Casablanca surprises people.
Many travelers arrive expecting a quick stop between Marrakech and Fes. Then they discover a city that blends Atlantic energy, Art Deco elegance, deep-rooted tradition, and modern Moroccan ambition.
This guide to the best Casablanca tourist places goes far beyond surface-level sightseeing. It covers iconic landmarks, hidden gems, local neighborhoods, day trips, cultural experiences, seasonal advice, and practical planning insights.
Whether you’re a couple seeking oceanfront romance, a family exploring Morocco for the first time, a solo traveler chasing architecture and cafés, or a luxury guest booking a five-star stay — this guide helps you plan smart and travel deeper.
Why Visit Casablanca?
Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city and economic powerhouse. It’s modern. It’s coastal. It’s ambitious.
But beneath the business skyline lies:
- Striking Islamic architecture
- French colonial Art Deco buildings
- Oceanfront promenades
- Traditional markets
- Authentic local life rarely seen in heavily touristed cities
Casablanca is less theatrical than Marrakech. It’s more real. And that’s exactly its appeal.
Iconic Casablanca Tourist Places You Cannot Miss
1. Hassan II Mosque
This is the reason most travelers come.
Perched dramatically over the Atlantic Ocean, Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world. Its 210-meter minaret dominates the skyline.
Why it matters:
- It’s one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors (guided tours only).
- The craftsmanship is extraordinary — carved cedar, hand-laid zellige tiles, marble columns.
- The prayer hall roof opens mechanically.
Practical tips:
- Book an official guided tour (check schedules through the mosque’s official site or local tourism desk).
- Dress modestly.
- Arrive 20 minutes early.
Allow 1.5 hours minimum.
2. Corniche Ain Diab
Casablanca’s social heartbeat.
This long Atlantic promenade offers:
- Beach clubs
- Cafés
- Oceanfront restaurants
- Sunset views
- Jogging paths
Families gather here. Couples stroll at sunset. Locals surf nearby.
Insider advice: Visit on weekday evenings for a relaxed vibe. Weekends get crowded.
3. Place Mohammed V
The architectural core of Casablanca.
Surrounded by French colonial buildings, fountains, and palm trees, this square showcases Morocco’s 20th-century urban design.
Nearby you’ll find:
- Sacred Heart Cathedral
- The Wilaya (Governor’s building)
- Art Deco administrative buildings
If you appreciate architecture, walk this district slowly.
4. Old Medina
Smaller than other Moroccan medinas but worth exploring.
Here you’ll find:
- Traditional markets
- Textile shops
- Everyday local commerce
- Street food vendors
It’s less polished. More authentic.
Go with a local guide if you want historical context.
5. Rick’s Cafe
Inspired by the classic film Casablanca.
While the movie wasn’t filmed here, Rick’s Café recreates the romantic 1940s atmosphere.
Expect:
- Piano music
- Moroccan-European cuisine
- Candlelit dining
Reserve ahead. It fills quickly.
Hidden Gems in Casablanca
If you want depth beyond the obvious tourist circuit, explore these lesser-known places.
Habous Quarter (New Medina)
Built during the French Protectorate, this district blends traditional Moroccan design with orderly European layout.
Highlights:
- Olive markets
- Handmade babouche slippers
- Bookshops selling Islamic literature
- Royal Palace exterior views
Stop at a traditional bakery for freshly baked msemen.
Mahkama du Pacha
An architectural masterpiece hidden within the Habous district.
It features:
- Intricate wood ceilings
- Mosaic courtyards
- Marble fountains
Access sometimes requires a local guide or special permission. Ask your hotel concierge.
Parc de la Ligue Arabe
A green oasis in the city center.
Perfect for:
- Families with children
- Morning walks
- Relaxing between sightseeing stops
Best Neighborhoods to Explore
Maarif
Modern Casablanca.
Shopping centers. Local boutiques. Trendy cafés. Ideal for younger travelers and shoppers.
Gauthier
Casablanca’s creative district.
Art galleries. Wine bars. Fine dining. Boutique hotels.
Anfa
Upscale residential zone.
Luxury villas. Quiet streets. Refined dining.
Day Trips from Casablanca
Casablanca works best when combined with nearby destinations.
1. Rabat (1 hour)
Morocco’s capital is elegant and relaxed.
