Fans’ experience at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar was remarkable, thanks to the proximity of the stadiums hosting the global tournament. With its four venus, Rabat will offer a similar experience to fans during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Moreover, the economic capital is pleasant place to live in and to stroll around.

Before revealing the best tips for an unforgettable stay in the imperial city, let’s start by introducing the four stadiums and how to get there – beginning with the Prince Moulay Abdellah Complex.

> Prince Moulay Abdellah Complex

This is Rabat’s flagship stadium. Opening match, semi-final, final… everything happens here. Located 10 minutes from the city center, it is the beating heart of the tournament.

The easiest way to get there is by petit taxi. It costs between 20 and 30 MAD from Agdal or the city center, depending on traffic.

If you prefer public transport, take tram line 2 to the Madinat Al Irfane terminus, then a taxi for the remaining 2-3 km.

On match days, special shuttle buses are expected to run between the city center and the stadium. Be sure to leave early, as traffic jams are common when attendance is high.

> Olympic Annex Stadium

Located a few meters from the Moulay Abdellah stadium, it also hosts several group matches and the match for third place.

Smaller in size, but with a guaranteed atmosphere.

So, same advice as for the main stadium. If you specifically want to go to the annex, ask the taxi to drop you off at the east entrance.

From the tram terminus Madinat Al Irfane, it takes about 30 minutes on foot, but it’s better to complete the trip by taxi.

> Al Barid Stadium

Brand new, modern, in the heart of Agdal. Here, you will attend group matches and even round of 16 games. 

Ideal if you want to feel the excitement right  in the middle of the city. Because it is situated in the lively Agdal district, access is very easy:

A ten-minute taxi ride from Rabat-Ville station or the city center is enough.

Several buses run along Avenue de France and Avenue Ibn Sina, right next to the stadium.

You can get off near Ibn Yassine Park or the French Embassy, just a few minutes’ walk from the stadium. 

The tram (line 1) also goes directly to Agdal — get off at Avenue de France stop, then walk for about 15 minutes.

> Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium

Home of Fath Union Sport, one of the four top-flight teams from the capital, this stadium has been renovated for the Africa Cup of Nations. It’s located in the Yacoub El Mansour district, around 4 km from downtown Rabat.

The easiest way to get there is by petit taxi (expect 20 to 30 DH from the Hassane district or the center).

During the day, you can also take tram line 1 to the Yacoub El Mansour terminus, then walk 10 minutes.
Buses also serve the nearby main avenues.

As the area is mainly residential, plan your return in advance — taxis and ride-hailing services will be available after the matches.

That’s all for the stadiums and how to get there on match days. You now have all the information you need to fully enjoy the competition in Rabat — a city on a human scale, elegant and peaceful, where history converses with modernity.

Also known as the garden city, Rabat charms with its broad, palm-lined avenues, ramparts surrounded by greenery, and numerous parks such as the Jardin d’Essais or the Bouregreg Valley, which give it an open and verdant atmosphere.

Rabat, a city standing the test of time

Rabat has endured through the centuries and bears the marks of its rich past. The Almohads made it a fortified city in the 12th century and began building a grand mosque, of which only the Hassan Tower remains today.

Over time, the city’s face evolved. In the 17th century, the Kasbah des Oudayas became the stronghold of corsairs feared across the Mediterranean. Later, in 1912, Rabat took on a new role: Lyautey chose it as the capital of the French Protectorate. Urban planner Henri Prost then designed a modern city, harmoniously connected to the old medina.

Since Independence in 1956, Rabat has remained Morocco’s political capital. Its charm lies in the subtle contrast between ancient heritage and modern urbanism — a balance that earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Here are the sites you shouldn’t miss in Rabat:

– Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum: a majestic esplanade, a place of memory, and a superb viewpoint over the Bouregreg.

– Kasbah des Oudayas: ochre walls, blue alleys, Andalusian garden, and tea at Café Maure overlooking the ocean.

– Chellah: Roman ruins, Merinid tombs, storks, and rituals around eels— all contributing to a truly unique atmosphere.

– Ramparts and medina: the Almohad walls still protect the medina and its lively souks, perfect for a stroll or finding a handcrafted souvenir.

A Variety of Accommodation Options to Book Early

The city offers a wide range of places to stay, from traditional riads to modern hotels. However, with the Africa Cup of Nations drawing large crowds, it’s wise to book early to secure a room in the neighborhood that suits you.

Here’s where to set down your bags, depending on what you’re looking for :

– For authenticity : Stay in a riad in the medina or the Oudayas. You’ll be immersed in the heart of the souks and just steps from the Kasbah. Nights are calm, and the welcome is always warm.

– For comfort and convenience: Choose the Hassan district. You will be steps away from the Hassan Tower, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the lively cafés of Mohammed V Avenue. Everything is accessible on foot or by tram.

– For proximity to the stadium: Opt for Agdal or Hay Riad. Agdal is the young and trendy district, with restaurants, pubs, and shops to continue the party after a match. Hay Riad, more residential, places you directly at the stadium’s gates.

– For smaller budget: Consider the L’Océan district, near the beach, or even Témara, in the suburbs.

