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Planning a trip to Casablanca, Morocco? Get ready to dive into one of North Africa’s most fascinating cities!
Casablanca is a vibrant blend of old and new. Between the buzzing Old Medina, the chic Corniche, and interesting local neighborhoods, there’s a lot to explore here. So to ensure that you get to see it all, we’ve crafted a 3-day itinerary that balances iconic landmarks with local dining experiences and plenty of time to relax.
From learning how to cook Moroccan food to shopping and checking out cultural spaces, this itinerary has a little bit of everything, including all of the details on timings and getting around. Ready to discover the best of Casablanca? Let’s get started!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Casablanca sightseeing tour! We loved exploring the city’s stunning Hassan II Mosque, wandering the Old Medina, and stopping by Rick’s Café. It was the perfect mix of history, culture, and cinematic charm!
Check out the 2,300+ five-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
Casablanca is a big city, but getting around is actually pretty easy. A lot of neighborhoods here are walkable, and you can see a lot of the city’s highlights on foot, including the Hassan II Mosque, the Old Medina, and Mohammed V Square.
Then, when you need to get between areas, taxis are the most convenient way to do that, especially if you’re only here for a few days! You can use ride-hailing apps like Careem if you prefer cashless payments or want to avoid haggling over fares. These apps are widely available, and they’re a safe and reliable way to get around.
Alternatively, the city’s tram network is a great option. It’s clean and affordable, and it connects many of Casablanca’s main sights. Plus, using the tram means that you don’t need to worry about traffic, which can be a big plus as Casablanca does get pretty congested.
Day 1: Start your Casablanca adventure with a local-led walking tour of the city’s most famous sights. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring at your own pace before diving into Moroccan cuisine with a hands-on cooking class this evening.
Day 2: Head out on a full-day trip to either Marrakech or Fez – two of Morocco’s most captivating cities!
Day 3: Sample Casablanca’s best street eats on this exciting food tour, then spend the afternoon discovering the city’s quieter side. In the evening, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at La Sqala, followed by a peaceful night stroll through the Old Medina.
Day 1
Morning – See Casablanca’s iconic sights with a local
Your first morning in Casablanca is all about getting to know the city, so we’re kicking things off with this top-rated sightseeing tour! It’s a fantastic way to get to know the city’s history and culture, as well as its storied cinematic charm.
Go ahead and book your spot for 9:30 am so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy breakfast at your hotel or grab something nearby before pickup. The tour runs for about 4.5 hours, meaning you’ll wrap up around 2 pm, and you can ask your guide to drop you back at your hotel or somewhere central if you’d rather keep exploring. There’s a lunch stop included too—just note that meals aren’t covered.
The tour starts out strong with a guided visit inside the Hassan II Mosque. This is a true masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, and it’s one of the only mosques here that non-Muslims are permitted to enter.
You’ll also venture into the Old Medina and go to Rick’s Café, which is a must for any fan of the ‘Casablanca’ movie! The café featured in the film was actually fictional, but a real-life version opened here in 2004, and visiting is sure to add a touch of Hollywood glamor to your day.
You’ll also tick off the lovely Arab League Park and the enchanting Quartier Habous. This is the ‘New Medina’ that was built to solve the city’s housing crisis in the 1930s, and you’ll hear a lot of interesting commentary on this part of the city. By the end of the tour, you’ll have a much better idea of what Casablanca is all about—just be sure to book it before it sells out.
Read 2,000+ 5-star reviews and book this comprehensive sightseeing tour here!
Afternoon – Unwind or explore Casablanca at your own pace
After finishing your city highlights tour, the afternoon is all yours! Now’s the time to slow down and soak up the atmosphere. Your Moroccan cooking experience begins at 5 pm, so you’ll have about two hours to explore before heading there. But of course, we’ve got a few suggestions for what you might want to get up to during this time:
- Visit Villa des Arts – If you have the energy, we suggest stopping by Villa des Arts, although it is closed on Mondays. Housed in a 1930s Art Deco villa, it’s one of Casablanca’s most beautiful cultural spaces, and it showcases rotating exhibitions of Moroccan contemporary art. It’s only about a 10-minute taxi ride from the city center, and entry is free!
- Wander along the Ain Diab Corniche – If you’d prefer to take it easy, head to the Ain Diab Corniche for a seafront stroll. There are lots of cafes overlooking the water, so pick one and grab a drink while you enjoy the ocean views.
- Explore Morocco Mall – If you love to shop, head to Morocco Mall. It’s one of the largest shopping malls in Africa, and I’ll be honest, the air-conditioned halls are a welcome break from the afternoon heat. If you need to cool off, this is a comfortable and easy way to pass an hour or two.
