Things to Do in Casablanca

About Casablanca

The Hassan II Mosque's minaret towers over fishermen who still mend nets the way their ancestors did centuries ago—modern commerce hasn't changed everything. Below, the Atlantic meets Morocco's coast in a city that mixes colonial boulevards with traditional souks. Casablanca works. Art Deco buildings stand next to riads, and the call to prayer competes with traffic noise and business deals. The medina's narrow streets sell handcrafted goods and spices, while the Corniche has upscale restaurants facing the water. You'll find the contrast everywhere. Rooftop cafés serve mint tea with views of French colonial architecture and Moroccan buildings that survived decades of change. The city doesn't just preserve its past—it uses it. Casablanca looks inward to its heritage and outward to what comes next.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use the efficient Casa Tramway for city travel (6 MAD per ride) or red petit taxis for short distances—always insist the meter is running. For airport transfers, book the official train service (43 MAD) rather than unofficial taxis to avoid overcharging.

Money: Exchange money at banks or official bureaux de change for better rates than hotels. Many places accept cards, but carry cash for souks and small vendors. ATMs are widespread, but notify your bank of travel plans beforehand.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or traditional areas—cover shoulders and knees. Learn basic Arabic greetings like 'As-salamu alaikum.' Avoid public displays of affection and remove shoes when entering homes or religious spaces.

Food Safety: Stick to busy restaurants with high turnover for the freshest meals. Try street food from vendors with long local queues. Drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Wash hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer.

When to Visit

Spring (March-May) offers Casablanca at its finest, with temperatures ranging from 18-24°C (64-75°F) and minimal rainfall. This is peak season with hotel prices 30-40% higher, but perfect for exploring the medina and coastal walks. Summer (June-September) brings hot, humid weather with temperatures reaching 28-32°C (82-90°F), though ocean breezes provide relief. Expect fewer crowds and 20-25% lower accommodation costs, making it ideal for budget travelers who don't mind heat. Autumn (October-November) delivers comfortable 20-26°C (68-79°F) temperatures with occasional showers, offering a sweet spot of pleasant weather and moderate pricing. Winter (December-February) sees cooler temperatures of 12-18°C (54-64°F) with increased rainfall (60-80mm monthly), but accommodation costs drop 35-40%. The Casablanca Festival (June) and Mawazine World Rhythms Festival in nearby Rabat (June-July) draw music lovers. Religious travelers should note Ramadan dates vary yearly, affecting restaurant hours and cultural experiences. Business travelers find September-November optimal for networking events, while culture ensoiasts benefit from winter's fewer crowds at the Hassan II Mosque and Museum of Moroccan Judaism.