How Many Days in Casablanca? The Complete Morocco Travel Guide
Wondering exactly how many days in Casablanca you need to experience the best of Morocco’s largest city? You’re in the right place! After numerous visits to this vibrant coastal metropolis, I’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you plan the perfect Casablanca adventure.
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Understanding Casablanca’s Appeal
Casablanca isn’t just Morocco’s largest city—it’s a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers stand alongside centuries-old architecture. As the country’s economic powerhouse, “Casa” (as locals affectionately call it) offers a different flavor of Morocco than what you might find in more tourist-heavy cities like Marrakech or Fez.
What makes Casablanca special is its authentic blend of:
- Modern urban life mixed with traditional Moroccan customs
- Stunning coastal views along the Atlantic
- Architectural marvels like the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque
- Rich cultural heritage visible in the Old Medina and Habous Quarter
🌟 My Experience: My first trip to Casablanca completely shifted my perception of Morocco. While many travelers rush through on their way to more “exotic” destinations, I found myself captivated by Casa’s unique charm—a perfect fusion of traditional Moroccan elements with cosmopolitan energy that you simply won’t find in Marrakech or Fez.
When deciding how many days in Casablanca you should spend, consider these key factors:
- Your interests: Are you a history buff, foodie, or architecture enthusiast?
- Your travel pace: Do you prefer to zip through attractions or savor experiences slowly?
- Your overall Morocco itinerary: How does Casablanca fit with visits to other Moroccan cities?
1-Day Casablanca Itinerary
If you’ve only got one day in Casablanca, you’ll want to focus on the absolute must-sees. This quick visit works well for travelers with limited time or those using Casa as a jumping-off point to other Moroccan destinations.
Morning: Hassan II Mosque
Start with what is arguably Casablanca’s crown jewel—the magnificent Hassan II Mosque. This architectural masterpiece sits dramatically on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and is one of the largest mosques in the world.
- Tours available: 9 AM, 10 AM, 11 AM, and sometimes 12 PM (outside prayer times)
- Cost: Around 120 DH (approximately $12.50 USD)
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Note: Non-Muslims must join a guided tour to enter
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive at the Hassan II Mosque around 8:30 AM to secure your spot on the first tour of the day. This allowed me to beat the crowds and get stunning photos without hundreds of other tourists in the frame. The morning light also creates a magical glow on the intricate tile work and grand halls.
🕌 BOOK YOUR HASSAN II MOSQUE TOUR & SKIP THE LINES
Afternoon: Old Medina Exploration
After the mosque, head to the Old Medina to experience the more traditional side of Casablanca. This historic district features:
- Narrow, winding alleyways
- Bustling souks perfect for shopping
- Authentic Moroccan products and handicrafts
⚠️ Warning: While Casablanca’s Old Medina is generally safe during daylight hours, it’s best avoided after dark when most shops close. Keep your valuables secure, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. I recommend wearing a cross-body bag and leaving expensive jewelry at your hotel.
Evening: Corniche Sunset
End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Corniche in the Ain Diab district. This scenic coastal promenade offers:
- Beautiful Atlantic Ocean views
- A variety of seaside restaurants
- Perfect sunset photo opportunities
Le Cabestan Ocean View
Seafood Ocean Views
My absolute favorite spot for dinner on the Corniche is Le Cabestan. I’ve dined here three times, and the combination of fresh seafood and spectacular ocean views makes it worth every dirham. Their grilled sea bass is divine, and watching the sunset over the Atlantic while sipping Moroccan wine is an unforgettable experience.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Prime oceanfront location with panoramic views
- Exceptional seafood and French-Moroccan fusion cuisine
- Sophisticated ambiance perfect for a special evening
- Expertly crafted cocktails at their stylish bar
Price Range: $$$-$$$$
2-Day Casablanca Itinerary
With two days in Casablanca, you can experience both the cultural highlights and take some time to relax and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
Day 1: Cultural Immersion
Morning: Start with the Hassan II Mosque tour as detailed above.
