Planning a trip to Casablanca? That’s a great idea! The economic powerhouse of Maroc, it elegantly combines tradition and modernity. You’ll see its streets teeming with contrasts between its Art Deco colonial heritage, traditional districts such as the Habous and the majestic Hassan II Mosque. We were seduced by this cosmopolitan metropolis that harmoniously blends its past with its bustling present, between emblematic monuments and pleasant beaches along its Corniche.
In this article you’ll find 14 must-see ideas, photos and tips on what to do in Casablanca!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Marvel at the Hassan II Mosque
Why visit?
A true architectural feat, the Hassan II Mosque impressed us with its monumentality and meticulous craftsmanship. A masterpiece built between 1987 and 1993, it boasts the highest minaret in the world at 210 meters. The mosque reflects the unique spirit of openness and dialogue between religions that King Hassan II brought to this magnificent architectural project. Did you know that it is the only mosque in the world that allows non-Muslims to visit?
We were equally fascinated by the richness of the local materials used: from Agadir marble to Atlas cedar wood and traditional “tadelakt” (Berber know-how for creating ancestral Moroccan plaster). You’ll be dazzled by refined details such as the Venetian chandeliers in the prayer room, the 1100-ton retractable roof and the sublime zellige motifs. Some 10,000 Moroccan craftsmen contributed to the design of this splendid place of worship and culture overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Book your ticket now!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h for the guided tour, then a further 30min to 1h for a stroll around the esplanade and the media library.
- Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday visits at 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00 and 15:00; Friday visits at 9:00, 10:00 and 15:00 (see any updates on the official website here).
- Difficulties and PRM access: guided tours compulsory, dress code required for visiting a place of worship, PRM access and equipment, shoes removed at the start of the indoor tour (the guide will provide you with a bag).
- Rates: 140 dhs (MAD) for non-Moroccan adults; 70 dhs (MAD) for Moroccan adults, residents and foreign students; 30 dhs (MAD) for Moroccan children aged 4 to 12 and students; free for children under 4 (accompanied by their parents).
- Access: Between the port and the El Hank lighthouse
- Parking: 800-space underground parking lot
- Dining: no on-site restaurant, several nearby options such as Restaurant Rick’s Café (upscale in the mythical setting inspired by the film Casablanca), Restaurant la Sqala (traditional Moroccan) or Restaurant Cabestan Ocean View (seafood and fish).
- Include this must-see tour in a half-day exploration of Casablanca and its heritage!
WHERE TO STAY IN Casablanca
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection is coming soon Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Casablanca (coming soon)
2. Rejuvenate at Arab League Park
Why visit?
We are particularly attached to the Parc de la Ligue Arabe, which we rediscovered after its renovation. Did you know that this historic 30-hectare public space is one of the most beautiful landscaped parks on Maroc? A veritable green lung in the heart of Casablanca, it’s the largest urban park in Africa, where you’ll have the chance to see over 4,000 trees, including 300 palm trees and 1,000 ficus trees. Impressive, isn’t it?
The freshness of the fountain-lined paths and the peaceful atmosphere, in contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city, allowed us to relax and recharge our batteries during our day-long visit. You can enjoy facilities such as the landscaped sports trail, tennis courts on the west side or children’s play areas in the “Parc Yasmina” area on the east side. The park is also home to the former Église du Sacré-Cœur, a remarkable Art Deco building now transformed into a cultural center.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h30 to 3h depending on your interests
- Opening hours: daily from 8:30am to 7pm (varies from season to season and during Ramadan – see official city website for updates ).
- Difficulties and PRM access: easily accessible, flat paths, ramps, visits preferable before dusk for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Rates: free access
- Access: downtown 5min walk from the Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum, accessible by tramway line 4 stop Parc de la Ligue Arabe
- Parking: underground pay parking lot on Boulevard Rachidi (entrance just after the Sacré-Coeur Church – bring change), pay parking available on the other side of the park on Rue Ali Bnou Abi Taleb opposite the University (pay and display machines).
