Things To Do
in Sale

Sale, Morocco is a charming city located just north of the capital, Rabat. Known for its rich history, Sale boasts a medina filled with narrow streets, traditional souks, and stunning architecture. The city is also famous for its vibrant culture and hospitable locals, making it an inviting destination for travelers.

Its proximity to the Atlantic coast offers additional recreational opportunities, enhancing its appeal as a travel destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Medina
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then wander through Sale's historic medina. Visit the Great Mosque of Sale and take in the intricate architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the nearby Oudayas Kasbah in Rabat, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

evening
:

Return to Sale for dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant and enjoy a stroll along the Bou Regreg River.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Sale Archaeological Museum, showcasing artifacts from the region's history. Enjoy mint tea at a local tea house afterward.

afternoon
:

Explore the local souks for handicrafts and spices, then have lunch at a street food market sampling local delights.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a traditional Moroccan dinner followed by a visit to a local music venue for live performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant10-20 USD
Coffee1-2 USD
🚕Taxi ride (within the city)2-5 USD
🛍️Souvenirs5-15 USD
🏨Budget hotel per night30-50 USD

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Proximity to Rabat and the coast
  • Delicious and diverse food options
  • Less nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier for non-Arabic speakers
  • Limited public transport options
  • "Salam" - Hello
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "Min fadlak" - Please
  • "Bslama" - Goodbye
  • "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Sale

Visit one of these nice places.

Oudayas Kasbah

This historic fortress offers stunning views of the river and the ocean, along with picturesque blue and white buildings.

Sale Medina

The narrow streets and vibrant souks provide a colorful backdrop for capturing local life and architecture.

Bou Regreg River

The riverside promenade is perfect for sunset photography, with views of Rabat in the distance.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sale

Sale offers a culinary treasure trove where traditional Moroccan flavors come alive. From savory tagines to sweet pastries, the local food scene is vibrant and diverse.

Sale Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, served in a unique earthenware pot.

Must-Try!

Couscous

Steamed semolina grains often served with meat and vegetables, making for a hearty meal.

Harira

A traditional Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, and chickpeas, typically enjoyed during Ramadan.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Souk El Had

A bustling market where you can find an array of local produce, spices, and street food options.

Street vendors

Sample local delicacies like grilled meats and fried dough pastries from vendors throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sale experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Summer temperatures can reach up to 40°C, while winters average around 12°C. Rainfall is most common in winter months, while summers are generally dry and sunny. The coastal breeze provides some relief during the hotter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress modestly

While Sale is more liberal than some regions, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in religious sites.

Use greetings

Greet locals with a friendly 'Salam' (Hello) to show respect and friendliness.

Avoid public displays of affection

Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Moroccan culture; keep interactions discreet.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sale is generally safe for tourists, but basic precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas, keep valuables secure, and be aware of your surroundings. It's advisable to use reputable transportation services and to have emergency contacts handy.

Tipping in Sale

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping custom

It is customary to tip around 10% at restaurants if service is not included; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment methods

Cash is commonly used, especially in markets; ATMs are widely available, but credit cards may not be accepted in small establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot temperatures can reach up to 40°C, so prioritize early morning or late afternoon activities and stay hydrated.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and clear skies create pleasant conditions for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor dining.

Winter

While winters are mild, temperatures can drop at night. Layers are recommended for comfort during evening outings.

Nightlife Guide

Sale at Night

Sale's nightlife is more subdued compared to larger cities like Marrakech. However, there are local cafes and restaurants that come alive in the evenings. You can find live music at some venues, especially those featuring traditional Moroccan music. Bars are limited, but some places offer a cozy atmosphere for enjoying drinks with friends or locals.

Hiking in Sale

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rif Mountains Trails

Located a few hours from Sale, the Rif Mountains offer various hiking trails with breathtaking views of nature and the Mediterranean Sea.

Boudhaou Valley Trail

A scenic trail featuring lush landscapes and local flora, perfect for a day hike just outside of Sale.

Airports

How to reach Sale by plane.

Rabat-Salé Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Sale, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the primary gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sale is quite walkable, particularly in the medina where narrow streets and pedestrian paths make it easy to explore on foot. However, be cautious of uneven surfaces and traffic in busy areas. Most attractions are close together, making walking a convenient option for tourists.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Berbers

The Berbers, or Amazigh, are one of the indigenous groups in Morocco, contributing to the cultural diversity of Sale. They often maintain traditional lifestyles and languages.

Arabs

The Arab population predominates in Sale, with a rich history that intertwines with Berber culture, resulting in a vibrant mix of traditions and customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Sale, with local teams and clubs having a strong following. Matches can often be found at local stadiums.

Athletics

Athletics is actively promoted in schools and communities, with events organized throughout the year, encouraging participation among youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sale can be busy, especially during peak hours. The city has a mix of cars, scooters, and pedestrians, making it essential to stay alert while navigating. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but many travelers prefer walking due to the compact nature of the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sale.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many traditional dishes can be made vegetarian; ask for tagines without meat and enjoy vegetable couscous.

Halal

Most food in Sale is halal, but it's still advisable to verify with restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sale is accessible, with a few hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. While larger hospitals in Rabat offer more specialized services, basic medical care is available in Sale. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance for emergencies and to know where the nearest medical facilities are located.

Discover Morocco

Read more in our Morocco 2025 Travel Guide.

Morocco Travel Guide