Rabat Day Trip from Casablanca: Imperial City, Kasbah & Mausoleum

Summary

Step into Rabat’s living history from Casablanca in one easy day

You’ll walk Rabat’s ancient walls with a local guide, stand beneath Hassan Tower’s silent arches, explore the blue alleys of Kasbah of the Udayas, and pause for lunch by the river. Expect honest moments — quiet gardens, laughter over mispronounced words — and a sense that history isn’t just in museums here.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to feel so much just standing in front of Hassan Tower — but there’s something about those unfinished columns and the way the calligraphy catches the sun. We’d left Casablanca early (our driver, Youssef, was already joking before we hit the highway), and by the time we rolled into Rabat, it felt like another world. The air was different — saltier maybe? Or just quieter than I’m used to.

Our guide pointed out little things I’d never have noticed: the way the mausoleum’s marble seems cold even under that bright Moroccan light, or how every guard outside stands so still you wonder if they ever blink. The main keyword here is “Rabat day trip from Casablanca,” but honestly it just felt like wandering with someone who loves their city. At the Kasbah of the Udayas, blue paint peeled off old doors and kids darted past with kites. I tried to say thank you in Arabic; got a smile for effort.

Lunch wasn’t included but we stopped at Marina Salé anyway — I had fish that tasted like it came straight off a boat. There’s this moment when you’re looking across the river at all those white walls and thinking, yeah, people have lived here for centuries and somehow it still feels alive. The whole day moved fast but not rushed. Maybe that’s just Morocco’s pace — or maybe Youssef knew when to let us linger.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Rabat's historic landmarks

• Drive 1h30 from Casablanca
• Visit Hassan Tower and mosque ruins
• Tour Mausoleum of Mohammed V
• Pass by Royal Palace exterior
• Explore Chellah fortress ruins
• Walk along Rabat city walls
• Visit Kasbah of the Udayas
• Stroll Andalusian-style garden
• Lunch break at Marina Salé

Top questions

How long is the drive from Casablanca to Rabat?

It takes about 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Casablanca to Rabat.

Is lunch included on this Rabat day trip?

No, lunch isn’t included but there’s a scheduled stop at Marina Salé where you can buy your own meal.

Are entry fees or tickets required for any sites?

No entry fees are mentioned; most sites like Hassan Tower and Kasbah are open public spaces.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, children can join as long as they’re accompanied by an adult; infant seats are available if needed.

Is hotel pickup included in Casablanca?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from hotels inside Casablanca city center are included.

Will there be a local guide during the tour?

A multilingual chauffeur/guide will be with you throughout your visit in Rabat.

Do I need my passport for this tour?

You must bring your passport if you want access to view the Royal Palace from outside.

Is Wi-Fi available during transportation?

Yes, air-conditioned transportation includes Wi-Fi on board for guests.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off within central Casablanca, private air-conditioned transport with Wi-Fi, bottled mineral water along the way, plus a multilingual guide who’ll share stories as you explore each site together. Lunch isn’t covered but there’s time set aside to eat at Marina Salé before heading back in comfort.