Rabat

Rabat is Morocco's capital — and its best-kept secret. While the world flocks to Marrakech and Fès, Rabat remains surprisingly undiscovered: an elegant, quiet city with a beautiful medina that can be explored stress-free, top-notch museums, and a blend of historical depth and modern lifestyle rarely found elsewhere in the country.

★★★ Kasbah of the Udayas

The absolute highlight of Rabat: A white-blue fortress on a promontory over the Atlantic — like a piece of Chefchaouen by the sea. Narrow, flower-adorned alleys, the Café Maure with the most beautiful terrace in Morocco (mint tea with views of the Bou Regreg river and the ocean), and the Andalusian Garden — a green oasis with orange trees and bougainvillea.

★★ Chellah (Necropolis)

The Chellah is one of Morocco's most magical places: a mix of Roman ruins (Sala Colonia), medieval Islamic necropolis, and wild garden where storks nest on the minaret ruins. In spring, the site is overgrown with wildflowers — a place of morbid beauty, almost surreal.

Entrance: 70 MAD. Daily 9-17:30.

★★ Hassan Tower & Mausoleum

The Hassan Tower — the unfinished minaret of a mosque that was to become the largest in the world (started in 1199, never completed) — stands as a 44-meter-high ruin amidst a field of 200 column stumps. Right next to it is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V., a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture with marble, gold, and zellige tiles, guarded by mounted guards in splendid uniforms.

Medina & Souk

Rabat's Medina is significantly smaller and more relaxed than those of Marrakech or Fès — a pleasure to stroll through. The Rue des Consuls is the main axis with carpet dealers, antique shops, and leather goods. Prices are fair, and haggling is less aggressive than elsewhere.

Musée Mohammed VI

The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, opened in 2014, is an architectural eye-catcher and showcases an impressive collection of Moroccan and international art. One of the best museums in North Africa.