Casablanca: The Complete Guide

Casablanca

Casablanca, also known in Arabic as Dar al-Bayda is the largest city in Morocco and the country’s economic and business center. Located on the Atlantic coast of the Chaouia plain in the central-western part of Morocco, the city has a population of about 3.71 million in the urban area, and over 4.27 million in the Greater Casablanca, making it the most populous city in the Maghreb region, and the eighth-largest in the Arab world.

Casablanca is Morocco’s chief port, with the Port of Casablanca being one of the largest artificial ports in the world,[3] and the second largest port in North Africa, after Tanger-Med (40 km (25 mi) east of Tangier). Casablanca also hosts the primary naval base for the Royal Moroccan Navy.

Casablanca is considered a Global Financial Centre, ranking 54th globally in the Global Financial Centres Index rankings for the year 2022, outperforming many cities such as New Delhi, Jakarta, Istanbul, and Mexico City. Casablanca is ranked among the Emerging International contenders, and it is considered the largest financial center in Africa. The leading Moroccan companies and many of the larger American and European corporations doing business in the country have their headquarters and main industrial facilities in Casablanca. Recent industrial statistics show Casablanca is the primary industrial zone of the nation.

History of Casablanca

Casablanca’s history dates back to the 7th century BC, initially settled by Berbers and later by Phoenicians, Romans, and the Merenid dynasty as an important strategic port. However, the city truly began to develop and modernize in the early 20th century under French colonial rule, transforming from a small town into a bustling metropolis.

During World War II, Casablanca was a key strategic location, hosting the famous 1943 Casablanca Conference where Churchill and Roosevelt planned the next phases of the war. Post-independence from France in 1956, Casablanca continued to grow rapidly, becoming the economic and business center of Morocco.

Today, Casablanca is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city known for its architectural diversity, combining Moroccan style with Art Deco and modernist influences. The city continues to evolve, embodying a mix of Morocco’s past and its forward-looking aspirations, making it an exciting and dynamic destination for travelers.

Visiting Casablanca for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Casablanca on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Best places to See in

Best Time to Visit Casablanca

Spring (March to May): Spring is an ideal time to visit Casablanca, as the weather is comfortably mild and the city isn’t as crowded as in the peak summer months. The temperatures are perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like the Hassan II Mosque and the city’s lovely beaches. This season allows visitors to enjoy the city’s sights without the intense heat that comes later in the year.

Fall (September to November): Fall is another great time to visit Casablanca. Like spring, the weather during these months is mild and pleasant, which is ideal for walking tours through the city’s bustling markets and historical sites. The autumn months also see fewer tourists, providing a more relaxed experience and easier access to popular spots without the summer crowds.

Summer (June to August): While summer is the peak tourist season in Casablanca, it comes with high temperatures that can reach up to the mid-30s Celsius (90s Fahrenheit). If you don’t mind the heat, summer is vibrant with local activities and bustling nightlife. However, it’s wise to plan for midday breaks and plenty of hydration.

Winter (December to February): Winters in Casablanca are generally mild, but it can be rainy. This season sees the fewest visitors, which can be appealing if you prefer a quieter travel experience. The cooler temperatures are suitable for exploring indoor attractions like museums and galleries.

Visiting in the spring or fall provides the best balance of pleasant weather and lighter crowds, making these seasons ideal for exploring all that Casablanca has to offer.

Average Temperatures in Casablanca

  • January 20°C 5
  • February 21°C 6
  • March 22°C 6
  • April 25°C 3
  • May 27°C 2
  • June 29°C 0
  • July 31°C 0
  • August 32°C 0
  • September 29°C 1
  • October 29°C 3
  • November 24°C 8
  • December 23°C 5

How to get to Casablanca

By Air:

  • Casablanca is served by Mohammed V International Airport, which is the busiest airport in Morocco and well-connected to Europe, North America, the Middle East, and other regions of Africa. The airport is about 30 kilometers south-east of the city center. Taxis and a train service are available to transport passengers from the airport to downtown Casablanca.

By Train:

  • Casablanca is a major node in the Moroccan rail network. Trains frequently run between Casablanca and other major cities such as Marrakech, Rabat, and Tangier. The city’s main train stations, Casa-Voyageurs and Casa-Port, are well-equipped and connect travelers to various parts of the city and beyond.

By Road:

  • If you’re already in Morocco, traveling to Casablanca by bus or car is a feasible option. The city is connected by well-maintained roads to other parts of Morocco. Buses from other cities arrive at various bus stations in Casablanca, offering a budget-friendly way to travel.
Powered by GetYourGuide

Similar Blogs