Afternoon: After exploring the Old Medina, add a visit to the Habous Quarter (also known as the New Medina). Built in the 1930s, this area features:
- A fascinating mix of French and Moroccan architecture
- A more organized layout than the Old Medina
- Excellent shopping for handicrafts
- Delicious Moroccan pastries at places like Bennis Habous
How to Save Money on Shopping:
- Shop in the Habous Quarter instead of tourist-heavy areas to find better prices
- Always negotiate starting at 40-50% of the initial asking price
- Buy multiple items from the same vendor to secure better discounts
- Ask your hotel staff what local prices should be before shopping
Evening: Relax at Ain Diab Beach along the Corniche. This vibrant stretch of coastline offers:
- Golden sand beaches
- Beach clubs and restaurants
- A perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing
🏨 FIND YOUR PERFECT CASABLANCA HOTEL
Day 2: Art & History
Morning: Visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism—the only Jewish museum in the Arab world. Located in Casablanca’s Oasis area, it offers:
- Fascinating exhibits on Jewish history in Morocco
- Artifacts including synagogue replicas and traditional costumes
- Admission: 20 DH for adults (free for children under 11)
- Free entry every Wednesday
🌟 My Experience: The Museum of Moroccan Judaism was a highlight of my second visit to Casablanca. As someone with Jewish heritage, I was moved by this beautiful testament to Morocco’s pluralistic history. The collection of ceremonial objects, photographs, and textiles tells a rich story that few visitors to Morocco ever learn about.
Afternoon: Explore the Villa des Arts, a contemporary art museum housed in a stunning 1934 Art Deco villa:
- Located near Parc de la Ligue Arabe
- Features both Moroccan and international art
- Often offers free admission
Evening: Dinner at Rick’s Café, a restaurant inspired by the classic movie “Casablanca”:
- Live piano music
- Menu featuring seafood and Moroccan dishes
- Located at 248, Bd Sour Jdid
- Reservations recommended
🍽️ RESERVE YOUR TABLE AT RICK’S CAFÉ
3-Day Casablanca Itinerary
Three days in Casablanca allows for a thorough exploration of the city plus a day trip to nearby Rabat, Morocco’s capital.
Day 1: Casablanca Highlights
Combine the highlights from the one-day itinerary:
- Hassan II Mosque tour
- Old Medina exploration
- Visit to the Habous Quarter
- External view of the Royal Palace (not open to public, but worth seeing from outside)
- Evening dinner in the Corniche area
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
Follow the second day of the two-day itinerary:
- Museum of Moroccan Judaism
- Villa des Arts
- Evening entertainment at a local theater like Studio des Arts Vivants
💡 Pro Tip: For a truly local experience, I recommend checking out the schedule at Studio des Arts Vivants during your visit. I caught a contemporary dance performance there that blended traditional Moroccan elements with modern choreography—it was a cultural highlight that most tourists completely miss!
Day 3: Day Trip to Rabat
For those also considering the reverse journey, you can experience Casablanca as a day trip from Marrakech. Morning: Depart early for Rabat, which is:
- Approximately 86 km from Casablanca
- Accessible by train in about 55 minutes (cost: $3-7 USD)
- Reachable by car in around 49 minutes
Car Rental in Morocco: Freedom to Explore
Full Insurance No Hidden Fees
During my last Morocco trip, renting a car gave me incredible flexibility to explore at my own pace. The drive from Casablanca to Rabat along the coastal highway offers stunning ocean views you’d miss by train, and having a car let me discover hidden beaches and viewpoints between the cities.
Benefits of Renting a Car:
- Freedom to explore at your own pace
- Easy day trips to Rabat, El Jadida, and other nearby cities
- Ability to stop at viewpoints and small villages along the way
- Convenience of carrying purchases without lugging shopping bags on public transport
Price Range: From $30/day
Afternoon: Explore Rabat’s highlights:
- Oudayas Kasbah: A UNESCO site featuring charming blue and white houses and the Andalusian Gardens
- Hassan Tower: An incomplete 12th-century minaret that’s part of a historic complex
- Mausoleum of Mohammed V: A beautiful example of modern Moroccan architecture
Evening: Return to Casablanca for a farewell dinner, perhaps at Le Cabestan for a fancy seafood experience with Atlantic views.
🚌 BOOK A GUIDED DAY TRIP TO RABAT (NO DRIVING REQUIRED!)
