Casablanca is a city in western Morocco located on the Atlantic Ocean. It is the capital of the Greater Casablanca region. Home to over 3.1 million people, Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city as well as its chief port, which is also happens to be one of the largest artificial ports in the world. The Royal Moroccan Navy has its primary base here. Architects began designing this model city in 1912, bringing a visionary charm to this modern metropolis and organizing its phenomenal development, so that today it is the largest major city in Northern Africa and stunning for its architectural beauty. The centre of Casablanca has elegant buildings
The Tamaris Aquaparc, the only water park of the city, is situated 10 km away from Casablanca on the Tamaris beach direction. Children will enjoy the wave pool, the huge river and slides of all sizes. Built in an oasis of greenery, Tamaris Aquaparc is a very popular destination for the residents of the city as well as tourists. Address: Route d’Azemmour KM 15, Casablanca Tel: +212 (0) 522 965 369
Located in the centre of town, the ‘Yasmine Park’ is a great playground for children. It is a funfair located within the Parc de la ligue Arabe with small rides that are fun and relaxing Admission: DH150 Open daily: 10am - 7pm Address: Boulevard Moulay Youssef, Casablanca
Located in Grand Casablanca, Sindbad Amusement Park attracts hordes of tourists and locals who come here to enjoy rides and games. Some of the attractions are the whirling carousels, dizzying dodgems, slides and paddle boats. The giant statue of Sinbad staring down at visitors with a deep mysterious gaze is another interesting feature. Address: Grand Casablanca, near Ain Diab Resort
This zoo is the only one in Morocco and is a great place t spend a warm, sunny day with family. The zoo houses flamingoes, lions, bears, monkeys and other exotic species. Though not too high on visitor count, the zoo is nevertheless well worth a visit. Address: Avenue Aîn Sebaa, Casablanca Tel: +212 522 22 15 24
Casablanca Twin Center is a bold piece of architecture that represents a modern and enterprising Casablanca. Reaching a height of 100m, this building is a vibrant commercial center. The tower houses offices, dwellings and commercial establishments, the latter on the first five floors. Terraces, bars and restaurants occupy the top floor. Three basement car parks provide ample parking. Address: Boulevard Zerktouni at Boulevard El-Massira, Casablanca
Place Mohammed V was originally known as Place de France when it was laid out in 1920 after which it was called Place des Nations Allies after WWII. This magnificent square is undoubtedly the heart of the city. It is in fact the seat of the administrative centre of Casablanca. It has the post office, Palace of Justice, the French Consulate and the bank of Morocco all set around a central fountain. The vicinity is filled with cafes and souvenir shops making it a place frequently visited by tourists and residents alike. At night the place comes alive with lights. Address: Place Mohammed V, Casablanca
Rialto Cinema, which still functions as a movie house, is a delight to visit with its gaudily painted art deco both inside and out. Address: Corner of rue Mohammed el Quorri and rue Salah Bouchaib, Casablanca Tel: 022 262 632
The Jewish Museum has the distinction of being the only museum in Casablanca as well as being the only Jewish museum in any Muslim country. It has a collection of religious books, costumes, sacramental artifacts and other items which throw light on the 5000-strong Jewish community in Morocco. Address: 81 rue Chasseur Jules Gros, Casablanca Oasis Tel: 022 994 940
People suffering from psychological problems or nervous disorders often visit The Marabout of Sidi Abd Er Rahman, a shrine consisting of a group of whitewashed tombs, perched in a striking position on a rocky promontory that can only be reached at low tide. Every year, a large number of pilgrims go to bathe and spend the night there.
