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Casablanca Travel & Vacation Guide

Casablanca, Morocco’s modern economic hub, blends contemporary energy with iconic landmarks. Its most famous attraction is the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, perched dramatically on the Atlantic coast. The city also showcases French colonial architecture, art deco buildings, and a growing modern skyline. Visitors can stroll along the Corniche, enjoy upscale shopping malls, and explore lively markets. Though less traditional than Marrakech or Fes, Casablanca offers insight into Morocco’s cosmopolitan side, with trendy cafés, restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. For many travelers, Casablanca serves as a gateway to Morocco, but it’s also a destination worth exploring for its blend of history, modernity, and cultural contrasts. 

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Description

Infused with a sense of romantic allure by the iconic 1942 film starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, Casablanca might not be Morocco's political capital (that title goes to Rabat), but it unquestionably reigns as the nation's economic and cultural heartbeat. While Rabat holds the formal title, Casablanca excels in areas that matter on a day-to-day basis: commerce, industry, and shipping. This bustling activity lends the city a distinctly contemporary aura. Nowhere is this more evident than along Boulevard Brahim Roudani, where sleek business centres give way to upscale restaurants and diverse cultural spaces. These modern enclaves provide a sharp contrast to the Old Town's narrow lanes and the vibrant souks, set against a backdrop of aging, colonial-era buildings. Known locally as Casa or Dar El Beïda in Arabic, Casablanca boasts a rich and complex history. Its story took a dramatic turn during the 15th-century Portuguese occupation, aimed at suppressing piracy through the strategic use of the port. However, the devastating earthquake of 1755 lessened Portuguese interest, paving the way for a rebirth under the Moroccan leader Sidi Mohammed III. This layered history adds yet another dimension to a city that constantly straddles the old and the new.

Useful information

Population:

4 million (2025)

Currency:

Moroccan dirham (MAD)

Emergency Info:

Police: 19
Ambulance/Fire: 15

Opening Hours:

Do & See

Portrait of excited senior woman attentively looking at paintings in art museum

Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum

The Abderrahman Slaoui Museum in Casablanca’s historic district displays the private art collection of businessman and avid art collector Abderrahman Slaoui. Explore its mix of Moroccan jewellery, paintings, and vintage posters, and enjoy the quiet galleries that give a sense of Casablanca’s cultural and artistic history.

Boy has into pool after going down water slide during summer

Aquaparc Tamaris

Situated just 5 kilometres from the heart of Casablanca, Aquaparc Tamaris offers a refreshing break from the city's hustle and heat. This expansive water park is a family-friendly haven, complete with water slides, a wave pool, and a variety of quick dining options. Whether you're looking to keep the kids entertained or simply cool off, it's an ideal day out for everyone.

Palm trees in Arab League Park ( Parc de la Ligue Arabe ) in Casablanca, Morocco. The Arab League Park is an urban park in Casablanca, Morocco.

Arab League Park

Next to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Arab League Park is Casablanca’s largest green space, with paths lined by fan palms and promenades framed by date trees. Take a walk through the park, enjoy a quiet moment on a bench, and appreciate the mix of open lawns and shaded avenues.

Famous white Art Deco "Sacred Heart Cathedral" in the city centre of Casablanca, Morocco

Casablanca Cathedral (Church of the Sacred Heart)

Casablanca Cathedral is a tall, white Art Deco landmark with clear Moroccan touches, a reminder of the city’s early 20th-century experiments in design. Wander through the interior to see how the old church has been adapted for exhibitions and occasional cultural events, with light filtering through high windows and a slightly weathered charm.

Rocky ocean coast near the El Hank lighthouse in Casablanca, Morocco.

El Hank Lighthouse

El Hank Lighthouse rises above the Corniche on a rocky headland, its design inspired by the shape of old Moroccan minarets. Climb the 256 steps to reach the viewing platform or simply pause at the base to take in the sea air and the long views towards Hassan II Mosque and the coastline.

