Rabat, the country's capital, surprises with its quiet elegance, manicured gardens, and a medina that's much more relaxed than that of other imperial cities. In contrast, Casablanca, Morocco's most modern and cosmopolitan city, stands out with its Art Deco architecture, vibrant urban life, and the imposing Hassan II Mosque, which overlooks the Atlantic like a cultural beacon. Two distinct faces of Morocco, both with their own distinct identities, deserve at least a brief stop on your itinerary.
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Time for change, a new destination: Morocco
After spending five intense weeks on the Camino de Santiago, spending time with the same people every day and creating deep bonds with several of them, suddenly returning to solitude left me with a strange feeling of emptiness.
The last few days in Madrid were different from what I expected: I felt dull, unmotivated, and with an inner disconnect that was hard to explain. I had no desire to walk around, discover new corners of the city, or start new conversations. My mind and heart were crying out for a change. I needed a different vibe, a different energy, a different destination.
If you want to know more about the Camino de Santiago, you can read the full experience in this article. There you'll learn everything you need to prepare for this epic adventure.
The answer was closer than I imagined. Morocco presented itself as the perfect opportunity to escape the monotony and relive that traveler's spark. A country with a different reality, a different continent, a different language, a religion with distinct traditions, exquisite cuisine, and a fascinating culture. So close to Spain, yet so distinct. It was like a rebirth, a complete reboot of this long journey I've been on.
This change helped me refocus, sharpen my senses, and awaken within me that need to explore, to be surprised, and to let my curiosity guide me. I felt my way back to my traveling self, the one that thrives on the unknown and nourishes itself with every experience.
Yalla, yalla! (Let's go! in Arabic). If you ever visit an Arab country, be prepared to hear this expression over and over again in markets, on the streets, and in everyday conversations. In Morocco, it was the background melody that accompanied me around every corner.
This post is part of the itinerary I put together for a 3- or 4-week tour of Morocco. If you'd like to see the full details, you can read the main article here.
Rabat, arrival in Morocco
My gateway was Rabat, the country's capital. Unlike other Moroccan cities, Rabat is relatively quiet, making it the ideal place for a gradual immersion in this new world. Although, to be honest, the cheap Ryanair ticket also had a significant impact: the connection from Madrid cost me just 40 euros.
Rabat isn't usually the first city on the list for those traveling to Morocco, especially not for the first time. I found a serene pace here that I didn't expect in a capital city. There's no extreme chaos or tourist overwhelm: there's space. To walk without haste, to observe, and, above all, to enter the country slowly.
How to get to Rabat from different cities in Morocco (and from abroad)
Rabat, in addition to being the capital of Morocco, is very well connected by train and road to the country's major cities. Getting there is quite easy, whether you're already traveling within the country or coming from abroad.
From Casablanca
This is the fastest and most direct route. The ONCF train departs from Casa Voyageurs or Casa Port stations and will take you to Rabat Ville, right in the heart of the city, in less than an hour. Trains run frequently (every half hour) and tickets cost between 20 and 40 dirhams. See timetables and prices at ONCF..
There are also buses, but the train is faster, more comfortable and more reliable.
From Marrakech
There are direct trains connecting Marrakech with Rabat. The journey takes about 4.5 hours, with regular departures every day. Tickets cost around 100-150 dirhams, depending on the class. Check train times at ONCF.
There are also long-distance buses such as:
From Fez
The train from Fez to Rabat takes between 2.5 and 3 hours, and there are several daily frequencies. ONCF Fez – Rabat Schedules
You can also opt for buses: CTM Fez – Rabat
From the outside
Rabat has an international airport, Rabat-Salé (RBA), which receives flights from several European cities such as Madrid, Paris or Brussels.
From the airport to the center you can take:
- Official taxi (~150 dirhams)
- Local bus + taxi (cheaper, less direct option)
How to get from Rabat Airport to the city center
Rabat's airport is small and not far from the city center. However, the cheapest way to get to your accommodation, if you're staying near the medina or train station, is by shuttle bus.
- Shuttle Bus (Line AE): Connects the airport to Rabat Ville Train Station. It operates from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., every 30 minutes. The cost is 20 dirhams.
- Taxi: Taxis wait at the airport exit; it's important to agree on a price before your trip because they don't always operate with meters.
If you don't want to complicate things and prefer convenience, you can book a private transfer from this link.
You can read the complete travel guide to Morocco. There you have all the information you need to plan your trip to this fantastic country.
Where to stay in Rabat
Rabat offers a good variety of accommodations, from traditional riads to modern hotels and more budget-friendly options. Here are some recommended areas based on your travel style:
Rabat Medina
Ideal if you want to immerse yourself in the traditional Moroccan atmosphere. You're close to the souks, walls, and local life.
I stayed at the Auberge De Jeunesse hostel, which is right across from the medina wall. While it wasn't the prettiest hostel I stayed at in Morocco, it was good value for money and great location. It also allowed me to meet a couple of interesting travelers with whom I had a good conversation.
