Discover Sale The City of saints and pirates

Rabat , Morocco

Discover Sale The City of saints and pirates

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About this experience

Resting on the shores of the Bouregreg River and Atlantic Ocean, the city of Sale , is known for its picturesque natural surroundings, much as for its man-made beauty manifested in the old architecture and the piracy activity, abundance of mosques and historic monuments. The Medina (Old City) of Sale is known to be a city of Saints( muslim scholars ) and Pirates.
You will have the opportunity to visit the city and it famous see sights and discover it from a local perspective. I will make sure you have a historical and cultural immersion.

Available options

Discover Sale The City of saints and pirates

What's included

Tour guide

Detailed itinerary

We will start our walk through the old port of the city and Discover the major role that this port played in the white slavery trade.

Step back in time as we embark on a captivating journey through the Mellah of Sale , an ancient quarter steeped in history and shrouded by protective walls

we'll visit a square that was renamed (Souq dlala) the auction square where the white slaves used to be sold , and we'll delve into this historical milestone as part of our journey.

We will walk through the allys of the old medina and discover how the locals live and shop

Merinide medresa one of the most famous schools built by Sultan Abou Al Hasan Al Marini in 1341. With an area of 180 m2, considered to be a architectural masterpiece

Perched on the shores of Salé, Morocco, Borj Adoumoue, also known as the Bastion of Tears, stands as a silent sentinel to centuries of maritime history. This formidable fortress, dating back to the Marinid dynasty, offers visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s strategic past and architectural prowess.

What's not included

Coffee and/or Tea

Entrance fees to the merinide medresa 8 euro

Entrance fee to the bastion of tears 5 euro

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

I'll be waiting for you in front of the next to Bab lamrissa . We'll start our tour with a brief introduction to the city and the exciting places we'll be exploring

About Rabat

Rabat is the capital of Morocco, offering a blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. As a coastal city on the Atlantic, it boasts beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and a relaxed atmosphere compared to more touristy Moroccan cities.

Top Attractions

Kasbah of the Udayas

A stunning 12th-century fortress with beautiful gardens and views of the Atlantic and Bou Regreg River. The blue-and-white buildings and narrow streets offer a picturesque setting.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free to enter the Kasbah, 10 MAD for the museum

Hassan Tower

An unfinished 12th-century minaret that was intended to be the largest in the world. It stands as a symbol of Rabat and offers insights into Moroccan history and architecture.

Historical/Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to view from the outside, 10 MAD to enter the mausoleum

Chellah Necropolis

A 14th-century medieval necropolis with ruins, gardens, and stork nests. It's a peaceful and historic site with a mix of Roman and Islamic influences.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Rabat Beach

A long stretch of sandy beach along the Atlantic coast, offering a relaxing escape from the city. It's popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day or more Free

Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

A modern art museum showcasing works by Moroccan and international artists. The building itself is an architectural marvel with a striking design.

Museum 1-2 hours 50-100 MAD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat (lamb, chicken, or beef), vegetables, and spices, cooked in a conical clay pot.

Main Course Can be vegetarian or vegan if made without meat.

Couscous

Steamed semolina grains served with vegetables and meat, often cooked in a spiced broth.

Main Course Can be vegetarian or vegan if made without meat.

Pastilla

A savory-sweet pie made with layers of thin pastry, filled with spiced pigeon or chicken, almonds, and powdered sugar.

Main Course Contains meat and nuts.

Harira

A hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb or chicken, flavored with spices and served with lemon.

Soup Can be vegetarian or vegan if made without meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Surfing and water sports at Rabat Beach Exploring historic sites and ruins Sunbathing and swimming at Rabat Beach Enjoying a mint tea at a seaside cafe Strolling through the Andalusian gardens in the Kasbah of the Udayas Exploring the medina and its markets Visiting historic sites like the Hassan Tower and Chellah Necropolis

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)

These seasons offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the city's attractions. The crowds are moderate, and the city is lively with cultural events.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: French, Berber
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Western European Time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Rabat is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime like pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Be cautious at night, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi services or app-based taxis
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air

Rabat-Salé Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Rabat-Ville Station

By bus

Rabat City Center Bus Station, Salé Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is modern, efficient, and affordable. It's a great way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Careem, Heetch

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Medina of Rabat Ville Nouvelle (New Town) Salé

Day trips

Salé

2 km from Rabat • Half day

Salé is connected to Rabat by the Bou Regreg River and offers a mix of historic sites, beaches, and local markets. It's a great place to experience authentic Moroccan culture.

Chefchaouen

160 km from Rabat • Full day or overnight

Known as the 'Blue Pearl' for its blue-washed buildings, Chefchaouen is a charming mountain town with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views.

Casablanca

80 km from Rabat • Half day or full day

Morocco's largest city and economic hub, Casablanca offers a mix of modern architecture, historic sites, and vibrant culture.

Festivals

Rabat Festival • June to July Mawazine Rhythm and Blues Festival • May to June Ramatoulaye • July

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Visit the medina early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience
Use the tram and bus systems for affordable and efficient transportation around the city
Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas and tourist spots, as pickpocketing can occur