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 Casablanca, Morocco's largest city, stands as a compelling contrast of gleaming architectural marvels and aging structures on the brink of decay. As Morocco's largest city and most active port, it exudes an undeniable cosmopolitan vibe. Located along the Atlantic coastline, the city pairs its fast-paced lifestyle with sophisticated restaurants and a myriad of shopping options. Gradually, Casablanca is evolving into a destination that holds its own against its Western counterparts.

currency

Moroccan dirham (MAD) 1 dirham = 100 centimes

phone

Police: 19
Ambulance/Fire: 15

newspaper

L'Observateur du Maroc (in French) — lobservateur.info
L'Economiste (in French) — www.leconomiste.com
La Vie Eco (in French) — www.lavieeco.com
TelQuel (in French) — telquel.ma
Le Matin (in French) — lematin.ma

Morocco World News (in English) — www.moroccoworldnews.com
The North Africa Post (in English) — northafricapost.com

hours

Bank offices are open from Monday to Friday 8:30am–noon, only some are open in the afternoons. Most shops and consumer-facing businesses are open from Monday to Saturday 8:30am–noon and 3pm–6pm.

population

3.9 million

info

The Regional Council of Tourism of Casablanca
Rue Omar Slaoui, Casablanca
+212 5222 71177

website

visitcasablanca.ma

View over the old city of Casablanca, Morocco Philip Lange/Shutterstock.com

The City

Infused with a sense of romantic allure by the iconic 1942 film starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, Casablanca might not be Morocco's political capital — that title goes to Rabat — but it unquestionably reigns as the nation's economic and cultural heartbeat.

While Rabat holds the formal title, Casablanca excels in areas that matter on a day-to-day basis: commerce, industry and shipping. This bustling activity lends the city a distinctly contemporary aura. Nowhere is this more evident than along Boulevard Brahim Roudani, where sleek business centres give way to upscale restaurants and diverse cultural spaces. These modern enclaves provide a sharp contrast to the Old Town's narrow lanes and the vibrant souks, set against a backdrop of aging, colonial-era buildings.

Known locally as Casa or Dar El Beïda in Arabic, Casablanca boasts a rich and complex history. Its story took a dramatic turn during the 15th-century Portuguese occupation, aimed at suppressing piracy through strategic use of the port. However, the devastating earthquake of 1755 lessened Portuguese interest, paving the way for a rebirth under the Moroccan leader Sidi Mohammed III. This layered history adds yet another dimension to a city that constantly straddles the old and the new.

On 8th September 2023, Morocco experienced a catastrophic 6.8-magnitude earthquake. While Marrakesh felt the brunt of the seismic event, several other Moroccan cities, including Casablanca, Agadir, Essaouira and Rabat, also experienced the tremors. Marking the most potent seismic event in central Morocco in over a century, this earthquake stands as the country's most lethal since 1960. Such seismic events are rare occurrences in this part of the world.

Casablanca, Morocco. Mosque Hassan II arcade gallery Vlada Photo/Shutterstock

Do & See

Today's Casablanca offers a rich tapestry of experiences best explored on foot. From the Hassan II Mosque with its remarkable glass floor to the Old Medina, where traditional Moroccan life unfolds in real-time, the city is a study in contrasts. The Ville Nouvelle provides an Art Deco counterpoint to the historical areas, adding another layer to Casablanca's complex identity.

Indulge in authentic Moroccan cuisine, wander through the city's intricate streets, or embark on a search for the ideal carpet in one of its lively markets. Casablanca presents a harmonious blend of old and new, serving as a unique lens through which to view Moroccan culture and traditions.

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Hassan II Mosque & Museum

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The Old Medina

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Casablanca Cathedral, or the Church of the Sacred Heart

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Marché Central

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Museum of Moroccan Judaism

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La Corniche & Aïn Diab Beach

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Aquaparc Tamaris

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Hammam Ziani

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Club Le Barry

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Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum

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Royal Palace of Casablanca

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United Nations Square

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Port of Casablanca

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Parc de Jeux Sindibad

Traditional moroccan tajine of chicken Tatiana Bralnina/Shutterstock.com

Dining

Casablanca is a multi-cultural city, and while many of the restaurants serve a menu consisting of only Moroccan or French delicacies, it also features Oriental, Mexican, Italian, Indian and American-style eateries.

You should look out for Mechoui, a dish made of paprika and cumin-seasoned roasted lamb, or Bisteeya, a chicken-and-egg pastry wrapped up in a lemony and onion sauce, topped with crushed almonds, cinnamon and sugar.

Note that there may be restrictions to menus and opening hours during Ramadan.

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À Ma Bretagne

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Le Cabestan

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Taverne Du Dauphin

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L'Etoile du Maroc

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ILOLI

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Don Camillo

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India Palace

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Basmane Restaurant

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Blend Gourmet Burger

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L'Entrecôte Café de Paris

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FENCE

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NKOA

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Cafe M

Traditional Moroccan mint tea irabel8/Shutterstock.com

Cafes

Casablanca is renowned for its ice cream parlours and traditional patisseries, enriching the country's passion for sweet tooth's treats with tongue-tickling delicacies.

Moroccan traditions encompass an afternoon coffee and snacks break that predominantly includes nuts or dried fruit-pastries and sweet bread, as well as mouth-watering honey or cinnamon desserts.

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Pâtisserie Bennis Habous

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Glacier Oliveri

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Amoud

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Bondi Coffee Kitchen

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Cafe Bianca

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Caffè Vergnano 1882

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Mood's Café

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Dolce & Caffe

Bartender tools on old style bar counter, toned image Kondor83/Shutterstock.com

Bars & Nightlife

Casablanca offers a vibrant bar scene, but it's important to note that it can be challenging for single women to go bar hopping unaccompanied. Most nightclubs have policies that may restrict their entry unless they're with a partner. However, there are establishments that welcome couples looking for a night out. Hotel bars, in particular, provide a more relaxed and secure environment, making them a popular choice for visitors wanting a worry-free evening.

