Plan a CruiseCasablanca Cruise Port Guide
As of November 2025, Casablanca's cruise port has been relocated to a new, "state-of-the-art" facility. When approaching the port, look for the impressive Hassan II Mosque. The cruise terminal currently has few amenities or shops.
The city center is approximately 1000-1250 meters from the dock. While walkable, the route passes through an unappealing industrial area and is not recommended, especially in hot weather. Casablanca is one of the world's largest artificial ports. Beyond the Hassan II Mosque and the old medina, the city itself is not widely considered a major tourist draw.
Getting Around from the Port
Walking: The city center is 1 to 1.25 km from the port. However, the walk is through an industrial zone and is not pleasant, particularly in the heat. Shuttles: Many cruise lines offer shuttle services to the city center, which may be free or require a nominal charge. Taxis: Taxis are readily available dockside. Fares should be negotiated as meters are not used. Expect to pay around 10 euro to the city center, with return fares often cheaper. Train: The new "Casa Port" train station is about a 20-minute walk or a $5 taxi ride from the port. Trains to Rabat Ville depart approximately every 60 minutes. The journey takes about 75 minutes and costs around $4 for second class or $8 for first class (one way). Credit cards are accepted.
Attractions and Activities
1. Hassan II Mosque: This colossal temple was designed by Michel Pineau and is the second-largest Muslim temple in the world after the Mecca mosque, with a prayer hall that can accommodate 25,000 people. It's a must-see landmark within Casablanca. 2. Old Medina: Located just inland from the waterfront, the old medina features some lovely examples of Moorish architecture. Its streets and alleys are steep and paved with cobblestones, but it's relatively easy to navigate as you can often see the harbor. No commercial excursion companies operate near the port, making this a good independent exploration. 3. Day Trip to Marrakech (250 km / 155 miles): Marrakech is significantly more interesting than Casablanca, renowned for its palaces, gardens, and a vibrant marketplace filled with snake charmers, jugglers, acrobats, and fortune-tellers. It's a long and tiring day trip, best undertaken with an organized tour due to the distance. However, for independent travelers, it can also be reached by train from Casablanca, offering a chance to see the countryside. 4. Day Trip to Rabat (90 km / 56 miles): The capital city, Rabat, is another popular destination. It can be easily reached by train from the Casa Port station (a 75-minute journey, approximately $4-8 one way).
Dining
Casablanca's Central Market is located just inland from the port. To reach it, head left along Boulevard Maoulay Abderrahmane and then turn right onto Avenue Pasteur. Cafes offering free WiFi are numerous, stay open late, and charge reasonable fees. During the month of Ramadan, most restaurants are closed for lunch, except those catering specifically to tourists.
Shopping
Shops generally operate seven days a week with no fixed opening hours, though they will be closed on major national and Islamic holidays. A popular local souvenir is Argan oil, sold for cosmetic use. It is respectful to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan.
Safety
- Be aware that the walk from the port to the city center is through an industrial area and is not recommended, especially in hot weather.
- When taking taxis, always negotiate the fare before starting your journey, as taxis in Casablanca do not use meters.
- During Ramadan, be mindful and respectful of local customs by refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), divided into 100 centimes. It is forbidden to export Moroccan money, so plan to spend all your local currency before departing. There are no restrictions on importing foreign currencies. Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 50, 100, and 200 DH. ATMs are available in cities. Banks typically operate from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM, sometimes staying open through lunchtime in summer. Most hotels, restaurants, and antique shops accept credit cards. The official languages are Arabic, Berber, and French. While English proficiency varies, especially outside tourist areas, many cafes offer free WiFi (though keyboards may differ, so ask for assistance). Emergency numbers are Police: 19; Fire Service: 15.