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Outdoor pool area with sun loungers and canopy

Refined Rabat: Experience a cultured and elevated escape in Morocco

Morocco’s capital city captivates visitors with exclusive experiences, a rich history, and distinguished dining.

By Joanna Tweedy | March 5, 2025

With its souks, spas, and endless natural beauty, Morocco offers a truly exotic North African adventure, with the coastal city of Rabat adding dreamy Atlantic Ocean beaches into the mix. Ideal for those looking for an elevated vacation, this small but mighty capital city excels as a low-profile but equally stylish alternative to hot spots like Casablanca and Marrakech. Here are the top three things to consider when planning your bespoke visit.

Exquisite experiences

Rabat’s historic medina is a vision of white-washed houses and swaying palm trees, with a wonderfully preserved shopping area, and the elegant Andalusian Gardens. Beyond the medina walls, the surrounding Ville Nouvelle (New Town) is a beauty worth wandering through, blending nature with art deco architecture. Conrad Rabat Arzana enjoys a privileged location overlooking the Atlantic and a tranquil lagoon, making it an ideal home base for exploring. The concierge can help you dive into Rabat’s rich past with a private tour of the hilltop Chellah Castle or the 800-year-old Hassan Tower. Return in time for sunset to enjoy the resort’s many exquisite vantage points. Our favorite is L’Oursin, a poolside eatery, where you can enjoy al fresco dining and drinks as the sun sinks.

Distinguished dining

Rabat’s diverse influences are reflected in its favorite dishes, from fresh seafood and delicate French-inspired pastries to tajine, an aromatic, slow-cooked stew often served with fluffy couscous. At Conrad Rabat Arzana, the four restaurants, plus in-room dining options, showcase both local and global cuisine. Dine à la carte at the chic French-Moroccan brasserie La Brise, with a delectable menu offer dishes like sea scallop carpaccio and chicken tajine with preserved lemon and saffron. Or book a table at 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant for a contemporary Japanese dinner and mouthwatering cocktails. One authentic tradition you shouldn’t miss is poured daily at the Feuillage Tea Lounge. Decanted from elegant silver pots into pretty glasses, Morocco’s mint-infused tea is a perfect mid-morning refresher.

Revitalization

Few destinations take as much pride in the spa experience as Morocco. The country’s self-care and pampering rituals date back centuries, so experiencing the steam, scents and marble slabs of the hammam is still a restorative must-do for visitors. Conrad Rabat Arzana Spa & Beauty salon has everything you need to feel invigorated, from state-of-the-art treatments to locally inspired massages using Argan oil. For an especially indulgent treat, book the Salty Hammam Escape and unwind with a soothing head-to-toe therapy inspired by Moroccan traditions. Couples can spend an afternoon enjoying a Romantic Escape for two in the Spa Suite, including massages and ultra purifying facials. When you’re not at the spa, taking a dip in one of the resort’s divine ocean-view infinity pools is equally relaxing.

Joanna Tweedy

Joanna Tweedy is an award-winning travel writer and editor who lives in London. A former U.K. national newspaper travel editor, she now contributes across many titles, and specializes in writing about family travel, wellness breaks and luxury vacations.

Headshot of Author Joanna Tweedy

Conrad Rabat Arzana

Set above the scenic coastline, our resort provides an exceptional location for our guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Atlantic Coast, surrounded by lush green gardens, ocean views, and scenic walks. Indulge in luxury design and breathtaking views in our rooms and suites, enjoy delicious meals at one of our four on-site restaurants, unwind at the Conrad Spa, and discover the historical sites and picturesque beaches near the resort.

View of Outdoor Pool Area in the Evening