Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city home to over 3 million people, is a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity. Known for its striking Art Deco architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant cultural life, it’s also the country’s economic powerhouse and a gateway for many international visitors. While often seen as just a stopover on the way to Marrakech or Fez, this destination has its own unique charm—where the Atlantic Ocean meets grand mosques, lively boulevards, and a cosmopolitan food scene. If you’re planning a trip to Morocco and wondering what to see and do in Casablanca, here’s a comprehensive post to help you make the most of your visit. In this travel guide, I’ll walk you through the best things to do in Casablanca (often simply abbreviated as Casa), including what and where to eat, where to stay and some day trip ideas. At the end of this post, I’ve also included a map so you can easily pinpoint all the locations mentioned here.

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Disclaimers:

• I originally traveled to Casablanca during a Christmas road trip with my Dad in December 2014 that also took us to Fez, Rabat and Marrakech. This post has now been updated to reflect the latest information available to this date.
• Please note that this post includes some affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost for you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. In case you have any question about the companies advertised here or my status as an affiliate, please do not hesitate to contact me.

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Introduction: why visit Casablanca❓

Casablanca is often overlooked by travelers heading straight to Fez, Marrakech, or the Sahara Desert. Yet, Morocco’s largest city is much more than just a financial hub or a place to catch a connecting flight. Located on the Atlantic Ocean coastline, Casablanca is a port city and commercial center in western Morocco. It’s a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, where French colonial heritage sits comfortably alongside Islamic architecture, lively souks, Art Deco buildings, and the Atlantic breeze that sweeps across the Corniche.

The city of Casablanca was originally known as Dar El Beïda (in Arabic: الدار البيضاء), which literally means ´white house´. However, due to the influence of Spanish traders who used the translated version, the city also became known as ´Casablanca´, which eventually became the more widely used name for this Moroccan destination.

I still remember my brief visit to Casablanca. We only had an afternoon in the city, so our time was very limited. Naturally, the highlight was the Hassan II Mosque, one of the most impressive religious landmarks I’ve ever seen. Standing there, overlooking the Atlantic and admiring its intricate details, was reason enough to make the stop worthwhile. Even though I didn’t get to explore much beyond the mosque, that short glimpse of Casablanca gave me a sense of its scale and unique character—a city that blends tradition, modernity, and the ocean breeze all in one place.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Morocco, don’t skip Casablanca. This guide will show you the very best things to do in the city, how to get around, where to eat and stay, plus some incredible day trips to nearby destinations.

📸 Things to do in Casablanca, Morocco

Wondering where to get started when visiting Casablanca? In this section you´ll find the key attractions in this Moroccan destination, including religious landmarks, museums, parks or even shopping malls.

Broadly speaking, the city of Casablanca can be divided into the following districts:

• Old town (medina), located north. Back in the day, the walls surrounding the old town had various gates, with only a few still standing today: Bab el Marsa (Porte de la Marine), Bab Marrakech and Bab el Jedid. A daily market is held along the walls. There´s also a souk next to Bab Marrakech.
• New town (Ville Nouvelle) revolving around Place des Nations Unies and Place Mohammed V.
• The Anfa residential district and the coastal resort of AÏn Diab can be found to the west.

☪ Religious landmarks

Hassan II Mosque

Casablanca’s most iconic landmark is without a doubt the Hassan II Mosque. Completed in 1993 and built partly on the sea, it’s one of the largest mosques in the world, with a minaret that soars 210 meters into the sky. Even if you’ve seen countless photos, nothing prepares you for the moment you stand in front of it.

When we visited, this was the only site we had time for, but it left a lasting impression. The setting by the Atlantic Ocean, the immensity of the prayer hall (which can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers), and the fine artistry made me realize why this mosque alone is worth a stop in Casablanca.

During our visit, we joined a guided tour—the only way non-Muslims can enter. The details were mesmerizing: mosaics, marble floors, and carved wooden ceilings that reflect the pinnacle of Moroccan craftsmanship. Did I mention that the vast complex of the Hassan II mosque also features a vast ´hammam´ (the Arabic word for bath) with over a hundred fountains for ablutions, a Turkish bath, a madrasa, a museum, a conference facility, and a library? The mosque even has a retractable roof!