Extended Stay in Casablanca
If you’re planning to spend four or more days in Casablanca, you’ll have time for deeper immersion and day trips to nearby coastal towns. Here’s how to make the most of an extended stay:
Additional Day Trips
Similar to Marrakech to Essaouira day trips, these coastal excursions offer a refreshing contrast to city life.
El Jadida (96 km south of Casablanca):
- UNESCO-listed Portuguese fortress
- Beautiful beaches
- Reachable by car in about 1-1.5 hours
Azemmour (75 km southwest):
- Historic medina
- Portuguese walls
- Artistic community
- About 1 hour by car from Casablanca
🏰 DISCOVER EL JADIDA’S PORTUGUESE FORTRESS & BEACHES
Hands-On Cultural Activities
Cooking Classes:
- Learn to make authentic Moroccan dishes like tagines and pastilla
- Options like Taste of Casablanca offer 5-hour classes starting at $65 USD
- Classes often include market tours and meals
🌟 My Experience: Taking a cooking class with Taste of Casablanca was one of the most authentic cultural experiences of my entire Morocco trip. Chef Nezha not only taught me how to make the perfect chicken tagine, but she also shared family stories and cultural insights you’d never get from a guidebook. Her tips about spice combinations have transformed my cooking back home!
Moroccan Cooking Class Experience
Market Tour Full Meal Included
The Taste of Casablanca cooking class was the perfect way to dive deeper into Moroccan culture. We started with a tour of a local market where Chef Nezha taught us how to select the freshest ingredients. Then we prepared three authentic dishes from scratch, learning traditional techniques passed down through generations.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to blend Moroccan spices for the perfect flavor profile
- Traditional tagine cooking techniques
- Secrets to making light, flaky pastilla pastry
- Authentic mint tea preparation ritual
Price Range: $65-85 per person
Shopping Excursions:
- Central Market on Mohammed V Boulevard for fresh produce and seafood
- Artisan workshops at L’Académie des Arts Traditionnels where you can learn traditional crafts like wood painting
Where to Stay in Casablanca
Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your Casablanca experience, just as finding the perfect riad in Marrakech is essential when visiting that city. Here are my top recommendations for every budget:
| Hotel | Area | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca | Anfa, Corniche | $$$$$ | Luxury travelers, ocean views |
| Royal Mansour Casablanca | City Center | $$$$ | Business travelers, central location |
| Hôtel & Spa Le Doge | Art Deco District | $$$ | Boutique experience, spa lovers |
| Kenzi Basma Hotel | City Center | $$ | Mid-range travelers, good value |
| ibis Casa Voyageurs | Near Train Station | $ | Budget travelers, convenient transport |
Luxury Options
Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca
Ocean Views Infinity Pool
During my last visit to Casablanca, I treated myself to two nights at the Four Seasons, and it was worth every penny. The oceanfront location offered breathtaking Atlantic views from my balcony, and the infinity pool seemed to merge with the ocean horizon. Their Moroccan-inspired spa treatments were the perfect remedy after long days of exploring.
Standout Features:
- Stunning oceanfront location with panoramic Atlantic views
- World-class spa with traditional hammam treatments
- Exceptional dining at Bleu restaurant featuring fresh seafood
- Spacious rooms with private balconies and luxury amenities
Price Range: $350-600+ per night
Mid-Range Boutique Hotels
Hôtel & Spa Le Doge
Art Deco Boutique
Le Doge perfectly captures Casablanca’s unique architectural heritage. Each room in this converted 1930s mansion is uniquely decorated in Art Deco style. I especially loved the attention to historical details combined with modern comforts, and their traditional hammam experience was divine after a long day of sightseeing.
Why I Recommend It:
- Authentic Art Deco character in a historic mansion
- Unique rooms with individual design themes
- Excellent on-site restaurant serving French-Moroccan cuisine
- Traditional hammam and spa facilities
Price Range: $150-250 per night
Budget-Friendly Options
Moroccan House Hotel
Traditional Decor Budget-Friendly
During my first trip to Casablanca when I was traveling on a tighter budget, Moroccan House Hotel offered excellent value. While the rooms aren’t luxurious, they’re decorated with colorful traditional furnishings that give you an authentic feel. The central location made it easy to explore the city, and the included breakfast was a great way to start each day.
