A fortified historic citadel blending Andalusian and Alaouite heritage with spectacular Atlantic views.
The Kasbah of the Udayas is open 24 hours a day, allowing great flexibility for your visit. However, the museums and specific attractions within the Kasbah, such as the Oudayas Museum, have limited opening hours. To get there, you can easily walk from central Rabat, take a taxi, or use the tram to the nearby Bab Rouah station and then take a short walk.
Access to the Kasbah of the Udayas is completely free, making it an excellent option for all budgets. However, if you wish to visit the Oudayas Museum (formerly the National Jewelry Museum), there is an entrance fee that is usually around 10–20 Moroccan dirhams (approximately 1–2 euros). We recommend checking directly at the museum entrance for the most up-to-date pricing information.
To explore the Kasbah of the Udayas at a relaxed pace, stroll through its blue-and-white lanes, enjoy the views, and unwind in the Andalusian Garden, we recommend setting aside between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. If you also plan to visit the Oudayas Museum, add another 30–60 minutes to your itinerary.
The Kasbah of the Udayas is a site of great historical and cultural importance, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the city of Rabat. It was built in the 12th century by the Almohad dynasty as a military fortress and later became a refuge for the Moriscos expelled from Spain. Today, it stands as a living testament to Morocco’s rich history, combining Islamic and Andalusian architecture and offering a unique glimpse into Rabat’s past.
The best time to visit the Kasbah of the Udayas is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, just before sunset, to avoid the busiest hours and enjoy softer light for your photos. As for the season, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer more pleasant weather and ideal temperatures for walking.
Unfortunately, the Kasbah of the Udayas, as a historic site with cobbled alleys and stairs, presents some access difficulties for people with reduced mobility or wheelchair users. Many of its streets are uneven and narrow. However, some areas, such as the main entrance and part of the Andalusian Garden, may be more accessible. We recommend keeping this in mind when planning your visit.
Very close to the Kasbah of the Udayas, you can visit the Rabat Lighthouse, which offers impressive views of the Bou Regreg estuary and the Atlantic Ocean. On the other side of the river, though not immediately adjacent, lies the city of Salé, with its own medina and historic sites. You can also take a walk along the riverbank or cross it in a small boat to enjoy a different atmosphere.
To make the most of your visit, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as you will be walking quite a bit on uneven streets. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beauty of its blue-and-white walls and panoramic views. We also encourage you to explore without a fixed route, get lost in its alleys, and discover charming corners. If you feel like it, enjoy a mint tea at the famous Moorish Cafe while looking out over the river.
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