- Catering: snack bar in the park and picnic areas, our suggestions nearby Restaurant Gare aux Gorilles (innovative bistronomic cuisine) 15min walk or 10min drive or Restaurant L’Artiste (European cuisine in a musical atmosphere) 10min walk.
- Would you like to include the discovery of this unique park in a guided tour of Casablanca’s best points of interest? It’s over here!
3. Experience the authenticity of the Habous district
Why visit?
We love Habous for its colors, warm atmosphere and authenticity! Immerse yourself in the traditional atmosphere of Maroc, with its picturesque alleyways and artisan shops. Built in the early 20th century, this historic district harmoniously combines traditional Moroccan architecture with colonial influences. Stroll along its narrow streets, taking time to observe its arcades and moldings, its peaceful inner courtyards housing stores and the richness of its cultural heritage. As you stroll along, you’ll catch a glimpse of the Al-Mohammadi Mosque, the district’s architectural jewel, whose construction began in 1934. We learned that its sculpted minaret was inspired by the Koutoubia Mosque at Marrakech. As you continue your visit, traditional ovens, hammams and typical cafés punctuate and structure the district’s urban space. Shopping enthusiasts or the curious? You’ll love the many craft stores and bookshops specializing in Arabic literature. Finally, let yourself be tempted by the Dar Al Ala museum, dedicated to Moorish-Andalusian music.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours
- Opening hours: mornings from 10am-10.30am (avoid Friday and Sunday as some shops close)
- Difficulties and PRM access: Narrow streets, difficult PRM access
- Rates: free access
- Access: tramway line T3 to Habous stop or T2 to Derb Sultan stop, a 10-minute walk away
- Parking: possible in the adjacent streets near the Casablanca Administrative Court or on the Murdoch Park side (car park attendant to be paid in small change or ticket machine to be checked depending on the street).
- Catering: Restaurant Zayna (Moroccan cuisine), Pâtisserie Bennis Habous, Restaurant L’Étoile Centrale
- Book your guided tour here
4. Visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism
Why visit?
Casablanca’s first museum, opened in 1997, the Musée du Judaïsme Marocain is the only one of its kind in the Arab world. It houses a remarkable collection of objects testifying to the rich history of the Jewish community at Maroc. We loved the diversity of the exhibits, from traditional cult objects to finely chiselled jewelry. In this former orphanage, you’ll discover a permanent exhibition enriched in 2019 by a major art donation from opera singer and actor David Serero. The collection also includes life-size traditional outfits, also staged with dolls. We found it interesting to see the different characteristics of bridal wear from one city to another. A must-see museum that tells the story of everyday life in the Jewish community at Maroc!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interests
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (6 p.m. in summer), Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (see official website for updates ).
- Difficulties and PRM access: flat floor inside, easy access, outside access at street level, flat floor, only one step to climb on entering the museum, visit in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Admission: 50 dhs (MAD) for adults – the ticket includes admission to the El Mellah Museum adjacent to the synagogue in the medina on the same day; free admission every Wednesday for primary and secondary school pupils, and students from all universities and colleges.
- Access: Oasis district, T1 line to Gare de l’Oasis stop 15min walk away
- Parking: free on Museum Street (residential area)
- Catering: no catering facilities inside the museum – see our forthcoming selection of restaurants in Casablanca
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Maroc
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Adapt your choice of vehicle to your itinerary!
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
5. Push open the doors of the Church of Notre-Dame de Lourdes
Why visit?
