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Rabat was founded in the 12th century as a port for launching attacks on Iberia, and the city briefly served as Morocco’s medieval capital. After nearly being abandoned, Rabat became a stronghold for Barbary pirates in the 16th century, and they continued to use the port until the mid 19th century. In 1929, the French made Rabat Morocco’s capital and revitalized the city. Unlike Morocco’s other major cities, Rabat is relatively quiet, meaning you can peacefully explore the medieval alleys of its UNESCO-listed medina, and blue-painted walls of the kasbah. Don’t miss the Hassan Tower - the minaret and ruins of what would have been the world’s largest mosque when it was commissioned in 1195 by Caliphate Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur.

Founded in the early 11th century, Salé was like a sister to Rabat for most of its history, even serving as a pirate port in the 17th century. So notable was the pirate presence here that Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe was imprisoned by the ‘Salé Rovers’. Salé’s medina is the perfect place to explore on foot, and easy to spot thanks to its bright orange walls. Wandering the narrow streets, you’ll find plenty of traditional houses with intricately adorned windows and doors. Since Sale’s not a main tourist attraction, the souk here is much more pleasant. The 12th century Great Mosque here is one of the most beautiful in the country, but is closed to non-muslims. The 14th century Medersa, however, is open to anyone and features jaw-dropping mosaics and carvings.