9 a.m. in Casablanca – A City That Never Slows Down

The morning air in Casablanca is thick with movement. Yellow taxis push through traffic, motorbikes zip past sidewalk cafés, and the scent of freshly baked msemen (Moroccan pancakes) lingers in the air. The Atlantic breeze carries a mix of sea salt and city dust, weaving between towering modern skyscrapers and faded Art Deco buildings from the city’s colonial past.

Looking out over the urban landscape, Casablanca might remind you of Los Angeles or São Paulo. But at street level, the city is unmistakably Moroccan. Local shopkeepers sip mint tea, vendors unload crates of fresh oranges, and the call to prayer echoes between commercial high-rises and century-old structures. Unlike Marrakech’s souks or Chefchaouen’s blue streets, Casablanca thrives outside the world of traditional Morocco travel experiences.

This is not a city tailored for tourists—it’s a city alive with real Moroccan life, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Why Casablanca Isn’t a Typical Tourist Destination

Most tailor-made Morocco tours barely touch Casablanca, treating it as a stopover to Fez, the Sahara, or Essaouira. But those who stay uncover a different side of Morocco—one shaped by art, music, and an emerging creative scene.

• Contemporary art galleries spotlight Morocco’s next generation of artists.
• Rooftop bars offer panoramic views of the Atlantic with a buzzing cosmopolitan crowd.
• Local DJs bring Afro-house beats to Casablanca’s underground scene, setting a rhythm unlike any other city in Morocco.

Unlike the curated souks of Marrakech or Fez, Casablanca’s markets are designed for locals, not tourists. Instead of souvenir stalls, you’ll find fresh fish hauled in from the Atlantic, fabric merchants selling textiles for local tailors, and French bakeries standing alongside traditional Moroccan tea houses.

A City That Represents Morocco’s Present and Future

While cities like Meknes and Rabat preserve Morocco’s royal past, Casablanca is a city of the future. It’s the country’s economic powerhouse, home to ambitious entrepreneurs, artists, and chefs redefining Morocco’s modern identity.

This contrast of old and new is what makes Casablanca an essential stop on any custom Morocco tour. Here, you can start your morning with café noir in a historic brasserie and end your night dancing on a beachfront rooftop lounge.

For travelers wondering about the best time to visit Morocco, Casablanca is a year-round destination. Unlike the scorching summers of Marrakech or the chilly nights of the Sahara, Casablanca enjoys mild weather most of the year, making it a great starting point for a 10-day Morocco itinerary or an 8-day Morocco itinerary

Getting to and Around Casablanca

Casablanca may seem distant, but it’s surprisingly accessible. A direct flight from New York takes just 6 hours and 45 minutes, about the same as flying to London. Royal Air Maroc operates direct flights, offering a convenient way to reach Morocco’s largest city without long layovers.

Once you land, taxis are the best way to navigate the city. Grande taxis operate between the airport and city center, while petit taxis handle shorter trips within Casablanca. Be aware that some taxi drivers may overcharge tourists, so it’s best to request the use of a meter—known as “le comptoir” in French—before starting your ride.

A trip across Casablanca shouldn’t cost more than $5. During rush hour, petit taxis function like shared rides, stopping to pick up additional passengers along the way. For a smoother experience, ride-sharing apps such as Careem (Morocco’s equivalent to Uber) offer a hassle-free alternative for getting around.

Where to Eat in Casablanca

Breakfast at La Sqala – A Tranquil Garden Retreat

Start your day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast at La Sqala, a charming spot tucked away in a lush courtyard. This peaceful setting offers a selection of freshly baked pastries, eggs, dates, olives, and creamy ricotta, served with warm bread and a pot of fragrant mint tea. The ambiance is relaxed, making it the perfect place to ease into the morning while enjoying an authentic Moroccan start to the day.

Lunch at the Central Marketplace – A Seafood Experience

For an unforgettable lunch, skip the restaurants and head to Casablanca’s Central Marketplace, where the freshest seafood is found. Here, you can handpick your choice from a variety of fish and shellfish, which the market’s outdoor stalls will grill to perfection. Lobsters, shrimp, and calamari are popular picks, but for something unique, try freshly cracked sea urchins, served straight from the shell. This market-style dining is a local favorite and an authentic way to experience Casablanca’s culinary scene.

Dinner, Drinks, and Music at Le Cabestan

For a more refined evening, Le Cabestan is Casablanca’s go-to for a sophisticated dining experience. Perched along the coast, this waterfront restaurant blends fine dining with a vibrant nightlife scene. The menu features a mix of fresh seafood, gourmet Mediterranean dishes, and expertly crafted cocktails, all served with sweeping ocean views. As the night unfolds, DJs set the mood with curated music, creating an upscale yet lively atmosphere that attracts both locals and international visitors.

What to See and Do in Casablanca

Hassan II Mosque – A Masterpiece of Moroccan Craftsmanship

A visit to Casablanca wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the grandeur of the Hassan II Mosque. As one of the largest mosques in Africa, this architectural marvel stands proudly on a platform extending over the Atlantic Ocean. The intricate zellige tilework, carved marble, and towering 210-foot minaret showcase Morocco’s finest craftsmanship. Unlike many mosques in the country, Hassan II Mosque is open to non-Muslims, offering a rare opportunity to admire its breathtaking interiors. Visitors should dress modestly to respect local customs.

The Medina – Casablanca’s Authentic Market Scene

Unlike the bustling, tourist-driven souks of Marrakesh and Fez, Casablanca’s old medina remains a vibrant, everyday marketplace for locals. Instead of souvenir stalls, you’ll find merchants selling fresh produce, spices, live chickens, and traditional Moroccan garments. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with vendors more focused on local trade than haggling with tourists. For those wanting a more authentic Morocco travel experience, wandering through the medina’s narrow alleys offers a glimpse into the city’s daily life—one that remains largely untouched by mass tourism.

Why Casablanca Belongs on Your Morocco Itinerary

Casablanca may not be a tourist hotspot, but that’s precisely what makes it special. While most travelers rush past it, those who take the time to explore discover a city full of contrasts, culture, and energy.

For those crafting a custom Morocco tour, Casablanca offers a modern counterpoint to Morocco’s historic cities. Whether you’re planning a 10-day Morocco itinerary, an 8-day Morocco itinerary, or simply passing through, this city is an essential part of an authentic Morocco travel experience.

Plan Your Custom Morocco Tour

Ready to experience the real Morocco? Contact us to create your tailor-made Morocco tour, designed around your travel style and interests.

📩 Start Planning