Rabat is a vibrant, romantic city that is bursting with life. Its main tourist attraction, the Oudayas Kasbah, is one of the most frequently visited places by couples who head here to admire the wonderful sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Other popular activities include taking a romantic stroll through the Andalusian Gardens and discovering magical spots in the Medina.
Selection of plans
Sunset at the Oudayas Kasbah
The moment you enter the Oudayas Kasbah you appreciate why it is Rabat’s most important monument. A tree-lined stairway leads up to the fortress and Bab Oudaia, a decorated horseshoe-shaped gate, although visitors have to enter through a more discreet entrance. However, the Kasbah’s big secret is that it is of the most romantic places in Rabat at dusk because it has spectacular views of the sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean.
Tea at Café Maure
Café Maure is a typical café in the Moroccan capital and is frequented by tourists and locals alike who come to enjoy its views and delicious mint tea. It was refurbished a few years ago but its sunny terraces still retain their original essence and are wonderful spots in spring and summer. Even more importantly, it still serves its delicious almond cakes with the tea, and these sweet treats are an ambrosia that you’ll want to share with your partner.
Buy jewellery at the Gold Souk
This closed market in the Medina of Rabat, on the way to the Oudayas Kasbah, is where you’ll find the largest number of shops selling gold, silver, and precious stones. You’ll have to haggle over the price, as is the custom in Morocco, but the cost normally depends on the weight of the piece rather than the craftsmanship, meaning filigree jewellery is far less expensive than in Europe.
If you’re lucky, you might spot a Rabat bride out shopping with her mother to choose the jewellery she’ll wear at her wedding.
The shops are fairly small, but all the owners know each other and if you haven’t found what you are looking for in one shop, the shopkeeper often pops next door to bring you something you might like, settling up with their neighbour afterwards.
Stroll through the Andalusian Gardens
These gardens were built in the 20th century during the French Protectorate but have the structure and essence of Andalusian parterres, which are based on three key features: fruit trees, scented flowers, and water.
The gardens are divided into rectangular zones that always have a fountain or pool at their centre. In fact, all that is missing is a water feature with the four rivers of paradise, an element typically seen in Andalusian gardens, such as the famous Fountain of the Lions in Granada.
The Andalusian Gardens are a place of peace and natural beauty, and a haven of tranquillity after a visit to the bustling Medina.
Explore the Martyrs’ Cemetery
It may seem surprising but this Muslim cemetery, set to the backdrop of the sea, is a popular tourist attraction. The Cimetière des Martyrs or Martyrs’ Cemetery exudes an extraordinary air of peace – it is lined with thousands of tombs set in rows facing Mecca that seem to run down into the endless ocean.
Walk down the hill and you’ll come to the lighthouse and Fort Rottembourg, two sights that aren’t usually included in tourist guides but are highly romantic spots to enjoy with your partner, especially at sunset.
Spa at Hotel Farah Rabat
This spa has a beautiful hammam, a sauna, and massage rooms for visitors who would like the ultimate relaxing experience with their partner. The menu features basic hammam and spa treatments, and other options that will make your stay in Rabat an unforgettable delight.
Part of a five-star hotel, this welcoming space has exceptional standards of quality and you can also use the outdoor pool, if the weather permits, before or after your spa experience.
Walk along Rabat Beach
One of the best beaches in Rabat runs beneath the Oudayas Kasbah. It is managed by the sailing club and is a great spot for doing water sports, including kayaking, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. The beach is lined with restaurants and cafés, and its long stretch of fine, golden sand make it a wonderful place for a peaceful and romantic walk by the rolling waves at any time of year.
Recommendations and advice
The best time of year to visit Rabat is between March and May when it starts to get warm, and rain is less likely. However, the summer months are also a good option, especially if you’d like to do water sports or swim in the sea.
Couples are more than welcome in a city that has countless romantic spots and one of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see. It’s also fairly safe, and you only need take the usual precautions you would take in any large city.
If you’d like to enjoy a hammam or spa session, choose a respectable place that complies with regulations to ensure you have a truly relaxing experience.