Dinner/Evening – Learn how to cook Moroccan food
The best way to discover a new cuisine is to roll up your sleeves and learn how to prepare it yourself with this cooking class! This will be dinner tonight, so we suggest going for the 5 pm option. The class lasts for 4 hours, so you’ll finish up around 9 pm, ready for a reasonably early night. We’ve got an early start tomorrow, so it’s best to turn in early.
This class really showcases what Moroccan hospitality is all about. You’ll learn traditional Moroccan recipes in a local home, but first, you’ll enjoy mint tea and homemade cookies! You even get to wear traditional Moroccan dress as you cook, which makes the class even more fun.
Once you look the part, you’ll dive into the hands-on cooking portion of the class. Your instructors will guide you step-by-step through the process of making classic dishes like tajine, zaalouk, and taktouka, using techniques that have been passed down through multiple generations.
Then once you’ve cooked all of this delicious food, you’ll get to sit down together and eat it! This is a private class, so you’ll get to enjoy your meal at a relaxed pace, ask questions, and get tips from your instructor on how to recreate the dishes back home. You’ll even get an e-book of the recipes afterwards so you can cook them again!
Book this cooking class here and get ready to enjoy an amazing Moroccan meal!
Day 2
While Casablanca is a cool city to visit in its own right, you really can’t pass up the opportunity to take a day trip from here! Today, we’ve got two fantastic options to choose from, so check them out and decide which one suits you best.
You can either head south to Marrakech, which is known for its vibrant souks and rich cultural heritage. Plus, you’ll even get to take a camel ride through the palm groves.
Alternatively, you can travel north to Fez. This is one of Morocco’s most historic cities, and it’s famous for its ancient medina and traditional craftsmanship. Either way, you’re in for a full day of Moroccan magic!
Option 1: Morning/Afternoon – Visit Marrakech and take a camel ride through the desert
You can’t visit Morocco without experiencing the ancient city of Marrakech! So if you don’t have time to spend a few nights there, you can still see the highlights with this full-day tour.
There are a few different options for this tour available. There’s the small group tour, which starts at around 7:30 am, but there are other time slots available if you decide to go for the private tour. We highly recommend upgrading because this way you get more flexibility, a personalized experience, and the chance to explore at your own pace. I mean, if you’ve only got one day in Marrakech, you might as well do it right!
The tour typically finishes around 7 pm, so you get a full day to explore Marrakech. You’ll get to visit the bustling streets of the UNESCO-listed medina, sip mint tea in Jemaa el-Fna square, wander through Le Jardin Secret, and explore the Koutoubia Mosque. We also love that it includes a camel ride through the serene palm groves outside of the city. Not only is this a ton of fun, it’s also an incredible photo opportunity!
This tour is such a great way to explore one of Morocco’s most fascinating cities. It showcases the city’s history, culture, and charm, and you’ll have a knowledgeable guide to show you all of the best spots. No wonder it has 700+ 5-star reviews!
Check availability and book this full-day Marrakech tour here!
Option 2: Morning/Afternoon – Visit the historic city of Fez
Fez is Morocco’s cultural capital, and it’s so much fun to visit! You can book this full-day tour from Casablanca and dive deep into the city’s history with a skilled driver and a local guide who will ensure that you have a seamless trip from start to finish.
Like the other tour, you’ve got the choice between a small group and a private tour. We recommend swinging for the private option if you can, because it’s actually not that much more expensive if you’re booking for two or more people. It’s a no-brainer, really, because with a private tour, you get to tailor the day to your interests and take it at your preferred pace.
The small group experience leaves at 7 am and it lasts for 12 hours, although you’ve got a bit more choice if you go for the private option. Either way, your first stop of the day will likely be the Bab Boujloud, the city’s famous blue-and-white gate. Once you’re through that, you’ll be transported back in time as you enter the city’s medina, where you’ll explore the Morocco of old!
Other highlights include the Kairaouine Mosque, which is not just a mosque, but also the world’s oldest university! To say that it’s steeped in history is a huge understatement. You can also peek into Fez’s artisan scene at the Chouara Tannery, and explore traditional wooden arts and crafts at the Nejjarine Museum.
One thing that we really love about this tour is that it includes lunch! You’ll get an authentic Moroccan feast at a classic local restaurant, which is a great chance to experience Fez’s food scene. If you don’t have time for an overnight stay in Fez, this tour is an awesome way to ensure you don’t miss out on one of Morocco’s coolest cities.
Check availability and book this full-day Fez tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Your choice!
