The Best Hotels in Rabat, Morocco
![Story Rabat offers a modern take on the age-old Moroccan riad](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/79f28b0d-e1621247066202.webp)
Despite being the capital of Morocco, the city of Rabat is often overlooked. Though known as the ‘Washington of North Africa’, this place is not all embassies and boulevards. There’s the Kasbah of the Udayas, with its blue-and-white houses stained by the salty breeze, not to mention rolling Atlantic swells and the spice-scented alleyways of the medina. As the national capital, Rabat is home to some of Morocco’s finest hotels – these are the very best, all bookable with Culture Trip.
1. L’Alcazar
Boutique Hotel, Chain Hotel
![Riad interior with tiled floors and sofas at L’Alcazar](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/c98d10ff.webp)
This romantic riad, in the heart of Rabat, is straight out of the One Thousand and One Nights folk tales. Tall stone archways lead through dark elegant salons to a bright and breezy courtyard where a breakfast of fresh fruit and honey-drizzled msemen (Moroccan pancakes) is served. The whimsical rooms feature roll-top baths and a mezzanine bedroom or sumptuous bed. Head up to the rooftop terrace for tea with stunning views across the city.
2. Euphoriad
Boutique Hotel, Independent Hotel
![Grand interior with high ceilings, sofas and detail-orientated design at Euphoriad](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/67911fdf.webp)
Look no further than Euphoriad if you’re after an Insta-worthy couple’s retreat in Rabat. This 19th-century riad-turned boutique hotel, on the outskirts of the medina, oozes luxury. Rooms are an eclectic mix of Moroccan craftsmanship and a playful contemporary flair, with iPad-controlled lighting and bathtubs big enough for two. An infinity pool, perched on the rooftop, calls for long afternoons lazing in the sun, while the spa offers a rejuvenating hammam experience, complete with a black soap scrub and ghassoul clay mask.
3. Dar Shaân
Independent Hotel
![Double bedroom with sofas and chairs at Dar Shaân](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/e37cd2e6.webp)
This modern take on a traditional Moroccan riad, tucked away down an unassuming alleyway, boasts eleven rooms, decked out with contemporary artworks. Step out the front door and pick up souvenirs in the covered market and once you’ve had enough of the hustle and heat, retreat to the rooftop pool or for a massage at the spa. Don’t miss dinner in the elegant Art Deco-inspired dining room, where the menu changes daily according to the chef’s suggestions.
4. Villa Mandarine
Boutique Hotel
![Hotel interior courtyard with a tiled fountain and foliage around at Villa Mandarine](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/1333b0d7.webp)
5. STORY Rabat
Boutique Hotel
![Outdoor seating under a cabana at STORY Rabat](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/e2505f52.webp)
Parades of palms and modern glass-fronted facades set the scene for a deluxe stay at STORY Rabat. The luxury begins in the rooms, with king-size beds, fluffy bathrobes and breezy balconies overlooking the gardens. Take a dip in the large pool before you sip on jasmine daiquiris in the bar prior to dinner, which is locally sourced and packed full of flavour. Think fresh fish tagine spiced with Tallaouine saffron and tabbouleh drizzled with argan oil.
6. The View Rabat
Hotel
![Indoor seating with views of the city at The View Rabat](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/a4d8f41b.webp)
The View, towering above the Hay Riad neighbourhood, is a little way out from the medina – but still close enough to dip in as you please. Sky-high suites gaze out to the Atlantic Ocean and the best view of the sunset is through floor-to-ceiling windows from the comfort of your own cloud-like bed. Poached Essaouira lobster and cinnamon-spiced slow-cooked lamb is on the dinner menu, while the lavish breakfast buffet features sushi rolls and platters of pastries. Don’t forget to stop by the Maison d’Asa for dreamy spa treatments.
7. Riad Meftaha
Riad
![Hotel courtyard with traditional Moroccan decor at Riad Meftaha](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/d3a36b93.webp)
Located between the souks and the sea, it’s the vivid colour palette that will bowl you over at this charming riad in the centre of Rabat. The rooms are no exception, with stained glass windows, dizzying mosaics and brightly painted walls. Make like the locals and cosy up with a fresh mint tea on the rooftop terrace, before treating yourself to an aromatherapy massage at the spa.
8. Riad Zyo
Riad
![Double bedroom with a view of the interior courtyard at Riad Zyo](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/72988bfc.webp)
The owner of this riad, with the medina on its doorstep, took inspiration from the nearby coast and washed the place in calming whites and blues. The pool takes centre stage in the courtyard, framed by tall white archways and the seven rooms overlook either palm groves, the pool or out onto the streets. Don’t miss dinner of lamb tagine with juicy apricots and crispy briouat (pastries stuffed with meat).
9. Villa des Ambassadors
Boutique Hotel
![Tiled pathway through garden leading up to Villa des Ambassadors](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/807992c1.webp)
The Villa des Ambassadors, along the embassy-lined Avenue Mohamed VI, is a tranquil retreat. A candle-lit hammam, a poolside bar and a romantic dinner setting will tempt you to stay within its walls for the duration of your stay. When you do venture out, the winding streets of the medina and the blue-and-white painted houses of the Kasbah are just a 15-minute drive away.
10. The Ritz Carlton Rabat Dar Es Salam
Hotel
A 440-acre (178ha) oak forest isn’t the first thing that springs to mind when thinking of Morocco, but then anything is possible at the Ritz. Add in a massive golf course, palm-shaded pools and palatial gardens and you’ve got a truly royal stay. Travel through the flavours of this enchanting country’s cuisine at the five restaurants, or indulge your senses with a traditional hammam in the spa.
11. Hôtel Splendid
Hotel
12. Le Piétri Urban Hotel
Hotel
![Rooftop sun loungers and seating at Le Piétri Urban Hotel](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/271cfc74.webp)
13. Riad Oudaya
Hotel, Riad
14. Hôtel Bélère
Hotel
![Hotel lounge with seating and tables at Hôtel Bélère](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/75ae0924.webp)