Casablanca

A cosmopolitan city on the Atlantic coast of Maroc, we enjoyed visiting Casablanca in winter. The city’s mild, pleasant climate seduced us by revealing a different side of itself during the season. You’ll enjoy pleasant strolls along the sun-drenched Corniche, despite a certain humidity in the air. Its more peaceful atmosphere, dynamism, modernity and numerous activities make it an ideal destination for sun-seekers escaping the winter chill!
Here are our tips for discovering Casablanca in winter: activities, weather, temperatures… Plus, information on how to spend Christmas or New Year’s Eve in this city full of surprises!

This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.

Visiting Casablanca in winter: is it worth it?

Our review

Yes, visiting Casablanca in winter is worth it! We particularly appreciate this period when the city reveals itself without the summer rush, allowing a more authentic discovery of its attractions. Mild temperatures compared with winter in Europe or North America make outdoor visits very pleasant. You can quietly explore emblematic sites such as the Hassan II Mosque, or stroll through the Habous district without being bothered by the intense summer heat. The Corniche is also a great place for strolling and sunbathing without the summer heat. Last but not least, everything remains open, with opening times sometimes adapted to suit the location.

Benefits

• Fewer tourist crowds, allowing a more leisurely visit to sites of interest
• Pleasant daytime temperatures for outdoor visits, with lows around 9°C in January, for example.
• Sunny days overall
• Reduced rates outside the holiday season
• All sites and attractions remain open and accessible
• Strategically located to explore other cities on Maroc by train, car, bus or plane
• January 11 is a public holiday (Independence Manifesto), an opportunity to experience a historic moment

Disadvantages

• Humidity due to immediate proximity to the ocean
• Higher prices during Christmas and school vacations
• A few showers possible and sea breeze
• Cooler evenings and nights

WHERE TO STAY IN Casablanca

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Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels

Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability

Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability

Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability

See our complete selection of the best hotels in Casablanca (coming soon)

See all available accommodation >>

Weather, temperatures and conditions

We enjoyed winter in Casablanca, with mild temperatures rarely below 15°C (59°F) or above 22°C (72°F). Most of the weather is sunny, although there are occasional showers. Minimum temperatures rarely fall below 15°C, making the climate particularly pleasant compared to European or North American winters. Sea breezes and humidity can sometimes make themselves felt, but precipitation is generally short-lived.

OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Maroc

• Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
• Adapt your choice of vehicle to your itinerary!
• For more choice, book early.

See available cars >>

Read our tips (coming soon)

Things to do in Casablanca in winter

Winter is an ideal time to explore Casablanca. Take a look at our article on the best ideas for things to do in Casablanca, almost all of which are accessible whatever the season. However, we do recommend that you:

• Take advantage of the ice skating rink set up on the Corniche in the Morocco Mall shopping center
• Visit the majestic Hassan II Mosque with fewer people – book your ticket
• Walking in the Arab League Park
• Explore the typical Habous district
• Delight in the stalls and bars of the Central Market
• Warm up in a traditional hammam – see options
• Discover the Bouskoura Forest
• Fun at the Tamaris leisure park and bowling alley
• Visit its museums

How do I get to Casablanca?

There are several options for getting to Casablanca:

• By air: Mohamed V Airport is a gateway for visitors from all over the world, with 96 international destinations served daily – see flights
• By car: large white cabs provide connections between the towns of Maroc; the well-developed motorway network facilitates access by car; you can also rent a car.
• By bus: CTM, the national bus company, offers comfortable, air-conditioned and safe bus journeys.
• By train: the ONCF rail network serves several stations in Casablanca, linking it efficiently to all the other cities of Maroc with high-speed lines (Al-Boraq) and conventional trains.

To travel between Mohammed V Airport and downtown Casablanca, opt for a private transfer or a VTC ride.

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Christmas in Casablanca

Although Christmas is not a traditional holiday at Maroc, Casablanca will be creating a festive atmosphere for the occasion. Stores and malls like Morocco Mall and Anfa Place are decked out with decorations and lights. Local caterers will also be offering special dishes for Christmas dinner. And on December 24, some hotels and restaurants will be hosting evening entertainment. Note that the celebrations are mainly private, but the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the city makes this a different time of year. Last but not least, Christian places of worship such as the Church of Notre-Dame de Lourdes in Casablanca organize special services, including processions and hymns, for midnight mass.

New Year’s Eve in Casablanca

Spending New Year’s Eve in Casablanca is an experience combining local traditions and international celebrations. During New Year’s Eve on the evening of December 31, celebrations take place in the city, in discos, restaurants and hotels. Note that January 1 is a public holiday at Maroc. Casablancans also celebrate at home.
Depending on the time of year and the lunar calendar on which the Muslim calendar is based, you may have the opportunity to experience the Muslim New Year festivities (Moharrem 1st) in winter. It’s also an official public holiday in the Kingdom. Celebrations are generally low-key, with some families sharing a traditional meal. Many reserve their festivities for the feast of Achoura (10 days later) and offer gifts to children. Finally, to celebrate the Berber community, culture and language as an integral part of our heritage, the Amazigh New Year is celebrated at Maroc on January 14, which became a national holiday in 2024.

