Settat, Morocco

Capital City

With a population of 171,556, Settat is a bustling provincial hub that can overwhelm new arrivals. The city's strategic location between Rabat and Marrakesh has fueled steady growth, though bureaucratic headaches remain a persistent challenge. Settat's history as an administrative center and trading post is evident in its mix of old and new, from the 18th-century Ismailiya Kasbah to the university and golf course added in recent decades. While the climate is moderate at an elevation of 1,210 feet, the city's semi-lethargic pace in the shadow of booming Casablanca may prove frustrating for some. Overall, Settat offers a more affordable, less frenetic alternative to Morocco's larger cities, though its charms are best suited for those with patience for red tape.