Ville Nouvelle
More modern, quieter, and with easy access to transportation. There are more Western-style hotels and European-style cafes for a different budget.
A good example of accommodation in this area is the ONOMO Hotel Rabat Terminus, modern, central and with good access to trains and trams.
Coast zone (Quartier de l’Océan)
A good option if you prefer something more relaxed, close to the sea, and with a more residential vibe. It's a great place to find Airbnbs or guesthouses with sea views. But it's further from the train station or the medina.
Map of Rabat and Casablanca attractions
What to do in Rabat: between history, sea and pause
Rabat doesn't have an endless list of attractions, and a couple of days are enough to cover the main attractions. But that's precisely why it's perfect for taking it easy and connecting with the place at a different pace.
Among the main things we can see in Rabat, we can mention the following:
🏰 Visit the Kasbah of the Udayas
It's hard to imagine that this haven of peace was once a military bastion. The kasbah was built in the 12th century by the Almohads and, over time, became a refuge for Andalusian pirates expelled from Spain. Today, it's a place that seems frozen in time, with incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and an almost mystical atmosphere at sunset.
Getting lost in its narrow blue streets, overlooking the Bou Regreg River and the Atlantic, was one of those moments where you understand that traveling also means slowing down. From its walls, you can see the sea, and everything seems calm there. If you arrive early, you'll likely be almost alone.
🌴 Andalusian Gardens
Very close to the hustle and bustle, but in a world apart, are the Andalusian Gardens, next to the Kasbah of the Udayas. Everything seems delicately arranged: the stone paths, the flowers framed by white and blue walls, and the scent of oranges and bougainvillea. It's not large, but it's a space that invites you to slow down, sit for a while, and simply let time pass.
🕌 Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Hassan Tower
It is a place of deep respect for Moroccans, where the remains of the king who led the country's independence rest. The building is a jewel of traditional Moroccan architecture, with white marble, carved wooden ceilings, and mosaics that look like brushstrokes. In front of it rise the columns of what was to be the largest mosque in Africa, the unfinished Hassan Tower, a symbol of ambition and interrupted history.
This monumental complex impresses not only with its history but also with its atmosphere. Everything is so carefully maintained, so quiet, that it invites contemplation rather than photography. It's one of those places where you can feel the symbolic weight of the country.
🌴 Stroll through the medina
Rabat's medina isn't an overwhelming labyrinth. I enjoyed wandering aimlessly, letting myself be guided by its sounds and the people. Sometimes you don't need to search for anything in particular; the city reveals itself.
Unlike Fez, which is a chaotic, endless labyrinth, or Marrakech, which vibrates intensely and is always full of tourists and pushy merchants, Rabat is calmer, more livable. You can walk around without pressure, without feeling lost at every step, making it ideal if you're just arriving in the country.
It was in this medina that I discovered some of my first Moroccan flavors, simple but delicious street food, and where I took the opportunity to buy my local SIM card, something I recommend doing as soon as you arrive. All in an environment where everyday life flows without drama and where the first contact with Morocco feels friendly and authentic.
🖼️ Galleries and street art
Rabat has an artistic side that many miss. From street art murals in neighborhoods like Yacoub El Mansour to small contemporary galleries, there's a youthful, creative energy.
Walk along the Coastal Promenade
You inevitably encounter water with every step you take in Rabat. The Atlantic crashes down hard and reminds you that you're in a city with a sea, history, and its own rhythm. This stretch of water, with the breeze and the sound of the waves, is perfect for disconnecting and simply observing.
Ruins of Chellahe
Another interesting visit in Rabat is Chellah, an ancient Roman settlement that was later transformed into a necropolis by the Merinids in the 14th century. Today, you can explore its archaeological remains among walls, Roman columns, Islamic tombs, and semi-wild gardens. Although it's not that large, the place has a unique atmosphere and is worth visiting for its blend of history and nature. It's also common to see storks nesting among the ruins, which gives the tour a very distinctive touch.
Visit Casablanca
Thanks to its proximity to Casablanca, less than an hour away by train, a day trip to Casablanca from Rabat is totally feasible. If you've already seen the essentials of the capital and have time left, you can take advantage of the opportunity to explore this more modern and cosmopolitan city, famous for its art deco architecture and its imposing Hassan II Mosque.
Organized activities in Rabat
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Some video captures from Rabat
A day in Casablanca, chaos with many contrasts
I arrived in Casablanca in the morning, and what I found was the perfect antithesis of Rabat. If there I was greeted by calm and a slow pace, here I was immediately enveloped by the vibrant chaos of a modern metropolis that never seems to stop. Noise, movement, honking horns, street vendors, offices and cafes bustling with life—all at the same time.
Casablanca is an overwhelming city, but with a certain charm. Its architecture reflects this constant duality: from the elegant art deco buildings inherited from the time of the French protectorate to the monumental Hassan II Mosque, which stands out facing the ocean with a blend of devotion and modernity.
It's, without a doubt, the most cosmopolitan, urban, and fast-paced city I've visited in Morocco. A place that forces you to adapt to the pace or stay on the sidelines, but it leaves no one indifferent.
