic sites, such as the UNESCO-protected Kasbah des Oudayas, alongside a progressive and vibrant city.
The stunning Mausoleum of Mohamed V monument, Hassan Tower, and Rabat Medina meet with epic architectural feats, namely the Grand Theatre and Mohamed VI Tower, which, after many years of construction, are now coming to fruition.
Its tree-lined boulevards, sprawling leafy parks, and immaculately manicured grass verges make it a city fit for a King Mohammed VI’s principal residence, the Royal Palace, aka Dar Al-Makhzen, is at the city's heart.
With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Bou Regreg River flowing along the other, giving it a laid-back, tranquil, and fresh feel.
Is Rabat worth visiting?
I say yes! A stay in Rabat offers a fascinating insight into how Morocco modernises and accommodates other cultural influences. I love visiting the ancient Medina, Kasbah des Oudayas, and other sites without the crowds and overwhelm experienced in some Moroccan cities.
This article discusses where to stay in Rabat. There is something for all types of travellers, accommodating a range of budgets, and the finest Moroccan hospitality is assured, regardless of the price paid.
Where is Rabat, and how to get there?
Rabat is well-connected to the rest of Morocco via rail and road, and to Europe via a short flight, or an hour ferry ride from Spain to Tangier. Rabat has a small airport that offers flights to Paris, London, and other European cities. Or, an easy one-hour drive or train ride from Casablanca, two hours on the TGV to Tangier, and 3.5 hours on the ONCF train to Marrakech.
Where to stay in Rabat
The city is divided into several neighbourhoods. If you are a first-time visitor to Rabat, the Medina is a great place to base yourself, as you can walk to all the main sights and the city beach. Also worth mentioning is that Rabat has a modern and safe tramway system, as well as a well-functioning taxi service within the city. Read on for a comprehensive overview of each neighbourhood, along with some suggested hotels. If you click on the property name, it will direct you to a Booking.com affiliate link; you are also welcome to book directly with the property.
Experience life in Rabat’s ancient medina;
Easy walking distance to the Kasbah des Oudayas, Andalusian Gardens
Close to the city’s main beach, popular and safe for surfing and swimming
Pedestrianised oceanfront promenade perfect for morning or sunset walks
Local homes and services, mixed in with traditional riads and guesthouses
Quiet cobbled alleyways and streets perfect for pottering
Parking nearby, but no need for a car as there is a lot within walking distance
Where to stay in Rabat Medina;
This was one of the first places I stayed, loved, and still love. A beautiful, traditional riad with contemporary touches. Light, elegant, and spacious rooms with bold art popping against white walls. It is located on a quiet pedestrianised street in the Medina, with parking nearby. Friendly staff can arrange everything, including a local guide and airport transfers. There is a rooftop pool, hammam, and lovely atmospheric restaurant for breakfast and dinner.
Part of the Rabat Riads collection, there are four other riads in the collection. Riad Kalaa has four rooms and seven suites, each with distinct decor, rich textures, ambient lighting, and cosy touches. The wow factor is their ornate, traditional riad courtyard, perfect for candlelit dinners—a hammam, rooftop pool with sun loungers, and a professional staff.
For leafy streets and gardens in the Embassy District
Mixture of Embassies, luxury residences, tree-lined streets, this is one of the cities’ quietest and smartest suburbs
Hotels have space for gardens and larger swimming pools
Off-street, secure parking available
Close to Hay Riad for dining, shopping and nightlife
Near Dar es Salaam golf course
Hotels in Rabat’s Embassy/ Souissi District;
Ritz Carlton Rabat Dar es Salaam
The Ritz-Carlton Rabat opened in 2024, bringing exquisite luxury to Morocco’s political capital. Set within 440 acres of forest and gardens, it is situated adjacent to the city’s Royal Golf course. The design is a blend of elegance and Art Deco. Five restaurants offer traditional cuisine, poolside dining, alongside innovative fine-dining creations. Their 117 rooms and suites offer views of the pool or garden. Serene spa with an indoor pool, hammam, and ten treatment rooms, including one for couples. A large outdoor pool has a dedicated kids’ pool.
A family-owned former home that has been lovingly converted into a luxury villa. Charming rooms and suites include the Two-bedroom Mandarin Villa Suite, which is ideal for families travelling together. Gardens are brimming with flowers and orange trees. Good-sized swimming pool, fitness room, colourful art, and an in-house restaurant.
A luxury boutique hotel with twenty-seven rooms, ten suites, and a private villa. Design concept with bold colours, glass, and modern touches throughout. Hotel facilities include a 25-metre outdoor pool, restaurants, a spa, a well-equipped gym, and gardens.
For river and city panoramas
On the Salé side of the river is Salé Marina, home to several hotels, restaurants, cafés and residences
Amazing panoramic views of Rabat city skyline, which is a short drive or tram ride away
Also accessible via 10 minute riverboat crossing
Hotels on the river;
This is for those who like all-out luxury, five-star service, and a familiar brand. With 247 rooms, suites, and private residences, it’s a large resort with all the trimmings, plush interiors, stylish restaurants, and lavish marble finishings. Indulgent wellness spa and fitness centre. Lovely views across to the Kasbah des Oudayas, NB. They are on the Salé side of the river; Rabat is accessible by road or a short riverboat crossing.
Hotels by the ocean;
Four Seasons Rabat Kasr al Bahr
The Four Seasons opened its third Moroccan hotel in Rabat in 2024, right on the beachfront with direct ocean views. A former 18th-century palace, these original buildings bring a sense of history that is seamlessly blended with the Four Seasons’ luxury and refined touches. They have a vast space, five hectares, which makes it feel like a resort oasis in the city. There are two large outdoor swimming pools, and one indoor pool in their indulgent spa.
Immerse yourself in Agdal and Hay Riad’s urban vibe
Immerse yourself in the cities’ urban vibe. A mix of Art Deco architecture, French colonial influences, and glass tower malls and office blocks.
Marvel at Rabat Ville train station
Close to contemporary museums, art galleries, cafés, modern shopping malls and nightlife
Place Mahaj Riad is within walking distance. On weekdays, expect to see suited city workers strolling into glass office suites. In the evening, tapas bars, sushi, and pizzerias come to life with post-work vibes.
Hotels in Agdal and Hay Riad;
Whether you are in the area for one night or one month, these fully secure, serviced, and stylish apartments have everything you need to experience life in the city like a local.
With 117 rooms, this is one of the larger urban hotels in Rabat. It has a fresh, dynamic vibe. The ONOMO hotel group has proud African roots and is the largest African hotel brand, with 22 hotels in 13 African countries. The ONOMO Rabat Terminus boasts a prime location, situated right next to the Rabat Ville train station, tram stop, and within walking distance of the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art. Their rooftop bar and restaurant is one of the city’s highest, and has stunning views of the city skyline.
Thank you for reading. I hope this has given you a helpful overview of where to stay in Rabat. It is a beautiful city!! For further Rabat reading, check out my ‘12 favourite things to do in Rabat’ article. If you would like help planning a trip to Morocco, please feel free to email me to arrange a travel planning call on Zoom.