TourTally

Eight-Day Cultural and Historical Tour of Rabat

Dive into the rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture of Morocco's capital city.

2024-10-12 00:00 - 2024-10-19 00:00
Day 1

Welcome to Rabat!

The Introduction to Morocco's Capital

  1. Hassan Tower (9:00-11:00)
  2. Detailed Description: The Hassan Tower is an incomplete minaret of a mosque in Rabat, Morocco. Commissioned by Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur in 1195, the tower was intended to be the largest minaret in the world alongside the mosque, also intended to be the world's largest. The mosque was never completed, and today, the tower stands as an iconic symbol of Rabat, accompanied by the ruins of the mosque and a number of stumpy columns. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  3. Duration: 2 hours

  4. Must-Eat Food: Moroccan mint tea and pastries at a nearby café

  5. Mausoleum of Mohammed V (11:30-12:30)

  6. Detailed Description: Situated near the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V contains the tombs of the Moroccan king and his two sons, King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. The mausoleum is a masterpiece of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture, with its white silhouette topped by a green tiled roof, symbolizing the royal family.
  7. Duration: 1 hour
  8. Must-Eat Food: Moroccan Harira soup for lunch in a nearby restaurant
Day 2

Historical Insights and Coastal Views

From Ancient Ruins to Modern Medinas

  1. Chellah Necropolis (9:00-12:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Chellah is a medieval fortified Muslim necropolis located in the metro area of Rabat. It was originally a Phoenician and later a Roman settlement before becoming a necropolis during the Marinid dynasty. The site includes well-preserved ruins of mosques, tombs, and Roman remains, surrounded by lush gardens.
  3. Duration: 3 hours

  4. Must-Eat Food: Grilled sardines in a local seaside restaurant

  5. Kasbah of the Udayas (14:00-17:00)

  6. Detailed Description: The Kasbah of the Udayas is a kasbah in Rabat, situated at the mouth of the Bou Regreg river. It was built in the 12th century during the reign of the Almohad caliphate. The Kasbah is known for its beautiful Andalusian gardens, narrow streets, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  7. Duration: 3 hours
  8. Must-Eat Food: Try the traditional Moroccan Mint Tea at Café Maure within the Kasbah
Day 3

Modern Art and Urban Exploration

Discovering Rabat's Contemporary Side

  1. Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (9:00-12:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Opened in 2014, the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is the first museum built by the government of Morocco since the country's independence. It showcases the works of contemporary Moroccan artists and hosts temporary exhibitions from international artists.
  3. Duration: 3 hours

  4. Must-Eat Food: Moroccan pastries and coffee at the museum's café

  5. Rabat Medina (14:00-18:00)

  6. Detailed Description: The medina of Rabat is a lively place where traditional Moroccan life can be experienced. Walking through its narrow streets, visitors can find souks (markets) selling everything from spices to textiles, as well as historical sites like the Grand Mosque.
  7. Duration: 4 hours
  8. Must-Eat Food: Street food such as Msemen (Moroccan pancakes) and Bissara (fava bean soup)
Day 4

Royal Legacy

Palaces and Gardens

  1. Royal Palace of Rabat (9:00-11:00)
  2. Detailed Description: The Royal Palace, also known as Dar al-Makhzen, is the residence of the King of Morocco. The palace grounds include a mosque, a college, and extensive gardens. While the palace itself is not open to the public, visitors can admire the impressive architecture and the surrounding area.
  3. Duration: 2 hours

  4. Must-Eat Food: Freshly squeezed orange juice and local snacks from nearby vendors

  5. Andalusian Gardens (11:30-13:00)

  6. Detailed Description: Located within the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Andalusian Gardens are a serene oasis featuring exotic plants, fragrant flowers, and beautiful fountains, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
  7. Duration: 1.5 hours
  8. Must-Eat Food: Light lunch at a local café, enjoy Moroccan salad and bread
Day 5

Artistic Exploration and Crafts

From Galleries to Artisan Workshops

  1. Rabat Archaeological Museum (9:00-11:00)
  2. Detailed Description: The Rabat Archaeological Museum houses a wide range of artifacts from prehistoric times to the Islamic period. The museum's collection includes items found in various Moroccan archaeological sites, such as pottery, jewelry, and tools.
  3. Duration: 2 hours

  4. Must-Eat Food: Traditional Moroccan breakfast including baghrir (Moroccan pancakes) and amlou (a spread made from almonds, honey, and argan oil)

  5. Oulja Artisanal Complex (13:00-17:00)

  6. Detailed Description: The Oulja Artisanal Complex is a hub for local artisans. Visitors can watch craftsmen at work and purchase handmade items such as pottery, leather goods, and rugs. The complex also offers workshops where visitors can learn traditional Moroccan crafts.
  7. Duration: 4 hours
  8. Must-Eat Food: Moroccan tagine for a late lunch in a nearby traditional restaurant
Day 6

Gardens and Natural Beauty

Embracing Rabat's Green Spaces

  1. Exotic Gardens of Bouknadel (9:00-12:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Located a short drive from Rabat, the Exotic Gardens of Bouknadel are a botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of plants from around the world. The gardens include themed areas such as Japanese, Chinese, and Andalusian gardens.
  3. Duration: 3 hours

  4. Must-Eat Food: Picnic in the gardens with local Moroccan snacks

  5. Jardins d'Essais (14:00-17:00)

  6. Detailed Description: The Jardins d'Essais are a public botanical garden in Rabat, known for its collection of thousands of plant species. It offers a peaceful environment for walks and relaxation amidst rich greenery.
  7. Duration: 3 hours
  8. Must-Eat Food: Enjoy a refreshing drink at a garden café
Day 7

Cultural Immersion

Museums and Traditional Experiences

  1. Museum of Oudayas (9:00-11:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Located within the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Museum of Oudayas exhibits a collection of traditional Moroccan arts and crafts including jewelry, pottery, and musical instruments. The museum is housed in a former palace with traditional Moroccan architecture.
  3. Duration: 2 hours

  4. Must-Eat Food: Moroccan breakfast at a café in the Kasbah

  5. National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco (14:00-17:00)

  6. Detailed Description: The National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco in Rabat is the country's largest library, holding a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and historical documents. It also hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
  7. Duration: 3 hours
  8. Must-Eat Food: Moroccan mint tea and pastries in the library café
Day 8

Farewell Rabat

Last Glimpses and Souvenirs

  1. Marina Bouregreg (9:00-12:00)
  2. Detailed Description: Marina Bouregreg is a modern waterfront development offering a mix of leisure, dining, and shopping options. It provides stunning views of the river and the city, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride.
  3. Duration: 3 hours

  4. Must-Eat Food: Breakfast at a riverside café, enjoy Moroccan pastries and coffee

  5. Souk el Had (14:00-17:00)

  6. Detailed Description: Souk el Had is a traditional Moroccan market where visitors can buy a variety of goods, from fresh produce to handicrafts. It's an excellent place to pick up souvenirs and experience local market culture.
  7. Duration: 3 hours
  8. Must-Eat Food: Local street food such as kefta (spiced meatballs) and msemen (Moroccan pancakes)
Back