{
  "id": 18301346,
  "title": "48 hours in Rabat: History and culture meet modernity in Morocco's capital",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/05/48-hours-in-rabat-history-and-culture-meet-modernity-in-moroccos",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-05T11:52:08.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The National UAE",
    "slug": "the-national-uae",
    "url": "https://www.thenationalnews.com/travel/2026/11/05/48-hours-in-rabat-history-and-culture-meet-modernity-in-moroccos-capital/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Rabat, Morocco's capital, often goes unnoticed by tourists in favor of Casablanca, Marrakesh, and Tangier. However, Rabat boasts a rich blend of ancient history and modernity that makes it a hidden gem. The city's charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend the past with the future, creating a fascinating experience for visitors. Throughout its history, Rabat has been a city of contrasts, where old and new coexist harmoniously.\n\nBegin your day with a delightful breakfast at Moojood, a restaurant that prides itself on serving Moroccan street food made with local, seasonal ingredients. Located next to Rabat Agdal Train station or Hassan Tower, Moojood offers a feast of Moroccan elements like bread, eggs, honey, and cheese. After your meal, visit the iconic Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V, both within a five-minute walk of each other. The Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret dating back to the 12th century, stands tall at 44 meters, while the Mausoleum of Mohammed V houses the revered father of Moroccan independence. Both sites are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm, with free entry.\n\nContinue your exploration by visiting Chellah Castle, a site that transports you back in time to the Phoenician period. Wander through the ruins, witnessing the different eras from a Roman forum to the remains of a Marinid madrassa. Open from Tuesday to Sunday between 8:30 am and 6 pm for 70 Moroccan dirhams (Dh26), Chellah Archaeological Site offers a captivating journey through history. For lunch, head to Ciconia, a highly recommended restaurant known for its delicious beef couscous tagine and stunning views of the Bou Regreg River. Open daily from 9:30 am to 9 pm, Ciconia serves authentic Moroccan cuisine in an idyllic setting.\n\nNext, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Kasbah of the Udayahs, an ancient fortress adorned with lush gardens. Stroll through the Andalusian Gardens and enjoy the peaceful oasis amidst the urban landscape. Located near the Medina, the Kasbah is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm. Afterward, meander through the bustling alleys of the Medina, where you can indulge in local shopping experiences. The market is alive even after sunset, offering a unique opportunity to people-watch and savor Moroccan pastries. For dinner, treat yourself to a traditional, cozy meal at Dar Zaki, a popular spot in the heart of the Medina. Known for its tagine and pastilla, Dar Zaki provides a warm ambiance with local paintings adorning the colorful walls. Open from Monday to Friday between 7 pm and 10 pm, Dar Zaki is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.",
  "summary": "Romantic Casablanca, bustling Marrakesh and alternative Tangier tend to overshadow Morocco's capital when it comes to tourism. The greater Rabat area had one-10th of Marrakesh's hotel stays in 2025. Why visitors skip over this city is beyond me. Far from just an administrative capital, it is a city where an ancient past blends with a vision for a prosperous future. It is a city full of surprises,…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}