Morocco’s capital, Rabat, has been named among the world’s best places to visit in 2027 by travel guide publisher Lonely Planet, earning recognition for its blend of historic heritage, modern architecture and coastal attractions.
- Rabat, Morocco's capital, has been listed among Lonely Planet’s top destinations to visit in 2027 for its unique mix of historic charm, modern appeal, and coastal beauty.
- Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Rabat stands out for its harmonious blend of traditional architecture and contemporary urban planning.
- Unlike Morocco’s bustling tourist hotspots, Rabat offers a more tranquil and authentic atmosphere with scenic avenues, gardens, and efficient public transport.
- The city boasts iconic landmarks like the Kasbah of the Udayas, Hassan Tower, and Chellah, along with lively museums, galleries, and accessible beaches.
The North African city features in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 selection alongside destinations including Québec in Canada, California’s Coastal Redwoods and Maryland in the United States.
Rabat is a UNESCO World Heritage site recognised for its historic landmarks and the way its traditional architecture blends with modern urban planning.
Unlike Morocco’s more heavily visited tourist destinations, the capital offers a less crowded experience, with leafy avenues, landscaped gardens, walkable neighbourhoods and a modern tramway connecting different parts of the city.
The city, home to nearly two million people, combines cultural attractions with a relaxed coastal lifestyle, making it appealing to travellers seeking an alternative to Morocco’s busier tourist centres.
The recognition comes as Morocco strengthens its position as a major global tourism destination. The country welcomed nearly 20 million visitors in 2025 and recorded more than 4.3 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2026 alone, outperforming traditional African tourism heavyweights such as South Africa and Egypt.
History meets coastal living
Rabat’s attractions include the Kasbah of the Udayas, a historic fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Bou Regreg River, as well as the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.
The city also features Chellah, an archaeological site containing Roman and Islamic-era ruins, alongside museums, galleries and contemporary architectural landmarks.
Its beaches and outdoor spaces add to its appeal, while its Mediterranean climate makes it a year-round destination for visitors.
July and August are the hottest months, with average highs of around 28°C, although Atlantic breezes help moderate temperatures. These months also bring busy beaches, music festivals and outdoor events.
International visitors often prefer the shoulder seasons between March and June and September and November, when conditions are generally favourable for exploring the city.