Casablanca: The Complete Guide

Casablanca

Casablanca is a dynamic coastal city that serves as Morocco’s economic and commercial heart. Unlike the country’s ancient medinas and traditional souks found in other cities, Casablanca is defined by its modern energy, wide boulevards, and a blend of Art Deco and contemporary architecture. The city’s urban rhythm is fast-paced, yet travelers will find plenty of rewarding corners to explore—from stylish cafés and galleries to peaceful palm-lined parks.

One of the city’s main attractions is the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, set dramatically on the Atlantic Ocean. Its vast prayer hall, intricate tilework, and towering minaret are a testament to Moroccan craftsmanship and engineering. Visitors can take guided tours of the mosque, one of the few in Morocco open to non-Muslims, offering a rare opportunity to appreciate its spiritual and architectural beauty up close. Nearby, the Corniche area offers a contrasting vibe, where people stroll along the waterfront, enjoy beachside cafés, and experience the city’s more relaxed, coastal side.

Casablanca is also a great place to sample Morocco’s evolving culinary scene. While traditional tagines and mint tea are widely available, the city’s multicultural makeup has led to a variety of international and fusion dining options. Neighborhoods like Maarif and Gauthier are especially popular for their trendy restaurants and boutiques. Whether you’re using Casablanca as a transit hub or staying for a few days, the city offers a different, more cosmopolitan angle of Moroccan life that adds depth and contrast to any trip through the country.

History of Casablanca

Casablanca in Ancient and Medieval Times

Casablanca’s earliest origins trace back to a small Berber settlement known as Anfa, which dates to at least the 7th century BCE. Anfa developed as a modest port used by Phoenician and later Roman traders. By the Middle Ages, it had grown into a local center of commerce and was known for its strategic location on the Atlantic coast. During the 11th to 14th centuries, it was part of various Berber kingdoms and Islamic dynasties, including the Almoravids and the Merinids. The city faced frequent attacks by Portuguese and Spanish forces due to its position and resources, eventually leading to its partial destruction.

Casablanca in the Portuguese and Pre-Colonial Era

In the early 16th century, the Portuguese invaded and destroyed much of Anfa, fearing it had become a base for piracy. They rebuilt it as a military outpost named Casa Branca (meaning “White House”), though their occupation was short-lived and met with ongoing resistance from local tribes. The settlement was eventually abandoned by the Portuguese and remained in decline for several centuries. It wasn’t until the 18th century, under the rule of the Alaouite Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah, that the town was revived and renamed Dar al-Baida—translated into Spanish as Casablanca. It began to re-emerge as a trading port, slowly regaining significance in regional maritime commerce.

Casablanca in the Colonial Period

Casablanca’s modern transformation began in the early 20th century, during the French Protectorate era. The French recognized the port’s strategic and economic potential and invested heavily in urban planning and infrastructure. Casablanca grew rapidly, becoming Morocco’s principal port and an important colonial administrative center. The city’s layout was reimagined with wide boulevards, Art Deco architecture, and industrial zones, turning it into a showcase of modern colonial design. During World War II, Casablanca gained international attention as the site of the 1943 Casablanca Conference, where Allied leaders met to discuss strategies for the war and post-war Europe.

Casablanca in the Post-Independence and Modern Era

After Morocco gained independence in 1956, Casablanca remained the country’s financial and industrial capital. The city experienced rapid population growth, fueled by rural migration and economic expansion. This growth brought both opportunity and challenges, with expanding suburbs, infrastructure pressures, and social disparities. Despite these growing pains, Casablanca continued to evolve, becoming a center for Moroccan arts, culture, and business. In recent decades, projects like the Hassan II Mosque, new tram systems, and the redevelopment of the marina have reshaped the city, reaffirming its role as a symbol of modern Morocco and a major gateway between Africa and the rest of the world.

Visiting Casablanca for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Casablanca on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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5 Best places to See in Casablanca

This complete guide to Casablanca not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Casablanca and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Mdina and Rabat

Mdina, a fortified medieval town enclosed in bastions.  The impressive palaces which line its narrow, shady streets city are a mixture of Baroque and medieval architecture.  It was home then, as now, to Malta's noble families; some are descendants of the Norman, Sicilian and Spanish overlords who made Mdina their home from the 12th century. The city was founded by…
Visiting Mdina and Rabat

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Casablanca . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Mosta Dome

Mosta Dome which is also know as the Rotunda of Mosta is perhaps the most impressive church in Malta. The church was built bwtween 1833 -1860's and is dedicated to St. Mary and is furnished in the neo-classical style. The dome or rotunda is the main feature, visible from many parts of the island and is one of the worlds…
Location: Rotunda Square, Mosta | Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-17:00h, Sat 9:30-16:30h, Sun 12:00-16:00h | Price: €2 (Sacristy) & €1 for War Shelters | Distance: 2,023.9km
Visiting Mosta Dome

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Upper Barrakka Gardens & Saluting Battery

The park was originally created as a retreat for the Italian Knights of the Order of St John in 1661. They were opened as a public park in the early-19th century. Saluting Battery Just below the gardens is the saluting battery of cannons which have protected the city for nearly 500 years. This not only was a defensive gun battery…
| Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00. Closed on: Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Santa Marija (15 August), Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. | Distance: 2,031.6km
Visiting Upper Barrakka Gardens & Saluting Battery

