Casablanca is Morocco's vibrant economic capital and, for most visitors, the country's main gateway — Mohammed V Airport (CMN) is the busiest in Morocco. It rewards a day or two with a striking mix of ocean, Art Deco boulevards, a grand mosque on the Atlantic, and some of the country's best dining. Here's how to make the most of it.
Hassan II Mosque — the must-see
The Hassan II Mosque is Casablanca's icon: one of the largest in the world, built partly over the Atlantic with a minaret soaring above the waves. It's one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors via guided tours, and the craftsmanship — carved cedar, marble, and zellige — is breathtaking. Go early for the light on the ocean.
The Corniche & Ain Diab
Along the coast, the Corniche is where Casablanca relaxes: seafront cafés, the Ain Diab beach, swimming pools, and sunset views over the Atlantic. It's also home to Rick's Café, a lovingly recreated tribute to the 1942 film Casablanca — a fun, atmospheric dinner stop.
The old medina & the Habous quarter
Casablanca's old medina is smaller and gentler than Marrakech's — a pleasant wander of whitewashed lanes near the port. For a more polished version, the Habous (New Medina) blends Moorish arches with 1930s planning, with great spots for olives, pastries, and traditional crafts.
Art Deco & Mohammed V Square
Casablanca has one of the world's richest collections of Art Deco and Mauresque architecture, a legacy of the 1920s–30s. Stroll around Mohammed V Square and the downtown boulevards to spot beautifully restored façades, fountains, and the elegant old cinemas.
Eat well
Casablanca is a food city: fresh Atlantic seafood, refined Moroccan cuisine, French-Moroccan bistros, and a serious café culture. From the fish stalls near the port to rooftop dining and the vast Morocco Mall, you'll eat memorably here.
Easy day trips
Casablanca is a great base for trips: Rabat, the calm capital with its kasbah and gardens, is about an hour away; Marrakech is a comfortable few hours by road or train. A private driver makes either an easy, door-to-door day.
Getting around — and from the airport
The city is spread out, so a private transfer is the smoothest way to arrive and move between sights. We handle Casablanca airport transfers and city rides with a fixed all-in price, a name-board welcome, and flight tracking — and the popular Casablanca → Marrakech route door to door. New to Morocco's airports? See our Morocco airports guide.
FAQ — Casablanca
Is Casablanca worth visiting?
Yes — especially for the Hassan II Mosque, the Atlantic Corniche, Art Deco architecture, and excellent food. Many travellers spend a day or two here at the start or end of a Morocco trip, since it's the main international gateway.
How many days do you need in Casablanca?
One full day covers the highlights (mosque, Corniche, medina, downtown). Two days let you add the Habous quarter, museums, leisurely dining, and a half-day trip to Rabat.
How do I get from Mohammed V Airport (CMN) to the city?
CMN is about 30 km from the centre. A pre-booked private transfer is the easiest option — your driver meets you with a name board, tracks your flight, and takes you door to door for a fixed price, with no queue or negotiation.
What's the best area to stay in Casablanca?
Downtown and the Corniche/Ain Diab are popular — downtown for Art Deco and walkability, the Corniche for the seafront and sunsets.
Planning a trip through Casablanca? Book your airport transfer or private driver on planmorocco.com — fixed prices, English- and French-speaking chauffeurs, available 24/7.