Rabat Morocco Couples Travel Guide: Plan Your Romantic Trip
Rabat Morocco, i stood hand in hand with my partner at the Kasbah of the Oudayas as the sun set and cast a golden glow over the Bouregreg River. The Atlantic breeze whispered through the blue-and-white alleys. Rabat, the capital of Morocco, is a city that feels like a secret shared between two people. Rabat has a quieter, more intimate charm than the busy cities of Marrakech or Fes, making it a wonderful place for a romantic getaway.
This guide combines my experiences with those of other travelers to find the most romantic places and attractions to visit in Rabat and walk through the old medina to eat tagines at candlelit Rabat restaurants.
If you’re staying in a fancy Rabat hotel, a cozy Rabat riad, or a cheap Rabat hostel, here’s how to plan an unforgettable romantic trip to Rabat, Morocco.
Why Rabat for a Romantic Getaway?
Rabat, on the Atlantic coast, combines the history of empires with modern style. The Almohads built it in the 12th century, and it is now home to UNESCO sites like the Kasbah of the Oudayas and the ancient Chellah.
The city is great for couples who want both adventure and romance because its streets are clean, its gardens are lush, and the atmosphere is relaxed. I’ve walked through its medina at dusk, smelling fresh msemen coming from stalls, and seen families gather near the Hassan Tower, feeling the city’s heartbeat.
Tip: The best time to walk around is in the spring or fall, when the temperature is between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.
Romantic Rabat Attractions
Rabat offers a tapestry of historic and scenic spots perfect for couples. Here are the most Romantic Rabat attractions, drawn from my journeys and traveler insights:
Kasbah of the Oudayas
The Kasbah of the Oudayas, a 12th-century fortress, is a romantic must. Its blue-and-white Andalusian streets, adorned with bougainvillea, feel like a private world for two. I lingered with my partner in the Andalusian Gardens, shaded by orange trees, and snapped photos at the northern viewpoint overlooking the Atlantic and Salé.
Time to spend: 1.5-2 hours.
Entry: Free (gardens $1).
Walking time: 10 minutes from Rabat medina.
Tip: Visit at sunset for golden-hour romance.
Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V
The Hassan Tower, a 12th-century unfinished minaret, stands beside the stunning Mausoleum of Mohammed V, where Morocco’s revered kings rest. The mausoleum’s zellige tiles and marble chamber, open to non-Muslims, left us in awe of its craftsmanship. We held hands in the surrounding gardens at dusk, locals’ laughter adding to the magic.
Time to spend: 1-1.5 hours.
Entry: Free.
Walking time: 15 minutes from Medina or Taxi ($2).
Tip: Dress modestly; catch the changing of the guard.
Chellah Necropolis
The Chellah, a Roman ruin turned Marinid necropolis, is a serene escape. We wandered its gardens, storks nesting atop ancient columns, and felt transported to another era. The quiet paths and blooming flowers made it perfect for whispered conversations.
Time to spend: 1-1.5 hours.
Entry: $7.
Walking time: 20 minutes from Medina or $3 taxi.
Tip: Bring a picnic for a romantic afternoon.
Rabat Medina
The Rabat medina, less chaotic than Fes or Marrakech, is ideal for strolls. We explored Rue Souika’s stalls, bargaining for a Hamsa pendant ($5), and savored msemen ($0.50) from a vendor. The whitewashed houses with blue trim felt intimate and photogenic.
Time to spend: 2 hours.
Entry: Free.
Walking time: Central, near most Rabat riads.
Tip: Visit Rue des Consuls for crafts.
Andalusian Gardens
Tucked inside the Kasbah of the Oudayas, the Andalusian Gardens are a romantic oasis. We ambled under grapevine pergolas, cats napping nearby, and shared a quiet moment by the fountains.
Time to spend: 45 minutes-1 hour.
Entry: $1.
Walking time: 10 minutes from medina.
Tip: Perfect for a mid-afternoon pause.
Bouregreg River Promenade
The Bouregreg River Promenade, connecting Rabat and Salé, is perfect for sunset walks. We strolled hand-in-hand, the river reflecting the sky, and watched boats glide by.
Time to spend: 1 hour.
Entry: Free.
Walking time: 15 minutes from medina or $2 tram to Salé.
Tip: Cross to Salé’s medina for a quieter vibe.
Romantic Day Trips from Rabat
For couples craving adventure, these day trips add romance to your Rabat escape:
- Salé: Across the Bouregreg, Salé’s medina offers a less touristy market. We took the tram ($0.50) and enjoyed coffee at a riverside café ($2).
- Time to spend: 2-3 hours.
Travel time: 10 minutes via tram.
Tip: Bargain for cheaper souvenirs.
- Time to spend: 2-3 hours.
- Casablanca: A 1-hour train ride ($4) leads to the Hassan II Mosque and the Corniche. We dined at Rick’s Café ($20-$30), feeling like movie stars.
- Time to spend: 5-6 hours.
Tip: Book train tickets early via ONCF.
- Time to spend: 5-6 hours.
- Chefchaouen: A 4-hour drive ($30-$50 private transfer) to the Blue Pearl. We wandered blue alleys and watched sunset from the Spanish Mosque.
- Time to spend: 6-8 hours.
Tip: Hire a driver via your riad.
- Time to spend: 6-8 hours.
Rabat Restaurants: Romantic Dining
Rabat restaurants offer intimate settings and Moroccan flavors. Here are my favorites for couples:
Where to Stay: Rabat Hotels, Hostels, and Riads
Rabat Morocco accommodations cater to every budget, enhancing your romantic getaway:
Practical Tips for a Romantic Getaway in Rabat
From my experiences and traveler insights:
FAQs About a Romantic Getaway in Rabat Morocco
Rabat Morocco: Your Romantic Haven
Rabat Morocco is a love letter to couples, with its tranquil Rabat medina, historic Kasbah of the Oudayas, and riverside sunsets. From sharing tagine at Dar Rbatia to whispering sweet nothings in the Andalusian Gardens, this city weaves intimacy into every moment. Stay in a Rabat riad, dine at Rabat restaurants, and follow these itineraries for a romantic escape that lingers in your heart.