Lascaris War Rooms

The Lascaris war rooms are a series of tunnels and chambers located 400 ft beneath the Upper Barracca Gardens. The rooms housed the British War headquarters, which controlled all the Mediterranean operations during World War 2. The complex had an operation room for each of the armed services including RAF fighter Control, which controlled and observed all air and sea…
Location: Lascaris War Rooms, Lascaris Ditch, VLT 2000, Valletta, Malta | Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10.00 - 17:00 | Price: Adult €12.00, Children € 5.00 | Website | Distance: 2,031.7km
Visiting Lascaris War Rooms

Casa Rocca Piccola

Casa Rocca Piccola is the 16th Century Palace of a Maltese Noble family. It is a beautiful home that would have been used in former times by aristocrats from Malta. It is now a museum and you can take a guided tour and check out all the gorgeous architectural features as well as the extensive historical collection. This includes costumes…
Location: 74 Republic Street, Valletta, VLT 1117, Malta | Hours: Open from 10am to 5pm (last admission 4pm) every day except Sundays and Public Holidays. | Price: The prices for the guided tours are €9 for Adults and €5 for Students. Children under 14 are Free. | Website | Distance: 2,031.9km
Visiting Casa Rocca Piccola

Where to Stay in Casablanca

Casablanca offers a variety of neighborhoods suited to different travel styles, from luxurious coastal resorts to vibrant urban districts. For first-time visitors, the City Center is a convenient and culturally rich base. This area places you within walking distance of key attractions like the Hassan II Mosque, the Old Medina, and Art Deco buildings that showcase Casablanca’s colonial-era charm. The area also offers easy access to trams and taxis. A popular hotel in this part of town is Hotel Kenzi Basma, which combines comfort, good service, and proximity to key sights.

For a more upscale and cosmopolitan experience, the Maarif district is ideal. Known for its boutiques, restaurants, and contemporary flair, Maarif attracts both business travelers and leisure tourists who want to experience Casablanca’s modern side. The area has a vibrant nightlife and is close to Morocco Mall and Twin Center. A chic and convenient option here is ONOMO Hotel Casablanca City Center, which offers stylish rooms and a lively atmosphere.

If you’re looking for ocean views and a relaxing vibe, Ain Diab along the Corniche is the place to be. This beachfront district features a mix of luxury hotels, beach clubs, and seaside restaurants. It’s perfect for visitors who want to unwind, take in sunsets over the Atlantic, or enjoy Casablanca’s more glamorous side. A top pick here is Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca, offering luxury amenities, spa services, and direct beach access.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Casablanca. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Casablanca Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Casablanca

Casablanca in Spring: March to May (Best)

Spring is the best time to visit Casablanca. The weather is warm and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C and plenty of sunshine. It’s an ideal season for exploring the city’s architecture, seaside promenades, and cultural landmarks like the Hassan II Mosque. Outdoor cafés and parks begin to fill with locals, and the coastal breeze keeps the climate refreshing. In April, the Jazzablanca Festival is a major cultural highlight, featuring international jazz, soul, and world music acts across various city venues. The combination of mild weather and cultural activity makes spring the most enjoyable time to explore Casablanca.

Casablanca in Summer: June to August

Summer in Casablanca is warm but moderated by Atlantic breezes, with average temperatures between 25°C and 30°C. While much of Morocco can become intensely hot in these months, Casablanca’s coastal position keeps it relatively comfortable. It’s a good time to enjoy the Corniche area, beachside cafés, and day trips along the coast. However, locals often leave the city in August for holidays, so some services may slow down. Summer evenings bring a lively atmosphere to the city’s restaurants and bars, especially in the Ain Diab district.

Casablanca in Autumn: September to November

Autumn offers another pleasant window for visiting Casablanca. The heat of summer fades, and the temperatures settle between 20°C and 26°C. The sea remains warm enough for swimming into early October, and the city takes on a relaxed, yet energetic pace as people return from summer holidays. The cultural calendar picks up again with events like Festival International du Film de Casablanca, which highlights Moroccan and international cinema. It’s a great season for combining beach walks, museum visits, and discovering the city’s growing art and food scenes.

Casablanca in Winter: December to February

Winter in Casablanca is mild compared to most European cities, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 18°C. Rain is more common, especially in January, but heavy storms are rare. This season is quieter in terms of tourism, making it ideal for travelers looking to avoid crowds and enjoy Casablanca’s indoor attractions, from art galleries to French-era architecture and vibrant cafés. While it’s not beach weather, winter provides a calm backdrop for exploring Morocco’s urban coast with fewer distractions and more space.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 18°C
  • February 19°C
  • March 20°C
  • April 23°C
  • May 25°C
  • June 27°C
  • July 29°C
  • August 30°C
  • September 27°C
  • October 27°C
  • November 22°C
  • December 21°C

How to get to Casablanca

By Air:

  • Casablanca is served by Mohammed V International Airport, which is the busiest airport in Morocco and well-connected to Europe, North America, the Middle East, and other regions of Africa. The airport is about 30 kilometers south-east of the city center. Taxis and a train service are available to transport passengers from the airport to downtown Casablanca.

By Train:

  • Casablanca is a major node in the Moroccan rail network. Trains frequently run between Casablanca and other major cities such as Marrakech, Rabat, and Tangier. The city’s main train stations, Casa-Voyageurs and Casa-Port, are well-equipped and connect travelers to various parts of the city and beyond.

By Road:

  • If you’re already in Morocco, traveling to Casablanca by bus or car is a feasible option. The city is connected by well-maintained roads to other parts of Morocco. Buses from other cities arrive at various bus stations in Casablanca, offering a budget-friendly way to travel.
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