A Moroccan Metropolis: The Essential Travel Guide to Casablanca
- Malika
- Feb 14, 2024
- 12 min read
Updated: Jul 2
Looking for the best things to do in Casablanca or highly recommended places to stay? Discover the ideal time to visit, tips for getting around and the best Casablanca tours in this essential travel guide.
As the largest city in Morocco (and home to one of Africa’s biggest international ports), Casablanca is a major gateway to the Maghreb. This bustling metropolis exudes a modern vibe unseen in other parts of the country, making it a unique destination for experiencing contemporary Moroccan life.
That being said, Casablanca's heritage districts can't compete with the medinas of Marrakech and Fes, meaning many travellers pass straight through en route elsewhere. But it’s worth spending a few days to discover its architectural treasures and monumental mosque or use it as a base for day trips throughout the area.
Casablanca can easily be used as a launching point for excursions to Marrakech, Fes and Rabat, as well as the “Blue City” of Chefchaouen. These are particularly popular with business travellers based in Casablanca who want to explore beyond the urban sprawl.
For those travelling through Casablanca with a layover, many of the city’s top attractions can easily be squeezed into a half-day tour.
In this Essential Travel Guide to Casablanca, discover everything you need to know to experience this economic Maghreb powerhouse to the fullest, from the best things to do and highly-rated hotels to my top tour recommendations.
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BEST TOURS IN CASABLANCA
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top Casablanca tour recommendations:
Best things to do in Casablanca
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best things to do in Casablanca
Discover Casablanca’s architectural wonders
While Casablanca’s medina lacks the atmosphere of its counterparts in Marrakech and Fes, the city’s architecture makes it worthy of a wander. Place Mohamed V is the beating heart of Casablanca and where many of its most important institutions reside, including the grand Palace of Justice and the Bank of Morocco building. Their neo-Moorish facades blend traditional Moroccan designs with the sleek lines of Art Deco and Art Nouveau.
This unique Mauresque architectural style was the brainchild of French Resident-General Lyautey, who sought to modernise Casablanca in the early 1900s while preserving its cultural heritage. In the city, you'll discover block after block of these elegant buildings that fuse European and Moroccan influences into a distinctive Casablancan style.
For some of the best examples, take a stroll down Rue Tahar Sabti or Boulevard Mohamed V. Be sure to take note of the intricate geometric patterns and horseshoe arches that make Mauresque architecture so unique. To really immerse yourself in Casablanca’s architectural heritage,
For more cultural inspiration, check out this list of the best museums in Casablanca.
Best things to do in Casablanca
Tour the Hassan II Mosque
Rising majestically above Casablanca's coastline, the colossal Hassan II Mosque commands attention. Completed in 1993, this architectural marvel is one of the world’s largest mosques and Morocco's most ambitious building project.
Its intricately decorated prayer hall accommodates 25,000 worshippers while the vast courtyard welcomes over 80,000 people. Every surface is lavishly adorned with zellige tiles and religious motifs while soaring above it all is one of the tallest minarets on Earth.
What adds to the drama of the Hassan II Mosque is its spectacular cliffside perch overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Honestly, when you first see it, the size is overwhelming!
Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the mosque outside of designated tour times, although you can admire it from the outside. Skip-the-line guided tours are offered several times daily for visitors wanting to experience the mosque's magnificence and architectural innovations from within.
For those short on time, Casablanca's highlights (including the Hassan II Mosque) can be explored during a half-day city tour. Additional stops include Marché Central and Quartier Habous, as well as the scenic Corniche boardwalk and downtown's Place Mohamed V.
Best things to do in Casablanca
Stroll along the Corniche
After visiting the Hassan II Mosque, stroll west along the Corniche, a pedestrianised promenade that offers magnificent views across the Atlantic Ocean. It leads all the way to the beachside district of Ain Diab, home to upscale hotels, lively eateries and a public beach. At Ain Diab's private beach clubs, you’ll find pools and lounge chairs where you can spend an afternoon under the sun.
If you’re visiting on a warm weekend, you’ll get to mingle with local families who come to picnic and take leisurely walks along the Corniche. It's a perfect spot for people-watching in Casablanca!
Best things to do in Casablanca
Marvel at the Cathedral du Sacre Coeur
With its gleaming white facade, the Cathedral du Sacre Coeur is an architectural gem in the heart of Casablanca. Built in the 1930s, this graceful cathedral artfully blends European Art Deco style with Moroccan motifs in what is a harmonious fusion.
No longer a religious house of worship, the cathedral serves as a cultural centre and hosts changing art exhibitions.