Metal traditional water cups in the the Hammam to wash and clean the body

Hammam Ziani

Unwind in traditional style at Hammam Ziani, an authentic Moroccan bathhouse in central Casablanca, offering scrubs, massages, and seaweed therapy. Visitors can use the men’s and women’s sections, relax in the steam rooms, and enjoy the beauty centre for hair and skincare.

The Hassan II Mosque is a mosque in Casablanca, Morocco. It is the largest mosque in Morocco and the 7th largest in the world.

Hassan II Mosque

The Hassan II Mosque commands a dramatic presence on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Its vast prayer hall and 210-metre minaret make it one of Casablanca’s most recognisable sights. Join a guided tour to see the detailed woodwork, marble floors, and the small glass section set over the water, and take your time walking the esplanade outside for long views along the coast.

La Corniche & Aïn Diab Beach

La Corniche & Aïn Diab Beach

La Corniche in the Ain Diab neighbourhood is Casablanca's hotspot for upscale Atlantic beach clubs, drawing a chic crowd looking to soak up the sun or catch a wave. As the sun sets, the atmosphere transitions seamlessly into a bustling nightlife, featuring an array of trendy nightclubs, sophisticated cocktail lounges, and terraced bars with ocean views. Along Boulevard de la Corniche, dining venues range from laid-back, counter-serve eateries to elegant French establishments. Ain Diab Beach is another crowd-pleaser, offering visitors a plethora of water activities and beach games. The area is dotted with beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. Once the sun dips below the horizon, the beachfront comes alive with live music and various forms of entertainment.

Dining

Three chefs - men and woman - in hotel or restaurant kitchen working and cooking in team

À Ma Bretagne

À Ma Bretagne is a long-established French restaurant overlooking the Atlantic, renowned for its seafood dishes and a menu crafted by the Halbert family, members of the Maîtres Cuisiniers de France. Settle in for classics like sole, lobster, or well-prepared fish served in a calm dining room that opens onto a garden with sea views.

Grilled chicken on bamboo skewers, close up view

Basmane Restaurant

Located inside Hôtel Club Val d'Anfa, Basmane offers a charming spot to enjoy Moroccan cuisine in an elegant setting. The menu features local favourites like tender meat skewers and freshly made Moroccan pastries.

Burger

Blend Gourmet Burger

Blend Gourmet Burger offers a refreshing alternative to the city’s Moroccan and French eateries, whipping up juicy burgers in a trendy, industrial-style setting. Besides burgers, the menu features salads, desserts, and milkshakes. Their signature Blend Burger is a local favourite.

Petit Gateau served with molten chocolate cake, two balls of vanilla ice cream and decorated with strawberries

Brasserie Café M

Situated at Place des Nations Unies, Brasserie Café M serves French cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and subtle Mediterranean influences. Alongside a carefully selected wine list, the restaurant offers a range of French desserts, best enjoyed on its terrace surrounded by lush greenery.

Waiter pouring wine in a glass

Don Camillo

Don Camillo is a cosy and iconic Casablanca restaurant founded in 1952, renowned for its Italian, Spanish, and French specialities. Offering an extensive Mediterranean-inspired menu paired with a thoughtfully curated wine list, it welcomes guests in a warm, timeless atmosphere. A cherished local institution, Don Camillo continues to uphold the authentic spirit of the classic Casablanca brasserie under the guidance of Juan Manuel Carrillo, who faithfully carries on his father’s tradition.

Close up of sashimi sushi set .

ILOLI

ILOLI is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience traditional Japanese cuisine while in Casablanca. This stylish restaurant offers an array of expertly prepared Japanese dishes, alongside sushi, sashimi, and a selection of handcrafted cocktails, all brought together to create a memorable and refined dining experience.

Indian food specialities

India Palace

Located in the heart of Casablanca, India Palace is an enchanting restaurant that brings the vibrant flavours of India to your table. Guests can choose from a variety of spicy or mild specialties, including fragrant Tandoori Chicken, freshly baked Naan, and creamy Mango Mousse.

