The Best Hotels in Rabat, Morocco

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.