Built under the French protectorate, the Church of Notre-Dame de Lourdes dazzled us with its spectacular stained-glass windows created by the painter Gabriel Loire. We were captivated by the beauty of these colorful works, which are among the largest stained glass windows in the world. It’s quite surprising when you enter, as the building is quite sober and minimalist on the outside, with geometric concrete shapes. On the left, as you pass through the enclosure gate, you’ll discover a faithful reproduction of the grotto in the Hautes Pyrénées, bearing witness to the link between France and Maroc. This church, also called Notre-Dame d’Afrique by the locals, is a lively place that hosts art exhibitions, concerts and recitals, making it a true cultural bridge.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 30min to 1h
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 08:30 to 19:00 (see here for updates and mass times)
- Difficulties and PRM access: stairs to enter the nave, flat floor inside, compliance with dress code required for visiting a place of worship
- Admission: free
- Access: line T1 stop Avenue Hassan II 10min walk away
- Parking: in adjacent streets or pay parking lot at Place Mohammed V (15 min walk)
- Catering: Restaurant Gare aux Gorilles (bistronomic cuisine), Restaurant Café culturel Papers Club (family cuisine, traditional Moroccan brunch), Restaurant Bulles (sparkling bistronomic cuisine)
- This place of worship and historic monument can also be visited on a guided tour – see options
6. Immerse yourself in the city’s Art Deco heritage
Why visit?
Casablanca’s Art Deco architecture bears witness to its rich colonial past. The Place Mohammed V, built in 1920 and famous for its pigeon fountain, is a fine showcase for this style, with its emblematic buildings. The same goes for the Post Office, built in 1920, and the Palais de Justice, built in 1925. The Cinéma Rialto, designed in 1930, with its 14-metre-high dome, was a real eye-catcher. You’ll appreciate the fusion of new architecture and neo-Moorish style, as seen in the decor of the Bank Al Maghrib on Boulevard de Paris, where traditional motifs meet Art Deco elegance.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 hour to half a day, depending on your interests
- Times: outdoor visits are possible at any time of the day. In the morning, you can enjoy the daylight and admire the Art Deco buildings in their best light.
- Difficulties and PRM access: sidewalks sometimes narrow or damaged
- Rates: free for external visits
- Access: in the Sidi Belyout / Derb Omar / Mers Sultan neighborhoods, several tramway stops provide easy access (T1 line, Place Mohammed V stop, Place des Nations-Unies stop, Avenue Hassan II stop, Marché Central stop, T4 line, Mers Sultan stop, Parc de la Ligue arabe stop, T3 line, Place de la Victoire stop) – see official website here
- Parking: pay parking lot Place Mohammed V, access from Boulevard Hassan II, Wilaya and Tribunal (PMR accessibility).
- Eating out: about a 10-minute drive away (equidistant from the site), several restaurants in our selection such as Restaurant Gare aux Gorilles, Restaurant Rick’s Café, Restaurant Cabestan Ocean View or Restaurant and Café maure La Sqala.
7. Escape to the Abderrahman Slaoui Museum
Why visit?
Treat yourself to a fascinating dive into Moroccan arts and crafts at the Musée de la Fondation Abderrahman Slaoui. Located opposite the Sacré-Coeur Church, this museum houses a private collection of paintings, old posters from the colonial period, jewelry and ceramics. We were struck by the richness of the permanent collections and the quality of the temporary exhibitions, which are renewed quarterly. You can end your visit with a relaxing break in the café on the top floor, surrounded by vintage posters telling the story of Maroc. And as an added bonus, you’ll have a beautiful view of Casablanca’s former Sacré-Coeur church!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h30 to 2h depending on your interests
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday, including public holidays (with the exception of Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Mawlid) – see official website for updates here.
- Difficulties and access for wheelchair users: accessible for wheelchair users with ramp and elevator, plan your visit in the morning to avoid crowds, accessible in wheelchair and stroller, prefer baby carrier for small children, contact the museum directly for a guided tour.
- Admission: 60 dhs (MAD) public; 40 dhs (MAD) Moroccan citizens and foreigners resident at Maroc; 10 dhs (MAD) students and children over 12; free for children under 12 (accompanied by parents), ICOM (International Council of Museums) members, art and architecture students, journalists.
- Access: close to Mohammed V tramway station (line T1)
- Parking: pay parking lot on Boulevard Rachidi at the entrance to the Parc de la Ligue Arabe (bring change)
- Catering: café on the top floor of the museum
8. Discover the local flavours of Marché Central
Why visit?
