19 Feb Casablanca
Welcome to Casablanca
Casablanca is a popular travel destination in Morocco, known for its rich history, culture, and diverse attractions. Explore the city’s architecture, sample delicious Moroccan cuisine, and shop for traditional handicrafts in the bustling souks. Casablanca is also a popular beach destination, with a long stretch of coastline perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. In short, Casablanca is a vibrant city that offers something for every type of traveller, including several Art Deco buildings built during the French colonial period, like the Cinema Rialto, the Hotel Excelsior, and the Villa des Arts.
The best time to visit Casablanca is spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months (June to August) can be hot, while the winter (December to February) can be rainy and chilly.
How To Get There
Casablanca is a central transportation hub in Morocco and is accessible by various modes of transportation.
Air: Casablanca has a large international airport, the Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), about 30 kilometres south of the city centre., served by several major airlines, including Royal Air Maroc, Air France, and British Airways.
Train: The Moroccan rail network connects Casablanca to other major cities, including Marrakesh, Rabat, and Tangier. The station in Casablanca is located in the city centre and is easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Bus: Casablanca is also well-connected to other cities in Morocco through bus services. The town has several bus stations, including the CTM and the Supratours bus stations, which offer services to various destinations.
Car: If you are driving, Casablanca is accessible via several highways, including the A1 highway that connects the city to Rabat and the A3 highway that connects it to Marrakech. However, driving in Morocco can be challenging for visitors due to the high traffic volume and different driving customs.
Once you arrive in Casablanca, you can get around the city by taxi, bus, or tram. The city also has a network of bike-sharing services for those who prefer to cycle.
Dressing
With its cultural influences, Casablanca involves being aware of what you wear to respect local customs, so please be mindful of how you dress. Men typically wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. Shorts are not common, especially in more conservative areas. A light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings is also a good idea. Women should dress modestly, with long skirts or pants and shirts that cover their shoulders and midriffs. Wearing a headscarf or shawl is common, especially when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
Places Of Interest
This iconic mosque is one of the largest in the world and features stunning architecture and intricate details. It is located on the coast and offers spectacular views of the ocean. Book tickets here.
The Old Medina is the historic heart of Casablanca, featuring narrow alleyways, traditional markets, and historic buildings dating back to the city’s early days embracing conventional Moroccan architecture. Book tickets here.
The Morocco Mall is the largest shopping mall in Africa. It features over 600 shops, restaurants, a movie theatre, an aquarium, and a luxury hotel.
This palace is the official residence of the King of Morocco when he is in Casablanca. It is not open to the public, but you can admire its impressive architecture from the outside. Book tour here.
For historians, this museum offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of Moroccan Jews. It has a collection of artefacts, documents, and photographs that date back hundreds of years.
Where To Stay
Luxury Hotels
This beachfront, elegant hotel, located only 10 minutes from the city’s heart, offers sweeping ocean views amongst an alluring port. Enjoy the hotel’s historic and modern architectural marvels, plus world-class restaurants of fresh local seafood.
Mid-Range Hotels
Novotel Casablanca City Center
This modern hotel is located in the heart of Casablanca a few steps from the city’s sights of the Old Medina and Place Mohammed V. The Hassan II mosque. Enjoy the comforts of this hotel and its nearby bars, shops and restaurants.
Budget Hotels
The Hotel Central welcomes you to the Medina district of Casablanca, a few minutes from the Hassan II Mosque and the Grand Port. Enjoy comfortable rooms, a quality restaurant and a tea room with a terrace offering a panoramic view of the Medina.
An oasis of elegance with an iconic address! The Hyatt Regency Casablanca is only steps away from the historical centre of the Medina, and the Art Deco buildings known for their luxurious atmosphere and hospitality between heritage and modernity.
Barcelo Anfa Casablanca is a modern and stylish hotel with beautiful Art Deco designs encapsulating the cosmopolitan atmosphere conveniently located in the heart of the Jewish Quarters but close to the main attractions of the city. The hotel is equipped with comfortable and modern furnishings.
A budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Casablanca, close to the Hassan II Mosque. It offers comfortable rooms, a terrace, and a restaurant serving traditional Moroccan cuisine. Luggage storage is available, the hotel features a 24-hour reception, and there is a shopping centre close to the property.
Where To Eat
Casablanca has a diverse food scene with many options for dining out. Here are some popular places to eat in Casablanca:
Rick’s Café: This restaurant is inspired by the movie “Casablanca”. It features a blend of Moroccan and international cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
La Sqala: La Sqala is a charming restaurant in Casablanca housed in a historic building with a beautiful courtyard. It serves traditional Moroccan cuisine and is known for its authentic atmosphere.
Patisserie Bennis: Patisserie Bennis is a famous bakery in Casablanca known for its traditional Moroccan pastries and sweets. It has been in business for over 70 years and is popular among locals and visitors.
Café du Livre: Café du Livre is a trendy café and bookstore in Casablanca. It offers a selection of international cuisine and a variety of books to peruse while dining. The atmosphere is cosy and inviting.
Final Thoughts
Casablanca is a fascinating city with a blend of modern and traditional elements, making it a unique destination. Explore historical landmarks like the Hassan II Mosque and the Old Medina, shop at the luxurious Morocco Mall or the traditional souks, and try a variety of delicious Moroccan cuisine. With a range of accommodations from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts, Casablanca offers something for every traveller. It’s a city full of charm, culture, and adventure waiting to be discovered.
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