Steak

L'Entrecôte Café de Paris

L’Entrecôte Café de Paris is a classic brasserie that specializes in a simple but popular formula: a perfectly grilled entrecôte served with pommes allumettes and their signature 'Café de Paris' sauce, a buttery, spiced blend made in-house that complements the meat beautifully. The meal begins with a walnut salad, and the dessert menu features classics like profiteroles, fondant au chocolat, and tarte Tatin. Their wine list includes well-known reds such as Saint‑Émilion and Côte‑du‑Rhône, while the interior features red checkered tablecloths, dark wood, and vintage touches, giving the space a timeless brasserie feel.

Cafés

French patisserie

Amoud

A city landmark, Amoud is a well-known Casablanca patisserie with counters full of pastries, cakes, chocolates, and ice cream made by skilled bakers. Indulge in a pistachio éclair, a slice of fraisier, or a box of bite-sized Moroccan sweets.

Industrial coffee bar

Bondi Coffee Kitchen

Bondi Coffee Kitchen brings a touch of Australia to Casablanca, run by a Moroccan-Australian couple who take their coffee and bread seriously. Take a seat in their stripped-back, industrial space and enjoy a menu of fresh, easy plates (sourdough sandwiches, colourful salads, pastas and plenty of vegetarian options) backed up by fair-trade, organic beans and juices pressed on the spot.

A close-up shot of a cappuccino cup with a heart-shaped foam in the hands of a man, enjoying his breakfast in a cozy cafe.

Mood's Café

Come for the view and stay for the delicious food. Mood's Café sits along the Corniche, offering a clear view of the Atlantic, and draws people in with its salads, sandwiches, and freshly baked desserts. Grab a table on the terrace if the weather’s on your side; it’s a good place to take a slow lunch or simply enjoy the ocean while nursing a coffee.

Ice cream cake on plate

Oliveri: Maître Glacier

Oliveri is a long-running ice cream parlour and patisserie where locals stop for scoops, sorbets and classic French-style pastries. Try one of the seasonal flavours or a simple vanilla-and-chocolate combo, and expect a nostalgic feel that comes with more than fifty years of serving Casablanca’s sweet tooth.

traditional honey and almond sweet pastries from morocco

Pâtisserie Bennis Habous

Pâtisserie Bennis Habous is a family-run bakery from the 1930s known for its trays of handmade Moroccan pastries. Stop in to try classics like gazelle horns, honey-soaked chebakia or almond-filled briouates, all prepared fresh in the morning and laid out in neat rows.

Bars & Nightlife

Cocktails

Bar CasArt

Bar CasArt is a sleek spot for art lovers, where walls double as an exhibition space and events often draw Casablanca’s stylish crowd. Cocktails are carefully crafted, and guests can enjoy a drink with small plates, either on the terrace or inside amid colourful paintings and elegant interiors.

Close up view of a Spanish seafood paella: mussels, king prawns, langoustine, haddock

La Bodega de Casablanca

La Bodega de Casablanca is a lively Spanish-style tapas bar where live music, from reggae to samba to rock, plays most nights. The menu covers a wide range of dishes, from cold and warm starters to seafood, croquettes, and traditional paella, with cocktails to match.

Happy friends cheering with half pints beer in pub restaurant - Young people having fun at chalet bar party - Youth, vacation and nightlife lifestyle concept

Le Jefferson

If you're looking for a pub where you can meet locals and fellow travellers, Le Jefferson is a good choice. They serve all kinds of beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, alongside tapas and international dishes. Sometimes, live music heats up the atmosphere of the small bar, or they offer sports screenings.

Rick's Cafe on Boulevard Sour Jdid in Casablanca, known from the 1942 movie

Rick's Café

Want to feel like you're in the movie 'Casablanca'? Come to Rick's Café, where the bar from the iconic 1942 film has come to life. With an international menu specialising in Casablanca’s fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruit, you can enjoy good food, cocktails while listening to live piano music in an elegant and romantic ambience.

