Casablanca Layover
Jul 09, 2009 | Comments 0
Stuck on a layover at Morocco’s Casablanca Airport (CMN)? The airport offers a number of things to help keep you occupied during your wait. Located in Nouasseur, a suburb 30 km south-east of Casablanca, this airport is the busiest airport in Morocco. If you’re trying to figure out if you have enough time to leave the airport, click here for some helpful tips.
The airport has shopping, a variety of restaurants and bars, ATMs and a post office. There is also a VIP Lounge, first aid service and a business center. If you plan on traveling with a pet, please read these tips from the airport.
There are no hotels at the airport. The following hotels are situated in the centre of Casablanca: the Hyatt Regency Casablanca, the Idou Anfa tel: (022) 200 235, Le Royal Mansour Meridien, and the Sheraton Casablanca Hotel and Towers tel: (022) 439 494. Many hotels provide an airport shuttle service.
Taxis are found outside the terminal and can take you into Casablanca for the fixed rate of 200 dirham in daytime and 250 dirham at night. (See the sidebar on right for currency exchange rates). In addition you can rent a car from stands inside the airport, take a roughly one-hour bus ride into the city through the CTM bus company, or take the train, ONCF. The train station is located at level one of arrivals, and trains depart every hour from 06:50 to 22:30. The trip will take roughly a half hour. There are Left Luggage facilities at the train station.
Layover Guide’s Suggestions For Things To Do On A Casablanca Layover:
Hassan II Mosque
The Hassan II Mosque is the second largest mosque in the world, and the only one in the city that non-Muslims may visit. The Moroccan mosque part has a section of floor made of glass so worshippers can kneel directly over the sea. The minaret towers at 200 meters and releases a powerful laser beam. The mosque can only be reached by car or bus trip via the port.
Old Medina
Considered to be the old part of Casablanca that was originally a walled city, Old Medina has a lively market where you can find spices and food stalls. This is definitely a place to barter. You can also stop by the fishing harbor and visit the nearby shrine of Sidi Allal el- Kairouani, Casablanca’s patron saint.
Quartier Habous
Considered “New Medina” the Quartier Habous is located southeast of the city centre and a great place to wander and check out the local merchants’ wares. The Arabian style markets offer carpets, copper and brass goods at the markets. There is also one of Casablanca’s best pastry shops, Chez Bennis, for a quick bite.
Port of Casablanca
The modern Port of Casablanca is a great way to spend some time in the sun. You can stop for a bite at one of the seafront seafood restaurants and the Centre 2000 offers luxury shopping. The port can be reached via the fishing harbor in Old Medina.
Le Royal Mansour Meridien
If you have a higher budget, check out staying at the plush Le Royal Mansour Meridien. Here you can take in the Moorish architecture and splurge on some pricey but delicious meals. The hotel is situated at 27 Avenue des F.A.R
The Cathedral Notre Dame de Lourdes
The Cathedral Notre Dame de Lourdes is a Catholic church known for its floor to ceiling magnificent stained glass windows. Currently, it is not used for worship, but instead exhibits ancient Roman artifacts.
Have a suggestion for a Casablanca layover? Leave a comment below!
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