Sacred Heart Cathedral (Église du Sacré-Cœur de Casablanca)

Although it no longer functions as a church, this stunning 1930s cathedral is a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic and Art Deco design. Today, it serves as a cultural venue for exhibitions and events. Its unique architecture reflects Casablanca’s cosmopolitan past.

Another Catholic church worth mentioning in Casablanca includes the one devoted to Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes, built in 1956 and featuring elegant stained glass windows.

🖼 Museums & cultural centers

Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum

This elegant museum is one of Casablanca’s hidden cultural gems. Housed in a refined Art Deco villa, it showcases the private collection of Abderrahman Slaoui, a Moroccan businessman and art enthusiast.

Inside, you’ll find vintage posters, traditional Moroccan jewelry, crystal works, and rare decorative objects that highlight Morocco’s artistic heritage. It’s a quiet, beautifully curated space that feels far removed from the bustle of the city—a must for travelers who enjoy art, history, and design.

Arts Villa (Villa des Arts)

An elegant Art Deco villa turned into a contemporary art museum, Villa des Arts hosts both Moroccan and international exhibitions. It’s a peaceful spot to soak up creativity and modern culture.

Mahkama of Pacha

Part courthouse, part palace, this building is a true gem of Islamic architecture. Its intricate zellij tiles, carved wooden doors, and spacious courtyards make it feel like a hidden treasure. A guide is recommended to fully appreciate its beauty but I hear it´s now permanently closed.

The Jewish Museum of Casablanca

In the Arab world, Jewish museums are rare. This museum of Moroccan Judaism offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s Jewish heritage. With artifacts, traditional clothing, and synagogue reconstructions, it’s an eye-opening visit that highlights the multicultural history of the country. You may also want to check out the Ettedgui Synagogue in the old medina of Casablanca.

In fact, if you visit Essaouira, you can stop by Bayt Dakira, another museum about the ancient Jewish community in Morocco.

🌸 Parks, squares & architecture

The city’s French colonial heritage is evident in its Mauresque architecture, a blend of Moorish style and European Art Deco; it´s definitely one of the best things to do in Casablanca!

Make sure to explore the following parks and squares when visiting this Moroccan city.

Arab League Park (Parc de la Ligue Arabe)

An oasis in the middle of the bustling city, the Arab League Park is lined with palm trees, fountains, and green spaces and surrounded by art nouveau and art deco style houses. A popular place for locals to relax, it’s a refreshing stop if you want to escape the urban chaos.

Art Deco heritage walk near Mohammed V Square

Casablanca is a paradise for architecture lovers. From the old cinema Rialto to apartment blocks with intricate balconies (Assayag, Bessonneau housing the reconstructed Hôtel Lincoln, Glaoui), the city is filled with Art Deco gems.

Head to Place Mohammed V, known as the administrative heart of Casablanca, to discover the Supreme Court of Morocco, the City Hall, the French Consulate, the Central Post Office or the Casablanca Grand Theatre. Stroll around the nearby streets and Boulevard Mohammed V to appreciate the city’s Art Deco heritage; a walk here will give you a taste of Casa´s glamorous 20th-century past.

Don´t miss the indoor galleries known as ´passages´ either, Including Passage Glaoui, Passage Sumica and Passage Tazi.

On a completely different architectural note, the Casablanca Twin Center is a sprawling complex dominated by two 100-meter-high towers and a ship-hull building housing offices, shopping malls, and a hotel.

Place des Nations Unies

Currently this square lies at the heart of the new city (Ville Nouvelle). Built in 1920, it houses arcades of apartment blocks (such as the Moretti and Milone building, which was the first skyscraper in town), luxurious hotels or souvenir shops.

One of its iconic monuments is the clock tower (La Tour de l’Horloge).