After such a full day of exploring, it’s best to keep things simple and dine somewhere close to your hotel tonight. If you need a little inspiration, here are a few great picks in different neighborhoods:
- Ain Diab – Briganti is a local favorite for Italian food. It serves yummy fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas in a cozy setting near the Corniche.
- Downtown – Restaurant Dar El Kaid is a well-loved spot for traditional Moroccan cuisine. It’s popular with both locals and visitors, so it’s worth making a reservation in advance.
- Old Medina – Moods Café-Restaurant offers a mix of Moroccan and international dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great all-rounder!
Day 3
Breakfast – Unwind in a local cafe
Start your final morning in Casablanca like a true local by lingering over breakfast at one of the city’s many cafés. Café culture here is a way of life!
Wherever you’re staying, you should be able to find stylish modern spots serving fresh croissants and cappuccinos, as well as traditional Moroccan cafés that serve mint tea in tiny, ornate glasses. I’m a big fan of the latter, but you do you!
If you want to eat like a local, order msmen (flaky, square pancakes served with honey and butter) or briouats (delicate pastries filled with almonds and orange blossom). Then, pair it with a nous-nous (a half-milk, half-coffee drink), or a strong espresso if you prefer something bolder.
There are cafés on nearly every corner in Casablanca, so you’ll have no trouble finding one that catches your eye. Just try not to go too heavy, because our morning food tour is guaranteed to leave you full up.
Late morning/lunch – Taste Moroccan street food
Instead of just ordering lunch at a restaurant today, why not dive deep into Casablanca’s street food scene on this food tour? It’s a chance to sample a ton of delicious local specialties but also to explore the atmospheric Habbous neighborhood. Between food stops, you’ll get to admire lots of beautiful Islamic architecture and glimpse daily life in one of the city’s most interesting areas.
The tour begins downtown at 11 am. It’s easy to grab a taxi to the meeting point from most places in the city, then the tour lasts for 3-4 hours, so you’ll finish up around 3 pm at the latest.
During the tour, you’ll enjoy at least 10 different samples of yummy local foods, from freshly baked flatbreads with warm honey to keftas, hearty harira soup, and freshly pressed sugarcane juice. It’s so much fun to do all of this with a local who knows the vendors and restaurant owners, too!
Whether you’re a foodie or just curious about local life in Casablanca, this tour is a must-do. You’ll have fun, eat amazing food, and explore a new part of the city that is sure to capture your heart.
It was so much fun, we ate amazing food, and we got to explore a new part of the city that we totally fell in love with. What more could you ask for?
Reserve your spot on this awesome, local-led food tour here!
Afternoon – Discover Casablanca’s quieter side
After your food tour wraps up, you’re free to take the afternoon at a slower pace. You’ve had a busy few days, so this is the perfect chance to explore a few lesser-known spots or just relax before your final evening in the city. Here are a few ideas for how to spend the rest of your day:
- Visit Mahkama du Pach – This former administrative palace is one of Casablanca’s most impressive buildings. It’s located in the Habous Quarter, and its intricate zellige tiles and cedar wood carvings represent a stunning showcase of Moroccan craftsmanship. Entry is usually by short guided visit, which you can often arrange on-site. Just keep in mind that the Mahkama du Pach is closed on weekends.
- See the Sacred Heart Cathedral – This striking white cathedral blends Gothic and Art Deco styles and serves as a reminder of Casablanca’s French colonial heritage. It’s no longer used for worship, but its soaring façade and stained-glass details are definitely worth seeing!
- Relax at Parc de la Ligue Arabe – If you’d rather just take it easy, this central park (also called Arab League Park) is a peaceful spot to rest among palm trees and fountains. There are plenty of shaded benches and nearby cafés where you can sit and people watch as you enjoy a mint tea or espresso.
- Visit the Musee Abderrahman Slaoui – This small museum near the city center is a real hidden gem. It features an elegant collection of Moroccan jewelry, vintage posters, and decorative arts. The rooftop terrace café is also a lovely place to relax with a cup of tea or coffee. The museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays, so make sure to plan ahead.
However you spend your afternoon, try to make your way back to your hotel by around 6 pm. This will give you some time to relax and freshen up before your final dinner tonight.
Dinner – La Squala
Tonight’s farewell dinner is at one of Casablanca’s most iconic spots, La Sqala. It’s just a short ride from most central hotels, making it easy to get there after a day of exploring. We recommend calling ahead to make a reservation around 7 pm so you have time to relax and soak up the magical atmosphere as you enjoy your meal.
