Where to stay in Rabat 2026
Rabat city skyline, including the Grand Theatre and Bou Regreg River
(Blog updated January 2026)
Rabat, Morocco’s capital, is surprisingly clean, green, and forward-thinking. It’s no wonder British Airways added it to its Morocco-UK network in November 2025. In 2026, Rabat is designated the "UNESCO World Book Capital 2026”; literary enthusiasts can look forward to book-themed events from April 2026 throughout the year.
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, Hassan Tower, and Rabat Medina meet with epic architectural feats, namely the Grand Theatre and Mohamed VI Tower, which, after years of construction, are now opening.
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, Dar Al-Makhzen, is at the city's heart.
With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Bou Regreg River on the other, it has a laid-back, tranquil, and fresh city vibe.
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. For first-time visitors to Rabat, the Medina is a great base, as you can walk to the Kasbah, the city beach, and everywhere within the Medina. 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. This referral commission supports my work and helps keep the blog ad-free.
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;
Dar Shaan, Rabat Medina
This was one of the first places I stayed, loved, stayed again, and still love for a Rabat city break. A beautifully converted traditional riad with contemporary touches, including a rooftop pool and sun loungers. 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 or taxi drop-offs nearby. Friendly staff arrange everything, including local guides, dinner reservations, and airport transfers. There is a hammam and a lovely, atmospheric, stylish restaurant for breakfast and dinner. Perfect for evenings when you want to chill, enjoy a home-cooked tagine steps from your room.
Riad Kalaa, Rabat
Similar location to Dar Shaan. Part of the Rabat Riads collection, there are four other riads in the collection. I visited Riad Kalaa for dinner, a historic 19th-century building that retains its original charm, especially in its central courtyard with intricate plasterwork and arches, perfect for candlelit dinners. The four rooms and seven suites feature distinct decor, including tilework, tadelakt bathrooms, rich textures, ambient lighting, and cosy touches. There’s also a hammam, rooftop pool with sun loungers, and friendly, professional staff.
Suite at Euphoriad, Rabat
The former Pacha’s residence has been completely redesigned and modernised by architect and decorator Chafiq Kabbaj. A charming boutique hotel with eight rooms and suites in a great location in the Medina. It beautifully balances the house’s historic character with elegant modern touches, including a rooftop infinity pool, a marble hammam spa, and refined dining.
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 Dar es Salam, Rabat
The Ritz-Carlton Rabat opened in 2024, bringing a new level of luxe accommodation to Morocco’s political capital. Set within 440 acres of forest and gardens, for golfers it’s ideally situated adjacent to the city’s Royal Golf course. The design blends 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. Prices in the five-star bracket, with room rates starting at MAD 4,200 per room per night.
Villa Mandarine, Rabat
A family-owned former home that has been lovingly converted into a charming villa set within expansive gardens. Choose from Classic and Luxury Rooms and a handful of suites, including the Two-bedroom Mandarin Villa Suite, ideal for families travelling together. Their sprawling gardens, brimming with flowers and orange trees, evoke a sense of calm. Good-sized swimming pool, fitness room, billiards table, 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;
The Fairmont was the first luxury hotel to arrive in Rabat (Salé). It’s ideal for those who like five-star facilities, 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
The Four Seasons opened its third Moroccan hotel in Rabat in 2024, right on the beachfront with direct ocean views. Former 18th-century palace buildings bring a sense of history that is seamlessly blended with the Four Seasons’ discreet services and refined luxury. It’s a vast space, five hectares, which gives a resort oasis feel in the city. If budget allows, upgrade to a room with an ocean view. Two large outdoor swimming pools and one indoor pool in their indulgent spa. Perfect for Four Seasons fans, and anyone looking for a soft introduction to Morocco. International guests are well-understood and catered to here.
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.
Coming soon: Waldorf Astoria in the Mohammed VI Tower, North Africa’s tallest buildings. Excited to experience this iconic brand’s arrival in Morocco!
Thank you for reading this article.
I hope this has given you a helpful overview of where to stay in Rabat. It really is a beautiful city! For further Rabat reading, check out ‘15 favourite things to do in Rabat’ and ‘Where to eat and drink in Rabat’.
If you would like help planning a trip to Morocco, please feel free to email me (sally_kirby@hotmail.com) to arrange a travel planning call on Zoom.