Casablanca is not a postcard city like Marrakech or Fes, and that is its charm: a modern Moroccan metropolis with a spectacular mosque on the ocean, Art Deco boulevards and excellent seafood. Here is how to spend one or two days.
1. Visit the Hassan II Mosque
Built partly over the Atlantic, with one of the tallest minarets in the world, it is one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims, on guided tours. Read our visitor guide for times, tickets and dress code.
2. Walk the Corniche of Ain Diab
A long seafront promenade with beach clubs, cafés and surfers. Come at sunset.
3. Explore the old medina
Smaller and calmer than the medinas of Fes or Marrakech, it is a good place for a first taste of Moroccan street life, near the port and the old ramparts.
4. Shop in the Habous quarter
Built in the 1930s as a “new medina”, the Habous mixes Moroccan and French styles, with bookshops, olive stalls, traditional pastry shops and craft boutiques.
5. Admire the Art Deco centre
Around Mohammed V Square and the boulevards of the city centre, Casablanca has one of the richest collections of Art Deco and modernist architecture in the world, built in the first half of the 20th century.
6. See the Sacred Heart Cathedral
A white 1930s former cathedral mixing Art Deco and Moroccan motifs, now used for exhibitions and events.
7. Visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism
The only museum of Jewish history in the Arab world, in the residential Oasis district. Read more about the Jewish heritage of Morocco.
8. Have a drink at Rick’s Café
The film Casablanca was shot in Hollywood, but this restaurant, opened in 2004, recreates its famous bar with piano music.
9. Eat seafood at the Central Market
Choose your fish at the stalls and have it grilled at one of the small restaurants around the market.
10. Relax in the Arab League Park
The city’s largest park, with palm-lined alleys and cafés, a short walk from the centre.
11. Take the tram
Casablanca’s modern tram network is a cheap and easy way to move between the centre, the Corniche and the main neighbourhoods.
12. Take a day trip
Rabat, El Jadida and Mohammedia are all within about an hour. See the best day trips from Casablanca.
How long to stay in Casablanca
One full day covers the highlights. Two days let you add a day trip. Most travellers start or end a longer tour here, since Mohammed V Airport has the most international flights in Morocco.
Getting around
- From the airport, the train reaches the city centre in about 40 minutes; a private transfer is easier with luggage.
- Petit taxis are red and should use the meter.
- A private guide lets you see the mosque, the centre and the Corniche in one day without planning. Our Casablanca day tour includes hotel pick-up.
Frequently asked questions
Is Casablanca worth visiting?
Yes, for a day or two. The Hassan II Mosque alone is worth the stop, and the Art Deco centre, the Corniche and the seafood make it a good start or end to a Morocco trip.
What is Casablanca famous for?
The Hassan II Mosque, its Art Deco architecture, the 1942 film Casablanca and its role as Morocco’s economic capital and main port.
How many days do you need in Casablanca?
One full day for the main sights, two if you want a day trip to Rabat or El Jadida.
Is Casablanca safe for tourists?
Yes, with usual big-city precautions: watch your belongings in crowded areas and use metered taxis.
Want to see Casablanca with a local guide? Contact us or book our private Casablanca day tour.