When you’re short on time it can be hard to choose between two major cities and decide on Marrakech or Casablanca.
I mean, do you go with Marrakech, the stunning cultural capital of the country, or Casablanca, a vast economic hub of activity that sits on the coast?
Well this article will help you thoroughly look at Casablanca vs. Marrakech and decide which one is right for you.
Both cities have amazing things to offer and there is really only one Rick’s (FYI it’s in Casablanca and super expensive just go to the bar for a drink if you wanna visit).
However, if I had to pick right now, I would choose Marrakech. I find it to be a safer, more interesting city that is much easier to navigate.
We had locals in Casablanca constantly telling us to watch our belongings and hide our phone.
Plus, taxis would straight up refuse to drive us to where we needed to go because it was, “too far away.”
I have lived in Morocco well over a year and have been to Casablanca many times and that was the exact moment I was over it.
But, let’s dig deep, weigh out all the pros and cons and help you decide if Casablanca or Marrakech is better.
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Table of Contents
The Short Answer: Go to Marrakech
Like I just stated in the intro. If I had to pick between Marrakech and Casablanca, I would choose Marrakech.
It’s a safer city, is easier to navigate, it’s a lot cleaner, and there are just a lot more cool things to do in Marrakech.
However, just because you pick Marrakech over Casablanca does not mean you can’t actually visit Casablanca.
If I was short on time and wanted to visit both cities I would just book a day tour to Casablanca from Marrakech.
Yes, it will be a long day since Marrakech is about 3 hours away from Casablanca by car.
But, it’s a great way to experience some of the best things to do in Casablanca without actually having to stay in the city.
Besides, many people think Hassan II Mosque is one of the most beautiful places in Morocco.
So, it makes for a cool day trip from Marrakech and is just a great way to see both cities in a short amount of time.
Marrakech vs Casablanca: Quick Comparison
Not sure whether you want to visit Marrakech or Casablanca during your very own epic Morocco itinerary? If so then check out the table below to quickly and easily compare the two cities.
| Marrakech | Casablanca | |
| Safety | Exercise regular caution but never felt unsafe | Must always watch your belongings and not keep your phone. Locals were constantly telling us to hide our stuff |
| Public Transportation | The medina in Marrakech is easy to navigate on foot but you can use buses too, as well as taxis. Watch out for taxi scammers. | There is a tram but the city is huge and really hard to get around. You can also use the bus but taxis will flat-out refuse to take you to distant locations. You also cannot walk everywhere. It’s just too far. |
| Best Time to Visit | Avoid it in the summer since it is stupid hot, unless you want to sit by the pool. | Also really hot in the summer but the city is by the ocean. The amazing gardens are also way better and come alive in spring. |
| Temperature | A warmer city with highs in the summer of up to 45°C (113°F) since you’re in a desert. | A cooler coastal city with highs of only around 26°C (79°F) but it can get hotter. Thank God there are beaches in the area. |
| Highlights | Medina, Jardin Majorelle, Bahia Palace (more historic vibe) | Rick’s Cafe, Hassan II Mosque, Arab League Park, Notre Dame Church (more modern and big city feel) |
| Cuisine | Traditional Moroccan cuisine and better street food. But good Marrakech brunch too. | More worldly and modern food with a lot of fusion cuisine |
| Accommodations | Luxurious riads and budget hotels | Diverse array of hotels and a little cheaper than Marrakech |
| Day Trips | A wider array of day trips to Atlas Mountains and other cities | Can do fun day trips to nearby beaches and cities on the coast. Well-connected to other cities by high-speed train. Also easy to travel between Essaouira and Casablanca. |
| Activities | Historic tours, walk through gardens, shop in the Medina | Go to the beach, see local landmarks, enjoy nightlife and modern restaurants |
| Medina | Way better and more authentic feeling Medina | Small but does give you a small taste of old Morocco |
| Shopping | Go to the souks for traditional souvenirs | A lot more malls where you can find a wide array of high-end goods |
| Overall Feel | Historic, Old-world Morocco vibe | Giant big city feel with a lot more modern ammenities |
Getting to Marrakech and Casablanca
When it comes to connectivity, both cities have international airports as well as large bus stations and train stations.
