Since Casablanca is the economic heart of Morocco, as well as the main entry point for travellers into the country, the city has ample accommodation in all price ranges. There are luxury international five-star hotel chains as well as modest independent guest houses.

The sheer volume of traffic in Casablanca ensures that most of the hotels are booked virtually all year round. It's highly suggested you reserve your hotel room online in advance, especially during the peak summer holiday season.

The city centre is the ideal location if you want maximum ambiance and proximity to attractions. There are several excellent hotels downtown such as the Oum Palace Hotel, one of the newest and most modern places to stay, featuring things like wireless internet, large comfortable rooms and its own hammam, sauna and massage facilities.

The Hotel Volubilis is another popular choice because of its 1919 Art Deco features. Recently opened, the owners kept much of the original flooring and décor but upgraded all the rooms to be modern and comfortable. Another Art Deco beauty is the Hotel Guynemer, a family-run place that is very popular with leisure travellers. The staff is friendly, the rooms full of charm and it's nearly always full.

Two of the best international chain hotels in Casablanca are Le Royal Mansour Méridien and the Hotel Hyatt Regency. The former is one of Casablanca's most opulent hotels, oozing Moroccan style in every aspect. The Hyatt is very popular with business travellers for its full range of amenities, 253 luxurious rooms and suites, and meticulous service.

Finding a good hotel at a fair price can be a challenge in Casablanca. Unless you plan to stay out of town along the coast, you will need to choose a neighbourhood within the city centre. Summers are hot and dusty in the city, as scant breeze from the Atlantic makes its way into the urban core. An air-conditioned room is essential during the hot months. Winters, on the other hand, are surprisingly cold so you'll want to consider a room with a heater.

For the most atmosphere and convenience to the attractions and dining options in Casablanca, consider staying in the Old Medina, Quartier Habous or the Corniche. There are dozens of inexpensive hotels clustered around the CTM bus station, but the majority of them tend to be overpriced and unimpressive. If you can do without the charm, then the CTM is a good place to base yourself.

The Avenue des FAR is another popular strip of international chain and local independent hotels, but again many of them lack that classic Moroccan style. Since most of the fun in Casablanca lies in wandering its Art Deco neighbourhoods, it pays to stay in one of the city's more gentrified districts such as the Quartier Habous.

This very stylish quarter may be a kilometre from downtown but it has some charming small hotels catering to mid-range budget travellers. The Corniche is another great area for its lovely beachfront views and proximity to the sea and its refreshing breeze.