Beyond Marrakech: Why You Must Visit Rabat & Meknes
When most travelers plan a trip to Morocco, their minds go straight to the red walls of Marrakech or the ancient alleys of Fes. But to truly understand the soul of this kingdom, you have to look beyond the “big two.”
Rabat and Meknes—the other two Imperial Cities—offer a completely different experience. They are grand, historical, and deeply authentic, yet they lack the overwhelming crowds of their more famous siblings.
If you are looking for a more relaxed pace, stunning coastal views, and monumental history, here is why you must include Rabat and Meknes in your Morocco Imperial Cities itinerary.
Rabat: The Elegant Coastal Capital
Rabat is the current capital of Morocco, and it feels like it. It is clean, organized, and carries an air of quiet sophistication. Located right on the Atlantic coast, it offers a refreshing sea breeze and a unique blend of modern Moroccan life and ancient history.
Why You’ll Love It:
A Relaxed Medina: Unlike the intense souks of Marrakech, Rabat’s medina is much more “user-friendly.” You can browse for crafts and textiles without the heavy pressure of sales, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs in peace.and a fantastic collection of traditional Moroccan arts, including Fassi pottery, woodwork, and intricate carpets.
The Kasbah of the Udayas: This is one of the most beautiful spots in Morocco. It’s a 12th-century fortress town within the city, filled with narrow, winding streets painted in striking blue and white. It feels more like a Mediterranean village than a bustling capital.
The Hassan Tower: An iconic unfinished minaret that stands as a symbol of Rabat. Opposite it lies the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of modern Alawite architecture with its white marble and green tiled roof.
Meknes: The “Versailles of Morocco”
Often called the “Versailles of Morocco,” Meknes was the grand vision of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. He turned what was a small town into a monumental imperial capital with massive walls, grand gates, and enormous royal stables.
Why You’ll Love It:
Gateway to Volubilis: Meknes is the perfect base to visit Volubilis, the most well-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco. Walking through these ancient mosaics with the Moroccan sun overhead is a highlight of any trip.
Bab Mansour: Widely considered the most beautiful gate in North Africa. Its intricate tilework and massive marble columns (stolen from nearby Roman ruins) are a sight to behold.
The Royal Granaries & Stables (Heri es-Souani): An engineering marvel that once housed 12,000 horses. The scale of the stone arches is incredible and provides a hauntingly beautiful photo opportunity.
Why Visit Both?
While Marrakech is for excitement and Fes is for mystery, Rabat and Meknes are for discovery. Because they receive fewer tourists, you get a much more authentic look at daily Moroccan life. You can sit at a café in Rabat overlooking the Bou Regreg river or walk through the monumental gates of Meknes without feeling like one of a thousand tourists. They provide the perfect balance to a busy tour.
The Best Way to See Them
Rabat and Meknes are conveniently located between Casablanca and Fes, making them easy stops. Whether you visit for a day or stay overnight, they add a layer of depth to your journey that you simply can’t get anywhere else.
At Morocco Stunning Tours, we believe these cities are essential. That’s why we include them in our exclusive Imperial Cities tour packages. We’ll show you the hidden corners of the Udayas and the grand history of Meknes with the comfort of a private driver and expert guides.
Start planning your journey today and discover the parts of Morocco most travelers miss.