DISCOVER Casablanca

• What to do in Casablanca (coming soon)
• Best hotels (coming soon)
• Best restaurants (coming soon)

SHE MADE THE TRIP AND WROTE THE ARTICLE Myriam

Do you know Casablanca? Combining dynamism and modernity, it is Maroc ‘s largest city and the country’s economic powerhouse. We were charmed by this cosmopolitan city, originally named Anfa, transformed through the ages and whose history dates back to the 7th century! It embodies a fascinating crossroads of Berber, Arab, Portuguese, Spanish and French influences, as well as a blend of cultures. Here, culture, art deco and modernity rub shoulders. Between its colonial heritage and Moroccan traditions, you’ll find it has a lot to offer, even if it’s not the most typical city on Maroc.

In this article, we share our 10 reasons to visit Casablanca.

This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.

Is Casablanca worth a visit?

Casablanca is well worth a visit for its unique blend of Arab-Muslim heritage and modern architecture. It’s not usually the 1st choice when thinking of traveling to Maroc, but it’s well worth the detour! We were impressed by the majesty of the Hassan II Mosque, a veritable architectural masterpiece overlooking the ocean. The art deco districts bear witness to the city’s colonial past, while its vibrant gastronomic scene and lively nightlife make it a lively destination. Like us, you’ll be seduced by this metropolis that harmoniously combines tradition and modernity.

We list the reasons in more detail below. You can also take a look at our selection of the city’s top attractions.

Reason 1 – The Hassan II Mosque, an architectural masterpiece

We headed for the majestic Hassan II Mosque, enthroned right next to the Atlantic Ocean and embodying the grandeur of Moroccan religious architecture. We were fascinated by the sheer size of this 365-square-meter monument. Did you know that 10,000 Moroccan craftsmen were involved in the creation of this one-of-a-kind piece? We were amazed by the noble materials used: cedar wood from the Atlas mountains for the saffron-colored balconies, marble from Agadir and Essaouira for the floors, not to mention the 57 Italian chandeliers that illuminate the prayer room. King Hassan II designed this mosque in a spirit of tolerance, as evidenced by the architectural elements reminiscent of a cathedral nave and a synagogue balcony. A must-see on your bucket list!

WHERE TO STAY IN Casablanca

---

Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels

Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability

Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability

Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability

See our complete selection of the best hotels in Casablanca (coming soon)

See all available accommodation >>

Reason 2 – An effervescent gastronomic scene

Discovering a destination also means discovering its cuisine, and we were well served in Casablanca! The city’s gastronomy reflects its dynamism and diversity. We discovered a culinary scene that attracts talent from all over the world, while celebrating local produce and know-how. You can enjoy traditional dishes at Restaurant La Sqala, nestled in a historic setting, or opt for bistronomic cuisine at Restaurant Gare aux Gorilles. Our favorite? The mythical Rick’s Café, inspired by the film Casablanca, where we had a wonderful experience, from the food to the decor to the warm atmosphere. For seafood lovers, the Cabestan Ocean View Restaurant offers a view of the ocean close to the lighthouse, and a cuisine of marine flavors.

OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Maroc

• Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
• Adapt your choice of vehicle to your itinerary!
• For more choice, book early.

See available cars >>

Read our tips (coming soon)

Reason 3 – Art Deco, the city’s heritage

Casablanca’s Art Deco architecture is a legacy of the early 20th century. We were seduced by the neo-Moroccan colonial style that developed between 1920 and 1930. You’ll discover the jewels of this heritage as you stroll through the famous Place Mohammed V, home to the Palais de Justice and the Bank of Maroc (Bank Al Maghrib in Arabic). The Prefecture (Wilaya), the Post Office, the former Church of the Sacred Heart and the Place des Nations-Unies also bear witness to the flourishing architectural period that shaped the city’s visual identity. Take a stroll through this open-air museum.

A LITTLE MORE PATIENCE

All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay at Maroc a success will soon be available in a single ebook!

Coming soon!

Reason 4 – Its beaches and Corniche

Facing the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca’s Corniche is a privileged area for relaxation and leisure. We particularly enjoyed the Plage d’Aïn Diab, the city’s most famous beach, which runs along the coastline. You can enjoy a multitude of water sports or a stroll along the landscaped promenade, a popular spot for joggers and families. In winter, an ice skating rink completes the leisure facilities, making the Corniche a lively place to be all year round.

Reason 5 – Its vibrant nightlife

Casablanca is also known for its nightlife, which beats to the rhythm of its cosmopolitan population. We’ve immersed ourselves in the atmosphere of a city that comes alive particularly at weekends and during the vacations, where establishments vie for originality. You can enjoy discos, cinemas and evening strolls along the Corniche. For example, restaurants like La Ola on the coast stay open late and regularly organize events with musical entertainment. Renowned DJs, elegant surroundings, themed evenings or a jazzy ambience – there’s something for everyone.

