Overview
Beyond Casablanca, be charmed by Rabat!
Venture outside Casablanca and discover Rabat, Morocco’s capital city. The energy here is one saturated in history and sophistication. Founded in 1146, during the Almohad empire, Rabat is one of four Imperial Cities. Rabat has played a significant role in Moroccan history: ports, pirates, and Phoenicians developed the town’s foundations which remain to this day.
Upon arrival in Rabat, your first visit will be to the Chellah Necropolis where you will enjoy a guided visit. This walled in archaeological site is located on the south banks of the river. Originally established by the Phoenicians, as an important center of trade, it was abandoned and re-established many times over the course of history. Chellah houses layers upon layers of history and cultural transformation.
In addition to ancient history, Rabat has many beautiful yet more modern sites of architectural interest. Not to be missed is the King Mohammed V Mausoleum, along a beautiful esplanade directly facing the ancient yet unfinished Hassan Tower. The Mausoleum is an incredible example of Moroccan architecture, with intricate tile work, carvings, and lanterns.
Up next we are headed to the coast to explore the Kasbah des Oudayas. Another important site which was abandoned following the death of Yaqub al-Mansour, the walled-in city sits overlooking both the ocean and the river and consists of winding powder-blue alleyways leading to an ocean overlook and various quaint shops and cafes. The most notable cafe is the Cafe Maure, a beautiful and calm open-air series of tables and benches which is the perfect place to catch your breath and find some shade from the warm Moroccan day. Try some sweet Moroccan mint tea and traditional almond cookies while kicking back and admiring the river. Through a small doorway find the Andalusian gardens, just outside of the Kasbah, with its peaceful walkways and an abundance of kittens bathing in the sun.
During your day of exploring, you will take a break to enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch. May we suggest that you try one of the Kingdom’s famous tagines: vegetables, meats, preserved lemons or dry apricots…there is a tagine for every taste. Accompanying a meal in any traditional Moroccan restaurant is always fresh Moroccan salad, herby olives, and a plethora of khobs - typical bread used to eat your main dish. No utensils necessary!
Spend the afternoon exploring the old medina, and visiting small shops along Consuls Street. Find every type of Moroccan handicraft, beautiful textiles, and Berber rugs. If window-shopping is more your style find plenty of outdoor cafes with fresh orange juices and Moroccan sweets or savory pastries.
When the time comes, head back to the port to reboard your ship, having explored one of Morocco’s most varied and beautiful modern cities.
- The drive from Casablanca to Rabat is approximately one hour each way.
- The $16 entry fee to Chellah is not included in the price of the tour.
- The cost of the seafood lunch is not included in the price of the tour and costs approximately $30 per person.
- Please alert ShoreTrips in advance of any dietary restrictions or limitations.
- This tour can accommodate a collapsible wheelchair. All wheelchair guests must be able to transfer in and out of the tour vehicle with assistance from someone in their party. You will be asked during the check out process if anyone in your party will be using a wheelchair.
- While most sites on this tour can be accessed with a wheelchair, they might be sites where a wheelchair cannot move freely.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 08:00 AM, duration: 8 hours
- 09:00 AM, duration: 8 hours