Aerial Panorama of Casablanca in Morocco at night. Illuminated Hassan II Mosque in the background

Skies 28

Located at Kenzi Tower Hotel's 28th level, Sky 28 is gifted with one of the most breathtaking views of Casablanca. The experience just enhances even more with the tasty cocktail menu and tongue-tickling tapas that are accompanied beautifully by live music and DJs.

beer taps

The Irish Pub Casablanca

Passion for carefully selected brews, a relaxed atmosphere, and football on the big screen, an Irish pub is always a good choice, and this one is no exception. Live music often fills the room, attracting a mix of locals and travellers alike. It’s the kind of place to settle in with a pint, catch a match, and enjoy a friendly crowd.

Shopping

shopping centre

Anfaplace Shopping Center

Anfaplace sits right on the Corniche, so you can shop with the ocean in view. The mall brings together international brands, a few local boutiques, and a supermarket. It’s a great place to wander when you want air-conditioning and a break from the city streets, and there are plenty of cafés and quick-service spots if you feel like taking a pause between shops.

Antique market, shelf with silver, brass and copper utensils vases, jugs, mugs and stands, metal products. Sale antiques items.

Derb Ghallef

Head to Derb Ghallef for a busy flea market experience set amidst a labyrinth of shopping streets. Part of the larger Maârif area, this neighbourhood offers a treasure trove of goods, from clothes and books to furniture and electronics. It's the ideal place to put your haggling skills to the test. While you're there, don't miss the century-old Horticulture Garden for a quieter moment amid the shopping frenzy.

Pile of various clay tajins for sale on the market in Morocco

Local Markets

Scattered across Casablanca are small, local markets that offer a genuine glimpse into Moroccan culture and crafts. From traditional souvenirs and local produce to clothing, silver jewellery, and rugs, these markets have it all. Don't forget to put your haggling skills to good use; you'll need them to snag the best deals.

Suit with shopping bags on shopping street

Maârif

Maârif is one of Casablanca’s main shopping districts, known for its concentration of fashion shops and its steady stream of locals out hunting for new styles. International brands sit alongside smaller Moroccan boutiques, so you can browse everything from designer labels to more affordable streetwear in the same stroll. The neighbourhood is also packed with places to refuel, whether you want a quick sandwich, a traditional bakery stop, or a sit-down meal at one of the many cafés and trattorias.

Shopping time, young teenage girl with shopping bags at shopping mall

Morocco Mall

Morocco Mall is not only the biggest mall in Casablanca; it is also the second-biggest one in entire Africa. The mall opened in 2011 and has several shops, an IMAX cinema and a large and varied food court. Aquadream is a gigantic aquarium that visitors can even go scuba diving in.

Colorful babouche shoes are traditional Moroccan slippers. Handmade embroidered shoes in oriental style at souk or ethnic market

Quartier Habous (New Medina)

Quartier Habous is a mid-20th-century neighbourhood built in a blend of Moroccan and French architectural styles, and it’s one of the best places in Casablanca to browse for souvenirs. Explore its small lanes and arcades to find bookshops, leather workshops, pottery stalls, traditional clothing, and plenty of places selling good-quality argan oil, spices, and ceramics. Take your time walking between the courtyards, and don’t miss the traditional bakeries for boxes of Moroccan pastries to take home.