Visit:
- Hassan Tower
- Kasbah of the Udayas
- Royal Palace exterior
Perfect for culture lovers.
2. El Jadida (1.5 hours)
A UNESCO-listed Portuguese city with ocean views.
Explore:
- Cité Portugaise
- Historic ramparts
- Seafood restaurants
Ideal for couples.
3. Azemmour
A quiet riverside town known for murals and relaxed local life.
Less touristy. More authentic.
What to Eat in Casablanca
Casablanca offers Morocco’s most diverse food scene.
Must-try dishes:
- Seafood tagine
- Grilled sardines
- Pastilla
- Harira soup
- Couscous (especially Fridays)
Best areas for dining:
- Corniche Ain Diab (ocean views)
- Gauthier (fine dining)
- Habous (traditional bakeries)
Avoid restaurants with aggressive street promoters.
Where to Stay in Casablanca
Luxury Hotels
Oceanfront five-star properties near Ain Diab offer:
- Spa services
- Private beach access
- Business facilities
- Airport transfers
Boutique Hotels
Gauthier and Maarif host stylish smaller properties perfect for couples and solo travelers.
Budget Options
Affordable hotels and guesthouses near the city center and Casa Port train station.
Book early during festivals and summer.
Transportation & Getting Around
Casablanca is large. Plan your transport wisely.
Options:
- Tramway (modern and efficient)
- Petit taxis (red cars; use meter)
- Private transfers
- Rental cars for day trips
From Mohammed V International Airport, trains connect directly to Casa Voyageurs station.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Spring (March–May)
Pleasant temperatures. Ideal for sightseeing.
Summer (June–September)
Warm but moderated by Atlantic breeze. Great for beach clubs.
Autumn (October–November)
Comfortable weather. Fewer crowds.
Winter (December–February)
Mild days. Cooler evenings. Good hotel rates.
Budget Planning
Estimated daily costs:
Budget traveler: $50–80
Mid-range: $100–180
Luxury: $300+
Entry fees are modest. Dining costs vary widely.
Cash remains useful in markets.
Safety Tips for Casablanca
Casablanca is generally safe but urban.
Follow these rules:
- Avoid isolated streets at night
- Use official taxis
- Keep valuables secure
- Dress respectfully
- Confirm prices before services
Solo female travelers: Stick to well-lit areas at night and use hotel-arranged transport.
Families: The city is family-friendly, especially parks and Corniche.
Cultural Etiquette
- Greet shopkeepers politely
- Bargain respectfully in markets
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Ask before photographing people
During Ramadan, be discreet when eating in public.
Local Events & Festivals
Casablanca hosts:
- Jazzablanca Festival
- Casablanca International Book Fair
- Cultural exhibitions at local galleries
Check Morocco’s official tourism board calendar before booking.
Common Traveler Pain Points (And Solutions)
“Casablanca feels too modern.”
Solution: Focus on Hassan II Mosque, Habous Quarter, and day trips to Rabat or El Jadida.
“I only have one day.”
Plan:
- Hassan II Mosque
- Corniche lunch
- Habous Quarter
- Place Mohammed V sunset
“Is Casablanca worth it compared to Marrakech?”
Yes — for architecture, ocean views, and authentic urban life.
Suggested 3-Day Casablanca Itinerary
Day 1:
- Hassan II Mosque tour
- Lunch at Corniche Ain Diab
- Sunset at the beach
Day 2:
- Place Mohammed V
- Sacred Heart Cathedral
- Habous Quarter exploration
- Dinner in Gauthier
Day 3:
- Day trip to Rabat or El Jadida
- Evening café experience
Booking Advice
For a smooth trip:
- Pre-book mosque tours
- Reserve restaurants like Rick’s Café in advance
- Use local travel consultants for custom itineraries
- Arrange airport transfers before arrival
Local licensed guides can provide half-day city tours with historical context.
Final Thoughts
Casablanca does not overwhelm you with spectacle. It grows on you.
Its ocean air feels different from inland Morocco. Its architecture tells a complex story. Its cafés buzz with everyday life.
If you approach Casablanca expecting fantasy, you may miss it. If you approach it with curiosity, you’ll discover one of Morocco’s most authentic urban experiences.
Use this guide to plan wisely. Then explore beyond the obvious.
