Casablanca

Located in Morocco within 100 miles of the capital Rabat, Casablanca the most populous city with nearly four million people. Compared to other Muslim cities, Casablanca has been and is heavily influenced by European culture (for example in fashion).
MSC ships usually dock at the left side of the pier an and Costa Cruises at opposite side. The exit of the port is 15 minute by foot from the pier. Before leaving the terminal you have to pass a local security control.

Casablanca is a foll day port of call, becase it is two full days trip away from Tenerife and one day from Malaga (next usual ports of call)

OFFICIAL EXCURSIONS: There are many options in this destination. On the one hand we have long trips to Rabat, Fez and Marrakesh (between four and six hours away from Casablanca by bus), or sightseeing tours in Casablanca itself. Every sightseen tours includes the Hassan II Mosque, which can hold inside a 20,000 people, reaching to 80,000 people if you count the outside. It is one of the largest in the world.

Hassan II Mosque

ALTERNATIVES: You can visit the Mosque of Hassan II on your own. Leaving the port and turning to the right, always following the coastline along the Boulevard des Almohades, you'll arrive at a Rick's Cafe (the real one seen on the film Casablanca does not exist, since the film was shot the USA). Continuing along the Boulevard de Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah you'll reach to the mosque. You can also visit the central market which is open until 2 pm. I recommend to walk though the streets of Casablanca, but if you're feeling adventurous get into a petit taxi (small red ones). They can take up to 4 people, but only inside the town. These are shared taxis, so do not be surprised if the driver stops to catch more passengers unless it is full. The driver will ask for your destination to see if he catches you or not. You can also take a grand taxi (most are old mercedes benz), which can take up to six people. It works with the same system as the petit, but they can make trips outside the city. The price of the petit taxi depends on the distance, while you have to negotiate price in the grand taxis. Drivers do not have much respect for traffic rules.

RICK'S CAFE

WHERE TO EAT: You can eat couscous in the old town,  but always ask for bottled water.

SHOPPING: Near the entrance to the port there souvenir shops and a crafts center. Through the old town you can also find shops where bargain needed.