Victoria Lupascu 
“Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine”! If you know, you know! We’re not talking about Casablanca, the movie today, we’re only taking a virtual trip to Morocco’s largest city! To help you plan the perfect trip, I’ve created this guide on where to stay in Casablanca, Morocco.
Read this post if you want to find out which are the best areas to stay in town for tourists! And don’t stop there because I also included a list of the top hotels from luxury, to mid-range and budget! And since I’ve organized them by price, you’ll find your favorite in no time!
I’ve handpicked all the accommodations that you’ll find below and only included the ones with the most amazing reviews! You’re in good hands!
In short, the City Center is the best area to stay in Casablanca for first-time visitors! There you’ll find lots of iconic attractions, restaurants and amazing hotels.
But I’ve got 3 more areas for you, just a scroll away, in case you’re looking for something different that’s closer to the town’s beautiful beaches!
Just remember that Casablanca is one of the most popular cities in Morocco! So I recommend booking your hotels here in advance!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
If you want to book your trip now, here’s a list of the best hotels for where to stay in Casablanca, all located in the City Center:
Contents
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a map that will help you visualize all the areas for where to stay in Casablanca that I will be talking about in this post:
1. City Center – best place to stay for the first time
“I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship”!
That’s what the character in the famous movie Casablanca said at one point and to be honest it perfectly describes how you’ll feel while exploring the City Center!
This lively neighborhood has tons of attractions, restaurants, shopping spaces, and hotels that range from budget to luxury! It also includes the Sidi Belyout business region so if that’s the purpose of your trip, you’re in the right place.
With a modern touch that blends perfectly with some of the old buildings, the City Center is a top choice for where to stay in Casablanca. It’s perfect for anyone who loves to walk around from one landmark to another and not use any public transportation. But it’s also ideal for those looking where to stay in Casablanca for one night and have everything important just a stone’s throw away.
However, if you’re feeling adventurous you can go to the Casa Port train station (map) and explore other parts of the city or country! You can visit other places like Fes, Rabat or jump on the Casablanca to Marrakech train and spend one night there (since the journey takes around 3 to 4h).
But not before you check out the attractions here! You can start with the Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum and then go for a walk around the United Nations Square (map), the Mohammed V Square (map) and the Arab League Park (map).
That’s why I love staying in the center area, the location will allow you to explore all day long without worrying about getting back to the hotel.
If you’re looking for a safe place to stay in Casablanca then the City Center is definitely perfect for you. It is the most friendly area, and you won’t have to worry about your safety when walking at night to admire Casablanca’s beautiful architecture.
Other accommodation options in the City Center
Things to do in City Center
- Explore the Mohamed V Square
- Catch the sunset in the Arab League Park (Parc de la Ligue Arabe)
- Admire the beautiful Sacred Heart Cathedral (L’Eglise du Sacre-Coeur)
- See an exhibition at the Musée de la Fondation Abderrahman Slaoui
- Visit the Villa Des Arts de Casablanca Museum
- Eat some French food at Le Kimmy’z (map)
- Admire the art deco architecture of the buildings in the Place des Nations Unies
2. Old Medina – best place for budget travelers
Located north of the City Center (around a 20 min walk away), the Old Medina neighborhood is such a gem and a crucial place to visit while you’re in town!
I feel like anyone who is planning their Casablanca trip has some photos saved somewhere of colorful small houses, narrow streets, authentic shopping markets and they can already smell all the delicious traditional Moroccan food!
The Old Medina neighborhood is one of the best places to stay in Casablanca to experience all of that! Just wait until you step food in the colorful Medina Market (map), which has everything from food to clothes and souvenirs.
This neighborhood is also popular among backpackers so you’ll find a lot of affordable hotels and hostel rooms.
Old Medina is quite magical, with its culture and legends and it encompasses that old Moroccan atmosphere. You won’t see any French elements here, only old traditional buildings and unique street art.
The markets are not the only attraction, from this location, you will be able to visit the unique Hassan II Mosque (map), the 7th largest Mosque in the world, set in the smaller Sour Jdid area, and explore what’s left of the 18th-century city walls.