Another noteworthy church is Notre Dame de Lourdes on Boulevard Mohamed Zerktouni. Built in the 1950s, this Modernist cathedral is illuminated by a massive stained-glass window that bathes the interior in coloured light. Though different in style, both cathedrals are emblematic of Casablanca's diverse architectural and cultural heritage.
Best things to do in Casablanca
Get your retail fix in the Marche Central
Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the Marche Central, where locals shop for everything from fresh sardines to clay tagines. Located between Rue Allal Ben Abdallah and Boulevard Mohamed V, this lively market offers an authentic slice of Moroccan life, with piles of fragrant spices, pyramids of shiny olives and vendors touting the day's catch.
For a true taste of Morocco, pull up a stool at one of the casual courtyard restaurants and sample a tender lamb tagine or grilled fish straight from the market stalls. Don't miss the specialty food shops peddling local delicacies like bottles of aromatic argan oil and baskets of plump dates - perfect edible souvenirs.
For a more curated shopping experience, head to Quartier Haboos and its Souq Haboos, known for quality handicrafts like ornate ceramics, colourful textiles and hand-woven rugs.
Best things to do in Casablanca
Learn about Morocco’s Jewish heritage
Occupying a former orphanage in Casablanca's peaceful Oasis neighbourhood is the Museum of Moroccan Judaism, which is the only museum dedicated to Judaism in the Arab world. For centuries, this historic home nurtured the city's thriving Jewish community and today, it celebrates its 2,000-year heritage.
In addition to old photographs, traditional costumes and religious artefacts, the museum features Torah scrolls and a 1944 bimah from a Casablanca synagogue. It also showcases the distinctive traditions of Jewish Amazighs, including costumes and khmisa pendants worn throughout the generations.
Visitors can also peek inside a recreated jewellery workshop modelled after that of famed silversmith Saul Cohen.
You can learn more about Morocco's Jewish cultural heritage in this detailed article.
Day trip to El Jadida
Transport yourself back in time to 16th-century Portugal on a day trip to the UNESCO-listed Cité Portugaise fortress in El Jadida. Just 102 kilometres south of Casablanca, this seaside gem is a must-see for history buffs interested in Morocco’s past.
Also known as Mazagan, El Jadida is an impressive example of the interchange between European and Moroccan cultures throughout the centuries.
Climb the ancient ramparts for breathtaking ocean vistas before meandering through the fortress's winding lanes, where centuries-old buildings have been lovingly preserved. In the northeast corner lies the eerie old prison, later converted into the city's synagogue. Also not to miss is the Manueline-style Church of the Assumption.
But the real star of El Jadida is the atmospheric cistern at the heart of the citadel, which served as a set for Orson Welles' classic film “Othello”. Please note that the Portuguese Cistern was closed for restoration works at the time of writing - check whether it has reopened before your visit.
This guided tour to Jadida includes transport to and from Casablanca/Casablanca Airport and takes in all of the city’s major attractions.
Best tours in Casablanca
Top tours in Casablanca
As Casablanca is a sprawling city and its attractions are scattered all over the place, it's not the easiest destination to explore on foot. That being said, there is a good public transportation system (buses and trams) for getting around, as well as abundant (if somewhat expensive) taxis.
If you're short on time or don't want to explore independently, there are lots of highly-rated Casablanca tours to choose from. These range from guided tours of the Hassan II Mosque to medina walls and foodie-related adventures. Casablanca also serves as a convenient base for exploring several other Moroccan cities, such as Rabat, Fes and Chefchaouen.
Viator and GetYourGuide are both good starting points if you're looking for Casablanca tours, complete with reviews from previous travellers to help you make an informed decision.
This half-day tour takes in many of Casablanca's most iconic sights, including the Hassan II Mosque, the historic medina and Rick's Cafe.
Including round-trip transfers from the airport, this guided tour can be customised to your schedule and interest.
Combining cultural sightseeing with samples of traditional Moroccan snacks, this Casablanca tour takes in the medina, Rick's Cafe and the Mahkama du Pacha.
Discover Casablanca's exciting food scene on a guided tour (and tasting) of the historic Habbous neighbourhood.
Travel guide to Casablanca
Top day trips from Casablanca
Including round-trip transfers from Casablanca and a camel ride, this full-day tour of Marrakech takes in all of the "Red City's" top sights.
This full-day tour from Casablanca to Fes includes a guided walk through the medina, all entrance fees and lunch.
Admire the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Kasbah of the Oudaias on this full-day experience in Rabat.
While the drive each way is long (335 km), this full-day trip to Chefchaouen from Casablanca is ideal for those who are short on time.
