In this guide, we will take you to discover what to see in Casablanca. Get ready to explore a city that blends the modern with the traditional, and discover its most iconic corners, perfect to include in your next tour of Morocco.
1. Getting to Casablanca and moving around the city
Casablanca offers various transport options to get there and move around the city. Below are the most notable alternatives.
From Spain
By plane
As you might expect, the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Casablanca is via direct flights. In fact, there are flights from Spanish cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga and Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
By ferry and road
Another option is to combine a ferry crossing with a road trip. You can take a ferry from Algeciras or Tarifa. Once in Morocco, you can continue by car or train to Casablanca.
From nearby cities
| Origin | Distance | By train | By coach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rabat | About 90 km | Around 1 h, frequent departures | About 1 h 45 min |
| Marrakech | About 240 km | About 2 h 40 min | Around 3 h 15 min |
| Fez | About 300 km | About 3 h 50 min | Around 4 h 45 min |
Getting around Casablanca
Tram
Opened in 2012, it is a modern, efficient option for getting around the city, with a network that has been growing and now covers a large part of the urban area. A single ticket is very affordable.
Taxis
The red "petit taxis" are ideal for getting around within the city. It is advisable to make sure the meter is running or to agree the price before starting the journey. For longer distances or trips outside the city, "grand taxis" are the right option. These vehicles are usually shared and follow set routes.
Buses
The city has an extensive bus network connecting various points across the city. Although they are a cheap option, they can get crowded during rush hour and timetables are not always reliable.
Car hire
For those looking for more flexibility, renting a car is a viable option. However, it is worth bearing in mind that traffic in Casablanca can be heavy, especially during rush hour. Driving can also be challenging for those not used to the local driving style.
Casablanca is the starting point of five of our routes, all of them through the imperial cities.
See trips from Casablanca2. A brief history of Casablanca
Casablanca, known as Dar el Beida in Arabic, has a rich, multi-layered history stretching back several centuries. Its evolution is marked by Berber, Arab, Portuguese and French influences, all of which have left an indelible mark on its development.
Originally, the area was settled by Berber communities and was known as Anfa, a small port settlement that grew in importance thanks to its location on the Atlantic coast.
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1468, the destruction of Anfa
In the 15th century, the port of Anfa had become a busy centre of trade and piracy, which drew the attention of foreign powers. The Portuguese, in an attempt to control the region and curb piracy, attacked and destroyed Anfa.
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16th century, "Casa Branca"
The Portuguese rebuilt the city as a fortress, giving it this name. However, the Portuguese settlers eventually abandoned the area in 1755, after a devastating earthquake struck much of the region, leaving the settlement in Moroccan hands.
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Late 18th century, "Dar el Beida"
The Moroccan sultan Mohammed Ben Abdallah ordered the port rebuilt and the city revived under this name, which translates as "White House".
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1912, the French protectorate
The decisive moment in the city's modern history, which underwent an unprecedented transformation in terms of infrastructure, trade and industry.
In the following decades, it grew in importance as a trading port and became established as a hub of exchange between Morocco and Europe. Its proximity to international markets drew traders and sailors, mainly Europeans, who laid the foundations for the city's urban and economic development.
French urban planners implemented a design that blended European architectural style with traditional Moroccan elements. They created spaces such as the Habous district, or "new medina", a fusion of traditional architecture with European touches.
Moreover, under the protectorate, the city became Morocco's main port, establishing itself as a nerve centre for the national economy. French influence on the architectural design can still be seen in its wide avenues, squares and iconic buildings that combine art deco and art nouveau with Islamic and Moorish styles.
The Casablanca Conference, 1943
After Morocco's independence in 1956, Casablanca continued to grow and evolve, becoming the country's economic and commercial capital: a dynamic, cosmopolitan city that combines its historical legacy with modernisation.
3. The climate in Casablanca
This place offers a Mediterranean climate with oceanic influence, giving it mild temperatures all year round.
Winters
Cool, with average temperatures around 13-18°C and, although there can be rain, it is generally moderate. A light jacket or coat is enough for cooler evenings.
Summers
Warm but pleasant, with temperatures rarely exceeding 30°C thanks to the Atlantic breeze that keeps the city fresh. If you travel in summer, it is advisable to wear light clothing, use sun protection and stay hydrated.
Best season
Spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and the weather is ideal for exploring the city without the summer heat or the winter rains. During these months, sunny days are frequent.
4. The Hassan II Mosque: an icon of faith and architecture
The Hassan II Mosque is one of Casablanca's most iconic monuments and one of the largest mosques in the world, with capacity for more than 100,000 worshippers. Its impressive minaret, standing 210 metres tall, rises majestically beside the sea.
Built in 1993, it stands out for its exquisite architecture, combining traditional Moroccan elements with advanced technology. Its carved wooden ceilings, intricate marble work and retractable roof showcase the skill of Moroccan craftsmen. The interior is adorned with zellige mosaics, decorative stucco and chandeliers that light the space with a warm glow.
It is also located on a promontory that seems to float above the ocean, offering a symbolic connection with the sea. Its outer walls let visitors enjoy a cool breeze while taking in the beauty of the place.
You can go inside
5. The Habous district: a journey into the colonial past
The Habous district, known as the New Medina, is one of Casablanca's most charming corners, built during the French protectorate era in the 1930s.
Designed with a blend of traditional Moroccan architecture and European touches, this district offers a journey into the colonial past. You will find narrow streets, stone arches and squares full of life that evoke the essence of an authentic medina.
