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Casablanca is an incredible city in North Africa and Morocco’s largest city, perfect for a winter city break from the UK or an exotic summer escape. Head to Casablanca and experience its diverse cultural scene, explore iconic sightseeing landmarks, step back in time by discovering French colonial structures, and browse bustling markets for unique handicrafts and souvenirs (make sure you haggle for a better price, too).
This Moroccan city has a dynamic nightlife scene with a wide array of inviting bars, restaurants, clubs, and lounges to spend the evening at. Casablanca is also renowned for its diverse culinary options that are a delight for the taste buds, from traditional Tanjia to freshly caught seafood. Brightsun Travel has a wide selection of Casablanca holidays to suit a range of tastes and budgets.
Casablanca has a modern tram system that makes getting around the city convenient. Consider purchasing a rechargeable tram card for easy access to public transport. Taxis are also plentiful, but be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey or insist on using the meter.
Is Casablanca safe?
While Casablanca is relatively safe for tourists, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in markets, train stations, and other busy locations.
Consider purchasing travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Verify what your insurance policy covers and carry copies of important documents, including your insurance card and passport.
While Casablanca is not known for significant mosquito-borne diseases, it's still a good idea to protect yourself against mosquito bites with some insect repellent, particularly during the warmer months.
Use licensed taxis or reputable transportation services when getting around the city. Avoid accepting rides from unmarked vehicles or individuals who approach you on the street. If you're using ridesharing apps, verify the driver and vehicle details before getting in.
Exploring the local cuisine of Casablanca is an essential part of experiencing the city's culture. Here's a mini guide to some of the delicious dishes and culinary experiences you can enjoy in Casablanca:
Tagine
Tagine is perhaps Morocco's most famous dish, named after the earthenware pot it's cooked in. This slow-cooked stew is typically made with meat (such as lamb, chicken, or beef), vegetables, and a variety of spices like cumin, paprika, and saffron.
Couscous
Couscous is a staple dish in Moroccan cuisine and often served on Fridays, the Muslim holy day. It consists of steamed semolina grains typically served alongside stew made with meat (such as lamb or chicken) and vegetables.
Seafood
Given Casablanca's coastal location, fresh seafood is abundant and delicious. Head to the city's seafood markets or waterfront restaurants to sample a variety of freshly caught fish and shellfish, including grilled sardines, fried calamari, and seafood tagine. Don’t miss out on sampling the famous Moroccan fish soup called harrira bil hout.
Mint Tea
No visit to Morocco is complete without indulging in a glass of traditional mint tea, known as atai. This sweet and refreshing tea is made with green tea leaves, fresh mint leaves, and plenty of sugar. It's often served in ornate teapots and poured from a height to create a frothy top.
Moroccan Pastries
Moroccan pastries are famous for their intricate designs and delicious flavours. Sample an assortment of pastries from local bakeries and pastry shops, including classics like baklava (layers of filo pastry filled with nuts and honey), chebakia (deep-fried dough coated in honey and sesame seeds), and ma'amoul (shortbread cookies filled with dates or nuts).
Street Snacks
Casablanca's bustling streets are lined with food stalls and vendors selling delicious street food snacks. Try local favourites like bissara (fava bean soup), msemen (flaky Moroccan pancakes), and merguez (spicy lamb sausages) served in freshly baked bread.
Hassan II Mosque
This magnificent mosque is one of the largest in the world and a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture with intricate details, a stunning minaret, and a beautiful oceanfront location. Guided tours are available to explore the mosque's interior, which can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers. This is among the top things to do in Casablanca.
Old Medina
Stroll through the winding streets of Casablanca's Old Medina and immerse yourself into the city’s authentic Moroccan culture. You'll find traditional shops selling everything from spices and textiles to handicrafts and souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to sample local street food such as grilled meats, pastries, and mint tea.
La Corniche
Enjoy a leisurely walk along Casablanca’s Corniche, a picturesque waterfront promenade that stretches along the Atlantic coast. Here, you can soak in panoramic views of the ocean, relax on sandy beaches, and dine at seaside restaurants. The Corniche is especially popular during sunset, offering breathtaking golden hour vistas.
Mohammed V Square
Located in the heart of the city, Mohammed V Square is a bustling hub surrounded by impressive colonial-era buildings and palm-lined avenues. It's a great spot for people-watching, shopping, and exploring nearby attractions such as the United Nations Square and the Wilaya Building.
Villa des Arts
The Villa des Arts is a contemporary art museum housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco villa. The museum showcases a diverse collection of Moroccan and international artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and photography exhibitions. It's a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city streets.
Rick's Café
Inspired by the classic film Casablanca, Rick's Café is a nostalgic tribute to the movie's iconic setting. This elegant restaurant and piano bar recreates the ambiance of the film with its vintage decor, live music, and Moroccan-inspired cuisine. It's a must-visit for fans of the movie and anyone looking for a unique dining experience.
Casablanca weather experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, cool, and wet winters between December-February and hot, dry summers between June-August, with temperatures peaking in the high twenties and plenty of sunshine. If you’d prefer to travel when the weather is slightly cooler, consider visiting during spring in May, or when autumn approaches in September.
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