A view from above over the white apartment blocks and palm-lined streets of Casablanca

Where to stay

Where to stay in Casablanca

Stay in the city centre for the sights and the trains, on the Ain Diab Corniche for the sea, in Maarif and Gauthier for restaurants and local life, or in nearby Mohammedia for a quieter base by the beach.

The areas

Choose your base

A large curved 1930s building with ornate balconies on Boulevard Mohammed V in central Casablanca Best for sights

City centre

Art Deco streets and trams

Business hotels, restored Art Deco properties and simple budget stays around Boulevard Mohammed V and Mohammed V Square, close to trams, the Central Market, the Casa Port station and the Old Medina.

Best for: First-time visitors and short stays

The Atlantic at sunset from the Corniche in Casablanca, with the tide out over low rocks By the sea

Ain Diab Corniche

Beach clubs and sunsets

Seafront resorts and modern hotels along the Corniche, with pools, beach clubs and restaurants on the doorstep, and a tram or a short taxi ride from the centre. Best in summer.

Best for: Beach lovers, surfers and nightlife

Busy modern streets with apartment blocks and a tall tower in the Maarif district of Casablanca Local life

Maarif and Gauthier

Cafés, restaurants and shops

Upmarket residential districts west of the centre, with some of the city’s best restaurants, cafés and boutique shopping, and a good choice of apartments and mid-range hotels close to the Arab League Park.

Best for: Foodies, longer stays and business travellers

Gentle waves rolling onto a sandy beach at Mohammedia Quiet base

Mohammedia

Beaches away from the city

A relaxed seaside town about 30 minutes from central Casablanca by train, with long beaches, resort hotels and a marina. A good choice if you want quiet evenings and still want to see the city.

Best for: Families and beach breaks

What kind of place should you book?

Business and international hotels

As Morocco’s commercial capital, Casablanca has many reliable business hotels in the centre, around Casa Voyageurs and in the newer districts.

Seafront resorts

Resorts along the Corniche have pools, spas and sea views, and suit a summer beach break.

Apartments and boutique stays

Serviced apartments in Maarif and Gauthier are good value for longer stays. Traditional riads are much rarer here than in Marrakech or Fez, although a few small boutique properties can be found in and near the Old Medina.

When to book, and what it costs

Prices tend to be highest on the Corniche from June to September and in the centre when large conferences are on. Winter is usually good value.

Things to check before you book

  • The distance to a tram stop or train station
  • Whether parking is included if you are driving
  • Air conditioning and street noise, especially on busy boulevards
  • Whether the pool is open at that time of year

Good to know

Where to stay FAQ

What is the best area for a first visit?

The city centre, around Boulevard Mohammed V, for trams, trains, the Old Medina and the Art Deco streets. Stay on the Corniche if the beach matters more.

Is the Corniche far from the sights?

Not very. The centre is about 15–20 minutes away by taxi or tram, and the Hassan II Mosque is about 10–15 minutes away by taxi, depending on traffic.

How far ahead should I book?

A few weeks ahead for most of the year. Book earlier for summer on the Corniche and for dates when big conferences or events are on in the city.

Are hotels in Casablanca expensive?

Prices are generally moderate by international standards, with plenty of mid-range business hotels. Beachfront resorts cost more in summer, and traditional riads are rarer here than in Marrakech or Fez.

Plan your Casablanca trip

Book your room, then plan your days

Once you have a base, compare mosque tours, walks and day trips from Casablanca.