Casablanca Travel Guide
Neighborhoods, getting around, day trips, safety, and food—how to plan Casablanca in a practical 2–4 day itinerary.
Why visit
Casablanca is modern Morocco—big-city energy, ocean air, and a strong food scene—often best as a 1–2 day stop paired with other cities. This guide focuses on the decisions that make a trip smoother: where to base yourself, how to move around, and how to structure 2–4 days without overplanning.
Best areas to stay
- Maarif — Shopping, cafés, and a modern neighborhood feel.
- Corniche / Ain Diab — Coastal promenade and nightlife; good sea-breeze evenings.
- City centre — Practical transport access; choose accommodation carefully for noise.
Tip: choose accommodation with clear reviews on noise, walkability, and late-night transport—those details matter more than star ratings.
Getting around
Use a mix of ride-hailing, metered taxis (where reliable), and walking in dense districts. Build buffers for traffic and plan a “two-anchor” day: one major activity in the morning, one in the afternoon, with flexible time between.
Top things to do
- Start with a walking orientation: markets, main squares, and a museum/gallery to understand the city’s story.
- Schedule one “viewpoint” or waterfront/elevated spot for golden hour photos.
- Pick one signature experience (cooking class, live music, crafts, or architecture tour).
Neighborhoods and local culture
Think in zones: a historic core for sights, a modern district for restaurants and cafés, and a quieter base for sleep. If you’re visiting on a weekend, confirm what closes early and plan an indoor option in case weather shifts.
Day trips and extensions
- Coastal walk + one major landmark visit.
- Food-focused day: markets, bakeries, and a long dinner.
- Quick rail connection extension to another nearby city if you have spare time.
If you’re tight on time, pick just one day trip. Two day trips often turns a 3-day city break into a transport-heavy sprint.
Common scams, safety, and etiquette
Like any large city: watch pickpockets, use reputable taxis/ride options, and keep travel documents secure. Nights are lively in coastal areas—stick to well-lit routes. Keep valuables out of sight, use reputable transport at night, and avoid “too good to be true” offers for tours or currency exchange.
Food highlights
- Try a mix of bakeries, seafood, and modern Moroccan dining.
- Reserve one splurge meal—Casablanca does contemporary restaurants well.
- If you’re sensitive to street food, start with busy vendors and simple items.
For a confident first meal, choose busy restaurants with clear menus and strong hygiene reviews. If you’re sensitive to spice, ask what’s hot and what’s mild.
Suggested 2–4 day itinerary
- Day 1: Orientation walk + signature market + one museum.
- Day 2: Neighborhood day + food highlights + sunset viewpoint.
- Day 3: One day trip (or a second museum + slow café day).
- Day 4 (optional): Shopping, wellness, or a short excursion before onward travel.
Sources and references
For up-to-date advisories and logistics, cross-check official sources such as national tourism boards, municipal transport sites, and your embassy travel advice before departure.