Casablanca Travel Guide
There's no need to guess where the port-city of Casablanca, meaning 'white house' in Spanish, got its name. Made famous by the classic film starring Humphrey Bogart, this cosmopolitan, white-walled city is Morocco's largest and most modern. The destination is not oriented towards tourists as much as Morocco's other large cities, but under the hustle and bustle lies a unique and charismatic history waiting to be discovered.
Founded by Berber fisherman over two thousand years ago, Casablanca was used by both the Phoenicians and the Romans as a port. The Portuguese then took over but, after destroying the city and rebuilding it, they abandoned it in the aftermath of an earthquake. The city went on to be rebuilt as Daru l-Badya (Arabic for Casablanca) by a Moroccan sultan, and was then given the name Casablanca by the Spanish traders who used the port, and it retains this function today as one of Africa's largest and most important ports.
As a centre for trade and, consequently, the mixing of cultures, Casablanca is unlike any other Moroccan city. Many women ditch the conservative clothing and dress themselves in the latest designer outfits. The infrastructure is modern and the city sophisticated. Casablanca is where Morocco's youth move to make something of their lives and is the centre for international trade and big business. For a glimpse of its history, downtown is the perfect place to admire the blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Moroccan design.
Things to do in Casablanca
Casablanca may not be as attractive to tourists as the charismatic Marrakech or the capital, Rabat, but there are still sightseeing opportunities for travellers passing through, meaning a day or two in the city won't go unrewarded. It's also possible to do a day-trip to Casablanca from a number of Morocco's more prominent tourist destinations, thanks to the country's modern rail network.
The main landmark is the enormous King Hassan II Mosque, perched over the ocean. This is one of the largest mosques in the world and, unusually, is open to non-Muslims. The Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman, built on a rock out at sea and only accessible at low tide, is also a fascinating site, but regrettably non-Muslims cannot enter. However, it's still worth exploring the little village that has grown around the shrine.
Although not quite as majestic as the medinas of Fez or Marrakech, the ancient walled part of Casablanca is still definitely worth a visit. This part of town predates the French protectorate and has undergone work to restore the bastion and clock tower to their former glory.
For a taste of modern Morocco, visitors can enjoy the restaurants, shops, and views of the Casablanca Twin Centre, the tallest buildings in the country. Good museums in Casablanca include the Musee Abderrahman Slaoui, which has a wonderful art collection, and the Museum of Moroccan Judaism, which offers some useful insight into Jewish history in North Africa.
The King Hassan II Mosque
Designed by French architect, Michel Pinseau, the King Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and the largest in Morocco. It is affectionately nicknamed the 'Casablanca Hajj'. Perched on the edge of the city of Casablanca, this picturesque structure looks out over the Atlantic Ocean and features one of the world's tallest minarets, towering at 689 feet (210m). The minaret is 60 storeys high and is topped by a laser that points towards Mecca. Almost half of the massive mosque lies over the Atlantic, and the water can be seen through a gigantic glass floor. This feature was inspired by a verse in the Qur'an: 'the throne of God was built on water'.
The Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman
Located past the ocean-side neighbourhood of the Corniche, the Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman is built on a rock out at sea and is only accessible at low tide. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the shrine, but travellers wishing to explore the tiny neighbourhood around it are permitted to do so. Most visitors just opt to admire it from a distance, catching a glimpse of the shrine and its breathtaking white walls while walking along the beach. Traditionally, people visit this shrine to heal mental illness and it is one of Morocco's most famous coastal shrines.
Casablanca Twin Centre
Designed by a Spanish architect, Ricardo Bofill, the Casablanca Twin Centre features two skyscrapers that are 28-storeys tall and tower above the city at 377 feet (115m). Known as La Grande Casa, these marvellous buildings were inspired by traditional Moorish architecture and house offices, businesses, a five-storey shopping mall and a luxury, five-star hotel. The towers are the tallest buildings in the city and are situated in the Maarif district, at the intersection between Zerktouni Boulevard and Al Massira Al Khadra Boulevard. The two towers, named the East Tower and the West Tower, are joined at the lower levels by a large complex that contains the bulk of the shopping centre.
Getting Around
Casablanca is a large and chaotic city and first-time visitors may find getting around a daunting prospect. Registered taxis can be easily hailed from just about anywhere in the city and are easily identified by their red colour. There are also bigger, white taxis available. Both kinds are usually shared and the drivers may wait till the vehicle is full before setting off, or stop en route to pick up more passengers. The white taxis can also be hired by the hour or day and many travellers choose to do this. Travellers should keep in mind that a large surcharge goes into effect later into the evening, making taxi fares much higher at night. The Careem Taxi app is available as well.
Casablanca does have a bus system, though it is often confusing for visitors as there are many companies operating on different routes, at varying prices, and on unreliable schedules. Rental car agencies can be found throughout the city, but those opting to drive themselves should be cautious due to chaotic driving conditions and high accident rates. Visitors might choose to forego the buses and car hire in favour of the trams, which cover most of Casablanca and are new and efficient.
Despite the apparent chaos, many of the main sights and attractions of Casablanca are situated close together and can be explored on foot. When travelling by means of public transport and when walking, travellers should not display wealth and should try not to draw attention to themselves.
Casablanca Climate and Weather
Casablanca is regulated by a mild, Mediterranean climate, with cool Atlantic currents that are primarily responsible for the moderate weather. Summers (between July and September) are warm and dry, while winters (between November and February) are mild and rainy.