Marrakech is home to Marrakech Menara Airport. It is a vibrant international airport that has direct flights arriving from many cities across Europe.
To get from Marrakech Airport to the Medina, just use bus number 19. Tickets are 30 Dirham ($3.00 round trip) and the bus will quickly take you to the Medina.
However, you could also access Marrakech via several bus stations (CTM/Supratours) as well as the Marrakech Railway station which is connected to many cities around Morocco.
Sadly, though, there is no high-speed train available.
In contrast, Casablanca has the Mohammed V International Airport. It is the busiest airport in the country and has a wider array of direct flights arriving from all over the world.
To access the city from the airport, take the train from either Ain Sebaa, Casa Port, Casa Voyageurs, and Oasis train stations.
We departed from Casa Voyageurs and the trip took around 45 minutes and cost 25 Dirham ($2.50). It is by far the fastest, cheapest, and easiest way to get to/from the airport.
However, Casablanca is also connected via regular/high-speed trains to cities all over the country from Casa-Voyageurs Railway Station.
You can also use buses to travel to other cities from a wide variety of stations. I usually arrive at the CTM bus terminal but there are a ton of different stations around the city.
Local Tip: Casablanca is HUGE. Always double-check which train/bus station you are departing from because I 100% almost missed my bus since I showed up at the wrong CTM bus station.
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Accommodations
Is Casablanca or Marrakech better when it comes to accommodation. You need to keep in mind that both cities are home to a wide array of accommodation options that include everything from Airbnbs to luxury hotels to backpacker hostels.
On the whole, though, hotels/riads in Marrakech tend to be a bit more expensive (and luxurious) than the hotels you’ll find in Casablanca (only a slight difference).
So, in both cities, you can find beds in a dorm in a hostel for as little as $10.00 per night.
However, luxury hotel rooms in Casablanca tend to top out at around $500 (Four Seasons), while luxury hotels in Marrakech can easily cost upwards of $1100.00 per night.
The hotels in Marrakech also tend to be more traditional riads that come with plunge pools and Moroccan-style decor.
Additionally, hotels are well located in or near the Medina, making it easier to visit all of the top attractions in Marrakech.
In contrast, the hotels in Casablanca tend to be bigger and more modern, with fewer historic, riads available.
It is also really difficult to get around the city since it is huge and hotels are scattered across a wide area. So, you’ll have trouble seeing a lot of things in a short amount of time.
Marrakech Attractions
Marrakech, often referred to as the Red City, is home to a wealth of historical landmarks and vibrant cultural attractions that make it difficult to see it all with just one day in Marrakech.
Attractions such as the Marrakech Museum, the Saadian Tombs, and Bahia Palace provide insights into the city’s unique history.
These iconic Moroccan landmarks also give visitors a chance to admire stunning Moroccan architecture that dates back hundreds of years.
For those seeking tranquility, Jardin Majorelle is an oasis in the city with an array of exotic plants and a stunning blue house that visitor’s will love.
You can also visit the Yves Saint Laurent museum next door and learn all about this famous designer.
Afterward, step back in time and wander through the maze that is the ancient Medina. It’s a great place to shop and interact with locals as they go about their daily lives.
All in all, Marrakech will be perfect for you if you love exploring historic sites and want to engage in a variety of cultural experiences.
It’s also great If you want to be able to quickly and easily walk from one attraction to the next.
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Casablanca Attractions
Casablanca seamlessly merges modern life with its rich history, creating a vibrant cityscape that visitors will love.
However, no trip to Casablanca would be complete without a stop at the stunning, Hassan II Mosque.
Overlooking the ocean, it is an architectural marvel that is a must-visit destination in Casablanca.
