Casablanca, Morocco

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Casablanca, Morocco

Table of Contents

  1. Places to Visit
  2. Activities
  3. Where to Eat
  4. Accommodation
  5. Things to Know
  6. Transportation
  7. Tips and Tricks
  8. Other Things of Interest

Places to Visit

Casablanca is a bustling metropolis with a rich history, cultural landmarks, and beautiful beaches. Here are some must-visit places:

Hassan II Mosque

  • Address: Avenue de la Marine, Casablanca
  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday to Sunday)
  • Admission: Adults: 120 MAD (~ $12 USD), Children: 50 MAD (~ $5 USD)

The iconic Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about its history, design, and significance.

Old Medina (Medina Habous)

  • Address: Old Medina, Casablanca
  • Hours: 24/7 (open to visitors)

Explore the narrow streets and alleys of the ancient medina, where you can find traditional souks (markets), historic buildings, and local artisans.

Place des Nations Unies

  • Address: Place des Nations Unies, Casablanca
  • Hours: 24/7 (open to visitors)

This bustling square is a great spot for people-watching and taking photos. You can also visit the nearby Mohammed V Square and the Museum of Moroccan Judaism.

Corniche

  • Address: Corniche, Casablanca
  • Hours: 24/7 (open to visitors)

Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic corniche, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city skyline.

Activities

Casablanca is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers. Here are some activities to enjoy:

Shopping

  • Explore the souks and markets in the old medina
  • Visit the modern shopping centers like Anfaplace or Morocco Mall

Food Tours

  • Sample local delicacies on a guided food tour
  • Try traditional Moroccan dishes like tagines, couscous, and pastilla

Beach Activities

  • Relax on the beaches of Ain Diab or Sidi Moumen
  • Enjoy water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking

Where to Eat

Casablanca is a foodie’s paradise with a blend of traditional Moroccan cuisine and international flavors. Here are some top recommendations:

Traditional Moroccan Cuisine

  • Restaurant Le Tournedos: Try their famous chicken tagine
  • Restaurant La Rotonde: Enjoy their authentic Moroccan dishes

International Cuisine

  • Restaurant La Terrasse: Savor French-Moroccan fusion cuisine
  • Restaurant Le Comptoir: Indulge in international flavors like burgers and pizza

Accommodation

Casablanca offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. Here are some top recommendations:

Luxury Hotels

  • Hotel Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche: Enjoy 5-star luxury
  • Hotel Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa: Relax in style and comfort

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Hotel Novotel Casablanca Tour Hassan: Comfortable and convenient
  • Hotel Ibis Casablanca City Center: Affordable and well-located

Things to Know

Here are some essential tips for traveling in Casablanca:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or medinas.
  2. Be mindful of your belongings, as petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
  3. Learn a few basic phrases like “Hello” (Marhaba), “Thank you” (Shukraan), and “How much?” (Kaamsha?)
  4. Haggling is common in souks, so be prepared to negotiate prices.

Transportation

Getting around Casablanca is relatively easy with various transportation options:

  1. Taxis: Available at the airport or throughout the city
  2. Metro: A convenient and affordable way to get around
  3. Bus: A network of buses connects major areas
  4. Ride-hailing apps: Use services like Uber or Careem for a hassle-free experience

Tips and Tricks

Here are some insider tips to enhance your travel experience in Casablanca:

  1. Try local street food, which is often delicious and affordable.
  2. Visit the old medina during sunrise or sunset for stunning views.
  3. Take a stroll along the corniche at night for a romantic atmosphere.
  4. Be respectful of the local culture and customs.

Other Things of Interest

Casablanca has plenty to offer beyond its famous landmarks and activities:

  1. Day trips: Explore nearby cities like Rabat, El Jadida, or Essaouira
  2. Shopping malls: Visit modern shopping centers like Morocco Mall or Anfaplace
  3. Food festivals: Experience the vibrant food culture during various festivals
  4. Cultural events: Attend concerts, theater performances, or exhibitions