Visit Marrakech or Casablanca: A Tale of Two Moroccan Cities
Deciding whether to visit Marrakech or Casablanca can be a delightful dilemma for travellers exploring Morocco’s rich landscapes and cultures. Each of these two cities has its own appeal.
Marrakech dazzles with its historic charm and vibrant streets, while Casablanca offers a blend of modern dynamism and scenic beaches. Where you visit depends on your plans for things to do in Morocco.
At Skyhook, we want to help you unravel each city’s unique experiences, making your choice a little easier.
Visiting Marrakech vs Casablanca: A Comprehensive Guide
Marrakech Vs Casablanca At A Glance
Are you struggling to decide whether you want to add a visit to Marrakech or Casablanca as part of your exciting Morocco tour? Don’t worry. Here’s a quick comparison between these two epic destinations:
| Marrakech | Casablanca |
Best Time to Visit | Year-round; especially vibrant in spring | Year-round; spring and autumn preferred |
Average Temperature | Warmer, up to 29°C in summer | Cooler, around 23°C in summer |
Highlights | Historic medina, gardens, cultural sites | Modern cityscape, beaches, architecture |
Cuisine | Traditional Moroccan, vibrant street food | Seafood, modern and traditional mix |
Accommodation | Riads, luxury resorts, budget options | Diverse range, slightly cheaper than Marrakech |
Activities | Historical tours, gardens, adventure trips | Beach activities, cultural tours, nightlife |
Shopping | Souks with traditional goods | Central Market and modern shopping areas |
Nature & Adventure | Atlas Mountains, gardens | Beachfront, Corniche area |
Cultural Significance | Rich history, traditional experiences | A blend of modern and historical influences |
Getting to Marrakech and Casablanca
Reaching Marrakech and Casablanca, Morocco’s vibrant hubs, is straightforward, thanks to their well-connected airports.
Marrakech is served by the Marrakech Menara Airport, a gateway with numerous direct flights from major European cities, making it a convenient entry point.
Meanwhile, Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, being the busiest in Morocco, offers a broader range of international connections, including direct flights from various global destinations.
Whether you’re jetting in from a nearby European country or flying across continents, both cities are accessible and welcoming.
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Accommodation Options
In Marrakech, accommodation ranges from economical hostels to opulent hotels. Budget travellers can find hostels like ‘Bed Square’ for as low as £10 per night.
Mid-range options, such as the 5-star ‘Dar Al Assad’, offer luxury at around £100 a night. For an extravagant stay, private villas like ‘Villa Palmeraie’ start at £300 per night
Casablanca’s accommodation spectrum is similarly diverse.
Backpackers can stay at ‘Auberge de Jeunes Casablanca’ starting at £10, while mid-range options like ‘Riad Dar El Malaika’ offer luxury for about £100 a night. Luxury hotels and villas in Casablanca are generally more affordable compared to Marrakech
While both cities cater to all budgets, Marrakech tends to be slightly more expensive, especially in the luxury segment. Travellers can choose based on their budget and the type of experience they seek.
Note: If you are planning on trekking in Morocco from Marrakech, you will also need to consider the prices and options for accommodation and hotels in the Atlas Mountains.
Marrakech Attractions
Marrakech, known as the Red City, is a treasure trove of historical sites and cultural experiences.
The Marrakech Museum and Bahia Palace invite visitors to learn about their rich history and architecture. The Jardin Majorelle offers a serene escape for nature lovers with its exotic plants and tranquil pools.
The city’s medina, a maze of vibrant streets and souks, is an adventure in itself. For many, this is one of the best places to visit in Marrakech.
Here, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, shop for traditional crafts, or even enjoy a cooking class. For a unique perspective, consider a hot air balloon ride over the city or a day trip to the nearby Atlas Mountains.
Casablanca Attractions
Casablanca, blending the contemporary with the historical, offers a dynamic urban experience.
The city’s crown jewel, Hassan II Mosque, stands majestically by the ocean. Visiting this mosque is amongst the top things to do in Casablanca. Guided tours are available for a more insightful experience.
If you appreciate architecture, the diversity of building design is worth a stroll through the city. The mix between Art Deco and modern styles, especially along Boulevard Mohammed V, adds to the city’s allure.
For beach enthusiasts, Casablanca’s Corniche provides a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment with luxury resorts, restaurants, and beach clubs.
