Planning a trip to Morocco and wondering how to make the most of your time in Casablanca? While it may not be as buzzy as Marrakech or as ancient as Fes, Casablanca blends culture, charm, and coastline all in one place. Whether you’re here for the architecture, the food, or just to unwind, this guide will help you enjoy 3 perfect days in Casablanca as a first-timer.
Why Visit Casablanca?
This port city is Morocco’s economic hub, but beyond the business suits, Casablanca offers stunning mosques, colonial-era architecture, trendy cafés, and beachside hangouts. It’s your perfect gateway into Morocco without the rush of heavier tourist cities.
Day 1 of 3 Days in Casablanca: Discover the Heart of the City
You’ve landed. Let’s get you settled and right into it.
Start Your Day at Hassan II Mosque
No visit to Casablanca is complete without seeing the Hassan II Mosque. It’s one of the largest mosques in the world and features a towering minaret that stretches 210 meters high. The architecture alone is worth the visit hand-carved wood, intricate tile work, and views of the Atlantic Ocean. Tip: Non-Muslims can join guided tours at specific hours. Don’t miss it.
Stroll the Corniche
From the mosque, head west to the Casablanca Corniche a coastal boulevard lined with palm trees, oceanfront cafés, and public beaches. It’s great for a walk, a coffee stop, or just people-watching. Prefer laying low? Grab a chair at Café Bianca Beach and soak up the Atlantic breeze.
Eat Like a Local
Try a traditional Moroccan lunch at La Sqala a historic fortress-turned-restaurant. The menu dishes out local favorites like:
- Tagine (lamb, chicken, or vegetable)
- Harira soup
- Fresh mint tea
Evening in the City Center
Wrap up your first day in the old city center known as Medina. It’s smaller and less chaotic than Fes or Marrakech, making it a gentle introduction to Moroccan markets. Browse handmade goods, pick up spices, and try your first taste of Moroccan street food—maybe a grilled kebab or sweet pastry.
Day 2 of 3 Days in Casablanca: Hidden Corners & Local Culture
Ready for more? Time to explore deeper.
Step Back in Time at Mahkama du Pacha
This stunning courthouse is hidden in the Habous Quarter and feels like something out of a movie. The arched ceilings, mosaic tiles, and carved doors will convince you you’re in a royal palace. Guided tours are your best bet here, as it’s a functioning government building.
Visit the French-Inspired Habous Quarter
This neighborhood is known for its blend of French design and Moroccan tradition. It’s quieter than the main Medina and great for curious travelers. Here, you’ll find:
- Bookshops and tea vendors
- Traditional bakeries (try the almond-stuffed pastries)
- Handwoven rugs and leather goods
Lunch Stop: Café de France
Want an easy, no-fuss bite? Café de France offers solid Moroccan and European dishes with a relaxed vibe perfect for recharging before your afternoon.
Villa des Arts: Art in Casablanca
Few tourists make it to Villa des Arts, but it’s worth the detour. This art gallery houses contemporary Moroccan works in a beautiful 1930s Art Deco building. Even if you’re not “into” art, the peaceful gardens and architecture make the visit worthwhile.
Dinner with a View
Book a table at Sky 28, a rooftop restaurant inside the Kenzi Tower Hotel. From here, you’ll get panoramic views of the cityscape. The dishes lean international, but the vibe? Pure Casablanca luxury.
Day 3 of 3 Days in Casablanca: Beaches, Views & Farewell
Let’s keep Day 3 slower. Travel isn’t just about checking boxes it’s about enjoying the moment.
Breakfast with a French Twist
Stop by Boulangerie Paul or Le Petit Rocher near the Corniche for fresh croissants and Moroccan coffee. Locals mix Arabic and French we’re borrowing that method for breakfast.
Explore Morocco Mall
Yes, it’s a mall. But it’s also a cultural experience. Morocco Mall is the largest in Africa and offers:
- An indoor aquarium
- Luxury brand shopping
- Restaurants with sea views
Great for souvenirs or if you just want air-conditioning and a break from the sun.
Relax on Ain Diab Beach
This wide sandy beach is popular on weekends, but weekdays are peaceful. Rent a lounger, sip on a cold drink, and enjoy the Atlantic coast one last time.
Final Dinner: Rick’s Café
Yes, the one inspired by the movie “Casablanca.” While it’s touristy, Rick’s Café nails the nostalgic atmosphere. High ceilings, jazz music, white tablecloths and honestly, the food’s good. Book ahead.
Travel Tips for First-Timers in Casablanca
A few things can help smooth out your trip:
- Language: Arabic and French are widely spoken. English is common at major attractions.
- Money: Moroccan Dirhams (MAD). ATMs are easy to find. Credit cards accepted in most places.
- Transport: Use taxis or ride apps like Careem. Walking is fine in some areas but distances can be deceiving.
- Dress: Morocco is moderate. Shorts and t-shirts are okay, but dress modestly in markets and religious sites.
Final Thoughts: Is 3 Days Enough in Casablanca?
Absolutely. Three days gives you time to explore the highlights of Casablanca without feeling rushed. It’s a city that doesn’t scream for attention but quietly delivers. If you’re a first-timer, it’s the ideal starting point for a longer Moroccan adventure.
If you’re heading to Marrakech or the Sahara next, you’ll be glad you began here with a little art, a lot of sea views, and one giant mosque.
Looking for a smooth Moroccan start? Casablanca delivers just that.