Getting Around the City

Whether you’re heading to the stadium, exploring the medina, or visiting fan zones, Rabat offers several convenient ways to get around:

– Tramway: Two modern lines link Rabat and Salé. Reliable and frequent (every 8–10 minutes), the tram helps you avoid traffic. A single ticket costs 7 MAD and is valid for one hour, with transfers allowed. A combined Tram + Bus ticket costs 10 MAD. For the Africa Cup of Nations, single tickets or ticket books will do. Remember to validate your ticket when boarding — fines for non-validation are steep.

– Petit taxis: They’re everywhere. A ride within the city center rarely exceeds 20 MAD. Taxis carry up to three passengers and must use the meter. After 8 p.m., fares rise by 50%.

– Buses: Operated by ALSA, buses cover the entire Rabat–Salé–Témara area. Tickets cost 6.5 MAD, paid directly to the driver (have change ready). While practical for destinations not served by the tram, buses can be slowed by traffic. The Alsa City Bus app helps track routes and schedules.

– Train: Following your team to another host city? From Rabat-Agdal or Rabat-Ville, you can reach Casablanca in under an hour or Tangier in about 1h20 via the Al-Boraq high-speed train — ideal for making the most of the tournament.

The tram will likely be your best ally for moving between the medina, Hassan, Agdal, and Salé, where many hotels and parking lots are located.

On match days, leave early and combine tram + walking to reach fan zones or central stadiums. Rabat remains a city on a human scale – several destinations are within walking distance. An opportunity to enjoy the local atmosphere.

How to Reach Rabat from Major Airports and Cities in Morocco

You won’t be airlifted directly above Rabat. Your first steps will likely be on the tarmac of one of Morocco’s main airports before heading to the capital. Several options are available to get there smoothly:

– From Rabat-Salé Airport:

You land directly 20 minutes from the city-center. The easiest way is to take a grand taxi, costing 150 DH during the day and 200 DH at night.

If you’re on a budget, a shuttle bus operates for about 20 DH, but departures are infrequent.

You can also book a ride-hailing service or arrange a private transfer in advance.

– From Casablanca-Mohammed V Airport (CMN):

Many travellers will land there. The airport lies about 120 km south Rabat, but no worries, it’s well connected. A train station inside the terminal takes you first to Casa-Voyageurs (around 30 minutes), where you can connect to a train to Rabat.

The full journey takes 1h30 to 2 hours and costs roughly 100 MAD. Trains are comfortable, air-conditioned, and equipped with luggage space.

– From Other Cities:

Rabat is well connected by train:

  • Casablanca: 1 hour

  • Tangier: 1h20 (by high-speed Al-Boraq train)

  • Fès: 3 hours

  • Marrakech: 4h15

From Agadir, you’ll need to travel via Marrakech or take a bus.

The CTM and Supratours companies offer reliable, comfortable service. For instance, the Marrakech–Rabat route takes about 5 hours and costs around 130 MAD. The CTM bus station is conveniently located near the medina.

Reaching Rabat by car:

Highways A1 (Tangier), A2 (Fès), and A3 (Casablanca) all lead to Rabat. However, on match days, expect heavy traffic, and make sure your accommodation includes parking.

Where to Eat in Rabat Based on Your Budget

It’s not secret: Moroccan cuisine is exquisite. Visiting Morocco without tasting it would be like going to the sea without taking a swim. Savoring traditional Moroccan dishes is a must.

But Rabat offers a wide variety of flavors from around the world, from Asian to Middle Eastern cuisine. Whatever your taste or budget, here are our top recommendations :

<< Moroccan Cuisine

Small Budget:

  • Restaurant de la Libération (Hassan district): hearty tagines and couscous for 30-40 DH;
  • Dar El Medina (medina): generous homemade cuisine (tagines, couscous, kebabs) for 40-50 DH;
  • Snack bars on Hassan II Avenue or in Agdal: shawarmas, minced meat sandwiches, or quick pizzas for 20-30 DH

Average Budget:

  • Dar Naji (several locations): tagines, royal couscous, music, and a panoramic terrace (80-120 DH)

Gourmet:

  • Philippe Rey Petit Bistro (Hassan district): Moroccan cuisine with a fusion twist (250 DH)

<< International Cuisine (French, Spanish, Mediterranean):

Average Budget:

  • Cosmopolitan (near the Parliament): bistro for lunch, refined dishes for dinner (150 DH)
  • Casa José / Sa Caleta (Hassan / Souissi): tapas, paellas, and seafood (150 DH)

Gourmet:

  • Villa Mandarine (Souissi): villa nestled in an orange tree garden, menus around 500 DH
  • Golden Fish (Sofitel): luxury seafood dishes (300-400 DH)

<< Italian and Pizzas:

Small Budget:

  • La Piazza (city center): simple and affordable, quick pizza

Average Budget:

  • Il Giardino (Hassan): wood-fired pizzas in an elegant setting.
  • Metros Pizza (Agdal): pizzas served by the meter, perfect for groups.
  • Little Mama (Hay Riad, Agdal, City center)

<< Mediterranean Mix:

  • Tangerino (Souissi): Spanish tapas and very good pizzas, with a view of the river.

<< Asian and Other Flavors:

Average Budget:

    • Yoka Sushi (Agdal / Hay Riad): modern Japanese restaurant, renowned for its varied sushi platters (150-200 DH)
    • Kiotori (Hay Riad): Japanese and Korean cuisine, convivial atmosphere, dishes around 150 DH
    • Japoneza (Agdal): elegant setting, reimagined Japanese specialties, budget around 180-200 DH