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Casablanca : Travel Guide

The elegant pearl of Morocco.

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General information

Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco, located in the western region. The city is situated on the Moroccan coast of the Atlantic, renowned for its rich culture and history.

POPULATION

The city of Casablanca has approximately 4.6 million inhabitants, making it the most populous city in Morocco and the 6th largest in Africa.

CLIMATE

 Casablanca enjoys a mild and temperate Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and sunny, with average temperatures around 25-30°C, while winters are mild with average temperatures of 9-15°C. 

CURRENCY

The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).

LANGUAGE

The official language is Arabic, but a majority of people in Casablanca also speak French and English.

A bit of history

The city of Casablanca was founded around 300 BC. Throughout its history, the city has experienced the occupation of various civilizations, including the Berbers and the Romans. In the 11th century, the Almoravids built a fortress in Casablanca, which served as a stronghold for subsequent dynasties. 

In the late 18th century, the city was fortified by Sultan Sidi Mohammed Ibn Abdullah, and the Berbers named it "Dar El Beida," which means "the white house" in Arabic. This name was later translated from Spanish to "Casa Blanca."   

However, the true construction of modern Casablanca took place in the early 20th century during the French protectorate. General French Lyautey decided to designate the city as the economic center of the region and a gateway to Morocco and Africa. 

Since independence in 1956, Casablanca has continued to be considered the economic capital of Morocco, hosting numerous factories and the second-largest port in Africa. It is in this city that the country's economic activity is concentrated.

What to visit in Casablanca

If you're looking for ideas to discover the best places in Casablanca, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present the main attractions and activities not to be missed during your visit to this fascinating city in western Morocco. 

The Medina

Hassan II mosque

Morocco Mall

Anfa Place

When to visit Casablanca

The best time to visit Casablanca is when the temperatures are moderate. The city has a Mediterranean climate throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. However, there are two distinct seasons

  • Summer season: May to September, a period during which the country experiences a peak of heat.
  • Winter season: October to February, a period during which the city experiences abundant rainfall. 

In summary, if you prefer drier and sunnier weather, the best time to visit Casablanca would be during the summer season. If you are more tolerant of the rains and want to avoid the crowds, the winter season might be a good choice.

What to do around Casablanca

If you're looking for cities to visit around Casablanca, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present the best destinations near Casablanca, including charming colonial towns, spectacular natural sites, and traditional villages. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the wonders of the greater western region of Morocco.

Azemmour

Volubilus

El Jadida

Our selection of accommodation in Casablanca

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Our selection of Restaurant in Casalanca

If you're looking for the best restaurants to experience Casablanca's cuisine, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present the finest establishments to taste local specialties and discover new flavors and tastes in this gastronomic city of Morocco.

Rick's cafe

The Sqala

Events not to be missed in Casablanca

Discover the most popular events in the city, including festivals, concerts, sports competitions, and other cultural events. Don't miss these opportunities to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Casablanca and discover its unique traditions and way of life.

The festival of Gnaoua in Essaouira

The Music Festival of Ganoua in Essaouira is dedicated to Gnaoua music, a genre of African origin influenced by Sufi traditions, as well as other genres of music from around the world.

During the festival, the historic Medina of Essaouira transforms into a vibrant hub of music, dance, and celebration. Stages are set up in iconic locations throughout the city, such as squares, riads, and ramparts, providing unique performances in a captivating setting.

The International Movie Festival of Marrakech

Every year in December, Casablanca hosts this internationally renowned festival, showcasing Moroccan and international cinema. 

During the festival, film screenings are organized in various cinemas and venues in Marrakech, providing the audience with an opportunity to discover a selection of Moroccan and international films, some of which compete for prestigious awards. The festival also hosts guest of honors, directors, actors, and film professionals from around the world, who participate in discussions, debates, and interactions with the audience.

 

Transportation in Casablanca

Streetcar

The Casablanca tramway is a convenient and comfortable means of transportation within the city. It serves numerous tourist areas and important sites, making it an efficient way to get around.

Bus

Buses are also an economical option for getting around in Casablanca. There are urban buses that operate throughout the city, as well as intercity buses that connect Casablanca to other cities in Morocco.

Taxi

Taxis are also available throughout the city, but it's important to make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid scams. Taxis can be hailed on the street or called by phone.

The cost of living in Casablanca

0
The average salary in Morocco
The cost of living is very affordable. 40%

The cost of living in Casablanca is generally lower than in major cities in Europe, making it an affordable destination for travelers. Here are some examples of common costs in Casablanca:

Accommodation

The cost of renting an apartment varies depending on the location and size. Generally, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can range from $50 to $200 per month.

Food

Restaurants and grocery stores in Casablanca are relatively affordable. A meal at a cheap restaurant can cost around $2 to $8, while a meal at a higher-end restaurant can range from $10 to $40.

Transportation

The public transportation system in Casablanca is affordable, with metro and bus fares ranging from $0.50 to $10. Taxis are also relatively affordable, with starting fares from $5.

Activities

Cinemas, museums, and cultural events are generally affordable in Casablanca, with entrance fees ranging from $2 to $40.

Practical information

It is recommended to research safe areas of the city and consult with local authorities' advice and recommendations before going on excursions or traveling outside the city. Additionally, it is advised to stay informed about the latest updates on the city's security situation by checking local and international media.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR CASABLANCA

Travel insurance is especially important if you are planning to travel to Casablanca, Morocco.

Although the city is relatively safe for tourists, it is still possible to encounter unexpected situations such as health issues, lost or stolen luggage, or transportation delays.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

MONEY / BANKS

When traveling to Casablanca, it is important to consider several practical aspects to manage your money effectively. Firstly, it is recommended to use ATMs to withdraw cash in Moroccan dirhams.

However, make sure to withdraw money from safe and well-lit locations such as shopping centers or banks. Avoid exchanging money in the streets or non-official locations as it can be risky and you may be scammed.

It is also important to travel with international credit or debit cards, such as Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank for transaction fees that may apply to using these cards abroad. It is also recommended to notify your bank of your international travel to avoid any blockage of your card due to suspicious activity.

Lastly, it is recommended to use online payment applications such as Revolut to avoid transaction fees and benefit from competitive exchange rates. Make sure to download the application and set it up before your trip to Morocco.

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