Casablanca in 24 hours: the essentials between two flights

Casablanca is often a gateway rather than a destination in itself — many travellers land there before heading straight to Marrakech or Fez. But with one well-organised day, the Kingdom’s largest city is well worth the detour.

Morning: the Hassan II Mosque

Start with the city’s must-see landmark: the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, with a 210-metre minaret and part of the building constructed above the Atlantic Ocean. The guided interior tour (non-Muslims can visit, unlike most Moroccan mosques) is worth it for the architecture and craftsmanship.

Midday: the Corniche and the Habous quarter

Head to the Ain Diab Corniche for lunch facing the Atlantic, among restaurants with sea views. If time allows, swing by the Habous quarter, a 20th-century medina built in traditional Moroccan style, known for its bookshops and pastries — a good alternative if you won’t be visiting another medina during your trip.

Late afternoon: the Art Deco city centre

Casablanca preserves a remarkable Art Deco heritage from the protectorate era, best discovered on foot downtown. A casual stroll among the 1920s-30s buildings helps explain why the city is often called Morocco’s modern showcase.

Evening: Rick’s Café or La Sqala

To close the day, two iconic options: Rick’s Café, a restaurant paying tribute to the film Casablanca that recreates the elegant atmosphere of the 1940s, or La Sqala, a former bastion turned garden restaurant serving Moroccan cuisine in a historic setting.

In short

1 to 2 days are enough to cover the essentials of Casablanca — which is exactly what we recommend on its destination page. If your flight or connection leaves you more time, the city has plenty to fill a second day, but the highlights fit comfortably into 24 hours.

Find all the sights on our complete Casablanca guide.