The Corniche is the perfect place to unwind after a day of touring the city. It stretches from Hassan II Mosque on a crescent to the El Hank Lighthouse. You can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy uninterrupted sweep of beaches or just sit at a restaurant and spend your time relaxing and people watching. Many fast food chains also have an outlet here. This area is also preferred by those looking for nightlife, with its fashionable bars and hotels. Address: Boulevard de La Corniche
This restaurant is said to be the best restaurant in Africa. Seafood is the specialty but French delicacies cooked by the master chef are also very popular. Address: Sidi Abderahman, Blvd de la Corniche, Ain Diab, Casablanca Telephone: 022 362112
Set in an old courtyard-style mansion built against the walls of the Old Medina of Casablanca, the restaurant - piano bar is filled with architectural and decorative details reminiscent of the 1942 film starring Humphrey Bogart: Casablanca. Curved arches, a sculpted bar, balconies, balustrades as well as dramatic beaded and stenciled brass lighting and plants that cast luminous shadows on white walls. Details have been added that go beyond the film set in terms of ambience and comfort - four fireplaces, banquettes and an intimate private dining with view of the fishing port provide the background setting for an international menu specializing in Casablanca's fresh fish, vegetables and fruit. Issam, a pianist from Rabat, provides the soundtrack to the sophisticated elegant surroundings. Guests come to feel as though they are in the film, and each evening a new chapter unfolds in the lives of the characters who are part of today's Rick's Cafe.
Tavern du Dauphin specializes in seafood and is one of the best seafood restaurants in Casablanca. Though a bit expensive, it is well worth the money. Cuisine: seafood Address: 115, Boulevard Houphoeut Boigny, Casablanca
La Bodega is a lively tapas bar with Spanish cocktails upstairs and a DJ and dancefloor downstairs. The food here is excellent. Cuisine: local traditional Address: 129, Rue Allal Ben Abdallah, Casablanca Tel: 022-541842
Warm hospitality coupled with an excellent location in the shadow of El Hank lighthouse makes Le Cabestan a restauarant one would like to visit repeatedly. Excellent seafood coupled with steak and foie gras will make you lick your fingers. Through the large windows you can get a stunning view of the sea. Address: Phare d'El Hank, Casablanca, Morocco Tel: (212) (02) 39 11 90
La Sqala is located in the gardens within the old city walls, in front of the port and at the edge of the old medina. Traditional Moroccon and international food is served here. You can enjoy seafood starters, skewers, main dish prepared in clay pots and the regular steak and fish too.
At Al Mounia, you can choose to sit in the garden under a massive pepper tree or in the very elegant indoor saloon. The selection of salads is noteworthy, so is the chicken pastilla (rich savory pie) and pigeon with raisins.
With a décor that goes back to the 1920’s, this restaurant sets you in a nostalgic mood. Address: 86 boulevard Mohammed V, Casablanca, Morocco Telephone: 0522 275 420
Al Intissar is located in the center of town and serves great Moroccan style cuisine. The food is delicious and not too expensive. Cuisine: Morroccan Address: 14 Rue Chaouia, Casablanca
This restaurant offers authentic Maghreb cuisine including mechoui ( spit-roasted lamb) and pastille (meat pies) specialities. Address: 107 rue Allah Ben Abdellah, Casablanca, Morocco Telephone: 0522 314 100.
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The Kenzi Tower Hotel is located in one of Casablanca’s Twin Center Towers offering panoramic views of the city. The air conditioned rooms have en suite bathrooms and a TV.
Golden Tulip Farah Casablanca has a prime location in the heart of Casablanca. All guestrooms are well equipped and have internet access and cable/satellite TV. The hotel offers many services including a business centre, a spa and wellness center with an indoor swimming pool, a fitness club, Jacuzzi, hammam and many restaurants and bars with various specialties. Free private parking is possible.
Sheraton Casablanca is located in the heart of the city. This hotel is bordered by the amazing beach front and the city’s major sights, including palm-lined boulevards.