Want to discover Casablanca in a different way, with local produce cooked on the spot at the market? Head for the Marché Central! Built between 1918 and 1919, this is Casablanca’s most famous market. Designed by architect Pierre Bousquet, the building’s elegant arcades blend functionality with Moorish cachet. We were carried away by the lively atmosphere in the aisles, between the colorful stalls of fruit, flowers and fresh fish. You can discover the central rotunda housing the fish merchants, stroll along the stalls lining the covered walkways, and appreciate the traditional zellij fountains that keep the market fresh and ventilated. Artists also exhibit their work. There are also a number of “troquets” where you can sample new flavours and chat with shopkeepers!
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1h to 3h if you have lunch on site
- Opening hours: open Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (except public holidays), open Monday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Difficulties and PRM access: wheelchair and stroller accessible, arrive in the morning to avoid the crowds and have a choice
- Admission: free, products and food available on site at an additional cost
- Access: tramway line 1, Marché Central stop
- Parking: Parking on rue Chaouia, difficult to park in adjacent streets as they are often full.
- Catering: several on-site catering outlets, our suggested restaurants opposite the market entrance are Restaurant L’Étoile Centrale (traditional cuisine) or Restaurant La Bodega (Mediterranean cuisine, tapas, Spanish ambience).
- Let yourself be tempted by a culinary tour of the market with tastings and lunch!
9. Take a stroll along the Corniche
Why visit?
A stroll along Casablanca’s Corniche, or “a tour de côte” as the locals like to say, is a must on your list! This long 8 km walk along the Boulevard de l’Océan Atlantique offers a refreshing maritime escape in the heart of the city. Lined with palm trees, the Corniche has undergone a metamorphosis since the 1930s, going from wild beaches to a vibrant urban space. We particularly enjoyed the colors of the sunset and the pleasant smell of iodine that accompanied the walk. You can take advantage of the bike path for a more sporty stroll, or simply stroll along this lively area during the day and evening. Over the years, the Corniche has also become a popular meeting point for water sports enthusiasts. At the end of the Plage Aïn Diab side, you’ll also have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the islet of Sidi Abderrahman, accessible at low tide.
Practical advice
- Visit duration: estimated 2h walk from Parc Dawliz skatepark to Plage de Madame Choual near the Morocco Mall shopping mall, via the famous Lalla Meryem and Aïn Diab beaches, 20min by car if there is no traffic (along the coast).
- Opening hours: continuous access
- Difficulties and access for PRM: accessible and well laid out promenade with facilities; avoid walking at night, avoid walking the stretch between the Hassan II Mosque and Dawliz Park.
- Prices: free, catering and activities at extra charge
- Access: T2 line to Plage Aïn Diab stop
- Parking: pay parking along the corniche, bring change for car guards
- Dining options: Cabestan Ocean View Restaurant near El Hank Lighthouse, La Ola Restaurant and Le Basmane Restaurant near Aïn Diab Beach
10. Lose yourself in the Place des Nations-Unies and the old Bab medina. Marrakech
Why visit?
Let’s go downtown. Place des Nations-Unies, formerly Place de France, is one of Casablanca’s historic crossroads. Designed in 1915 by architect Joseph Marrast, it houses the Hôtel Excelsior, a fine example of Art Deco style, and the Galeries Modernes. We were struck by the contrast between the colonial architecture and the typically Moroccan bustle of the area. Nearby, you’ll discover the ancient medina of Bab Marrakech, built in 1770, with its pedestrian lanes and large souk entrances. Take time to admire its ashlar arches and ornamental motifs, testimony to the ingenuity of Moroccan architectural art. The market has been under renovation since early 2025, but you can still stroll through the narrow streets and observe the typical doors.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1h maximum on the Place des Nations-Unies, 1h to 2h in Bab Marrakech depending on your interests.
- Opening hours: continuous access to the square, Bab Marrakech market open Monday to Saturday, 9:30am to 9pm and Sunday, 9:30am to 8:30pm (except public holidays).
- Difficulties and PRM access: avoid the area at night, visit in the morning for a quieter, less crowded atmosphere, pollution and garbage sometimes abandoned in the area, roadworks.
