Most people touch down in Casablanca expecting Hollywood romance, only to find a living, breathing city with all its raw edges. The key to loving Casablanca is simple: choose the right base.
## Where to stay
**Maarif, not the Old Medina.** Forget the Old Medina for your stay — it’s a cauldron of endless wares and eager vendors pushing souvenirs. Maarif is where the modern Casablanca unfolds. Imagine wide boulevards brimming with boutique shops and casual eateries where the locals actually hang. Book a spot near Place 11 Janvier for easy access to pastisseries and a genuine slice of daily life.
**Anfa Supérieur, for serenity and views.** This is the Casablanca of the well-heeled and those in the know. Perched on the hills, Anfa Supérieur offers a retreat from the city buzz with sweeping Atlantic views. Admire the old colonial villas, a vestige of French elegance, and lounge in the chic cafés. Hit L'Atelier 21 for contemporary art or just stroll along Boulevard de l'Océan Atlantique.
**Derb Omar, for substance over style.** This is the commercial heart, gritty and real. Avoid the tourist gloss and dive into the spice-scented air of Marché Central. Stay here if you want to experience the pulse across the aisles of bustling markets and sample some of the best tagine at the unassuming, yet legendary, Restaurant Zayna.
**Corniche Ain Diab, but only off-peak.** This is Casablanca's seaside strip, more Miami than Morocco. Visit during the week for breezy strolls along the promenade and a chance to sip mint tea with ocean views. Weekends transform it into a parade of see-and-be-seen; skip the chaos and enjoy its laid-back charm when the locals are at work.
## When to go
April, May, late September, or early October bring mild temperatures and fewer crowds — a time when Casablanca cools down and opens up. Avoid July and August unless you're a fan of relentless heat and packed beaches.
Whether you're a first-timer or a returning visitor, the right neighbourhood makes all the difference. When in doubt, ask the concierge for a hidden café or a local's favourite spot. They know the real gems.