Le Royale Meridian is one of Casablanca’s most prestigious hotels. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the harbor and the Hassan II mosque from the 9th floor terrace. The hotel has the advantage of having some of the tourist sites in close proximity including the Place des Nations Unies, New Medina, the winding streets of the Old Medina, and the Central Market. Guestrooms are decorated in refined Moroccan style with all modern amenities. The rooms are spacious and feature a luxurious sitting area for recreation ad leisure. The well equipped fitness centre has a team of instructors to assist with workout sessions. In addition, the hotel has a sauna, spa and wellness center, Turkish/steam bath and hammam. Wi-fi is available in public areas and costs EUR 20 per 24 hours. Wired internet is available in the hotel rooms and costs EUR 20 per 24 hours. Private parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed) and costs EUR 5 per day.
Art Palace and Spa is very well located in the heart of Downtown Casablanca. The décor of each air-conditioned suite of this trendy hotel is inspired by a celebrity or international icon. The hotel specializes in upscale service and attention to details. Nespresso machines are provided and there is a DVD player, iPod docking station and mini bar. Its suites also include free Wi-Fi and flat screen TV. Some suites have a private terrace and therapeutic bath. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool and spa center with hammam. The restaurant at Art Palace serves international and local cuisine. In addition, guests can enjoy a cocktail at Le 4 Lounge bar or enjoy tea, coffee and pastries while relaxing at Le Living Room. The Art Hall also houses a permanent art gallery. Free parking is available for hotel guests. Rooms: 25 Address: Bd d'Anfa, 4 rue du Soldat Benhamou, Casablanca 20500
Located centrally, Hotel Washington is a mere 10 minute walk from the Ancienne Medina. Place Mohammed V and Casablanca Cathedral are also close by Casablanca port is just a 5 minute drive away. The air-conditioned guestrooms have a private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi. Drinks are served in the hotel’s stylish bar. The restaurant serves Moroccan specialties and refined international cuisine. Wi-fi is available in the business centre and costs EUR 2 per hour. Free parking is available on site. Rooms: 102 Address: 26, Bd Rahal El Meskini, 20 000 Casablanca
Best Western Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the city’s business centre. It is also near the picturesque Old Medina, port, shopping centers, bus stations, taxi, train and the prestigious Hassan II mosque. The hotel rooms are practical and comfortable and provide every convenience for the comfort of the guests. They are soundproofed and equipped with modern en suite facilities, air-conditioning and TV with international channels. The hotel also caters to the needs of the business traveler with all facilities available for conducting business. The hotel has three restaurants serving French gourmet cuisine and live entertainment. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Free parking is available on site. Rooms: 67 Address: 9, Rue Sidi Belyout, Avenue Des Far, 2000 Casablanca
The Ibis Hotel Moussafir Casablanca City Center is located in the city centre right beside the Port of Casablanca. It is just a few minutes walk from the train station and close to the old Medina, the Hassan II Mosque and Casablanca’s Corniche area.
The Ibis Moussafir Casablanca Sidi Maarouf is located in the business district of Casablanca and is just 15 minutes from the airport. Out of the 85 rooms offered by the hotel, 15 are suites with direct dialing telephone, satellite TV, heating and air-conditioning. Delicious cuisine is offered at La Table restaurant. The Tapas bar is open until 11pm. Two comfortable meeting rooms are available for business needs. Wi-Fi is available in the common areas of the hotel. Rooms: 85 Address: La Colline II Sidi Maarouf, Casablanca, MA 20190
Hotel Astrid is tucked away south of the city center just east of Place Mohammed V. It has bright, clean, quiet rooms, each with a balcony and clean bathroom. Breakfast is not included in room tariff. The hotel has a café; Wi-Fi is available in the lobby. Business facilities are also available. Address: 12 Rue 16 Novembre, 20500, Morocco
Casablanca is a city in western Morocco located on the Atlantic Ocean. It is the capital of the Greater Casablanca region. Home to over 3.1 million people, Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city as well as its chief port, which is also happens to be one of the largest artificial ports in the world. The Royal Moroccan Navy has its primary base here. Architects began designing this model city in 1912, bringing a visionary charm to this modern metropolis and organizing its phenomenal development, so that today it is the largest major city in Northern Africa and stunning for its architectural beauty. The centre of Casablanca has elegant buildings that are an admirable blend of art deco and neo-Moorish styles, featuring cupola’s, belvederes, columns, cedarwood balconies and turrets. Being the business centre of the country has earned the city the title of economic capital with Rabat being the country’s political capital. Casablanca is a city where international business dealing takes place, where luxury goods and services flourish, high-tech industries are concentrated and top quality hotels host world-class conventions and congresses-all making Casablanca the shining light of modern Morocco.
