Rabat is one of my favorite destinations in Morocco, along with Marrakech, Casablanca, and Fes. In today’s article, I will help you to find the safe places to stay in Rabat for first-time visitors.
I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in Rabat for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map and areas to avoid. I’ll also share where I stayed in Rabat and recommend some of the best hotels in Rabat for visitors with various budgets.
Rabat is the capital city of Morocco, serving as the political and administrative center of the country. It is known for its historical and cultural significance, with landmarks such as the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and the Chellah.
Rabat is often paired with the neighboring city of Salé, which lies just across the Bou Regreg River. Together, they form the Rabat-Salé urban area. The city has a mix of modern and traditional elements, with ancient medinas, historic sites, and contemporary institutions.
Is Rabat safe to visit?
Yes, Rabat is generally considered a safe city for tourists. Like in any other destination, be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded places such as markets and public transportation.
Morocco is a country with a rich cultural heritage. It’s important to be respectful of local customs, traditions, and dress codes, especially in more conservative areas.
There is also the risk of public Demonstrations and protests, so it is recommended to monitor the news, avoid all gatherings, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
Where to stay in Rabat for the first time?
The best and safe areas to stay in Rabat for first-timers and tourists are Rabat Medina, Quartier Hassan, Quartier des Orangers, Quartier de L’Ocean, and Agdal-Ryad. It’s always essential to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings no matter where you choose to stay.
Medina and Quartier Hassan are the most popular areas to stay in Rabat for the first time. Medina is the old town, offering an authentic Moroccan experience and proximity to historic sites like Kasbah des Oudaias and the Andalusian Gardens.
The Hassan District, located right next to the Old Town, is home to many government buildings, embassies, and iconic landmarks such as the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Many hotels here offer free parking, making it a great base in Rabat with a car.
Agdal is a modern and upscale neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It features shopping centers, restaurants, and a more contemporary atmosphere compared to the historic districts.
While the old town is charming during the day, it’s advisable to avoid walking alone in poorly lit and less crowded areas at night.
During my trip to Rabat, I stayed in the Medina area at the Riad Dar Saidi. It was a lovely accommodation in a good location between the old city and the train station. I liked the rooftop terrace, comfortable bedroom, and delicious breakfast. There were a lot of restaurants and stores nearby.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Rabat for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Rabat, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Rabat have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
5 Safe areas to stay in Rabat for first-timers and tourists
1. Rabat Medina
The Medina, the historic old town of Rabat, is one of the best places to stay in Rabat for first-timers. It is the heart of the city and is a captivating area that reflects the rich cultural and historical heritage of Morocco.
This area offers easy access to the iconic Kasbah des Oudaias, a fortress with narrow winding streets, white-washed houses, and blue-painted doors. It is home to the Andalusian Gardens and provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Andalusian Gardens are a tranquil oasis with fountains, orange trees, and beautiful flowers. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
The Medina is filled with traditional markets where you can shop for Moroccan crafts, textiles, spices, and souvenirs. The experience of wandering through the bustling souks is a must.
Throughout Rabat Medina, you’ll encounter historic buildings with intricate architecture, including mosques, madrasas, and riads .
There are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy Moroccan cuisine. Some offer rooftop views of the Medina.
Accommodations in Medina often include riads, which are traditional Moroccan houses with interior courtyards. If you travel with a car, you need to park the car outside the city wall.
Best places to stay in Rabat Medina for first-time tourists:
Mid-range ($$): Dar Shaeir, beautiful good value for money accommodation located in a prime location in the Médina area. It is within walking distance to Kashab, Hassan towers, and the beach. Easy access to the market, food stalls, and shops. It has exceptional breakfast, comfortable family rooms, and luggage storage space.
Mid-range ($$): RIAD Dar Ouezzani, good value for money hotel in the central location of the old town, near the Andalucia garden. You can enjoy mint tea, and nice breakfasts with Moroccan classics, egg, and fresh fruit juice. It is a 5-10 mins walk from where the taxi drops you off. They have paid airport shuttle services, wonderful breakfast, and 24-hour front desk.
Budget ($): dar wassim el ghali, good value for money traditional Moroccan inn, situated in the heart of Medina, easy to find. It is close to Andalusian gardens, the beach and many tourist attractions. It has a beautiful terrace with stunning views.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN MEDINA2. Quartier Hassan
Quartier Hassan is a great base for first-timers who want a central location with easy access to key attractions. It offers a quieter atmosphere while still having close proximity to the old town.
