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Hassan II Mosque minaret silhouetted by the setting sun over the Atlantic
World Cup 2030 host city

Casablanca travel guide

Morocco's economic powerhouse: Art Deco boulevards, Atlantic beaches and the home of the world's largest planned football stadium.

Photo: Milamber's portfolio, CC BY 2.0

Updated 22 October 2026 · By the World to Morocco editorial team

Quick answer

Casablanca is Morocco's largest city and main international gateway. Don't miss the Hassan II Mosque (one of the few in Morocco open to non-Muslims on guided tours), the Art Deco city centre, the Habous quarter and the Ain Diab Corniche. The new Grand Stade Hassan II lies about 40 km away in Benslimane.

Why visit Casablanca

Most visitors pass through Casablanca's airport — but the city rewards a stay of a day or two. Its downtown is an open-air museum of 1920s–1950s Art Deco and neo-Moorish architecture, its seafront Corniche is lined with beach clubs and seafood restaurants, and its food scene is the most cosmopolitan in Morocco. With mild Atlantic summers, it is also one of the most comfortable host cities in June and July.

Top things to do in Casablanca

  • Hassan II Mosque — built partly over the ocean, with a 210 m minaret. Guided tours run most days outside prayer times.
  • Art Deco walking tour — around Boulevard Mohammed V, the Central Market and Place Mohammed V.
  • Quartier Habous — the "new medina", with bookshops, pastry shops and olive sellers.
  • The Corniche at Ain Diab — sunset walks, beach clubs and fresh fish.
  • Morocco Mall & Anfa Park — shopping and green space for families.
  • Rick's Café — a nod to the classic film, inside an old courtyard mansion.
Aerial view of Stade Mohammed V in central Casablanca
Stade Mohammed V, home of Raja and Wydad. Casablanca's World Cup matches are planned at the new Grand Stade Hassan II.

Getting to the Grand Stade Hassan II

The new stadium is being built in Benslimane province, between Casablanca and Rabat. Authorities plan dedicated road and rail connections; on matchdays expect official shuttles from central Casablanca and Rabat. Allow plenty of time — at around 115,000 seats, crowds will be enormous.

Where to stay

Stay in the city centre (near Casa Port or Casa Voyageurs stations) for easy train access, in Ain Diab for the beach, or in Maârif for restaurants and shopping. Rabat is only 45 minutes away by Al Boraq, so some fans may prefer to base themselves there.

Frequently asked questions

Can non-Muslims visit the Hassan II Mosque?

Yes. It is one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims, via guided tours sold at the entrance or online. Dress modestly.

Is Casablanca worth visiting?

Yes — for its Art Deco architecture, the Hassan II Mosque, seafood and beaches. One or two days is enough for most visitors.

How far is the new stadium from Casablanca?

The Grand Stade Hassan II is in Benslimane province, roughly 40 km from central Casablanca.