Casablanca

Planning Your Trip to Casablanca, Morocco

Essential Information

• Country: Morocco
• Timezone: GMT +1
• Languages Spoken: Arabic, French
• Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Casablanca Weather & Climate: When to Visit

• January: Mild, rainy (avg 12°C / 54°F)
• April: Warm, pleasant (avg 17°C / 63°F)
• July: Hot, dry (avg 23°C / 73°F)
• October: Warm, sunny (avg 20°C / 68°F)

Discovering Casablanca: An Overview

Casablanca, the dynamic heart of Morocco, offers a captivating blend of modern architecture and historical charm. As Morocco’s largest city, it’s a bustling hub where you can explore the iconic Hassan II Mosque, wander through the vibrant medina, and indulge in delicious Moroccan cuisine. Casablanca provides a unique glimpse into Moroccan culture and is a must-see on any Moroccan itinerary.

When is the Best Time to Visit Casablanca?

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring (April-May):
  Pros: Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds.
  Cons: Occasional rain.
• Autumn (September-October):
  Pros: Warm, sunny days, fewer tourists than summer.
  Cons: Chance of early showers.
• Summer (June-August):
  Pros: Warm sea for swimming.
  Cons: Can be very hot and crowded.
• Winter (November-March):
  Pros: Mild temperatures, fewer tourists.
  Cons: Higher chance of rain.

Getting To and Around Casablanca

Flights, Trains & Visa Requirements

• Flights: Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) is the main airport. Check flight comparison sites for the best deals on flights to Casablanca.
• Trains: ONCF connects Casablanca to Marrakech, Rabat, and Fes.
• Visa Details: Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry to Morocco for tourism. Always check the latest visa requirements for your nationality before traveling.
• Airport Transfers: Taxis, buses, and private airport transfers are readily available at CMN. Book in advance for better rates.

Casablanca Fun Fact

Did you know? Most of the classic film “Casablanca” was filmed in Hollywood, not in Morocco! Only a few establishing shots were captured on location in Casablanca.

Famous People From Casablanca

Casablanca has produced many talented actors, writers, and musicians who contribute to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Search online to discover some prominent figures from this exciting city.

Top 10 Casablanca Attractions: Must-See Sites

1. Hassan II Mosque: An architectural marvel and one of the world’s largest mosques.
   • Address: Boulevard Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
2. Rick’s Café Américain: Relive the magic of the film in this iconic cafe.
   • Address: 248, Rue Sour Jdid, Casablanca 20250, Morocco
3. Old Medina: Explore the historic heart of Casablanca with its narrow streets and traditional shops.
   • Address: Casablanca, Morocco
4. Place Mohammed V: A central square showcasing French colonial architecture.
   • Address: Casablanca, Morocco
5. Corniche Ain Diab: Enjoy a stroll along this coastal promenade with beaches, restaurants, and clubs.
   • Address: Boulevard de la Corniche, Casablanca, Morocco
6. Quartier Habous (New Medina): A charming district built in the 1930s, blending modern and traditional styles.
   • Address: Casablanca, Morocco
7. Sacré-Cœur Cathedral: A former cathedral now serving as a cultural center.
   • Address: Angle Rues Rachidi et Zerktouni, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
8. Parc de la Ligue Arabe: Relax in this large park in the city center.
   • Address: Casablanca, Morocco
9. Mahkama du Pacha: Admire the intricate Moroccan craftsmanship in this beautiful palace.
   • Address: Place des Nations Unies, Casablanca, Morocco
10. Museum of Moroccan Judaism: Discover the history and culture of Judaism in Morocco.
    • Address: 81 Rue Chasseur jules gros, Casablanca 20000, Morocco

Casablanca’s Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

• Villa des Arts de Casablanca: Discover contemporary art exhibitions in this art deco villa.
  • Address: 93, Boulevard Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
• Marché Central: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this local market.
  • Address: Bd Mohammed V, Casablanca, Morocco
• El Hank Lighthouse: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Address: Casablanca, Morocco

Casablanca’s Festivals & Events

• Casablanca Festival: Annual music festival.
• Jazzablanca: International jazz festival in April.
• Eid al-Fitr: Religious holiday.

Day Trips from Casablanca

• Rabat (1 hour): Explore Morocco’s capital city.
• El Jadida (1.5 hours): Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Azemmour (1 hour): Discover this charming riverside town.