This area is home to one of the most prominent landmarks in Rabat, Hassan Tower (Tour Hassan) – a minaret of an incomplete mosque. It stands as a testament to the Almohad dynasty’s ambitious architectural plans.
Located adjacent to the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which is known for its beautiful architecture and interior. It has the tombs of King Mohammed V and his sons.
While the Royal Palace itself is not open to the public, you can view its impressive gates and exterior. The palace is an important symbol of Morocco’s monarchy.
Being in the heart of Rabat, Quartier Hassan provides easy access to other parts of the city. It’s well-connected and offers a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Quartier Hassan is located near the Bouregreg River, offering pleasant views and the opportunity for leisurely walks along the waterfront.
Best places to stay in Rabat in Quartier Hassan for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): La Tour Hassan Palace, 5-star hotel is located in the central area, close to everything. They have quiet, comfortable air-conditioned rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and wellness center.
Mid-range ($$): Rihab Hotel, 4-star accommodation in a quiet location, 5 mins walk to Hassan Tower, close to Carrefour supermarket, the souk and the train station. Easy access to the Medina, Mawazine’s Chellah Stage, and Moroccan Parliament. It has free parking, good breakfast, and 24-hour front desk.
Budget ($): Imperial Boutique Hotel Rabat, 3-star hotel, located in a convenient location close to the Hassan Tower and mosque. It is walking distance from the tram stop and the railway station. The European style breakfast has a good selection of pastries. It has a 24-hour front desk and free parking which is a bonus for those who drive.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN QUARTIER HASSAN3. Quartier des Orangers
Quartier des Orangers is a residential area located right next to Quartier Hassan, easy access to the Old Town and Rabat Ville Train Station. You can find some accommodations in the border with Hassan district.
Best places to stay in Quartier des Orangers for first-timers:
Mid-range ($$): NJ Hotel Rabat, 4-star hotel located on Boulevard Moulay Youssef, close to Quartier des Orangers and the train station. It has a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, and a garden. It is near the royal palace , so there is a lot of security in the area during the day. Free parking can be found in the front of the hotel.
Mid-range ($$): Balima Minaret Suites, great sustainable apartment for a group of friends or family. The Superior Apartment can accommodate up to 7 adults. Easy access to major sights such as Plage de Salé Ville, Hassan Tower, and Kasbah of the Udayas.
Budget ($): Hotel Le Musée, 3-star hotel, located in a great location, featuring family rooms, free parking, Good Breakfast, and paid airport shuttle services. Rooms are clean and comfortable.
4. Quartier de L’Ocean
Quartier de L’Ocean is a neighborhood located along the coast, a great base for easy access to the beach and the old town. There are limited accommodation options in this area. You can find some budget-friendly apartments and guest houses.
Best places to stay in Rabat in L’Ocean for tourists:
- Budget ($): Rabat Residence
- Budget ($): ocean view apartment
- Budget ($): TT Holidays Cosy apartment Rabat City Center
5. Agdal-Ryad
Agdal-Ryad is a budget-friendly area located next to Quartier des Orangers. It has a wide variety of accommodations in this area including brand hotels, and boutique accommodations.
Agdal-Ryad is characterized by modern buildings, shopping centers, and contemporary infrastructure. It’s a relatively newer part of the city with a more modern and cosmopolitan vibe.
The district is a commercial and business hub, featuring a variety of shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It is home to several shopping centers and malls, providing opportunities for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Best places to stay in Rabat in Agdal-Ryad for visitors:
- Luxury ($$$): Rabat Marriott Hotel, 5-star beautiful hotel located on Avenue Inaouin, next to the mall, 10 mins walk from The National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco. It has an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk.
- Mid-range ($$): Arribat Center Mall – StayHere Agdal II, great accommodation close distance to mall, the train station, and getting around in taxis is cheap. You can walk to the downtown area.
- Budget ($): Gardenia Boutique Hotel, 3-star hotel, conveniently situated on Avenue Al Atlas, Agdal-Ryad. Easy access via tram to the main attractions of the city.
In conclusion, Rabat Medina, Quartier Hassan, Quartier des Orangers, Quartier de L’Ocean, Agdal-Ryad are the best places to stay in Rabat for first-timers and tourists. These are generally safe areas to book your accommodations, but it is essential to always practice common sense to ensure a safe holiday.
You can continue reading other popular destinations in Morocco:
- Safe areas to stay in Marrakech for first time
- Safe areas to stay in Fes for first time
- Safe areas to stay in Casablanca for first time
There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Rabat. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.