- Rates: free access
- Access: 15min walk from Casa Port station, tramway line T1 stop Place des Nations-Unies
- Parking: limited options nearby, pay parking lot Place Mohammed V 10min walk away
- Dining: Restaurant and Café Maure La Sqala and Restaurant Rick’s Café on the other side of the old medina
- Fancy a guided walking tour of the medina? Book your place here!
11. See the amazing former Church of the Sacred Heart
Why visit?
Restored and reopened in November 2023, the former Sacré-Coeur church has become a dynamic cultural center. Built between 1930 and 1953, it subtly combines Art Deco, neo-Gothic and neo-Moorish styles. We loved its decorative buttresses and modernist stained glass windows, which bear witness to its rich architectural past. You can enjoy this remarkable building from the outside, or take part in the cultural events that are regularly held here. Indeed, the building now houses conference rooms and exhibition spaces.
Practical advice
- Length of visit: varies according to event
- Opening hours: open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. according to program
- Difficulties and PRM access: variable depending on the event, flat sidewalk outside to admire the facade
- Prices: according to cultural program
- Access: 5min walk from the Arab League Park on Boulevard Rachidi
- Parking: pay underground parking lot Boulevard Rachidi (bring change)
- Restaurants: our nearby suggestions Restaurant Gare aux Gorilles (innovative bistronomic cuisine) 15min walk or 10min drive or Restaurant L’Artiste (European cuisine in a musical atmosphere) 10min walk
- Book a tour with a local guide that includes the former Sacré-Coeur church
12. Admire the El Hank lighthouse
Why visit?
Dominating the Atlantic coast, the El Hank Lighthouse is an emblematic monument of Casablanca. Restored by architect Albert Laprade in 1916, it played a crucial role in the city’s economic development, securing access to the port which was once considered dangerous. We were interested to learn that it emits 3 grouped flashes every 15 seconds, with an impressive range of 30 nautical miles (55km). Did you notice its slender silhouette, inspired by the old minarets? For the more adventurous, you can climb the 256 steps leading to the upper platform for a panoramic view of the ocean and the city. Enjoy your visit!
Practical advice
- Visit duration: 20min to 1h
- Opening hours: continuous tour led by the janitor
- Difficulties and PRM access: 256 steps to climb, no PRM access, the area is not touristy but retains its charm, prefer daytime visits, you can walk to the lighthouse to observe it from Plage Lalla Meryem
- Rates: free, but it is customary at Maroc to leave a tip.
- Access: no streetcar nearby, prefer official red cab or VTC
- Parking: nearby parking lot at the junction of Boulevard de la Corniche and Rue Ras El Hank
- Dining: our nearby suggestions Restaurant Cabestan Ocean View, Restaurant and Moorish Café La Sqala or Restaurant Rick’s Café
13. Lounging on the Aïn Diab beach
Why visit?
Fancy putting your feet in the sand in the middle of the city? We enjoyed strolling along Plage Aïn Diab, Casablanca’s largest beach. You’ll find that the setting is perfect for relaxing by the ocean. Its privileged location just 15 minutes by car from the historic center makes it a popular destination for Casablancans. The spectacular colors at sunrise and sunset will lull your stroll and add a poetic touch. The azure waters invite you to swim, although caution is advised due to tides and currents. For families, there’s a playground on the promenade and a host of water sports activities all year round, to the delight of young and old alike!
Practical advice
- Length of visit: 1 hour to 1 day, depending on your schedule
- Opening hours: continuous access
- Difficulty and PRM access: lifeguard surveillance for swimming, supervised beach in season, chairs, deckchairs and parasols available for hire in season.
- Rates: free access
- Access: T2 tramway line (Aïn Diab Plage stop)
- Parking: pay parking at Morocco Mall, difficult parking on the boulevard, but pay parking at Morocco Mall, at Sindibad children’s park or at the start of the promenade to Hôtel Suisse, Restaurant Le Basmane or Restaurant La Ola.