The hottest months are July, August and September, when the average temperatures range between 68F (20C) and 79F (26C), and the coldest months are January and February, when the average temperatures range between 47F (8C) and 64F (18C). Rain is most common between November and April and it is generally dry in summer.
Casablanca is a year-round travel destination, but the best time to visit the city is between March and October. July and August are the most popular months to travel there, but spring and autumn are also pleasant seasons and a good option for those wanting to avoid crowds. Travellers to Casablanca, no matter what season, are advised to pack lightweight clothing for when the sun is shining, and at least one solid windbreaker to repel cold sea breezes.
Morocco travel info
Electricity
The electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Two-pin round plugs are in use.
Language
Arabic is the official language, but eight other languages are also spoken, including Berber, French and Spanish. English is generally understood in the tourist areas, but French is more widely used.
Money
The unit of currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD), which is divided into 100 santimat. ATMs are available in the larger cities and towns, but can be unreliable; currency can be exchanged at banks or official bureaux de change, which are also widespread in major towns. Dirhams cannot be obtained or exchanged outside Morocco and receipts must be retained as proof of legal currency exchange, in addition to being the only way to re-exchange money when departing. Major credit cards are accepted in larger shops, hotels and restaurants.
Tipping
A tip of 10 to 15 percent is expected in the more expensive bars and restaurants, though some establishments do include a service charge. Most services are performed with the aim of getting a few dirham, but aggressive hustling shouldn't be rewarded.
Health
No vaccinations are required to enter Morocco, although travellers should consider vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid. It is wise to only drink bottled water and to avoid eating uncooked meat. Rabies is present, so travellers should contact a doctor if bitten. Medical facilities are decent in all major cities but can be extremely limited in rural areas, meaning health insurance is recommended. All required medications should be taken along in their original packaging, and accompanied with a prescription from a doctor.
Safety
Travellers should watch out for petty crimes such as bag snatching, pickpocketing and scams, particularly on beaches and in medinas and market areas. Violent crime is not a major problem and most visits are trouble-free, though there have been some incidents of theft at knife point in major cities and on beaches. Sensible precautions such as avoiding badly lit streets at night should be adhered to.
Guides offering their services should display an official badge from the local tourist authorities. Touts and merchants can get quite pushy and confrontational so visitors should be firm but polite when refusing goods or services.
Female travellers may attract unwanted attention from Moroccan men, and should take advice before deciding to travel to the country on their own. Travellers should avoid the Berm (border regions of Western Sahara), Western Sahara, as well as the borders with Algeria and Mauritania for reasons such as the risk of kidnapping and the presence of unexploded landmines.
Local customs
Morocco is a Muslim country and it is best to keep the wearing of swimsuits, shorts and other revealing clothing to the beach or hotel poolside. Women travelling alone will generally be hassled less if dressed conservatively. The country has many smokers, and it is customary to offer cigarettes in social situations. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan, when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. The giving and receiving of things, and the eating of food, should only be done with the right hand, as the left is considered unclean. Homosexuality is a criminal offence, and sexual relations outside marriage are also punishable by law.
Doing business
Business in Morocco has been influenced by France so it tends to be conducted formally, with an emphasis on politeness. Dress is formal, and women in particular should dress conservatively. Most business communication takes place in French, though some English is spoken. It is best to ascertain beforehand what language the meeting will be in, and to arrange an interpreter as needed. Visitors are expected to be punctual but meetings may not start on time. Moroccans are friendly and enjoy socialising; trust and friendship are an important part of business dealings so foreigners should be prepared to engage in small talk. A handshake is common when arriving and departing. Women may encounter some sexism in business, though this is starting to change. Most businesses are closed on Fridays, and some are also closed on Thursdays.
Duty free
Travellers to Morocco over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 400g tobacco; 1 litre spirits and 1 litre wine; and 150 ml of perfume and 250 ml of eau de toilette.
Communications
The international access code for Morocco is +212. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Hotels can add a hefty surcharge to their telephone bills so it is best to check before making long international calls. Public WiFi is readily available in most major cities; visitors should purchase a local SIM on arrival or use eSIMs if their cellular providers support it on their networks.
Passport & Visa
Generally, travel to Morocco does not require a prior visa application; however, travellers should enquire about the specifics from their nearest Moroccan embassy. Also, all foreign passengers to Morocco must hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. It is highly recommended that travellers' passport have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry requirements
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months at the time of entry. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months on their date of entry. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure. A visa is required.
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
Useful contacts
Moroccan National Tourist Office, Rabat: www.visitmorocco.com.
190 (police and medical emergencies)Embassies / consulates in other countries
Moroccan Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 462 7979.
Moroccan Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7724 0624.
Moroccan Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 236 7391.
Moroccan Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6290 0755.
Moroccan Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 343 0230.
Moroccan Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 660 9449.
Embassies / consulates in Morocco
United States Embassy, Rabat: +212 0537 637 200.
British Embassy, Rabat: +212 537 63 3333.
Canadian Embassy, Rabat (also responsible for Australia): +212 537 54 49 49.
South African Embassy, Rabat: +212 537 70 0874.
Irish Consulate, Casablanca: +212 522 27 27 21.
New Zealand Embassy, Cairo, Egypt: +202-2461-6000.