Make sure you head to the famous Rick’s Cafe (map) while here! It’s a really amazing restaurant inspired by the cafe in the Casablanca movie, and they play live music and serve delicious food!
Right near the cafe, you’ll also find Casablanca’s marina area, where all the ships dock! Head there at sunset and enjoy the dreamy views!
If you’re looking for where to stay in Casablanca to feel that authentic atmosphere, then this neighborhood is perfect for you! Just make sure to book your spot far in advance, as hotels fill up quickly here!
Other accommodation options in Old Medina
Things to do in Old Medina
- Have dinner with a view at Sky 28 (map)
- Snap a picture of the street art near the Old Medina Clock Tower
- Visit the Hassan II Mosque, the world’s 7th largest mosque
- Enjoy a relaxing walk in the Anfa Park in Old Medina (map)
- Eat a yummy dinner at La Sqala (map)
- Admire the beautiful Synagogue Beth-El
- Explore the Casablanca city walls in Old Medina
- Grab a drink at the iconic Rick’s Cafe (map)
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3. Habous & Maârif – for the whole Moroccan experience
Welcome to Habous (Habbous, Hubous or the New Medina as the locals call it)!
This area, which is located south of the City Center (around a 40 min walk away), is pretty unique as it boasts a mix of architecture from both the pre and post-colonization periods in Morocco.
It is also a pretty amazing place for families, as it’s a bit more tranquil and not so far from the City Center or Old Medina.
While in Habous,you should definitely check out the Royal Palace (map)! Although you can’t visit the palace grounds you can stop by and admire its exteriors. Not too far from it, you’ll find the market (map) so you can go on an impromptu shopping spree!
Habous blends into the next door Maârif neighborhood, which was built by the French. Most buildings here date back to the 1930s, that’s why Habous Quarter and Maârif are some of the best places to stay if you like quirky architecture.
There are lots of affordable hotels in these areas, so they’re perfect for those traveling on a budget.
Both places have lots of small lively markets and friendly spots from where you can buy souvenirs and eat some delicious street food. Make sure you stop by some of the traditional patisseries to try all the delicacies like the mouth-watering stuffed dates!
Although the areas share common things (which is why I put them together) each place has its individual charm! Maârif district is super famous for its numerous boutique shops (if you’re a fashion lover, this is surely your spot)!
You’ll also find some cool attractions here like the Museum of Moroccan Judaism and the Yasmine Fun Park, which you should definitely visit if you’re bringing your family!
This neighborhood has that homie village atmosphere that you shouldn’t miss! Do make sure you book the hotels here in advance, as the area is favored by all tourists who are coming to visit Casablanca!
Other accommodation options in Habous & Maârif
Things to do in Habous & Maârif
- Admire the beautiful Royal Palace in Casablanca city
- Go shopping in the luxury stores in the Maarif district
- Explore the nearby Gauthier area
- Relax in the leafy Parc Murdoch in Habous (map)
- Check out the Great Habous Olive Market (map)
- See the cool mosaics at Mahkama du Pacha in Habous
- Eat the best Moroccan sweets at Patisserie Bennis Habous (map)
- Remain in awe of the incredible stained glass art at the Eglise Notre Dame De Lourdes (map)
4. Ain Diab – best place to stay in Casablanca for nightlife
Where are all my beach lovers?
If you’re hoping to catch some sun and relax on the sandy shores in Casablanca, then there’s no better place to stay for you than Ain Diab, a coastal neighborhood set 6 km (4 miles) northwest of the City Center!
Although a bit far from the main attractions, you’ll be connected with the rest of the city via tram, bus and train, so you’re all covered!
Also known as “La Corniche” this area is also famous for its entertaining nightlife! Yep, this area is absolutely packed with clubs, and bars!
Start your mornings here with a stroll on the sandy beach, and a swim in the sea! If you’re into surfing and want to learn, there’s a school right here on Ain Diab Beach (map).