- Restaurants: our suggestions along the Corniche include Restaurant La Ola and Restaurant Le Basmane.
14. Taste traditional pastries from Maison Bennis
Why visit?
Founded in 1930, Maison Bennis has been perpetuating the art of Moroccan pastry-making in the Habous district for 4 generations. It’s a true family institution in Casablanca, and we stop in every time we visit! The authenticity and unique textures of these traditional creations promise an explosion of flavors in your mouth. You’ll be able to sample specialties like gazelle horns, sesame crunchies and delicious almond macaroons. Maison Bennis also offers savoury preparations such as pastillas, perpetuating recipes handed down over several decades, including the famous “Ghriyba Bahla”, a fondant Moroccan cake. Yummy!
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 30min
- Opening hours: daily from 9 am to 2 pm and from 3 pm to 8:30 pm
- Difficulties and PRM access: a few steps, traditional building slightly narrow, remember to step over when you pass the front door opening onto the street.
- Prices: according to the pastries chosen, per consumption.
- Access: Tramway line 3 stop Habous 10min walk
- Parking: Possible in adjacent streets
- Catering: take-away counter, no on-site tasting room
- More information on their Instagram account here
Things to do in Casablanca: other ideas
Other museums in Casablanca
If you’re a fan of culture and museums, here are some additional ideas to enhance your stay in Casablanca:
- Musée de la Villa des Arts: contemporary art exhibition in a 1934 Art Deco villa (see official website here).
- Museum of Memory: to open in 2025, housed in the Villa Karl Fick, the 1st colonial villa built in 1910, and recounting the city’s history.
- Dar Al Ala Museum: dedicated to traditional Moorish-Andalusian music, where you can discover instruments and attend cultural performances (see official website here).
- Myriem Himmich Gallery: contemporary art gallery exhibiting Moroccan and international artists (see official website here).
Other beaches in Casablanca
Here are some other beaches in and around Casablanca:
- Plage Lalla Meryem, on the Casablanca Corniche after the El Hank lighthouse
- Plage de Madame Choual, at the end of the Corniche after the Morocco Mall, along Boulevard de Biarritz
- Tamaris beach, 40min drive from Casablanca
- Dar Bouazza beach, 40min drive
Things to do in Casablanca with children
Travelling with the family? Don’t panic, we’ve found plenty of activities in Casablanca to do with your children:
- Anfa Park: 50-hectare green space in the heart of the city, with play areas, fountains, media library and fun workshops (in the Anfa Supérieur district) – see details here
- Sindibad Park: various attractions for young and old (on the Corniche and Aïn Diab beach sides) – see details here
- Bowling and Aquaparc de Tamaris: fun outing with bowling, games, billiards, water park (in Dar Bouazza, just under a 30-minute drive from Casablanca) – see details here
- Hassan II Mosque: from age 4-5, children can start to enjoy the 1-hour guided tour, during which the group moves around the religious building – book your ticket now!
- Papers Club cultural café: adapted cultural activities, brunches and events – see details here
- Parc AMUZEUM: park and educational playrooms (in Dar Bouazza, about 30min drive from Casablanca) – see details here
- Bouskoura Forest: a 3000-hectare wooded area with nature trails and picnic areas on the road to the airport (about a 30-minute drive from Casablanca) – see details here.
Things to do in Casablanca when it rains
You’ll find that rainy days in Casablanca aren’t frequent, but they do provide an opportunity to..:
- go shopping and explore shopping centers such as Twin Center, Anfa Place and Morocco Mall
- enjoy cultural events at Théâtre Mohammed VI, Studio des Arts vivants, Cinéma Rif or Institut Français de Casablanca
- stroll between the stalls of typical markets such as the Habous or the Central Market, which are often covered, offering an excellent alternative.