Casablanca (Dar el Beida) in Moroccan Arabic or ‘White House’ in English, was a tiny Berber settlement during the 7th century. Anfa, a minor independent country emerged within the area due to the Arab Muslim rule. By the 14th century, with the help of Merinids, Anfa became a major port. By the 15th century, the town became a self-governing state once again. The Portuguese, ruined this town in 1468, eventually attacking the local pirates of the region. The Portuguese constituted a military fortress in the year 1515 with the remnants of the city. The town that emerged here was named Casablanca, which meant White House in Portuguese language. But most of this town was later on destroyed during 1755 due to a severe earthquake, forcing the Portuguese to leave.
Casablanca is located along the Atlantic Ocean but enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild weather throughout the year. There is little seasonal temperature variation and a lack of extreme heat and extreme cold which makes it possible to enjoy a visit to the city round the year. However winter is the least popular time to visit due to the rains. Visiting in the spring, early summer and fall will offer pleasant weather and the fewest crowds. Most hotels, shops and attractions remain open throughout the year. However, some restaurants and coffee houses will close during the day in the month of Ramadan.
Location: Casablanca is located in the Chawiya plain on the Atlantic coast of Morocco. Dialing Code: Country -212 City - 022 Emergency Numbers: Ambulance: 150 or call Amal Assistance at 022-36-44-36 or 022-39- 20-03 or SOS Medecins Maroc at 022-25-25-25. Fire Department: 190 Police: 190 Road emergency: 177 Royal Gendarmerie: 177 Airport: +212 (022) 539040 Moroccan National Tourist Office: +212 37 67 39 18/ 67 40 13 International Calls Operator: Telephone Directory Services: 160 Population: City- 3,299,428 Languages: The official language is Arabic but French is widely spoken as well as English & Spanish Time Zone: UTC +0, Summer (DST) UTC +1 Average January Temperatures: 17.2○ C Average July Temperatures: 26.4 ○C Annual Rainfall: 6.9cm Electricity: 220 volts in new buildings, round two-pin plugs are standard. (110 volts in the old ones ) Enquire on the spot before using appliances.
The national currency in Morocco is the dirham. It cannot be converted outside the Kingdom's borders, so don't forget to exchange money or bring other means of payment.
1 Jan …New Year’s Day 11 Jan… Manifesto of Independence 01 May…Labor’s Day 30 July …Feast of the Throne 14 August… Fete Oued Eddahad (Oued Eddahab Allegience Day) 20 Aug…Revolution du Roi et du Peuple (Anniversary of the King and the People’s Revolution) 21 Aug…King Mohammed’s Birthday 06 Nov…Marche Verte (Anniversary of the Green March) 18 Nov…Fete de l’Independence
All figures are in degrees centigrade. January: Jan High- 17.1 Jan Low- 7.2
A valid passport is required to obtain an entry visa. Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Embassies and consulates provide guidance before and during your trip.
