Morocco is bursting with winter sunshine, outstanding coastlines, impressive architecture and historical significance – one lesser-visited city could be your next destination. 

When travelling to the North African country, many Brits opt for Marrakech, yet one city is even closer by plane and is home to a Royal Palace. 

Rabat is Morocco’s capital city which has been restored over the past decade. The elegant location has a long, deep-rooted history with Roman remains, a 12th century Mosque and a vast square scattered throughout.

Labelled as a royal city, it homes the Palace which was built in the 19th century on the ruins of a previous ancient palace. Also known as Dar El Makhzen, the grand building is a fine example of Moroccan art.

Used for outdoor royal ceremonies, the King no longer resides there, having moved across the river in Rabat’s twin town of Salé, although he often visits.

For those simply seeking sunshine and sand during the winter months, Rabat has that too. In the south of the city, gold beaches line the coast all the way to its neighbouring cities. 

In November, temperatures still reach 21C with the warm weather stretching throughout the Christmas period as December sees 18C – it’s the ideal break from the freezing figures and snowfall in the UK. 

According to Skyscanner, Brits can fly to the enchanting city for as little as £21. Despite crossing continents, direct flights between the two capitals take just 3 hours 15 minutes. 

Due to the compact size of Rabat, the city can be explored mostly by foot with key monuments and attractions being within walking distance of each other.

Rabat has a strong French influence, giving it a ‘European’ feel, with French being one of the most widely spoken languages in the region.

The Moroccan capital also boasts many extraordinary markets where visitors will enter into a world of colours, sounds and smells.

Stalls offer a range of unique, handmade ceramics and textiles as well as spices and foods.

Traditional dishes that can be found here include Mechoui, slow-roasted lamb, Pastilla, sweet and savory pastry filled with pigeon or chicken, and a range of the more widely known Couscous.