Casablanca’s surroundings
Casablanca has eight districts and sixteen neighbourhoods but there are many more towns and cities beyond the urban expanse of this bustling city that are worth exploring and can easily be reached by car. It’s important to know that Casablanca region consists of two prefectures, Casablanca and Mohammedia (which is formed by Ain Harrouda and Mohammedia). Mohammedia is a port city about 30 km from Casablanca; formerly known as Fedala, it was once governed by the Zenata but has become an industrial city with a large oil refinery. It has around 250,000 inhabitants and a well laid out urban plan, with plenty of gardens and tall palm trees. Attractions in this modern city include Mohammed V Square, Villes Jumeles Park, the church of Saint Jacques, the kasbah and La Corniche. If you’d like to buy a souvenir, make sure you head to the copper souk.
Bouskoura Forest, in Nouaceur province, is a similar distance away from Casablanca. This green space is predominantly populated by pine trees and is a wonderful natural expanse in Casablanca region. It was planted in the 20th century and is often frequented by runners who can do their favourite sport in a lovely peaceful setting.
There are also several beaches worth visiting near Casablanca that, together with its urban beaches, offer a wonderful selection of trips to the coastline. Dar Bouazza Beach in Nouaceur province is just 30 km away and is one of the most popular among Casablanca residents. Sidi Rahal Beach, in Berrechid province, is another good option and is around 40 km away. It has fine, golden sand and good waves for surfing, making it popular among a young crowd who give it a fun vibe. Beaches in Mohammédia, including the beach by the seafront promenade and other, wilder ones, are also interesting options, while Bouznika’s beaches, around 50 km from Casablanca, are some of the most beautiful in Morocco.
If you have a little more time, you could also do a trip to another major Moroccan city, such as Rabat, which is 86 km away. It’s the capital of Morocco and its political and administrative centre, as well as being one of Morocco’s four imperial cities alongside Meknes, Fez and Marrakech. During your visit you’ll discover numerous monuments of interest such as Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the Grand Mosque, the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Royal Palace and its picturesque medina.
Two other fascinating places that are slightly further away are the well-conserved ruins of Roman settlement Volubilis (200 km), an essential stop for archaeology enthusiasts, and Meknes (238 km), which has an extensive cultural heritage. Both Marrakech (243 km) and Fez (246 km) are a slightly different proposition because you need to spend at least a night in each to enjoy their unique atmospheres, souks and monuments.