Explore the Portuguese-built port and its historic citadel on this full-day tour from Casablanca.
For more inspiration, check out my article detailing the Best Day Trips From Casablanca.
Best day trips from Casablanca
How to get to Casablanca
Fly to Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport
Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport is the main aviation gateway to Morocco and is served by flights from destinations around the globe. It lies around 35 kilometres from the city centre, with a train travelling between the two. Just head downstairs from Terminal 1 to the station - it's a 45-minute ride into the city.
Official taxis park just outside the terminal buildings and provide 24-hour service to downtown Casablanca. Booking a private airport transfer will ensure the driver is there when you arrive and save you the hassle of negotiating a fare. Alternatively, you can arrange a fixed-price transfer with Welcome Pickups.
If you’re flying into Casablanca and have a few hours to kill before continuing on to another Moroccan destination, this Casablanca layover tour is ideal. It can be tailored to suit the time you have available and includes return transport from the airport.
Private transfer
If you’re travelling overland from another Moroccan city, the most comfortable and convenient way to reach Casablanca is by booking a private transfer. You'll get door-to-door service directly to your Casablanca hotel, avoiding the hassle of lugging bags to and from a bus station or negotiating fares with taxi drivers.
By train
Casablanca has railway connections to most major Moroccan cities, with the national railway company ONCF operating daily trains to and from cities like Marrakech and Fes. The journey from Marrakech takes just 3 hours while Fes is 3.5 hours away. Rabat can be reached from Casablanca in just one hour by train.
Train tickets can be booked online at the ONCF website or at 12Go.
Bus
One of the most affordable ways to reach Casablanca is by bus, with daily coaches connecting from cities across Morocco. The journey from Marrakech takes around 3.5 hours while Fes is 4 hours away. From Agadir, the bus trip to Casablanca is 5.5 hours.
Bus tickets can be booked directly with the companies (check CTM or Supratours) or you can compare options (and book tickets) at 12Go.
Best places to stay in Casablanca
While Casablanca doesn’t have the atmospheric riads of Marrakech and Fes or the historic kasbah hotels of Ouarzazate, it does boast a good choice of private apartments and comfortable hotels catering to business travellers. The city shines in the mid-range price point, with a few options for budget-conscious backpackers or those seeking luxury.
For more Casablanca accommodation inspiration, you can check out my detailed article here or browse some of the city's best luxury hotels for a high-end stay.
Luxury places to stay in Casablanca
Recently reopened after extensive renovations, this ultra-luxurious Casablanca hotel boasts lavish suites, a huge spa and a Michelin-star restaurant.
Located in Casablanca's Gauthier neighbourhood, this boutique luxury hotel features 25 gorgeous suites, a high-end spa and gourmet dining.
Occupying an Art Deco-style building, this newly opened luxury hotel features creatively designed suites, a Parisian-inspired brasserie and a rooftop restaurant serving fusion fare.
Mid-range places to stay in Casablanca
Aside from its colourful rooms and suites, this newly opened Casablanca hotel boasts various dining options and regularly hosts live music and comedy nights.
With fully-equipped kitchenettes, stylish bathrooms and balconies, these executive apartments are ideal for a self-catered stay in Casablanca.
Centrally located, this mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms, a well-equipped fitness centre and a rooftop swimming pool.
Affordable places to stay in Casablanca
Located in Casablanca's Oasis district, this budget-friendly hostel features comfortable dorms and private rooms, plus a fully-equipped kitchen and a picturesque garden.
Located adjacent to Casa Voyageurs railway station, this affordable hotel features comfortable rooms and suites, and breakfast is available on request.
Surrounded by the historic medina, this riad-style Casablanca hotel features three rooms, a basement hammam and a rooftop terrace.
Best time to visit Casablanca
The weather in Casablanca varies throughout the year and there really is no “bad” time to visit. Spring brings mild temperatures perfect for sightseeing, with daily averages around 16°C between March and May. While rain is less likely than in winter, pack an umbrella for the occasional shower.
When summer hits, locals and visitors alike head to the seaside to enjoy temperatures in the mid to high 20s. The Corniche comes alive with people strolling the promenade and gathering on the beach.
Casablanca doesn’t receive the large numbers of tourists that other Moroccan cities do, so the summer spike in accommodation prices isn’t so prominent. It’s also a great time for festivals in the city, with both Jazzablanca and the Festival de Casablanca taking place.
Autumn is another ideal time to visit, with lower temps and gentle breezes. Winter months bring more rain but still mild temperatures that are only slightly cooler than in the springtime.
Best time to visit Casablanca
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.