La Sqala is set inside an 18th-century fortress near the Old Medina, and stepping inside feels like entering a secret garden. It’s so beautiful! The palm trees are adorned with lanterns, and there’s a bubbling fountain that adds to the serene ambiance.
We also love the menu. It highlights traditional Moroccan cuisine while adding a refined touch. We suggest starting with pastilla, a delicate pastry filled with spiced chicken and almonds, or trying their assorted Moroccan salads. And for mains, both the fish tagine and the seafood couscous are packed with flavor and perfectly spiced. This place delivers a true taste of Morocco!
Evening – A final stroll and a sweet Moroccan send-off
End your last night in Casablanca with a gentle wander through the Old Medina, which sits just behind La Sqala, or for a real treat, head over to the Hassan II Mosque to see it lit up at night. By this time, the streets will have quieted and the narrow alleys will feel more peaceful than they do during the daytime. Plus, they’ll be lit with lanterns for extra Moroccan charm!
And if you want to sit and enjoy the atmosphere for a while, you can stop by one of the traditional cafés near Place des Nations Unies. You’ll see lots of locals here enjoying glasses of mint tea or nous-nous, so you can always pull up a chair and join them!
If you didn’t go for dessert at La Sqala (or even if you did!), you can order some seffa. This is a sweet and comforting dessert that consists of steamed vermicelli noodles dusted with cinnamon, almonds, and powdered sugar. It’s so tasty and it pairs very well with tea.
And for those who fancy a stylish nightcap, head to Le Kimmy’z on Boulevard d’Anfa, a cozy piano bar popular with both locals and travelers. It’s intimate, relaxed, and the perfect place to toast your final night in Casablanca before heading back to your hotel. Cheers!
Related Read: If you’re planning extra time in the city, don’t miss our detailed guide on the top things to do in Casablanca here for even more attractions, food spots, and local experiences.
Where to Stay in Casablanca
Photo credit: Kenzi Tower Hotel
Now that you’ve planned out your perfect three days in Casablanca, it’s time to find the ideal place to stay! The good news is that many of the city’s best hotels are right in the heart of the action, close to the Old Medina, the Hassan II Mosque, and the tram—so you’ll never be far from the highlights.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay with skyline views, a chic mid-range option, or a stylish budget-friendly base, we’ve rounded up our top picks below. Just be sure to book early—Casablanca hotels can fill up fast, especially during peak travel months!
Kenzi Tower Hotel – $$$
Kenzi Tower Hotel is a sleek, upscale choice in the heart of Casablanca’s City Centre. It offers a modern, sophisticated stay with stylish rooms and stunning skyline views. With elegant décor, a spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants serving Moroccan and international cuisine, it’s perfectly located near the Hassan II Mosque and the tram—what more could you ask for?
Prices typically range from $175 to $500 USD per night. Check rates and availability for Kenzi Tower Hotel here!
Kaan Casablanca – $$
Kaan Casablanca is a trendy hotel in the City Centre. It’s stylish yet understated, offering everything you need for a comfortable, convenient stay. With three on-site restaurants and exceptionally friendly staff, it stands out for its central location—just a short walk from the tram, shops, and cafés—making it a peaceful retreat after a busy day exploring.
Rooms usually cost between $130 and $250 USD per night. Read the glowing reviews and book your stay here!
JM Suites Hotel – $
JM Suites Hotel is a budget-friendly option in Casablanca’s City Centre. It offers clean, comfortable rooms with modern bathrooms and charming communal spaces. The location is excellent—close to the tram, cafés, restaurants, and the Hassan II Mosque. With friendly, helpful staff, it’s a practical, budget-friendly base for exploring Casablanca.
Expect prices between $100 and $250 USD per night. Rooms fill up quickly—book your stay here!
For more options, check out all of the hotels in Casablanca here!
Related Read: Want even more hotel ideas? Check out our full guide on where to stay in Casablanca here—we break down the best neighborhoods and hotels for every budget!
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Three days in Casablanca is the perfect amount of time to experience the best of this vibrant Moroccan city! From the stunning Hassan II Mosque and bustling Old Medina to delicious food tours, seaside strolls, and cultural gems, Casablanca truly offers a little bit of everything. Whether you follow this itinerary day by day or just pick out a few highlights, it’s sure to help you make the most of your time here.
Before you go, be sure to check out our other Morocco travel guides here! We’ve got more itineraries, hotel tips, and lists of the best things to do across the country—from Marrakech to Fez and beyond. Or explore a few of our related blogs below for even more travel inspiration. Cheers to your Moroccan adventure!
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How to Spend THREE DAYS in Marrakech, Morocco: 3-Day Itinerary
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