Casablanca is Morocco’s economic capital and its main international air gateway — more business hub than tourist magnet. Most travellers pass through rather than linger, but the city has one unmissable sight and a smooth rail link that makes it an easy place to begin or end a trip.
Give Casablanca about a day, centred on the Hassan II Mosque (one of the few you can enter). The airport train connects straight to the centre and onward to Rabat and Marrakech, so it's the natural place to start or end your Morocco trip.
The one thing you can’t miss
The Hassan II Mosque is among the largest in the world, built partly over the Atlantic with a 210-metre minaret. It’s also one of the only mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims, on guided tours several times daily (not Friday mornings). The craftsmanship — marble, zellige, carved cedar, a retractable roof — is staggering. Book the morning tour and arrive early.
Other things to do
- Corniche & Ain Diab — the seafront promenade, beach clubs and sunset cafés.
- Quartier Habous (New Medina) — an elegant 20th-century take on a medina, good for crafts and calm shopping.
- Art Deco downtown — Casablanca has a rich Mauresque/Art Deco heritage around Place Mohammed V.
- Rick’s Café — a faithful recreation inspired by the film; touristy but fun for dinner.
Where to stay
For a single night, base near the city centre (close to the train stations and the mosque) or, if you have an early flight, near Mohammed V Airport. Casablanca’s hotels skew modern and business-oriented.
Getting in and onward
The train from Mohammed V Airport runs to Casa-Voyageurs station, where you connect to Rabat (~1h), Marrakech (~2.5–3h) and Fes/Tangier. It’s the cheapest, simplest start to a trip — no need to pre-book a transfer. More detail in our getting around Morocco guide.