You can plan a one-day tour of the city to visit some of its important tourist sights, taste local dishes and enjoy shopping. The Irhal team recommends starting your day with a visit to Hassan II Mosque. This mosque will amaze you. You will enjoy seeing traditional Moroccan architecture combined with very advanced technology. Be sure to see the decoration, carved wood and retractable roof: the prayer hall turns into a wonderful, spacious courtyard in three minutes. After finishing your visit to Hassan II Mosque, which may take a considerable amount of time, you can move on to Rick's Café for a drink and a light meal, as the café is a short distance from the mosque. Your next stop should be Habous Quartier. To get there, take a taxi, but make sure it is a petit taxi. Also known as the New Medina, it is a large shopping area combining Moroccan heritage with the latest facilities. It is a charming place where you will find adjoining streets with stalls selling handicrafts, carpets, brassware and traditional Moroccan textiles. If you enjoy souvenirs, you will find many souvenir shops here. If you want lunch, you can head to La Scala. You can dine in the outdoor garden, weather permitting, as this garden is very beautiful and scenic. Afterwards, you can go to Mohammed V Square. As you sit in the square, you will enjoy looking at the buildings and seeing beautiful examples of Islamic architecture. In the evening, you can enjoy the pleasant breeze on the Corniche. The Corniche is a preferred destination for nightlife enthusiasts who love beaches, swimming pools, restaurants and fashionable hotels.
Maarif neighborhood (near the twin center) is sometimes considered as Casablanca’s St Germain-des-Pres. It has many European and American fashion chains, such as Zara, Prada, etc. Designer glasses, leather shoes, and "genuine" belts, bags, and shirts can be had at bargain prices. This neighborhood also boasts the city’s finest book shop, Le Carrefour du Livre.
Artisanat Fenouch is the perfect place to spend in peaceful shopping where shopowners allow you to browse through at leisure. Designer accessories like shoes, purses, belts etc. are available here. Earthenware, jewelry and local craft is also sold here. Bargaining is a no-no and prices are fixed.
Ready to wear, high end fashion store, this offers eclectic and innovative designer wear with style based on a broad varied color palette, a mix of prints and textures.
French perfumery chain Marionnaud’s first store in Morocco is known as the largest beauty store in all of the Maghreb. This two-level perfumery in the heart of Casablanca features several treatment cabins for women and two for men. It also houses Marionnaud's first-ever hair salon, a dedicated dermo-cosmetics area and a small refreshment bar. In keeping with the prestige image of the central Casablanca neighborhood where the perfumery is situated, Marionnaud offers a valet parking service and child-minding facilities in store. Address: 192 Boulevard d’anfa, Casablanca Tel: +212 (0) 522 364 500
Address: 246, Boulevard Zerktouni, Casablanca Tel: +212 (0) 522 265 258
Shops in Quartier Habous or Nouvelle Medina sell crafts, carpets, copper and brass stuff, and in particular, traditional morocco clothing. Traditional architecture blending with modern facilities makes this an interesting version of a traditional souk which tourists would definitely like to explore. Address: Rue del Jadida
Alpha 55 is a leading variety department store and stocks up almost everything. Check out the jewelry section for authentic Moorish silver jewelry. Address: 55 avenue Mers Sultan- Departmental store
This three-storey building houses a vast collection of craft products from all over Morocco and offers fixed price, hassle-free shopping. Address: 3, Avenue Hassan II Tel: 022-267064
Fresh produce, fresh flowers and everyday grocery items are available at Marche Centrale. The place is abuzz with activity from morn till evening and makes a good place to browse through even if you do not want to purchase anything.
Darb Ghallaf is that shopping area of Casablanca which is extremely popular with locals looking to pick up something at a bargain be it clothes, furniture or books. Old Arabic and French books are also available. Mobiles, watches and other electronic items are available in plenty and seem attractive to tourists but one must be cautious about fakes! Address: Avenue Abdulmomen
Megarama cinemaplex has several theatres showing different films in English, Arabic and French. Address: Boulevard de la Corniche, Ain Diab, 20000 Casablanca Tel: +212 22 79 88 88
El Hank Lighthouse was built in 1919 to help sailors steer their vessels away from the shore. Until the construction of the lighthouse, many ships got stuck in the sandy banks of Casablanca’s shores. El Hank Lighthouse, also known as Pointe d'el-Hank Light, stands 161 feet high, and its light can be seen from 30 nautical miles away. The lighthouse is a round masonry tower with lantern and gallery. Earlier the lighthouse was painted with elaborate designs but now it has been painted white. The lighthouse is another famous landmark associated with Casablanca, and is a great place to bring a picnic lunch and watch the waves crash below.