How to get to Casablanca from Rabat
If you want to make the most of your time going to Casablanca and returning to Rabat on the same day, I recommend taking the ONCF train that leaves from the Rabat Ville station and in less than an hour leaves you at the Casa Port station, close to the city's main attractions.
Trains run frequently (every half hour) and tickets cost between 20 and 40 dirhams. See ONCF schedules and prices.
What to do in Casablanca in 1 day
Although I only spent a few hours in Casablanca, true to form, I took the opportunity to explore it on foot and its most iconic areas. So here are some recommendations based on that experience.
Mosque Hassan II
If there's one place that alone justifies a visit to Casablanca, it's this mosque. Built on the shores of the Atlantic, it's one of the largest in the world and the only one in Morocco that allows non-Muslims to enter on guided tours. The architecture is stunning: carved marble, intricate mosaics, and a dome that seems to float in the sky.
I couldn't get in due to lack of time, but if you have the chance, don't hesitate. Just in case, check the hours carefully because they're strict and change depending on the day.
The Habous Neighborhood
Amidst the modern chaos, the Habous Quarter (also known as the New Medina) is a small oasis with a traditional soul. It was built by the French in the 1930s, blending typical Moroccan architecture with a tidy European touch.
Here, it's ideal for leisurely strolling, sipping tea, browsing spice and craft shops, and shopping without the haggling you'd find in other medinas. It was one of the few places in Casablanca where I felt I could slow down.
Walk along the Ain Diab Corniche
Although the Atlantic Ocean promenade is a bit far from the city center, it's worth a visit to breathe in the sea air and see a different, more modern and relaxed side of the city. Perfect for a sunset.
Old Medina
Although more chaotic and less picturesque than those of Fez or Marrakech, it has its authenticity. It's more functional than aesthetic, but wandering its alleys, where locals do their daily shopping, is also a way to experience the city's daily life. It was here that I found several street food stalls and a more local atmosphere.
Something that caught my attention while walking through the old Medina and its surroundings was that, at times, they reminded me of certain humble areas of Argentina or other Latin American countries. Dirt roads, makeshift buildings, the daily movement of people... there was something familiar in that mix of disorder and real life. But with one big difference: at no time did I feel constantly on alert. Unlike many Latin American cities where I move with more caution, here I was able to move around with complete peace of mind, even freely using my cell phone. In any case, it's always advisable to be cautious in places where a lot of people are coming and going.
Rick’s Cafe
If you're a classic film lover or just looking for a unique spot to grab a drink, this spot has its charm. It may seem touristy, but it has its own magic.
Sitting in Mohammed V Square
Surrounded by Art Deco buildings and Moorish architecture, the square combines history and modernity with dancing fountains and manicured gardens. It's a good starting point for observing the city's daily rhythm, where locals, tourists, street vendors, officials, and pigeons—many pigeons—converge in a single setting that reflects the vibrant energy of this metropolis.
Organized Activities in Casablanca
🎬 La película Casablanca y su conexión con Marruecos
Although many travelers arrive in Casablanca expecting to find scenes from the legendary film of the same name, the truth is that the film was never shot in Morocco. The iconic Casablanca (1942), starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, was filmed entirely in Hollywood studios. However, that didn't stop the city's name from being forever associated with the romance, intrigue, and exoticism of North Africa.
The plot is set in the midst of World War II, when Casablanca was a strategic point for European refugees attempting to flee to America. The city, under French control, becomes the setting for encounters, political tensions, and impossible loves. That atmosphere of transit, hope, and nostalgia still remains part of the imagination that many travelers associate with Morocco.
Some bars have recreated the famous Rick's Café, offering tourists the chance to relive the film's atmosphere with live jazz and period decor. While it's a somewhat touristy experience, for classic film fans it can be a nice cultural nod.
Some video captures from Casablanca
Final thoughts on my first days in Morocco
Morocco was the change my spirit needed. A new perspective, a breath of fresh air, and the opportunity to reconnect with my love for this great journey I'd embarked on. Without a doubt, this country gave me back the desire to continue exploring the world with my eyes wide open.
As for Rabat and Casablanca, I can't say they weren't worth it, because each place adds something to the trip, but I wouldn't put them among the must-see destinations if you're planning your first time in Morocco. Rabat has a quiet charm, ideal for a smooth arrival in the country, while Casablanca impresses with its scale, its mix of chaos and modernity... but I didn't find the magic I came looking for in these lands.
But as a prologue to this trip, they worked very well. They gave me just the right amount of time and pace to adapt to Morocco, understand how to navigate the country, practice a few Arabic words, and begin to decode that blend of tradition and modernity that permeates everything. They were a friendly first introduction to a culture that, although different from my own, was beginning to feel increasingly familiar.
The story continues at the next destination on this Moroccan itinerary: the charming blue city of Chefchaouen, nestled among the Rif Mountains.
You can now read the guide to visiting the Blue Pearl of the North of Morocco, Chefchaouen
