Things To Do
in Settat

Settat is a charming city in Morocco, located approximately 60 kilometers from Casablanca. It serves as a regional hub for agriculture and trade, reflecting traditional Moroccan culture and hospitality. The city is known for its vibrant markets, historical sites, and proximity to natural landscapes.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of urban and rural experiences, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Settat
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast at a local café, featuring fresh bread, olives, and mint tea. After breakfast, visit the historic medina of Settat, where you can explore its narrow alleyways and discover artisan shops.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Parc de la Réserve Naturelle de Settat, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk among the greenery and observe local wildlife. Visit the nearby historical site of the ancient city of Volubilis.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant, savoring Moroccan tagine, followed by a stroll through the bustling streets where you can engage with locals and enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local souk, where you can experience the vibrant market atmosphere and shop for traditional crafts and spices. Enjoy a mid-morning snack of fresh fruits and pastries.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, take a short trip to the nearby Oum Er-Rbia River for a scenic picnic and some relaxation by the water. Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking or birdwatching in the surrounding areas.

evening
:

For dinner, try a well-known local restaurant and enjoy dishes like couscous and harira soup. Spend the evening at a local café, sipping mint tea and listening to traditional music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🏨Night in a budget hotel$30
Coffee at a local café$2
🍵Mint tea$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and traditional Moroccan hospitality.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to major cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Arabic speakers.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent or reliable.
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "La shukran" - No, thank you
  • "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye
  • "Afwan" - You're welcome
  • "Kam thaman?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Settat

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Réserve Naturelle de Settat

A beautiful park featuring lush landscapes and diverse wildlife, perfect for nature photography.

Settat Medina

The historic medina offers colorful markets and traditional architecture, providing excellent opportunities for street photography.

Oum Er-Rbia River

The scenic river is ideal for capturing sunsets and tranquil water scenes, surrounded by natural beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Settat

Settat offers a delightful culinary experience with a blend of traditional Moroccan flavors and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes, street food, and vibrant market scenes.

Settat Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, served in a traditional earthenware pot.

Must-Try!

Couscous

Steamed semolina grains served with meat and vegetables, often enjoyed during family gatherings.

Harira

A traditional Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, and chickpeas, typically eaten during Ramadan.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Settat Souk

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food such as grilled meats and sweet pastries.

Street Food Stalls

Various food stalls throughout the city offering local snacks like msemen (fried flatbreads) and kebabs.

Climate Guide

Weather

Settat experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures hover between 5°C (41°F) and 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is most common from November to March, with the summer months being quite dry. This climate makes Settat an appealing destination year-round, though spring and autumn are particularly pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, particularly in rural areas and religious sites.

Greetings

A handshake is commonly used, and it's polite to greet people with 'As-salamu alaykum' (Peace be upon you).

Respect Ramadan

If visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of those fasting by avoiding eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Settat is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Always stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded markets.

Tipping in Settat

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Cash Payments

While some places accept card payments, cash is preferred, especially in smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Settat is mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and greenery, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Early mornings and evenings are best for outdoor exploration.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and is a great time to visit for hiking and enjoying local festivals.

Winter

Winters are mild but can get chilly at night. It's a good time to explore local culture and enjoy warm Moroccan dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Settat at Night

Settat's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger Moroccan cities. Local cafes and restaurants often feature live music, especially on weekends. There are a few bars and lounges that cater to a younger crowd, but most nightlife revolves around socializing in cafes or enjoying traditional music in public squares. Many locals prefer to spend their evenings with family or friends at home.

Hiking in Settat

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Oum Er-Rbia Trail

A scenic trail along the Oum Er-Rbia River, offering picturesque views and opportunities for birdwatching.

Jbel Bouhachem

A more challenging hike that provides stunning panoramas of the surrounding countryside and is ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Settat by plane.

Mohammed V International Airport

Located about 60 kilometers from Settat, this is the main international airport serving the region, offering flights to various destinations around the world.

Getting Around

Walkability

Settat is moderately walkable, especially within the city center where most attractions, markets, and restaurants are located close to each other. Sidewalks are available, but can be uneven in some areas. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the medina's narrow streets and bustling markets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Berbers

The Berber community is one of the indigenous groups of Morocco, known for their rich cultural traditions and contributions to Moroccan identity.

Arabs

The Arab population is the largest demographic group in Settat, contributing to the city's cultural and social landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Settat, with local teams engaging in community leagues and matches that draw passionate crowds.

Athletics

Track and field events are popular among youth, with various local clubs promoting fitness and competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Settat is generally manageable, though congestion can occur during peak hours. Public transportation options include local buses and taxis, which are relatively affordable. Walking is a viable option for short distances, especially in the city center, where parking can be limited.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Settat.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Halal Cuisine

Most food in Settat is halal, but it's prudent to confirm with the restaurant if you're unsure.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Settat is accessible, with several clinics and a regional hospital providing basic medical services. Pharmacies are available, and many medications are accessible over-the-counter. However, for severe medical issues, it's recommended to visit larger cities like Casablanca for more comprehensive care.

Discover Morocco

Read more in our Morocco 2025 Travel Guide.

Morocco Travel Guide