The Makhama du Pacha is an imposing edifice which houses both the court of justice and reception rooms for state occasions.
Notre Dame de Loudres church is a monumental concrete sculpture, dating from the fifties. It is lit by vast stained glass windows and covers an area of 800 sq. m.
Old Medina is a small traditional walled town in the north of Casablanca containing an extravagant labyrinth of lanes. Wander through the bustling streets and watch the never-ending spectacle of barbers, butchers, grocers, ironmongers and their throng of customers.
The Sacre Coeur Cathedral is situated on the northwest edge of the Parc de la Ligue Arabe. It is an imposing building that gracefully blends different architectural influences; the European style and traditional Moroccan. Designed by Paul Toron in 1930, the cathedral has been used as a school, theatre and cultural center. Address: Parc de la Ligue Arabe
The Casablanca Festival of Video Art explores the latest in video and multi-media installations. It also promotes the exchange of ideas by holding workshops and conferences for artists and anyone interested in the subject.
Urban Culture on Stage is a non-religious festival that promotes the talent of the city. The festival exhibits new musical genres that have become a significant part of the city over a period of time. This festival is generally hosted at the Zafzaf Cultural Center during March each year, making it a spring festival. At this festival, one can enjoy musical genres including hip-hop, fusion and rap.
A number of jazz musicians converge from around the globe to entertain thousands of visitors who descend on the city each April when the event takes place at the Megarama Cinema in Casablanca. One of Casablanca's most prestigious events on the social calendar, Jazzblanca is a must for lovers of all things jazz.
The Amazigh Theatre Fest is a fest with a difference. While it has all the usual attributes of theatrical production like speech, gesture, music, dance and sound all incorporated in a way universally accepted, it also has the unique distinction of being carried out in Berber, an ancient North African language which has been an integral part of Moroccan culture for centuries. The language continues to be used by many Moroccans even today. Alongside, traditional theatrical principles like masks, mimcry and puppetry also find their way at this festival.
Moussems are important gatherings to pay homage to saints. This veneration of saints goes against the principles of orthodox Muslims, nevertheless these celebrations continue with great fervor. An interesting event held every year in May is the “Mousseum of Sidi Mohammed Ma al-Ainin”, during which time tribes of nomads who wander the Sahara (known to some as the “Blue People”) gather and sell traditional clothing. Fantasias, dances, traditional costumes, processions and food all form part of the festivities.
This tour takes you through Fez, Rabat, Meknes, Volubili, Casablanca and Marrakech Price from: 450 EUR/person Tel: 0021239324407 Fax: 0021239324425 Duration: 7 days Location Start: Casablanca Location finish: Casablanca.
This tour takes you through Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, Volubilis,Fez and Marrakech Price from: 825 Euro/person Tel: 0021239324407 Fax: 0021239324425 Duration: 8 days Location Start: Casablanca Location finish: Casablanca
Olive Branch Tours offer a 'Grand Tour of Casablanca', which takes in the main squares in the ville nouvelle, the medina and the Mahakma du Pasha in Habous, as well as a stroll along the Corniche. Also, from short breaks to month-long holidays, they offer a wide and unique range of options from weekends away to horse riding and desert safari holidays to High Atlas Mountains’ trekking to Special Interest tours. Customized tours can be organized too.