The Corniche

La Corniche is Casablanca’s seaside promenade, lined with cafes, seawater pools, select hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs. Especially beautiful at sunset, this is where locals come to relax, surf, and enjoy the Atlantic Ocean.

The Corniche of Aïn Diab has been an exclusive area of the city since the 1920s. Make sure to stop by the iconic El Hank lighthouse, the Sidi Abderrahman Mausoleum or take a dip in a beach (be it Plage Aïn Diab, Plage Lalla Meryem or Plage Madame Choual).

The port of Casablanca

Casablanca´s port ranks first in Morocco. Built during the French Protectorate, it is one of the largest artificial ports in the world, equipped with ultra-modern commercial, fishing and leisure facilities. You can access the port complex via the fishing port (port de pêche), where you will find excellent fish restaurants.

Steps away lies the Sqala, a fortified bastion built in the 18th century (according to the pictures I saw, it looks similar to those in my beloved Essaouira).

🛍 Shopping & leisure

Central Market & Habous Quarter

The Central Market of Casablanca (known as Marché Central), located near the city center, is a lively spot where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, flowers, and spices. Its Art Deco-style architecture makes it stand out, and inside you’ll find colorful stalls piled high with Moroccan ingredients—from fragrant saffron and olives to freshly caught fish ready to be grilled on the spot. It’s not only a place to shop but also to soak up the daily rhythm of Casablanca life.

A short distance away, the Habous Quarter (also referred to as Habbous), often called the ´New Medina´, offers a very different shopping experience. Built during the French colonial period, it combines traditional souks with French urban planning and cobblestone streets. Here you’ll find spice shops, bakeries and artisans offering everything from leather goods to brass lamps. Less hectic than the older medinas in other Moroccan cities, it’s one of the best areas to buy souvenirs in Casablanca. It is also where the Royal Palace (Palais Royal) is located, although it´s not open to the public.

Morocco Mall

One of Africa’s largest shopping centers, Morocco Mall offers everything from international brands to a giant aquarium, an IMAX theater, and even a small indoor ice rink.

Another option is stopping by the Twin Center Shopping Mall.

📝Travel tips for Casablanca city

In case this is your very first time visiting the Moroccan city of Casablanca, here are a few tips to help you navigate this destination. For further details about useful words in Arabic, as well as recommendations on cultural norms, haggling or safety, head to my Morocco destination page.

• ☀ Best time to visit Casablanca : spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the most pleasant seasons, with mild weather and fewer crowds.
• ⏳ Historic background: in the 7th century, Casablanca was little more than a small Berber settlement on the slopes of the Anfa Mountains. In 1468, it was sacked by the Portuguese who completely destroyed the city’s fleet of pirate ships. In the 18th century Casablanca acquired a new significance thanks to its port. However, it was in the 20th century under the French protectorate that Casablanca underwent its most profound changes, becoming the economic centre of the country. Nowadays, the city is one of the largest cities in Africa and its port is the busiest in Morocco.
• 📍Itinerary: unfortunately, we only had an afternoon in the city, so our time during this road trip was very limited. That is why I would suggest that you spend at least one or two nights in Casablanca to soak up the energy of the city. I trust I´ll be able to do so next time around!
• 🗓 Key events: Casablanca hosts several exciting annual events that add to its cultural vibrancy, such as the Casablanca International Book Fair (in April), the Jazzablanca Festival (taking place in July), the edgy L’Boulevard Festival (in September) or the Casablanca International Film Festival (held each December).
• 💬 Language: note that Arabic and Berber are the two official languages in the country. That being said, French and Arabic are the most commonly spoken, while English is understood in hotels and tourist areas but less so in markets. Feel free to check my glossary in the Morocco destination page for a list of Arabic words that might be helpful. Additionally, a friendly ´salaam alaikum´ (peace be upon you) is a warm and appreciated greeting when interacting with locals.
• 🛟 Safety and dress code: Casablanca is generally safe, though like any big city, watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas. Despite being a modern town, modest clothing is still recommended, especially when visiting religious sites. For extra peace of mind when traveling abroad, you can calculate how much you would pay for your health insurance with the SafetyWing widget below.