Casablanca’s Best Photography Spots

• Hassan II Mosque: Capture the stunning architecture.
• Rick’s Café Américain: A nostalgic photo opportunity.
• Corniche Ain Diab: Sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean.
• Quartier Habous: Unique blend of modern and traditional design.
• Villa des Arts de Casablanca: Art deco architecture.

Planning Your Stay in Casablanca

How Many Days?

Plan to spend 3-4 days to fully explore Casablanca.

Recommended Hotels in Casablanca

Budget Hotels

• Hotel Central:
  • Address: 27, Place Mohammed V, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
• Hotel Farah Casablanca:
  • Address: Place Mohammed V, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
• Hotel Terminus:
  • Address: 12, Rue El Iraki, Casablanca 20000, Morocco

Mid-Range Hotels

• Barceló Casablanca:
  • Address: 159, Boulevard d’Anfa, Casablanca 20070, Morocco
• ONOMO Hotel Casablanca City Center:
  • Address: 31 Rue Tata, Casablanca 20190, Morocco
• Kenzi Basma:
  • Address: Boulevard Hassan II, Casablanca 20100, Morocco
• Gray Boutique Hotel Casablanca:
  • Address: 6 Rue Ahmed Chouaibi, Casablanca 20100, Morocco

Luxury Hotels

• Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca:
  • Address: Anfa Place Living Resort, Boulevard de la Corniche, Ain Diab, Casablanca 20050, Morocco
• Hyatt Regency Casablanca:
  • Address: Place des Nations Unies, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
• Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche:
  • Address: Rue Sidi Belyout, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
• Mövenpick Hotel Casablanca:
  • Address: Boulevard Mohammed VI, Casablanca 20070, Morocco
• Le Casablanca Hotel:
  • Address: 19, Boulevard Franklin Roosevelt, Casablanca 20000, Morocco

Getting Around Casablanca

• Public Transport: Trams and buses are available.
• Taxis: Readily available; negotiate the price beforehand.
• Walking: Explore the Medina and city center on foot.

Essential Travel Tips for Casablanca

What to Pack for Casablanca

• Lightweight clothing.
• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Modest clothing for religious sites.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
• Adapter for European-style power outlets.

Useful Travel Apps for Morocco

• Google Maps: Navigation.
• Yelp: Restaurant reviews.
• Google Translate: Translation.

Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette

• Dress respectfully at religious sites.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Bargain when shopping in souks.
• Learn basic Arabic or French phrases.
• Be cautious of pickpockets and scams.

Casablanca Food & Drink: A Culinary Journey

Top Casablanca Restaurants

• Sqala: Authentic Moroccan cuisine.
  • Description: Moroccan.
  • Address: Boulevard des Almohades, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
• Nkoas By Palmier: Fine French cuisine.
  • Description:French.
  • Address: 96 Bd d’Anfa, Casablanca 20070, Morocco
• Rick’s Café Américain: International cuisine and cocktails.
  • Description:International.
  • Address: 248, Rue Sour Jdid, Casablanca 20250, Morocco

Must-Try Moroccan Dishes

• Tagine: Slow-cooked stew.
• Couscous: Steamed semolina.
• Pastilla: Sweet and savory pie.
• Mint Tea: Traditional Moroccan drink.
• Street food: Grilled meats, msemen, harira.

Casablanca Nightlife & Entertainment

• Le Cabestan Ocean View: Stylish restaurant and bar.
  • Description: Bar.
  • Address: Phare d’El Hank، Boulevard de la Corniche, Casablanca 20100, Morocco
• Theatro Casablanca: Popular nightclub.
  • Description: Nightclub.
  • Address: Hotel Golden Tulip Farah Casablanca, Place Mohammed V, Casablanca, Morocco
• B-Rock: Live music venue.
  • Description: Live music.
  • Address: 2 rue de Tantan, Casablanca, Morocco

Casablanca Shopping: Souvenirs & Local Finds

• Leather goods:
  • Description: Leather goods.
  • Address: Old Medina, Casablanca, Morocco
• Argan oil:
  • Description: Argan oil.
  • Address: Quartier Habous, Casablanca, Morocco
• Spices:
  • Description: Spices.
  • Address: Marché Central, Bd Mohammed V, Casablanca, Morocco
• Moroccan tea sets:
  • Description: Moroccan tea sets.
  • Address: Quartier Habous, Casablanca, Morocco
• Babouches:
  • Description: Babouches.
  • Address: Old Medina, Casablanca, Morocco