CASABLANCA, MOROCCO

Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and economic hub, is a bustling metropolis that blends modern sophistication with traditional charm. Known for its iconic landmarks, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage, Casablanca offers visitors an unparalleled experience of Morocco’s urban life.


KEY INFO

Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) 

Population: 4.2 million (Morocco: 37 million)

Emergency #: 190 (Police), 150 (Ambulance)

Drinking Water: Bottled water recommended

Time Zone: GMT+1

ID Requirements: Passport

ATM and Payment: ATMs widely available. Credit cards widely accepted, though cash is best in markets. USD cash is rarely accepted.

Languages: Arabic, French (Limited English)

Drive on the: Right

Pharmacy: Pharmacie AIDA, Bd Mohammed Zerktouni

Protection: Sun protection, light clothing

Wi-Fi: Not widely available

Post Office: Poste Maroc, H9VJ+27


PORT LOCATION AND FACILITIES

Ships dock at the Port of Casablanca, 5 km (3 miles) from the city centre (15-min drive). Shuttle buses drop guests at United Nations Sq (15-min drive).

Facilities: Taxis

Port Address: Port de Casablanca, Boulevard des Almohades, Casablanca, Morocco.

Getting Around: Casablanca is a sprawling city, so taxis and trams are the most efficient ways to get around. Tram fares are 8 MAD for a single ride, payable via cash or card at vending machines before boarding.

Taxis: Operate on meters; fare to city centre ~ 20 MAD. Ride-hailing apps such as Careem are available.

Tourist Bus: Casablanca offers a Hop-On Hop-Off bus service. 12 stops | 2-hr loop | 9a-6p | every 30-min | 130 MAD (day pass). Buy tickets online, at stops, or on the bus. www.casablancacitytour.ma

For more information: Visit https://www.visitmorocco.com/en


CASABLANCA HIGHLIGHTS

Hassan II Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, featuring intricate mosaics and a stunning oceanfront location. Visitors can join guided tours.
9a-4p | 130 MAD | 5 km (15-min drive) from port. www.mosqueehassan2.ma

Old Medina: A maze of narrow streets filled with traditional shops selling spices, textiles, and handmade crafts. 24 hours | Free | 4 km (10-min drive) from port.

Museum of Moroccan Judaism: The only Jewish museum in the Arab world: artifacts, photographs, and a reconstructed synagogue. 10a-5p | 30 MAD | 10 km (25-min drive) from port. www.jewishmuseum.ma

Villa des Arts: An art gallery showcasing contemporary Moroccan art in an Art Deco building.
10a-6p | 20 MAD | 7 km (20-min drive) from port. www.villadesarts.ma

Museum of Contemporary Moroccan Art: Showcasing modern Moroccan artists, in a beautiful historical building. 10a-6p | 25 MAD | 8 km (20-min drive) from port. www.contemporaryartcasablanca.ma

National Museum of History: A museum dedicated to Morocco’s rich historical artifacts, manuscripts, and exhibits. 9a-5p | 40 MAD | 9 km (25-min drive) from port. www.nationalhistorymuseum.ma

Habous Quarter: A charming neighbourhood built in the 1920s, known for its traditional architecture and artisan shops. 24 hours | Free | 6 km (20-min drive) from port.

Royal Palace of Casablanca: The official residence of the King of Morocco when in the city. Exterior only. 24 hours | Free | 6 km (20-min drive) from port. www.royalpalacecasablanca.ma

Casablanca Cathedral: A deconsecrated neo-Gothic cathedral, now used for exhibitions and events. 10a-5p | 20 MAD | 5 km (15-min drive) from port. www.casablancacathedral.ma

SHOPPING IN CASABLANCA

Central Market: A busy market offering fresh produce, seafood, and souvenirs.
8a-6p | Free | 3 km (10-min drive) from port. www.casablancacentralmarket.ma

Anfa Place Shopping Centre: A modern mall with international brands, restaurants, and a beachfront promenade. 10a-10p | Free | 6 km (20-min drive) from port. www.anfaplace.ma

Morocco Mall: One of Africa’s largest shopping malls, with luxury boutiques, an aquarium, and a cinema. 10a-10p | Free | 10 km (25-min drive) from port. www.moroccomall.ma

BEACHES NEAR CASABLANCA

Plage de la Corniche: The closest beach to the port, offering a mix of local activity and calm waters, ideal for a short visit. 24 hours | Free | 3 km (10-min drive) from port.

Ain Diab Beach: A lively beach with a promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and beach clubs. 
24 hours | Free | 6 km (20-min drive) from port.

Tamaris Beach: A quieter beach known for its golden sands and water sports opportunities.
24 hours | Free | 25 km (40-min drive) from port.

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REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

El Jadida: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a historic Portuguese cistern and fortified walls.
9a-5p | 60 MAD | 90 km (1.5-hour drive) from port. www.eljadida.ma

Rabat: Morocco’s capital city, known for its historic medina, Royal Palace, and Hassan Tower.
9a-6p | Free | 90 km (1.5-hour drive) from port. www.visitrabat.ma


TIPPING CUSTOMS

Optional. A 10% service charge is common in restaurants. Tips for guides and taxi drivers are appreciated.

FOOD & DRINK

Couscous: Made with steamed semolina, vegetables, and meat, often served on Fridays.

Pastilla: Savoury-sweet pie; pastry, filled with spiced meat (often pigeon), topped with powdered sugar.

Moroccan Orange Salad: Fresh orange slices, cinnamon, and a drizzle of orange blossom water.

Mint Tea: A symbol of Moroccan hospitality, served sweetened and infused with fresh mint.

SOUVENIR TOP TIPS

Take home traditional Moroccan lanterns, leather goods, and Argan oil. Local spices like saffron and preserved lemons also make excellent gifts.


LOCAL LINGO

Hello: Salaam Aleikum

Goodbye: Bslama

Please: Afak

Thank you: Shukran

Toilet: Bit al-Maa

Cruise Ship Port: Port de Casablanca