For those looking to deepen their understanding of this place, guided tours are an excellent way to learn about the mosque’s history and better understand its significance.
Meanwhile, architecture enthusiasts will enjoy an eclectic mix of building styles along Boulevard Mohammed V, that include both Art Deco and contemporary structures.
Additionally, the Corniche area offers beach lovers a mix of relaxation and entertainment, with luxury resorts, eateries, and beach clubs all waiting to be explored.
Afterward, experience a vibrant art and culture scene at La Villa des Arts and La Fabrique Culturelle.
Just don’t leave the city without visiting the Arab League Park. It is easily one of the most beautiful parks I have ever been to. Plus, the famous Notre Dame church sits right next door.
So, you could easily visit both attractions at the same time.
All in all, Casablanca will be better for you if you enjoy a place with a big city feel and with modern attractions that sit right near the beach.
The restaurants are also a lot more modern and are perfect if you are looking for food that is similar to what you might find at home, like brunch and avo toast.
What Casablanca and Marrakech Have in Common
Great Food
It’s no secret that one of the best things to do in Morocco is to indulge in delicious local cuisine.
Both cities are home to a wide array of traditional and modern cuisine that traveler’s will love digging into. I mean, Marrakech has a Nobu. Need I say more?
However, Marrakech specializes more in traditional Moroccan cuisine and is home to richer, more extensive food markets around Jemaa el-Fna Square.
Here, you can sample delicious street food and traditional local dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla.
On the other hand, the coastal location of Casablanca’s La Corniche area make it the perfect spot to try delicious seafood smothered in flavorful chermoula sauce.
Yes, traditional Moroccan cuisine and street food is 100% available in Casablanca. However, there is less of it and I find the quality to be better in Marrakech.
However, Casablanca shines at serving up delicious fusion cuisine and western fare. I mean, you can go to neighborhoods in the city and easily find brunch, avocado toast, Mexican, and more.
So, if you’re looking for good international, western cuisine that can be found almost everywhere then try Casablanca. The city also serves excellent fusion cuisine too.
Casablanca or Marrakech, whatever you choose you will find that the food is amazing.
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Incredible Shopping
If you want to haggle with local street vendors, explore ancient narrow streets filled with people, and buy authentic, homemade arts and crafts, then Marrakech is the place for you.
It has an enormous, super ancient Medina that is filled with souks where you can buy anything from carpets to tagines to lanterns.
It’s also super confusing to walk around, so you will get lost. But, one of my Marrakech tips is to just embrace it and enjoy the ride.
Because it’s a magical place where you feel like you’re stepping back in time and seeing what old school Morocco really looked like.
I mean, there’s a reason why Marrakech’s medina is a protected, UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In contrast, Casablanca is super modern and filled with vast ocean-front shopping malls, like Marche Central, where you can get the latest ipod or a killer backpack for trekking through the mountains.
Yes, the city has a Medina. But, it’s a lot smaller and not nearly as impressive as the one in Marrakech.
TBH the goods for sale there are pretty lame. I got a pair of sunglasses that broke after five minutes. And, no, I am not exaggerating.
So, if you are looking for modern tech or specialty items, like electronics, then Casablanca is the place to go.
Local Tip: These shopping malls and markets always get packed with people. So, it’s important to keep your belongings safe and watch out for pickpockets.
That being said, I live here and have never had an issue in Casablanca or Marrakech. But, I am stupid anal when it comes to my belongings and am always on the lookout for thieves.
I also have a pacsafe, anti-theft backpack that is super helpful.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Marrakech and Casablanca each have their own unique history and amazing cultural heritage.
Regardless of whether you visit Marrakech or Casablanca, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the awesome culture of this amazing country.
Marrakech, with its traditional Moorish architecture, houses historic treasures like the Saadian tombs and Bahia Palace, capturing the beauty of its rich past.
