The British Daily Mail highlights the unique charm of Rabat, where time seems to flow gently away from the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist destinations.
The newspaper reports that the Moroccan capital, long overshadowed by other tourist cities, is now asserting its place as a destination worth exploring, noting that Rabat is classified as one of the ten most promising destinations in the world, with an 87% increase in searches for it, according to Skyscanner’s travel trends report for 2026.
This interest, the newspaper believes, is deserved, as the city harmoniously combines history, tranquility, and modernity. It points out that while other Moroccan cities attract visitors with their vibrancy, Rabat enchants with its calmness.
From enchanting Andalusian gardens to upscale restaurants and serene squares, the city is described as “exceedingly peaceful,” adding that “this sense of a sheltered haven is a distinctive feature of Rabat.”
The Daily Mail notes that Rabat may confuse visitors at first glance. It is an administrative capital suggesting discipline rather than adventure. However, behind this facade lies a city of surprising beauty.
The historic Kasbah of the Oudayas serves as a prime example of this unique charm, with the newspaper describing it as “a blend of a Greek village with its white facades, an Arab market, and a Mediterranean town.” It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, like other sites in Rabat, appearing as “a majestic and stunning palace.”
The source adds: “If you see nothing else in Rabat but the Kasbah of the Oudayas, it is enough.”
Also noteworthy in Rabat is the immediate sense of safety and simplicity. One can stroll around without fear and easily blend into the surroundings. The residents observe visitors with kindness without being intrusive, notes the British media outlet.
It points out that one can enjoy a coffee alone on a café terrace, wander through markets, or even learn to surf on nearby beaches without hassle, adding that the tranquility and reassurance offered by Rabat are quite rare for a capital city.
In the Medina, smaller but more elegant compared to other Moroccan old towns, artisans work outdoors, showcasing exceptional skill directed toward both locals and visitors alike. There are no loud haggles here, but rather genuine and authentic trade, according to the Daily Mail.
Rabat, the newspaper states, does not seek to impress but rather captivates in silence. Between the allure of the Kasbah of the Oudayas, the ruins of Chellah, the majesty of the Hassan Tower, and the vibrancy of the galleries, cafés, and libraries in the city center, the capital weaves a delicate harmony between heritage and modernity.
The Daily Mail concludes that Rabat is “a destination for those seeking tranquility and authenticity, a calm capital inviting discovery in every stone and alleyway.”