Value Features:
- Budget-friendly rates without sacrificing character
- Traditional Moroccan decor and ambiance
- Convenient city center location
- Helpful staff who can arrange tours and transportation
Price Range: $50-80 per night
🏨 COMPARE ALL CASABLANCA HOTELS & FIND THE BEST RATES
Getting Around Casablanca
Navigating Casablanca is relatively straightforward, with several transportation options available:
Taxis
- Petit taxis (small, red vehicles): For travel within the city
- Grand taxis (larger, white vehicles): For intercity travel
- Tips: Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare before departing
💡 Pro Tip: Always ask petit taxi drivers to use the meter (“compteur” in French). If they refuse, politely decline and find another taxi. In my experience, a ride from the city center to the Hassan II Mosque should cost approximately 20-30 DH on the meter. If they quote much higher, they’re trying to overcharge you.
Public Transportation
- Trams: Modern, clean, and connect major areas
- Buses: Extensive network covering the entire city
- Cost: Affordable and efficient (single tram ticket costs around 6 DH)
🚗 FIND THE BEST CAR RENTAL DEALS IN CASABLANCA
Best Time to Visit Casablanca
For the most pleasant weather (similar to the best seasons for Marrakech):
- Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes
- Fall (September to November): Comfortable temperatures ideal for sightseeing
⚠️ Warning: Avoid visiting in July and August if possible. During my last summer visit, temperatures reached uncomfortably high levels, and the humidity from the Atlantic made sightseeing quite exhausting. Many locals leave the city during this period, and some smaller businesses may be closed.
Summer can be hot, though the coastal location means Casablanca benefits from ocean breezes that make it more comfortable than inland cities.
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FAQs: How Many Days in Casablanca
Is two days enough in Casablanca?
Yes, two days is sufficient to see Casablanca’s major highlights including the Hassan II Mosque, Old Medina, and Habous Quarter. You’ll get a good feel for the city’s character and have time to enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
How long should you spend in Casablanca?
For most travelers, 2-3 days is ideal for Casablanca. This provides enough time to see the main attractions without rushing. If you plan to use it as a base for day trips, consider 4-5 days.
Should I spend more time in Marrakech or Casablanca?
This depends on your preferences. Marrakech offers a more traditional Moroccan experience with its bustling medina and historic sites, while Casablanca is more cosmopolitan and modern. If you’re drawn to historical ambiance and traditional markets, allocate more time to Marrakech. If you prefer a more contemporary urban experience with coastal views, give more time to Casablanca.
Is Casablanca worth visiting for tourists?
Absolutely! Casablanca offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition that differs from other Moroccan cities. The Hassan II Mosque alone is worth visiting, and the city provides valuable insights into contemporary Moroccan culture. It’s also an excellent gateway to other destinations in the country.
Final Thoughts
Casablanca deserves more than just a quick stopover on your Moroccan adventure. While the city can be experienced in a day or two, allowing yourself three days provides the perfect balance—enough time to see the major sites, experience the culture, and even take a worthwhile day trip.
Remember that Casablanca offers a different perspective on Morocco than cities like Marrakech or Fez. Its blend of modern urban life with traditional elements gives you a more complete picture of contemporary Morocco.
For those planning a longer Morocco itinerary, consider combining your Casablanca visit with desert tours from Marrakech for a more diverse experience of the country.
Ready to Experience Casablanca?
Start planning your perfect Moroccan adventure today with the best rates on flights, hotels, and experiences!
Plan Your Perfect Casablanca Trip
- ✈️ Book your flights to Mohammed V International Airport
- 🏨 Find the perfect hotel in Casablanca city center or Corniche area
- 🚗 Arrange your car rental for day trips and convenience
- 🕌 Book experiences & tours including Hassan II Mosque tours
- 🛡️ Get travel insurance to protect your Morocco adventure
Whether you decide on one day, three days, or a week in Casablanca, approach your visit with an open mind and a willingness to experience both the tourist attractions and the everyday rhythm of this fascinating coastal city.
Have you been to Casablanca? How many days would you recommend spending there? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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Meta Description: Wondering how many days to spend in Casablanca? This detailed guide offers 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day itineraries with insider tips, hotel recommendations, and day trip ideas from an experienced Morocco traveler.