🍴Where to eat in Casablanca

Casablanca offers plenty of options to satisfy both foodies and curious travelers, mixing traditional Moroccan flavors with international influences and stylish modern venues. From classic dishes like tagines and couscous served in local eateries to elegant rooftop restaurants overlooking the skyline, there’s something for every taste and budget. Being a coastal city, Casablanca is also an excellent place to try fresh fish and seafood, whether grilled at the Central Market or served in refined restaurants along the Corniche.

Here´s a list of suggested cafes and Casablanca restaurants you should try during your visit:

• Pâtisserie Bennis: this famous bakery sells pastries known as kaab el ghazal (gazelle horns), fritters or pastela.
• Marché Central and Habbous district: come here if you´re looking for fresh produce or traditional souks. There´s honestly no better way to get introduced to Moroccan food.
• Ostréa restaurant: located in the port of Casablanca, we came here for lunch to eat a delicious fried fish and swordfish. Great location near the iconic Hassan II mosque.
• Rick’s Café: even if you’ve never seen the iconic film Casablanca,this place is a must. Built to recreate the movie’s atmosphere, the restaurant is set in a restored colonial mansion. Even if slightly touristy, its decor—with arches, lanterns, and a pianist playing classics—takes you back in time.
• Sky 28 & SKIES at Kenzi Tower Hotel: for dinner with a view, head to the top of the Kenzi Tower Hotel. On the 27th floor, SKIES restaurant offers refined cuisine in a stylish setting, while the 28th-floor Sky 28 lounge bar is perfect for cocktails with sweeping views of Casablanca.
• More cafes, clubs and restaurant options in Casablanca: Al Mounia, Black House Disco (housed at the Hyatt Regency Hotel), Brasserie Café M, Buddha-Bar Beach Mazagan (close to El Jadida), Café Theatro, El Gousto (Italian cuisine), Glaz, La Bodega de Casablanca (Spanish cuisine), La Brasserie Bavaroise, La Pergola, La Sqala, La Table du Rétro, L’Atelier Oriental, La Toscana, L’Avenue Brasserie Nouvelle, Le Cuistot Traditionnel, Le Poisson, L’Étoile Centrale, Nkoa, Organic Kitchen, Petit Poucet, Relais de Paris, Restaurant du Port de Pêche, Riad 21, Tahiti Beach Club (including Le Pilotis), Taverne du Dauphin.

🛏 Where to stay in Casablanca

Accommodation in Casablanca is as diverse as the city itself. You’ll find international chain hotels, boutique stays, and even riads, though they are less common than in other Moroccan destinations. Since we just spent the afternoon here before heading to Marrakech, we didn´t sleep in town, but here’s a selection of the best Casablanca hotels sorted by budget:

• Luxury hotels in Casablanca (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐): Barceló Anfa Casablanca, Casablanca Marriott Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca, Hyatt Regency, Hôtel particulier Le Doge, Kenzi Tower Hotel, Le Palace d´Anfa, Royal Mansour.
• Medium range hotels in Casa (⭐⭐⭐ or ⭐⭐⭐⭐): Atlas Sky Airport, Best Western Plus Casablanca City Center, Hôtel Guynemer, Hotel Ibis Casablanca City Center, Hotel Suisse, Novotel Casablanca City Center.
• Budget accommodation in Casablanca (⭐⭐ or below): Hotel Excelsior Palace, Hôtel Tropicana.

For more accommodation options in Casablanca, feel free to check out Airbnb, Booking or Hostelworld, my go-to platforms wherever I travel.

🚕 How to get around the city of Casablanca

As one of the main destinations in the country, Casablanca is one of the best-connected cities in Morocco. Check out the various means of transportation to reach or get around town.

