Boasting a two-mile long beach, 300 days of sunshine annually and pints priced from £3.40, one destination in the 'new Turkey' has a lot going for it.
Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, is becoming more and more accessible for Brits with a new flight connection from the UK. Ryanair has introduced direct flights between Manchester and city in northern Africa.
The twice-weekly flights to Rabat-Sale Airport will run on Wednesdays and Sundays, and commenced on March 30, with ticket prices starting from a mere £14.99 per person for a one-way trip. This marks the fifth route from Manchester Airport to the North African nation, which has seen a significant boost in tourism in recent years.
Morocco has been dubbed as the 'new Turkey', while Jet2 boss Steve Heapy has suggested it could replace the Canary Islands, a traditionally favoured holiday spot among Brits that has faced increasing anti-tourism sentiment over the past year.
Morocco has earned the title of Africa's most-visited tourist destination, overtaking Egypt for the top spot. In 2024, it welcomed 17.4 million international tourists, marking a 20 per cent increase from 2023, .
Rabat is the newest addition to Manchester Airport's routes to Morocco, joining Tangier, Casablanca, Marrakesh and Agadir.
While it may not enjoy the same fame as Marrakesh and Fez, Rabat delivers all the quintessential Moroccan experiences: splendid weather, rich culture, stunning landscapes and delectable cuisine - and all minus the overwhelming throngs of tourists.
The ideal times to explore Rabat are spring and autumn when temperatures hover between 20 and 25C, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing without the intense heat of summer. The city basks in approximately 3,000 hours of sunshine annually - roughly 300 days - making it a great spot for a vitamin D boost.
Despite its status as a capital city, Rabat remains a cost-effective choice for budget-savvy travellers. According to the cost of living website Numbeo, a three-course meal typically sets you back £18 per person, while local draft beer is priced at £3.40.
Morocco's souks are legendary, and Rabat boasts the expansive Old Market, a haven for bargain hunters offering everything from handmade rugs, jewellery and ceramics to fresh produce and spices.
Venture into the labyrinthine lanes of the Medina - Rabat's Old Town - where you can sample local cuisine at the various eateries dotting the area.
Among the oldest surviving structures in this district is the Hassan Tower, dating back to 1191. Originally intended as the minaret of an unfinished mosque, it now stands sentinel over Rabat's waterfront.
Directly across stands the imposing Mausoleum of Mohammed V, housing the tombs of King Mohammed V and his two sons, King Hassan II and Prince Abdullah.
History enthusiasts can delve deeper into the city's past at the Museum of History and Civilizations. This museum takes visitors on a journey from the city's beginnings in the Punic era, through its period as a Roman colony, and into the Islamic age.
Another significant attraction for tourists is the Plage des Nations. This two-mile expanse of golden sand is one of Morocco's prime surfing spots.
Although the beach is situated outside the city centre, a regular bus service from the heart of the city makes the journey in approximately 40 minutes.
