Casablanca Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Casablanca, Morocco with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-see attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink recommendations, accommodations, and more.


The Ultimate Casablanca Travel Guide

Welcome to Casablanca, a vibrant city on the North Atlantic Coast of Morocco. This city is known for its stunning architecture, culturally-rich heritage, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, Casablanca has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to this amazing city.

List of Places to Visit in Casablanca

First, let’s take a look at some of the must-see attractions in Casablanca.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Hassan II Mosque - One of the largest mosques in the world, this stunning structure boasts intricate mosaics, ornate chandeliers, and breathtaking views of the ocean.
  2. Royal Palace of Casablanca - A stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture, this palace is the official residence of King Mohammed VI.
  3. Casablanca Cathedral - Originally built in 1930, this Gothic-style cathedral has been transformed into a cultural center and a popular venue for concerts and exhibitions.
  4. Museum of Moroccan Judaism - This museum showcases the rich history and traditions of Moroccan Jews and their contributions to the cultural fabric of the country.

Natural Attractions of Casablanca: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Ain Diab Beach - A popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, this beach offers stunning sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean.
  2. Parc de la Ligue Arabe - A sprawling park with verdant gardens, scenic fountains, and an amusement park for kids.
  3. Anfa Hill - A picturesque hilltop with stunning views of the city and the ocean. The hill is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Casablanca

If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, there are several hiking and biking routes in and around Casablanca that you can explore.

  1. Parc de la Ligue Arabe Loop - A scenic hiking trail that winds through the park and offers stunning views of the city and the ocean.
  2. Casablanca-Nouasseur Trail - A popular biking route that takes you through the lush countryside and picturesque villages surrounding Casablanca.
  3. Anfa Hill Trail - A challenging hiking trail that rewards you with breathtaking views of the city and the ocean.

Best Things to Do in Casablanca: Activities and Tours

In addition to the must-see attractions and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Casablanca.

  1. Street Food Tour - Take a tour of the city’s vibrant food scene, sampling delicious Moroccan dishes such as tagine, couscous, and harira.
  2. City Tour - Explore the city’s most popular landmarks, such as the Hassan II Mosque, the Royal Palace, and the Museum of Moroccan Judaism.
  3. Shopping Tour - Visit the city’s bustling markets, such as the central market and the Habous Market, and shop for traditional Moroccan souvenirs, such as leather goods, ceramics, and textiles.

Week-Long Itinerary for Casablanca

If you’re planning to spend a week in Casablanca, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

Day Activity
1 City Tour
2 Museum Tour and Park Visit
3 Beach Day and Water Sports Day
4 Hiking/Biking Day
5 Street Food Tour
6 Shopping Tour and Local Culture
7 Rest and Relaxation at the Hotel

Food and Drink Scene of Casablanca

No trip to Casablanca is complete without indulging in the city’s delicious cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Tagine - A traditional Moroccan stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, typically served with couscous.
  2. Harira - A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices, typically served during Ramadan and other festivals.
  3. Couscous - A staple Moroccan dish made with fluffy semolina and served with meat, vegetables, or fish.

Local Beverages

  1. Mint Tea - A refreshing and sweet tea made with green tea leaves and mint sprigs, usually served with sugar and traditional Moroccan pastries.
  2. Moroccan Wine - Although Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, it produces some excellent wines, particularly from the Meknes region.

Where to Stay in Casablanca: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Casablanca offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and taste.

  1. Luxury Hotels - Some of the most luxurious hotels in Casablanca include the Four Seasons Casablanca, the Hyatt Regency Casablanca, and the Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche.
  2. Mid-Range Hotels - Some popular mid-range hotels in Casablanca include the Novotel Casablanca City Center, the Ibis Casablanca City Center, and the Barcelo Anfa Casablanca.
  3. Budget Accommodations - There are also several budget-friendly options in Casablanca, such as hostels and guesthouses. Some popular options include the Hipster Hostel, the Casa Verde Hostel, and the Dar Nour Guesthouse.

What to Buy in Casablanca: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for some unique souvenirs to bring back home, here are some ideas.

  1. Leather Goods - Morocco is known for its high-quality leather products, such as bags, wallets, and shoes.
  2. Ceramics - Moroccan ceramics are renowned for their vibrant colors and intricate designs.
  3. Textiles - From colorful rugs to embroidered tunics, Moroccan textiles are a must-buy for fashion-forward travelers.

Local Culture and Customs of Casablanca

Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors should respect the local customs and traditions.

  1. Dress Code - Dress modestly, especially in religious places. Women should cover their heads and wear long-sleeved tops and pants or skirts.
  2. Religious Customs - During Ramadan, Muslims fast during daylight hours, and visitors should be respectful of this tradition. Alcohol is not widely available, and Muslims do not drink it.
  3. Greetings - Moroccan people are friendly and hospitable. Greetings and polite exchanges of conversation are considered essential in social situations.

Best Time to Visit Casablanca

The best time to visit Casablanca is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). The weather is pleasant during these months, and prices are lower than during peak tourist season. Summer months (June to August) can be hot, and winter (December to February) can be rainy and cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Casablanca

Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Casablanca.

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine
  • Respect the local customs and dress modestly
  • Bargain in the markets

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public places
  • Take photographs of people without their permission
  • Hike or bike alone in remote areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Casablanca

Casablanca is a safe city to visit, but it’s always a good idea to take some precautions.

  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in remote areas at night.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe and secure place.
  • Use licensed taxis or public transportation instead of walking alone at night.

Health in Casablanca

Make sure to take some basic health precautions when visiting Casablanca.

  • Drink bottled water or boiled water.
  • Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
  • Pack any necessary medications or medical supplies.

Getting to Casablanca: Transportation Options and Logistics

Casablanca is well-connected by air, road, and rail.

Airports Near Casablanca

The main airport of Casablanca is Mohammed V International Airport, which is located about 30 km outside the city center. The airport is served by several international airlines, including Air France, British Airways, and Emirates.

Bus Stations Near Casablanca

There are several bus stations in Casablanca, including the CTM Bus Station and the Supratours Bus Station. Both stations offer bus services to other cities in Morocco.

Other Options

Casablanca is also connected to other cities in Morocco by train. The main train station is Casa Voyagers.

How to Get Around in Casablanca

Public transportation in Casablanca consists of buses and trams. Taxis are also widely available, and Uber is available in the city.

Where to Go Next from Casablanca: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations from Casablanca that are worth exploring.

  1. Rabat - The capital city of Morocco is just an hour’s drive from Casablanca and offers stunning architecture, scenic beaches, and fascinating historical sites.
  2. Mohammedia - A charming seaside town just 25 km from Casablanca that offers stunning beaches, golf courses, and relaxing spas.
  3. El Jadida - A historic coastal city famed for its Portuguese heritage, stunning architecture, and peaceful beaches.

Conclusion

Casablanca is a fascinating city that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to explore its rich heritage or simply relax on its tranquil beaches, Casablanca has something for every type of traveler. We hope this ultimate travel guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to this amazing city.

Royal Air Maroc Royal Air Maroc Casablanca tram at Place Mohammad V. Casablanca tram at Place Mohammad V. Casablanca Old Medina at night Casablanca Old Medina at night Entrance to medina (Bab el-Kebir) Entrance to medina (Bab el-Kebir) Sidi Abderrahman island Sidi Abderrahman island Rick's Café Rick's Café Restaurant Al-Mounia Restaurant Al-Mounia