Art and culture are vibrant here, with galleries like La Villa des Arts and cultural hubs like La Fabrique Culturelle offering a glimpse into the city’s artistic soul.
The Best Of Both - What Both Cities Have To Offer
Culinary Delights
One of our top tips for visiting Morocco is to enjoy the local cuisine! Both Marrakech and Casablanca offer a rich culinary journey through Moroccan flavours.
Marrakech is famous for its vibrant food stalls around Jemaa el-Fna, where traditional dishes like tagines, couscous, and pastillas are served with a side of lively entertainment.
In contrast, Casablanca’s La Corniche area is renowned for its exquisite seafood, especially dishes smothered in chermoula sauce.
While both cities serve delicious international cuisine, the local street food and market stalls provide an authentic taste of Morocco at an affordable price.
Whether sipping mint tea in Marrakech or enjoying fresh seafood in Casablanca, the culinary experience is a highlight of any visit.
Shopping Experiences
Shopping in Marrakech is an enchanting experience, especially within the labyrinthine souks of the medina. You’ll find everything from vibrant spices and silks to handcrafted brass lanterns and leather goods, perfect for unique souvenirs or gifts.
In Casablanca, the Marche Central, located on Muhammad V Boulevard, offers a blend of traditional and modern shopping. This bustling marketplace is ideal for mingling with locals while exploring stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, home décor, and clothing.
Note: Although shopping in the local markets is a great experience, these busy areas are unfortunately also the haunt of pickpockets. Keep your valuables close, be vigilant and make sure your Morocco Travel insurance covers personal belongings.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Marrakech and Casablanca, each with its unique historical tapestry, offer a deep dive into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.
With its classical Moorish architecture, Marrakech is home to historical gems like the Saadian tombs and Bahia Palace, encapsulating centuries of history. Marrakech is also about 3 hours drive from the fortified village of Aït Benhaddou, making it possible to visit this site as a day trip.
On the other hand, Casablanca showcases a blend of modern and historical influences. The Old Medina and Hassan II Mosque stand as testaments to the city’s historical significance, while its modern cityscape reflects Morocco’s contemporary developments.
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Nature and Adventure
Marrakech offers a gateway to natural wonders and adventures. The proximity to the Atlas Mountains allows for exhilarating treks and exploration, while the Menara and Majorelle Gardens provide serene natural retreats within the city.
Pro tip: Learn more about trekking in the Atlas Mountains if this sounds like your type of adventure.
Casablanca’s allure lies in its beautiful coastline. The Corniche area is a haven for beach lovers, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and leisure activities. The Parc de la Ligue Arab offers a tranquil green space amidst the city’s hustle.
Relaxation
For those seeking relaxation, Marrakech and Casablanca offer unique experiences.
In Marrakech, the Jardin Majorelle provides a peaceful oasis, while traditional Moroccan Hammam spas offer a rejuvenating escape. These spas are known for their deep-cleansing treatments, perfect for unwinding.
Casablanca’s Quartier Habous is ideal for a leisurely stroll, offering a quieter side to the bustling city. Here, one can relax in the calm neighbourhood, exploring shops and cafes at a relaxed pace.
Casablanca’s spas also offer the Hammam experience, embodying the essence of Moroccan relaxation.
Weather Comparison Between Casablanca & Marrakech
Considering the weather in Marrakech and Casablanca is critical when deciding when to travel to Morocco.
Marrakech, known for its warmer climate, sees temperatures peaking around 29°C in summer.
In contrast, Casablanca, with its coastal location, offers slightly cooler weather, averaging 23°C in the same period.
Both cities share similar dry seasons, with the least rainfall from June to September, making these months ideal for travel.
Why Not See Both?
Travelling between Marrakech and Casablanca is remarkably convenient, offering flexibility for those wishing to explore both cities.
A distance of less than 250km means a drive between the cities is feasible, with the option of frequent, affordable trains for a more relaxed journey. Flights between the two airports provide a quick transfer for those short on time.
For a thorough experience, we recommend allocating 3-4 days in each city. However, feel free to stay longer!
Conclusion
Whether it’s Marrakech’s historic allure or Casablanca’s modern vibrancy, both cities promise an unforgettable journey. So, which destination will you visit first?
Travelling Morocco solo? We recommend joining a group tour like the ones below. This way you get the best deal on price and also have the opportunity to meet like-minded travellers.