Getting around Casablanca

Public transport

Casablanca has an extensive network of inexpensive bus routes but rush-hour services are usually overcrowded and chaotic. Tickets are available on board and you will need small change. As the bus signs are often in Arabic only, it's advisable to use the ‘petits taxis’ system to save time and trouble. There's also a rapid transit tram system, Casa Tramway (tel: +212 522 998 383; www.casatramway.ma), which is super-modern and connects the furthest reaches of the city. Otherwise, the medina and town centre are easily accessible on foot.

Taxis

Casablanca has an abundance of red petits taxis that prowl the main avenues and can be waved down or picked up at waiting places. They are inexpensive, though a 50% surcharge is added on at night.

The white minibus-style vehicles, known as grands taxis, offer a shared service which carry up to six passengers and follow regular routes. They are also an inexpensive option for journeys outside the city - often with shorter travel times than the train or bus.

Driving

Traffic in Casablanca is often gridlocked and parking can be a nightmare. Accident rates are high and driving in town can be manic. It’s not recommended for tourists.

Car hire

The minimum age is usually 21. With more than 100 companies competing for business in Casablanca, car hire deals are much better here than elsewhere in Morocco. The major international operators are Budget (tel: +212 522 313 124; www.budget.com), Europcar (tel: +212 522 539 161; www.europcar.com), Hertz (tel: +212 522 484 710; www.hertz.com).

Bicycle hire

Rabat-based bike hire company Maroc Bike (tel: +212 6 0232 5838; www.marocbike.com) rents out town and mountain bikes in Casablanca.