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 Casa Transport buses for 4-6 dirhams ($0.40-$0.60) rides within the city. Taxis should use meters—airport to city center costs 250-350 dirhams ($25-$35) depending on traffic. The Casa Tramway connects major areas for 6 dirhams ($0.60) per ride.

Money: Exchange euros or US dollars at Attijariwafa Bank for rates around 10 dirhams per dollar. ATMs accept international cards but charge 15-25 dirhams ($1.50-$2.50) fees. Budget 150-300 dirhams ($15-$30) daily for meals and local activities.

Cultural Respect: Greet with 'as-salamu alaykum' and learn basic Arabic or French phrases. Dress modestly, especially women covering shoulders and knees. Tipping 10-20 dirhams ($1-$2) is expected for services.

Food: Try tagine and couscous at Rick's Café (Casablanca movie themed) where meals cost 180-320 dirhams ($18-$32). Sample fresh mint tea at sidewalk cafés for 8-15 dirhams ($0.80-$1.50) per glass. Seafood at the port area costs 120-250 dirhams ($12-$25) per dish.

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.