If Tangier is Morocco’s window to the north, Casablanca is its modern heartbeat. Known for its iconic architecture, wide boulevards, and big-city buzz, Casablanca is perfect for travelers who want to experience Morocco’s contemporary edge without losing touch with its heritage.
Here’s your complete guide to visiting Casablanca from Tangier, whether you’re just passing through or planning to explore deeper.
Getting to Casablanca from Tangier
- By Train: The high-speed Al Boraq train connects Tangier to Casablanca in about 2 hours and 10 minutes. Trains depart regularly and arrive at Casa Voyageurs station, right in the heart of the city.
- By Car: A comfortable 4-hour drive via the A1 motorway. Great if you want to make stops in Rabat or coastal towns along the way.
- By Bus: CTM and Supratours offer affordable options with travel time between 5–6 hours.
Tip: Book first-class train seats online in advance for more space and quiet.
What to See in Casablanca
1. Hassan II Mosque
One of the largest and most stunning mosques in the world, perched on the edge of the Atlantic. Non-Muslims can join guided tours to admire its breathtaking interior and ocean views.
2. Corniche Ain Diab
A lively oceanfront strip filled with cafés, beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. Come here to relax, take a stroll, or enjoy sunset views over the Atlantic.
3. Old Medina
While smaller and less famous than others in Morocco, Casablanca’s medina is worth exploring for its local shops and everyday street life.
4. Habous Quarter (New Medina)
A blend of French colonial planning and traditional Moroccan design. Great for shopping, browsing bookshops, and finding unique artisan goods.
5. Place Mohammed V
A grand plaza surrounded by beautiful colonial-era buildings and fountains. It’s Casablanca’s civic center and a great place for people-watching.
Where to Eat in Casablanca
Casablanca’s culinary scene is international and eclectic. From street eats to upscale restaurants, here are some favorites:
- Rick’s Café: Inspired by the movie Casablanca, this beautifully recreated spot serves Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes in a romantic, old-Hollywood setting.
- La Sqala: Located inside a fortified 18th-century bastion, this place offers traditional Moroccan fare in a lush garden setting.
- Le Cabestan: Chic and coastal, this upscale seafood spot offers ocean views and fine dining—perfect for a sunset dinner.
- Bennis Habous: A legendary bakery known for its traditional Moroccan pastries—don’t leave without a box of kaab el ghzal or briouats.
Bonus: Stop for mint tea or espresso at Café Bianca, a modern favorite among locals.
How Long to Stay
Casablanca makes for a doable day trip if you’re short on time, but a one- or two-night stay lets you enjoy its energy without rushing. It’s also a great launchpad for flights or onward travel across Morocco.
Final Thoughts
Casablanca may not have the ancient alleys of Fes or the coastal calm of Tangier, but what it does offer is something uniquely vibrant—modern Morocco in motion. Between its architectural icons, rich café culture, and Atlantic charm, it’s a city that grows on you quickly.
📍 Planning a visit to Casablanca? Get in touch and we’ll help tailor your trip with insider tips, restaurant bookings, and day tour ideas. Also check out Visit Morocco
