Guided visit
Season: Year-round; no tours during prayersHassan II Mosque guided tour
- See the vast prayer hall, the carved cedar ceilings and the zellige tiles
- Go down to the ablutions rooms and the hammam
The essentials
| Location | The Atlantic coast of Morocco, about 90 km south-west of Rabat |
|---|---|
| Population | More than 3 million; Morocco’s largest city |
| Region | Casablanca-Settat |
| Time zone | Usually UTC+1; clocks go back an hour during Ramadan |
| Currency | Moroccan dirham (MAD) |
| Languages | Arabic and Amazigh; French is widely used |
| Plugs | Types C and E (European two-pin), 220 volts |
| Emergency numbers | 19 for police, 15 for fire and ambulance |
When to visit
The Atlantic keeps Casablanca mild all year, without the extremes of Marrakech or the desert. It can feel damp and cool in the evenings, so bring a layer in any season.
| Months | What to expect |
|---|---|
| March to May | Mild and fresh, with some rain early on. A lovely time for walking. |
| June to August | Warm, dry and often hazy in the morning, usually in the mid-20s °C. Busy on the beaches. |
| September and October | Warm and mostly dry, with warmer sea. One of the best times to visit. |
| November to February | Mild by day, cool at night and the rainiest months. Good waves for experienced surfers. |
Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan, many cafés and restaurants close during the day, opening hours shorten and the city comes alive after sunset. Avoid eating or drinking in public in daylight out of respect, and check the dates before you travel, as they change each year.
What to pack
- Light layers and a jacket for the evening, plus a light raincoat in winter
- Clothes that cover shoulders and knees for the mosque and the medinas
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun cream, sunglasses and a hat
- A small day bag that closes securely
Money and costs
Cash machines are common, and cards work in hotels, malls and larger restaurants. Carry dirhams for taxis, markets and tips. Rounding up or leaving about 10% is usual in restaurants.
Health
- Water: many visitors stick to bottled or filtered water.
- Food: choose busy places where the food is freshly cooked.
- Sea: Atlantic currents can be strong, so take care where you swim.
- Insurance: take out travel insurance that covers healthcare before you go.
Safety
- Bags and phones: watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers, particularly on busy streets, in the medina and around stations.
- After dark: use taxis rather than walking through quiet areas.
- Traffic: take care when crossing the road, and look out for trams and scooters.
- Unofficial guides: a polite but firm “no, thank you” works.
- Travel advice: check your government’s current advice for Morocco before you go.
Customs and etiquette
- Morocco is a Muslim country, so dress modestly away from the beach, and be respectful around mosques.
- Non-Muslims can’t usually enter mosques. The Hassan II Mosque is the main exception.
- Alcohol is sold in licensed bars, restaurants and some shops, but drinking in public is not acceptable.
- Ask before photographing people, especially women.
- Use your right hand when eating from a shared dish or greeting someone.
