24 Hours in Casablanca: Why You Shouldn’t Skip Morocco’s Underrated City
Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco.
Many people skip Casablanca when travelling to Morocco. Even if Casablanca is just your arrival or departure point, don’t treat it like a throwaway. This coastal city has more soul, stories, and surprises than it gets credit for… and I’m here to show you how to make the most of it.
A Modern Introduction to Morocco
When I first saw our Morocco tour started in Casablanca, I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect much. Marrakech usually steals the spotlight, and most blogs and guides treat Casablanca like a stopover, not a destination. But after arriving a day early and spending 24 hours exploring this seaside city, I completely changed my tune.
From stumbling upon medinas, visiting one of the most jaw-dropping mosques I’ve ever seen, to sipping local beer in a saloon (yes, that happened), Casablanca delivered a day I’ll never forget. If you’re flying in or out of here, don’t waste the chance to dive in.
Here’s how to turn your one day in Casablanca into something memorable, meaningful, and seriously photogenic.
Sunrise at Hassan II Mosque
Start your day early. I mean really early. We arrived at the Hassan II Mosque just before the gates opened and it was pure magic… just us, the sea breeze, and the early morning sun.
It’s the largest functioning mosque in Africa and one of only a handful in Morocco that non-Muslims can enter. It juts right out over the ocean, and the architecture is so intricate it feels more like lacework than stone. If you’re into photography, this is your moment.
Traveller tip: Dress respectfully (knees and shoulders covered), and take the first guided tour of the day. You’ll beat the big tour groups and get that golden morning light. Entry is around 130 MAD (roughly $20 AUD), and you can book tickets on arrival or through GetYourGuide.
Mint Tea with an Ocean View
After the mosque, stroll along the Ain Diab Corniche, a beachfront promenade that wraps around the city’s edge. You’ll find locals out for a walk, kids kicking footballs, and cafés opening for the day.
Stop at a café with sea views, order a pot of fresh mint tea, and soak it all in. The vibe is laid-back and breezy… such a contrast to the intensity of the medinas in Fes or Marrakech.
Exploring the Heart of Casablanca
Most people skip Casablanca’s old town, but I loved the contrast here… it’s less touristy, more real.
We wandered through the Medina near the Royal Palace (the palace is not open to the public), where the pace slows, and you can get lost in alleys without the usual pressure to buy. Then, wander around the precinct near Rick’s Cafe where you’ll stumble across historic sites.
Fun fact: Casablanca means “white house” in Spanish, and you’ll see why when the sun hits the cream stone buildings.
Lunch at Rick’s Café (Yes, That Rick’s Café)
Okay, it’s a little touristy, but Rick’s Café is so worth it. Inspired by the 1942 classic Casablanca, the café recreates that moody, cinematic vibe.
Rick's Cafe in Casablanca, Morocco. Inspired by the film.
Hamam Heaven: Unwind, Moroccan Style
After lunch, treat yourself to one of the best cultural experiences Morocco offers: a traditional hammam. There are a few to choose from, but if you want a luxurious, spa-style hammam, check out:
Hammam Ziani (close to the Medina, clean and welcoming to tourists)
Spa Royal Mansour (a more luxurious version)
Or book a Spa and Private Hammam Package with Car Transfer with GetYourGuide.
Expect to be steamed, scrubbed, and rinsed until you emerge feeling reborn.
Golden Hour, Hidden Bars & Local Beer
As the sun dips, you might feel like a cheeky beverage or two. We found a quirky little saloon-style bar that felt totally out of place, in the best possible way.
Casablanca, like most Moroccan cities, doesn’t openly embrace alcohol culture, but we stumbled on a dimly-lit bar with locals chatting over Casablanca Beer (yes, that’s its name). The contrast between traditional and modern Morocco is what makes this city so intriguing.
Get some inspiration for dinner by discovering What to Eat in Morocco.
Tip: Ask your hotel or a local guide for a “licensed bar” if you’re curious… they’re around if you know where to look.
Wandering the streets of Casablanca, Morocco.
Where to Stay in Casablanca
If you’re only here for one night, you’ll want to stay central and comfortable. A few great picks:
Hotel Les Saisons – budget-friendly with easy access to the Medina.
ONOMO Hotel – modern, clean, and near the port.
Barcelo Casablanca – a bit more luxe, great for comfort before/after a flight.
Most major hotel and resort chains (such as the Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, Four Seasons, Sofitel, Radisson Blu) also have accommodation in Casablanca, so you may like to choose your fave hotel brand for the night. With such affordable luxe options, why not start (or end) your trip with a nice stay.
Know Before You Go: Travel Tips for Casablanca
Airport Immigration is slow… I’m talking snail pace. We waited over an hour. If you’re flying internationally, get to Casablanca Mohammed V Airport at least 3 hours before your flight.
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Cash is king in markets and hammams, though bigger places accept cards. Currency exchanges will only exchange USD or EUR, however you can use an ATM to withdraw MAD if you don’t have USD or EUR on hand.
Tipping culture: 10-15% at restaurants, and a few dirhams for helpful locals. Small change goes a long way.
Transport: Most taxis are metered but insist on using it. Trams are reliable and easy. We found Casablanca to be a very walkable city.
Dress code: Modest clothing is appreciated. Shoulders and knees covered is a good rule of thumb, but not required (unless visiting the mosque). Learn What to Wear in Morocco as a Female Traveller.
Safety: While Morocco is a relatively safe country, it’s important to understand Common Scams in Morocco (and how to avoid them).
Don’t Sleep on Casablanca
If Casablanca is just the start or end of your Moroccan adventure, don’t treat it like a throwaway. Embrace the time you have there, and it might just give you a whole new appreciation for Morocco.
Early morning mosque views, mint tea by the sea, cinematic cafés, hammam relaxation, and quirky hidden bars? That’s one heck of a 24 hours. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve uncovered a side of Morocco that many travellers miss.
Planning a trip to Morocco? Discover more information in my Ultimate Morocco Guide, including a 14 day action packed itinerary.
Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco.
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