The tour starts with the United Nations Place, Mohammed V square, the central market, the royal palace surrounding, the Habbous Quarter, the Mehkama (court), the Cathedral Notre Dame de Lourdes, the residential area of Anfa, external visit of the famous Hassan II mosque and the beautiful Ain Diab corniche lined up with restaurants and swimming pools. Duration: 3 hours Price: Starting from $86 Contact: Toll Free 1-866-988
The Hasan II Mosque is the largest mosque in Casablanca. It was designed by French architect Michel Pinseau and built by Bouygeus. It stands on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic which can be seen through a gigantic glass floor with room for 25,000 worshippers. A further 80,000 can be accommodated in the mosque's adjoining grounds for a total of 105,000 worshippers present at any given time at the Hassan II mosque. The large prayer hall even has a sliding roof so that worshippers can look heavenwards as they raise their hands in supplication. The mosque’s minaret stands tall at 210 m. The amazing mosaic on the mosque is sure to take your breath away. Hour-long guided tours are available throughout the day for male non-Muslim visitors. Address: Boulevard Sour Djedid at Boulevard Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah,Casablanca Admission fees: None
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Riad El Oulfa Mosque
Using a public bus may be a good way to get around the city but is can be quite confusing for tourists too. There are a number of transport companies, multiple routes, many types of vehicles and a wide range of ticket prices, all of which can be baffling for a newcomer. In addition, there are many bus stations, some used by single companies and some by more than one.
The best way to get around the city is by cab. Registered taxis in Casablanca are colored red and known as petits taxis (small taxis), or coloured white and known as grands taxis (big taxis). As is standard Moroccan practice, petits taxis, typically small-four door Fiat Uno or similar cars, provide metered cab service in the central metropolitan areas. The petit taxi can accommodate 3 passengers. These small cabs do not go to the airport. A twenty percent surcharge is applicable at night. Grands taxis,generally older Mercedes-Benz sedans, provide shared mini-bus like service within the city on pre-defined routes, or shared inter-city service. Grands Taxis may also be hired for private service by the hour or day, although typically only foreigners do so.
Renting a car in Casablanca, Morocco for the lowest possible price is important. But just as important are service and rental conditions. But conditions may vary, depending on location and car supplier. Make sure to check the exact rental conditions for a specific car in Casablanca before you make a reservation. www.comparecarrent.com/morocco/casablanca gives a comprehensive price list of cars available from three care hire companies; Holiday Cars, Car Del Mar and Atlas Choice. If you rent a car for a longer duration you can avail a special discount. Also check out Europcar Complexe des Habous Avenue des F.A.R. 20000 Casablanca Phone: +212 522 313737 Fax: +212 522 310960
Casablanca Mohammed V Airport is 25 kms/16 miles south of the city, along the motorway towards Settat. Taxis can be found outside arrivals. They have fixed day and night fares. Approximate cost to city center is MAD 200-300 and approx time taken is 30-40 mins. Buses run by CTM leave every hour for the city and are available outside the terminal. The approximate time taken is 45 mins. There are a number of car rental providers with kiosks at the airport eg. Budget, Europcar, Hertz, etc. as well as local operators. Shuttle trains (TNR) run from airport arrivals hall to Casa Voyageurs & Casa Port Stations in the centre every 90 mins.
Driving around the city can be quite a task considering the chaotic traffic conditions there. If you have a hired car, the larger hotels at Ain Diab are a better choice of accommodation as you can avoid the traffic in the centre. Also, the parking at these hotels affords better security than the hotels at the center of the city.
As with most cities, tourists in Casablanca should be careful while moving about especially at night. It is best to be discreet and not flash your wealth around eg. fancy expensive watches, cameras or wads of money. Drug and alcohol related problems do exist so one should be very careful as to whom one is talking to. It is best not to get too friendly with the locals as petty thefts are known to take place. Women should take care to dress modestly and are advised not to wander around alone. It is best to take a safe mode of transportation like a car or taxi (which is not too expensive). If you intend to visit the beach remember not to leave valuables unattended as this might provoke theft.
No health certificate is required to enter Morocco.