Step into a pastry shop
It is also home to the Mahkama du Pacha, an administrative building with an impressive interior that blends Islamic and Andalusian styles.
6. The Ain Diab corniche: enjoy the seafront
The Ain Diab corniche is the seafront promenade, a perfect spot to enjoy the fresh Atlantic air and panoramic ocean views. This long promenade runs along the coast, linking beaches, restaurants and leisure areas.
During the day, it comes alive with its many beaches, such as Ain Diab and Lalla Meryem, where locals and tourists enjoy the sun and the sea. It is common to see families strolling, young people doing water sports and runners making the most of the coastal path. Along the promenade there are several beach clubs and pools offering a more exclusive experience.
Beach by day, nightlife by night
7. The old Medina of Casablanca: between history and local trade
This is a corner full of authenticity, away from the modern bustle, with a charm of its own that reflects traditional Moroccan life. Unlike those of other Moroccan cities, it is smaller and less touristy, but that makes it a perfect place for those seeking an authentic experience.
Here you can find everything from fruit and spice stalls to craftsmen working leather and textiles. The souks also offer a wide range of local products, including traditional clothing, jewellery and rugs. All wrapped in an atmosphere that blends the sounds of vendors and the aroma of the typical dishes cooked on the street.
United Nations Square
Marks the transition between the old medina and the modern city.
Clock Tower
A reconstruction of the original tower from the early 20th century, symbolising French influence on the city.
Moulay Youssef Mosque
Notable for its traditional architecture and its fired-brick minaret.
8. Place Mohammed V: the administrative and cultural heart
Place Mohammed V is the city's administrative and cultural centre, a square that reflects both its history and its modernity. Surrounded by majestic buildings of colonial architecture, it has become a meeting point thanks to its atmosphere and its importance as the epicentre of political and administrative power.
The square, designed in the 20th century during the French protectorate, is surrounded by impressive buildings, such as the Palace of Justice, the Bank of Morocco and the Prefecture. All of them show a mix of architectural styles combining French influences with traditional Moroccan elements, such as mosaics and arabesques.
Come back at night
9. Sacred Heart Cathedral: a relic of the past
This is a relic of the colonial past, standing tall with its imposing neo-Gothic architecture. Built in 1930 during the French protectorate era, the cathedral was a symbol of European influence in Morocco. Its design stands out for its tall towers, large windows and Gothic elements that make it unique in the country.
No longer a place of worship
The cathedral is surrounded by gardens and open spaces that invite you to stroll, and it is common to see painters capturing its beauty on canvas.
10. The central market: a feast of colours and flavours
This market is one of the oldest and most traditional in Casablanca. A perfect place to immerse yourself in everyday Moroccan life, where aromas, colours and sounds blend to create a unique sensory experience.
Among its aisles you will find stalls piled high with fresh produce: fish and seafood freshly brought in from the Atlantic, seasonal fruit and vegetables, meats and spices that fill the air with their fragrance. The local vendors, always ready with a smile and a sample of their goods, add a human touch to this lively atmosphere.
Eat right there
11. Villa des Arts: a space for contemporary art
The Villa des Arts Museum is housed in an elegant Art Deco building. This artistic space has become a landmark for art lovers. It offers a mix of temporary and permanent exhibitions that showcase the creativity and talent of local and international artists.
Much more than an exhibition hall
12. Arab League Park: an urban oasis
This is Casablanca's green lung, a vast, beautiful urban space that offers a break from the city's bustle. It has more than 30 hectares of carefully designed gardens, decorative fountains and wide avenues lined with palm trees. It is a perfect place to relax, stroll or simply enjoy nature right in the heart of the metropolis.
Created in 1918
13. Local food
Eating in Casablanca is a sensory experience that invites you to discover traditional and modern recipes, enjoying the city's culinary richness.
Typical dishes
Couscous
Takes pride of place, prepared with semolina, vegetables, chickpeas and meat, usually lamb or chicken.
Tagine
Slow-cooked in its characteristic clay pot, it comes in a variety of combinations, from the classic lamb with prunes to more inventive versions with fish.
Harira
A thick soup of lentils and chickpeas, essential especially during Ramadan.
14. General tips for visiting Casablanca
When planning your visit to Casablanca, keep the following tips in mind to enjoy a safe, rewarding experience.
- Appropriate clothing: although this is a modern city, it is advisable to dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites such as the Hassan II Mosque. It is suggested to cover shoulders and knees, for both men and women.
- Tipping: in restaurants and cafés it is common to leave a tip if it is not included in the bill. For services such as tour guides or drivers, a gratuity is welcome.
- Haggling in markets: haggling is common practice in souks and markets. When negotiating prices, keep a friendly attitude and enjoy the process as part of the cultural experience.
- Safety: Casablanca is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid quiet areas at night. Use official taxis and agree the fare before starting the journey.
- Local currency: the official currency is the Moroccan dirham. It is advisable to carry cash, as not all establishments accept credit cards. Change money at authorised locations and keep the receipts in case you need to convert back when leaving the country.
- Language: Arabic and French are the official languages. Although English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in French or Arabic can make communication easier and is well received by locals.
- Hydration and sun protection: the weather can be hot, especially in summer. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen and wear a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
- Cultural respect: during the month of Ramadan, it is respectful to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during fasting hours. Find out about local festivities and show consideration for cultural and religious practices.
- Photography: before photographing people, especially women, ask permission. Avoid taking photos in sensitive areas such as military installations or government buildings.