• 🛥️ By ferry: while ferries from Spain serve various Moroccan ports, none offer a direct route to Casablanca. You would need to travel by ferry to one of the northern ports (Tangier or Nador) and then take a bus, train, or taxi to Casablanca.
• 🚌 By bus: long-distance buses such as CTM or Supratours serve Casablanca, with various stops along the way (Casa Oasis, Casa Port or Casa Voyageurs). The bus station is Gare Routière Ouled Ziane.
• 🚙 By car: if you’re on a road trip across the country, Casablanca is easily accessible from the main highways. In just an hour and a half from Rabat, we were in Casablanca.
• 👣 By foot: the old medina and the new city (Ville Nouvelle) with its beautiful architectural heritage are best visited on foot.
• ✈️ By plane: Mohammed V International Airport is the busiest in the country, with direct flights to and from Europe, the Middle East, and North America. The airport is located about 30 km from the city center and is linked by trains and taxis.
• 🚕 By taxi: in Casablanca, taxis are cheap but make sure the meter is on.
• 🚂 By train or tram: the Moroccan railway system is modern and reliable, with trains from Fez, Marrakech and Rabat making Casablanca an easy stopover. The ONCF high-speed train, Al Boraq, connects Casablanca to Tangier in just two hours. Also, the tram system is modern and efficient for getting around the city.

📍Map with the best things to do in Casablanca

For your ease of reference, below you will find a Casablanca map with all the spots mentioned throughout this blog post. They are color-coded by category (things to do, restaurants, hotels or day trip destinations). Use it to plan your next trip!

🧳Day trips from Casablanca, Morocco

To give you an idea, when we were on our road trip, we combined Casablanca with Fez, Rabat and Marrakech. I would highly recommend following a similar itinerary because even though we spent just one or two nights in every destination, the shift in atmosphere between all these cities was remarkable.

If you have extra time in Casablanca, these nearby destinations—each less than three hours away by car—offer diverse experiences along the coast and inland.

• 🐚 El Jadida: this coastal town with a Portuguese fortress and atmospheric old streets is quieter and perfect for a half-day trip if you want to slow down.
• 🟠 Marrakech: although further away (about 3 hours by train), Marrakech makes for an incredible day or overnight trip. Its colorful souks, gardens, and vibrant main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, are worlds apart from Casablanca’s modern vibe.
• ⚓ Mohammedia: known until 1960 as Fedala, this port city is at the center of the Moroccan petroleum industry but it also serves as a seaside resort, with great beaches, a yacht club and even a golf course.
• 🇲🇦 Rabat: just an hour away by train, Morocco’s capital is a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its Kasbah of the Udayas, Hassan Tower, and the royal palace, Rabat is both historic and peaceful—a refreshing contrast to Casablanca’s energy.
• 🕌 Settat: located inland between Rabat and Marrakech, the city of Settat features a historic district blending Moroccan and French colonial architecture, ideal for tranquil strolls and traditional shopping amid handcrafted goods and local delicacies.
  

Browse my Morocco resources for further inspiration!

My ultimate Essaouira travel guide

Things to do in Agadir: my travel guide + map

Things to do in Marrakech: travel guide + map

Things to do in Rabat: map & travel guide to the capital of Morocco

Top 6 cities in Morocco to visit (+ more for your bucket list)

What to do in Fez: my complete travel guide & map

If you´re feeling adventurous, discover other destinations across Africa (such as Ethiopia) or the Middle East (Jordan, Turkey).

🎒 Final thoughts on Casa

Casablanca might not have the immediate charm of Fez or Marrakech, but it offers something equally valuable: a window into Morocco’s contemporary life. It’s a city of contrasts—between mosques and malls, Art Deco facades and Atlantic beaches, colonial relics and buzzing nightlife.

For me, Casablanca was a short stop, but seeing the Hassan II Mosque alone made the visit worthwhile. If you give Casablanca even a little time, you’ll find it’s not just a gateway to Morocco but a destination worth exploring in its own right. Hopefully I can visit again soon and spend a few days there to discover the city properly. But for now, it will be ´au revoir, Casa!´

So, how did you like this travel guide detailing the best things to do in Casablanca? Feel free to leave your questions and comments below, or show your support by loving this article.

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