Additionally, Marrakech is a mere 3-hour drive from the iconic fortified village of Aït Benhaddou. So, you could easily explore this immortal place during a fun day trip.
Meanwhile, Casablanca merges historical charm with vibrant modernity.
So, you can visit historic attractions like the Old Medina and Hassan II Mosque from within a modern contemporary landscape.
That being said, I think Marrakech is ultimately the best city to go to if you are looking for rich cultural experiences and enjoy awesome historic landmarks.
Nature
Marrakech serves as a gateway to the incredible natural wonders that can be found within the nearby Atlas Mountains and the awesome Agafay Desert. If you want, you can even splurge on a stay at a luxury camp in the Agafay Desert.
Therefore, Marrakech is a great home base from which to enjoy epic hiking trails and even conquer the highest mountain in North Africa, Mount Toubkal.
Within the city, the Menara and Majorelle Gardens are beautiful places where you can go for a bit of tranquility.
On the other hand, the natural beauty of Casablanca can be found in its beaches and along the picturesque coast, especially around Corniche.
This part of the city is a total paradise for anyone who wants to sit by the beach while relaxing at top-notch restaurants and bars.
Meanwhile, Casablanca’s Parc de la Ligue Arab (Arab League Parc) is absolutely stunning and massive.
It is easily the most beautiful park I have been to in Morocco and totally blows the parks in Marrakech out of the water since its more lush and green and a lot less arid.
Relaxation
Hammams, or traditional Moroccan baths/steam houses, can be found in both Marrakech and Casablanca.
They offer visitors a unique way to relax and engage in traditional Moroccan Hammam treatments that exfoliate the skin and purify the body.
Outside of the hammam, travelers can explore quiet gardens like Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech Quartier Habous in Casablanca.
Weather in Marrakech vs. Casablanca
I think the weather is way better in Casablanca. Because the city sits on the coast, temperatures tend to be much milder and only get up to around 26°C (79°F) during the heat of the summer.
In contrast, Marrakech is an absolute nightmare in the summer and this is definitely not the best season to visit Marrakech.
Really, the only thing summer in Marrakech is good for is sitting by the pool since highs can get up to 45°C (113°F).
Yeah, I know the internet will tell you it doesn’t get that hot but I live here and it 110% does. The AC in many restaurants/museums is also not powerful, so it can be really hard to cool off.
In terms of rainfall, Marrakech is definitely way drier since it is in a desert. But, both cities don’t get a ton of rain.
Just avoid Casablanca in December and January since the city averages 10 days of rain during both of these months.
Otherwise, my fave time to visit both cities is February, April (after Ramadan), October, and November. The weather is great and it’s off-season so there aren’t as many tourists around.
Casablanca or Marrakech FAQs
Is Casablanca Worth Visiting?
Casablanca is worth visiting for the amazing architecture. Just stop by Hassan II Mosque and you’ll quickly see why it took 10,000 artisans seven years to build this incredible mosque.
You’ll also love the French-style buildings on Boulevard Mohammed V that are flanked by palm trees.
Is Casablanca or Marrakech Better?
Marrakech is way better. But, Casablanca is a dynamic, modern city with awesome beaches. Meanwhile, Marrakech has a historic charm that is hard to find anywhere else.
Which City in Morocco has the Best Nightlife?
The nightlife in Marrakech is incredible. But, Casablanca probably has the best nightlife in Morocco because it is bigger and is home to a lot more clubs and bars.
What is the Best City to Stay in in Morocco?
The three best cities to stay in in Morocco are Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca. Marrakech charms visitors with its lively bazaars and remarkable buildings.
Meanwhile Fes is celebrated for its historic medina and artisanal crafts, which is one of the many reasons to visit Fes.
In contrast, Casablanca beautifully merges modernity with historic heritage, in addition to being the home to an amazing harbor.
That concludes this guide on Marrakech vs. Casablanca. I hope you now know all the pros and cons of visiting these cities and are able to decide on Casablanca or Marrakech.
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