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Reason 6 – Authentic local markets

Casablanca’s markets are veritable institutions that punctuate daily life. We were won over by the authenticity of the Marché Central and the special atmosphere of the souks in the Habous district. You can also stroll the narrow streets of the Mâarif district, which also has its own market where you can discover a wide range of local products. These lively places are brimming with colorful flowers, fresh fruit and vegetables, freshly caught fish and meats. Local handicrafts also feature prominently, giving you the opportunity to take home some typical souvenirs.

Reason 7 – Green spaces, a breath of fresh air in the city

Looking for greenery and wooded areas in this urban environment? Casablanca’s parks and gardens promise precious moments of relaxation. We’re particularly fond of the Parc de la Ligue Arabe. We have rediscovered this recently renovated 30-hectare historic public space, which is one of the most beautiful landscaped parks on Maroc. On the outskirts of the city, you’ll also appreciate the Forêt de Bouskoura, a family-friendly meeting place for Sunday strolls. In the Habous district, push open the gates of Parc Murdoch (or Parc Isesco), created at the beginning of the 20th century in the heart of the city. Have you heard of Anfa Park, Casablanca’s largest green space? The 50-hectare park boasts planted promenades, water features, sports and relaxation areas and modern facilities. The city of Casablanca has made these green spaces available free of charge.

Reason 8 – Its rich history

Casablanca’s history goes back to the ancient Anfa, today a district of the city. From the Berbers to the French, via the Phoenicians and the Romans, its creation dates back to the 7th century. You’ll discover a city that was an important maritime trading center from the 13th century under the Merinids, trading actively with Spain and Portugal. The construction of the Kingdom’s first major modern port in Casablanca in 1912 also marked a decisive turning point, gradually transforming the city into the economic capital of Maroc. We felt the influences of its rich Berber, Arab, Portuguese, Spanish and French heritage through the museums and monuments that make Casablanca so special. Take a look at the image below: aren’t the ramparts of the Sqala, an ancient 17th-century fortress, amazing?

Reason 9 – Its strategic location in the heart of the Maroc

Casablanca’s geographical position makes it a major hub in Maroc and Africa. We appreciated its road, motorway and rail connections, making it easy to explore the country. Note also that high-speed train lines have been in service since 2018, making certain journeys faster. Last but not least, Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport, built in 1951, is the largest in Maroc and offers numerous international connections. This well-developed transport infrastructure, combined with its central location on Moroccan territory, makes it an ideal starting point for discovering the country’s riches.

Reason 10 – Its modernity and dynamism

Casablanca epitomizes the modern, dynamic Maroc. Did you know that this metropolis accounts for over 20% of national employment and is one of Africa’s most important cities? You’ll be seduced by its avant-garde architecture and its openness to the world. The Maghreb’s largest city is home to one of the world’s largest mosques. In its various neighborhoods, you’ll notice that tradition and modernity coexist in contemporary and historic buildings. Its cultural life and economic dynamism make it a captivating urban destination that never sleeps.

DISCOVER Casablanca

• What to do in Casablanca (coming soon)
• Best hotels (coming soon)
• Best restaurants (coming soon)

Some disadvantages of a trip to Casablanca

Heavy traffic, parking and congestion

Despite its modern infrastructure, we found that traffic in Casablanca can be quite dense. However, the city has bicycle paths on the main roads, pedestrian squares and an efficient network of 4 tramway lines. You can choose between several transport options: bus, walking, tramway, official cab (red in Casablanca) or VTC services.

To make getting around easier, we recommend avoiding rush hours and taking the streetcar, which avoids the frequent traffic jams. For more information, visit the official website of the city’s transport network here.
Parking in the city is not always easy, so opt for accommodation with parking or visit the city’s website, which lists paying parking lots here.

Urban noise and pollution

As a dynamic metropolis, Casablanca presents urban challenges common to other major cities. Air quality can be affected by traffic, industrial activity and waste management. You may notice noise pollution in the city center, where urban activity is intense, with construction work and busy traffic. These vibrations and noises are part of metropolitan life, testifying to the dynamism of the growing city, although they can sometimes be a source of annoyance.

Cultural differences and social contrast

The social contrast can sometimes be surprising, as the city’s wealth varies from one neighborhood to another.
Furthermore, although Casablanca is considered more liberal than other Moroccan cities, intrusive behavior and incivilities in the public space remain a problem. Mobile self-help applications such as The Sorority are on the rise. We recommend you visit the Gauthier, Aïn Diab, Mâarif, Anfa, Habous and downtown areas. Finally, we recommend avoiding less touristy areas such as Sidi Moumen, Hay Mohammadi and Derb Sultan, especially after dark.

How to get to Casablanca

There are several options for getting to Casablanca:

• By car: large white cabs provide connections between the towns of Maroc; the well-developed motorway network makes access by car easy.
• By bus: CTM, the national bus company, offers comfortable, air-conditioned and safe bus journeys.
• By train: the ONCF rail network serves several stations in Casablanca, linking it efficiently to all the other cities of Maroc with high-speed lines and conventional trains.
• By air: Mohamed V Airport is a gateway for visitors from all over the world, with 96 international destinations served every day.

To travel between Mohamed V Airport and downtown Casablanca, opt for a private transfer or a VTC ride.

SHE MADE THE TRIP AND WROTE THE ARTICLE Myriam