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Alias Club Mazagan

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La Bodega de Casablanca

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Black House Disco

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Sky 28

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Irish Pub

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Bar CasArt

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Armstrong Official

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Le Jefferson

Decorative elements on the souk Rafal Cichawa/Shutterstock

Shopping

If you're captivated by traditional home decor and souvenirs, Morocco will feel like a paradise. Kilims and Shoedwi, carpets adorned with colourful geometric patterns, often in black and white, are a top pick. These are typically handmade and sold in quaint shops situated in the alleyways around Boulevard Félix Houphouët-Boigny or in the medinas.

Alongside carpets, ceramics and pottery items like tagines, as well as woven textiles, enjoy equal popularity. You'll often find them in bazaars alongside dried fruits and spices. Remember, haggling is not just accepted but expected when shopping here. The golden rule is to be patient and take your time.

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Alpha 55

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Morocco Mall

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Quartier Habous (New Medina)

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Local Markets

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El Maârif

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Anfaplace Shopping Center

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Derb Ghallef

Morocco. Detail of Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca alex7370/Shutterstock.com

Tourist Information

Mohammed V International Airport (CMN)

Situated about 30 kilometres away from the heart of Casablanca, Mohammed V International Airport serves as a key gateway with regular flights to global cities like Paris, New York, Dubai and Frankfurt.

Getting to the city centre is straightforward, thanks to a range of transport options including trains, taxis, and car hire services. Taxis await passengers at the Arrivals area, while the train station is conveniently located on the airport's lower level.

Trains to Casablanca Port station run on an hourly basis. This journey typically takes around an hour.

Address: Maṭar Muhammad al-Khamis ad-Dowaly, Casablanca

Email:

Phone: +212 22 539 040

Website: www.aeroportcasablanca.ma/en

More Information:

Passport / Visa

Citizens of the European Union, as well as the Untied States, Australia, and dozens of world countries can enter and remain in Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Look up individual prerequisites prior to travel in order to possibly apply for visa in time.

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Website: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Morocco

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Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to experience Casablanca is from May to October, when the city enjoys its driest months. During this period, even hot days are tempered by a refreshing sea breeze, making the climate more comfortable.

However, Casablanca is blessed with a warm climate year-round, so a winter visit isn't entirely off the table. While there's a chance of encountering some rain, the milder temperatures can still make for a pleasant trip.

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Dress Code

Morocco offers a rich tapestry of modern development and deep-rooted tradition, particularly noticeable as you move from urban to rural settings. For tourists, understanding and respecting this cultural backdrop is crucial. Opting for modest attire—long sleeves and full-length bottoms—is advisable for both men and women. Not only does this show cultural respect, but it's also practical: loose, airy clothing like long skirts, maxi dresses, or flowing trousers help keep you cool and offer sun protection. By dressing in a manner that aligns with local customs, you can more seamlessly integrate into the community, enhancing your travel experience.

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Buses & Trains

For intercity travel within Morocco, CTM buses are a reliable and extensive option. Operating from Gare Routière on Rue Léon l'Africain in the heart of Casablanca, these buses connect the city with a multitude of Moroccan towns. The station offers a wide range of routes.

Alternatively, if you prefer rail travel, the Gare du Port serves as the main hub for trains. This station provides access to various parts of Morocco, offering another convenient way to venture beyond Casablanca.

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Website: casabus.ma/en

More Information: www.moroccotrains.com

Trams

The Casablanca Tramway is a modern, low-floor tram system. Currently, the network features two active lines: Line T1, which runs from Sidi Moumen to Lissasfa, and Line T2, which connects Sidi Bernoussi to Aïn Diab. These two lines cross paths at two separate intersections, allowing for convenient transfers.

Further expanding the system, two more lines — T3 and T4 — are slated for launch in 2024.

For fare payment, the tramway stations are equipped with vending machines where tickets, smart cards, and pay-as-you-go credits can be purchased. The trams operate from approximately 5:30 am to 11:30 pm.

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Phone: +212 522 99 83 83

Website: casatramway.ma

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Taxi

Taxis are available throughout the city at various spots, especially around the main squares and the Gare du Port. They are generally inexpensive and often quicker than buses. Look for red taxis (Petit) or white taxis (Grand). Shared taxis can be a good idea for longer distances.

Careem car-booking app is a good local provider of on-demand taxis.

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Website: www.careem.com

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Post

Post Maroc is the company that runs the postal service in Morocco, offering a generally reliable service. You can buy stamps (timbres), envelopes and postcards in post offices, souvenir shops, kiosks and newsagents.

If you want to mail a postcard, you will find several yellow mail boxes in town. The main Post Office in the city is located close to Place Mohammed V.

Address: La Poste Centrale, 16, Avenue Hassan Ii, Casablanca

Email:

Phone: +212 5222 23635

Website: www.poste.ma

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Pharmacy

When in Casablanca, you should be careful with what you drink and eat. Make sure you avoid drinking tap water and that all food you eat is properly cooked.

Pharmacies operate on a rotation system that guarantees an open pharmacy at night and weekends. You will find the address of the pharmacy on duty at the every pharmacy's front door.

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Telephone

Country code: +212
Area code: 052

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Electricity

In Morocco, you will encounter two types of electrical outlets: Type C and Type E, both with round prongs. The country's electrical system runs on a 220V supply voltage and a frequency of 50Hz. Make sure to bring appropriate adaptors if your devices are not compatible with these specifications.

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