Tourist Information

Welcome sign in Casablanca's medina

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Casablanca is from May to October, when the city enjoys its driest months. During this period, even hot days are tempered by a refreshing sea breeze, making the climate more comfortable. However, Casablanca is blessed with a warm climate year-round, so a winter visit isn't entirely off the table. While there's a chance of encountering some rain, the milder temperatures can still make for a pleasant trip.

passport

Passport/Visa

Citizens of the European Union, as well as the United States, Australia, and dozens of world countries can visit Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Look up individual prerequisites prior to travel in order to possibly apply for a visa in time.

plane in the pink sky

Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN)

Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport is located about 30 km south of the city centre, with the journey into Casablanca taking roughly 40–45 minutes, depending on traffic. Travellers can reach the city by ONCF trains, which run from the station in the basement of Terminal 1 to Casa‑Voyageurs and Casa‑Port approximately every hour. Official taxis (white Grand taxis) are available outside the arrivals area 24/7.

view of Hassan II Mosque and a red taxi passing near it. famous landmark. public transport

Taxi

Taxis are widely available throughout Casablanca. Petit taxis (small, red cars) are ideal for short trips within the city, while Grand taxis (white vehicles) are typically used for longer journeys or shared routes. Petit taxis usually run on a meter, though it’s worth asking the driver to turn it on, especially at night. Uber is not currently available in Morocco, but Careem operates in Casablanca and works much like the familiar ride‑hailing app. Another option is inDrive, which lets passengers propose a fare directly to the driver.

a moroccan train in mohamedia station

Buses & Trains

For intercity travel within Morocco, CTM buses are a reliable and extensive option. They operate from Gare Routière, in the heart of Casablanca, and are generally comfortable for longer trips. Alternatively, if you prefer rail travel, the Gare du Port serves as the main hub for trains, with connections to cities like Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech. For information on timetables and routes, visit CTM's offficial website.

Morocco street view

Dress Code

Morocco offers a rich tapestry of modern development and deep-rooted tradition, particularly noticeable as you move from urban to rural settings. For tourists, understanding and respecting this cultural backdrop is crucial. Opting for modest attire, long sleeves, and full-length bottoms is advisable for both men and women. Not only does this show cultural respect, but it's also practical: loose, airy clothing like long skirts, maxi dresses, or flowing trousers helps keep you cool and offers sun protection.

European power adapter

Electricity

In Morocco, you will encounter two types of electrical outlets: Type C and Type E, both with round prongs. The country's electrical system runs on a 220V supply voltage and a frequency of 50Hz. Make sure to bring appropriate adaptors if your devices are not compatible with these specifications.

red medical cross

Pharmacy

Pharmacies in Casablanca are easy to spot thanks to their green crosses, often illuminated and marked with the word 'Pharmacie'. Most are open 9 am to 7 pm, Monday to Saturday, but some operate 24-hour rotations as pharmacie de garde for emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Casablanca is home to several iconic attractions. The Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and oceanfront location. The Art Deco buildings in the city center, including the Cinema Rialto, offer a glimpse into the city's colonial past. Don't miss the vibrant Central Market for a taste of local life and the Corniche for a scenic coastal walk.

A stay of two to three days in Casablanca is ideal to explore the main attractions and soak in the city's unique atmosphere. This timeframe allows you to visit key sites like the Hassan II Mosque, explore the Old Medina, and enjoy the dining and shopping options at Morocco Mall and Anfa Place.

Casablanca has a well-developed public transportation system, including trams and buses, making it easy to navigate the city. Taxis are also widely available and affordable, but it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. For a more personalized experience, consider hiring a private driver through Keytours Vacations.

Casablanca offers a rich culinary scene with dishes like tagine, a slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices. Couscous, often served with vegetables and meat, is another staple. For seafood lovers, the city's coastal location means fresh fish and seafood dishes are abundant. Don't miss trying pastilla, a sweet and savory pie traditionally made with pigeon.

The best time to visit Casablanca is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities. Summer can be hot, while winter is generally mild but can be rainy.

Casablanca hosts several cultural events throughout the year. The Casablanca Festival, held in July, features music, dance, and theater performances. The Jazzablanca Festival, typically in April, attracts international jazz artists. Additionally, the Boulevard Festival in September celebrates alternative music and urban culture.

Casablanca's location makes it a great base for day trips. Consider visiting Rabat, the capital city, known for its historical sites like the Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower. El Jadida, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into Portuguese colonial history. For nature lovers, the scenic beaches of Mohammedia are just a short drive away.

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