- visit the city’s museums
Excursions around Casablanca
From Casablanca, we also appreciated the variety of day and half-day excursions available. Here’s our selection for your enjoyment:
- Rabat: capital of the Kingdom since the 20th century and a thousand-year-old imperial city with a rich historical and cultural heritage (1h by train and 1h10min by road) – see options
- Oualidia: nicknamed the “Pearl of the Atlantic”, charming Moroccan seaside resort renowned for its crystal-clear lagoon, delicious oysters and unspoiled natural setting (2h15min drive) – see options
- El Jadida: historic city with a unique Portuguese architectural heritage, beautiful beaches like Sidi Bouzid and an authentic atmosphere, its Portuguese city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1h15min drive) – see options
- Other beaches close to Rabat: Bouznika and Skhirat are also popular seaside resorts, just a few kilometers from the capital of Maroc (less than 1 hour’s drive from Casablanca).
You can also visit MarrakechFez, Chefchaouen and Tangier in 1 day from Casablanca, but note that the journey is a little longer.
Look out for all our suggestions for day excursions from Casablanca very soon.
Useful tips for visiting Casablanca
Where is Casablanca?
- Casablanca is located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco. Maroc
- The city stretches over 50 kilometers of coastline
- Located at 33° 35 Latitude North and 7° 25 Longitude West
- Casablanca to Rabat: 1h10min drive
- Casablanca to Marrakech: 2h45min drive
- Casablanca to Fez: 3h15min drive
- Here is a map to help you find your way:
How to get to Casablanca
There are several options for getting to Casablanca:
- By air: Mohammed V Airport is a gateway for visitors from all over the world, with 96 international destinations served daily – see flights
- By car: large white cabs provide connections between the towns of Maroc; the well-developed motorway network facilitates access by car; you can also rent a car.
- By bus: CTM, the national bus company, offers comfortable, air-conditioned and safe bus journeys.
- By train: the ONCF rail network serves several stations in Casablanca, linking it efficiently to all the other cities of Maroc with high-speed lines (Al-Boraq) and conventional trains.
To travel between Mohammed V Airport and downtown Casablanca, opt for a private transfer or a VTC ride.
Getting around Casablanca
The city has a varied public transport network:
- network of 4 efficient tramway lines and urban bus network – official website of the city’s transport network here
- official cab: small red cab in Casablanca (each city of Maroc has its own color)
- VTC services
- car rental – find out more
You can also find a map of the CasaTramway and CasaBusway lines, both accessible with the same ticket, on the official website here.
Parking in the city isn’t always easy, so opt for accommodation with parking or visit the city’s website, which lists paid parking lots here.
Where to eat in Casablanca
You’ll find that Casablanca’s culinary scene is rich and varied! We particularly recommend:
- Café culturel Papers Club: located opposite the Mohammed V stadium, a convivial space for meetings, readings, screenings and workshops to nourish you with local culture and gastronomy.
- Restaurant Rick’s Café: upscale cuisine in a mythical setting inspired by the 1940s American film Casablanca
- Restaurant Gare aux Gorilles: an innovative bistronomic menu in a colorful setting
- Restaurant and Café maure La Sqala: traditional Moroccan cuisine in an authentic setting on the ramparts of the old town
Our article listing all the best places to eat in Casablanca will be available soon!
Visiting Casablanca in winter
We enjoyedwinter in Casablanca as it is generally mild, with temperatures rarely below 15°C (59°F) or above 22°C (72°F) during the day. The mild climate allows you to take full advantage of the city and its cultural, historical and natural heritage. You can explore the sights without the summer heat, although a few rainy days can occur. The city experiences a little humidity and occasional wind due to its coastal location, but the sun is always out during the day.
Other tips
- Islam is the official state religion, so you’ll hear the 5 daily calls to prayer echoing from the minarets of mosques throughout Maroc
- Note a particularity of the weekly rhythm: on Friday, the Muslim prayer day, some shops adapt their opening hours or close. But this is not an official holiday.
- On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), some stores close on Saturday, notably those serving the Jewish community, and others on Sunday.
- Maroc remains a modern Muslim country, economically liberal, open to the world, which cultivates a balance between traditions and international dynamics.
Read all our tips for visiting Maroc in our dedicated article – coming soon.
