There are a 2 miles long beach, 300 days of sunlight each year, pints priced from £3.40, and one destination for “new turkey” has many things.
Rabat, Morocco's capital, is becoming increasingly accessible to Britons with new flight connections from the UK. Ryanair introduced direct flights between Manchester and the city in North Africa.
Two weekly flights to Rabatosale Airport run on Wednesdays and Sundays and begin on March 30th with ticket prices starting from £14.99 per person for a trip from £14.99 for a person. This shows the fifth route from Manchester Airport to North African countries.
Morocco is called the “new turkey,” but Jet2 boss Steve Heapy suggests that it could replace the Canary Islands, a traditionally preferred holiday spot among Britons facing an increase in anti-tourism sentiment over the past year.
Morocco has earned the title of Africa's most visited tourist destination and has overtaken Egypt to its top spot. In 2024, the man reported that it welcomed 17.4 million international tourists, showing a 20% increase from 2023.
Rabat is the latest addition to Manchester Airport's route to Morocco, joining Tangier, Casablanca, Marrakech and Agadir.
While you may not enjoy the same fame as Marrakech or Fez, Rabat offers all the typical Moroccan experiences. Great weather, rich culture, stunning scenery, delicious food and more.
The ideal time to explore Rabat is spring and autumn, when temperatures float between 20-25c, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing without the intense summer heat. The city is exposed to approximately 3,000 hours of sunlight each year – about 300 days – making it a great place to boost vitamin D.
Despite its status as a capital, Rabat remains a cost-effective option for budget-savvy travelers. According to the cost of living website Numbeo, three-course meals usually regain £18 per person, but local draft beer costs £3.40.
Moroccan souks are legendary, and Rabat boasts a vast old market. It's a bargain hunter's heaven offering everything from handmade rugs, jewelry and ceramics to fresh ingredients and spices.
Labyrinthin Lane in Medina – Challenge the old town of Rabat. Here you can sample local cuisine at a variety of eateries scattered throughout the area.
Among the oldest surviving structures in the area is Hassan Tower, dating back to 1191. Originally intended as a minaret for an unfinished mosque, the sentinel now stands above the waterfront of Rabat.
Beyond the impressive spirit of Mohammed V, it houses the tombs of Mohammed V and his two sons, Hassan II and Prince Abdullah.
History enthusiasts can delve deeper into the city's past at the Museum of History and Civilization. The museum takes visitors on a journey from the beginning of the city through its colonial era and through the era of Roman colonialism and into the Islamic era.
Another important attraction for tourists is Plage des Nations. This two miles of golden sand spread is one of Morocco's main surfing spots.
The beach is located outside the city centre, but regular bus services from the city centre take you to the journey in about 40 minutes.