Then continue the day with lunch at one of the fabulous restaurants in the area like Le Basmane (map), a Moroccan diner where you can try their traditional dishes.
Since the area is such a hot spot for nightlife, all the restaurants and bars are open until late so you can start the night whenever you want! If you’re looking for a place to get warmed up head to Yellow Club (map) and continue the night from there!
Ain Diab is also the home of one of the biggest landmarks in the country, the Morocco Mall (map), which is actually the largest shopping center in Africa! I would definitely need someone to hold my purse here, I would shop until I drop!
It just feels like this neighborhood has it all! Right near Ain Diab you’ll also find the Sindibad Theme Park (Parc de Jeux Sindibad), which is also a safari! Definitely worth a visit while you’re here.
Other accommodation options in Ain Diab
Things to do in Ain Diab
- Shop until you drop at Morocco Mall
- Spend a fun day at Sindibad Theme Park
- Grab a bite at Le Cabestan (map)
- Do more shopping at Anfaplace Mall (map)
- Have fun at the Adventureland Amusement Park
- Take a trip to Tamaris Aquaparc
- Have a cocktail at Tahiti Beach Club (map)
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$150 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | US$100 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$50 |
| 📍 Best area: | City Center |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Hôtel Particulier Le Doge |
| 🧳 Best mid-range: | JM Suites Hotel |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Hotel Paris |
FAQS about where to stay in Casablanca, Morocco
🌅 Is Casablanca worth visiting?
Yes! Absolutely, Morocco’s largest city is filled with incredible attractions like the Hassan II Mosque and the beautiful Old Medina neighborhood.
❓ Is Casablanca safe for tourists?
Yes, but definitely be careful where you choose to stay. All the neighborhoods presented above are safe areas! However, be mindful of your belongings anywhere you go and avoid walking alone at night in remote areas.
💯 What are the best neighborhoods in Casablanca?
City Center and Old Medina are some of the best areas in Casablanca! Both are home to some of the best attractions and amazing hotels like Hôtel Particulier Le Doge.
🏨 What are the best hotels near Old Medina, Casablanca?
Barcelo Anfa Casablanca and Family Aparthotel are some of the best hotels to stay near Old Medina! The accommodations have great locations and all the facilities you’ll need.
💙 What are the best hotels in Casablanca?
Hôtel Particulier Le Doge and Barcelo Anfa Casablanca are some of the Casablanca hotels that will make your holiday to Morocco an unforgettable one.
👨👩👧 Where to stay in Casablanca for families?
Maârif is a great place for families as it’s close to the City Center, it’s not as busy and it has some fun attractions for the kids!
⚖️ Is it better to stay in Casablanca or Marrakech?
It depends on what you’re looking for! Casablanca is more modern and business-oriented while Marrakech has a more authentic vibe, a rich history and culture and unique architecture.
🏨 Where to stay in Casablanca City Center?
Hôtel Particulier Le Doge and JM Suites Hotel are some of the best hotels to stay in the City Center. Both have amazing facilities and great reviews!
💸 Where to get cheap accommodation in Casablanca?
You can find affordable accommodations in Habous & Maârif! LHostel is a great place and comes at an amazing price.
🤔 Where to stay in Casablanca for the first time?
The City Center is the best place to stay in Casablanca for the first time! It has amazing attractions and it’s also well-connected with the other areas.
📅 When is the best time of the year to visit Casablanca?
The best time to visit Casablanca is June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny and when there are not so many tourists around!
Conclusion
Can you ever have enough of Morocco? I think not!
I hope this guide on where to stay in Casablanca gave you some insight and ideas on how to plan your trip there!
It’s not easy to pick a hotel since there are so many incredible options, so if you need a bit of help, check out my 2 favorite places below:
- Hôtel Particulier Le Doge – a cool hotel that has an Art-Deco design and a spa center
- JM Suites Hotel – relax in the Hammam at this hotel that has 2 restaurants
Casablanca is one of the most visited places in Morocco, so I recommend booking your hotels and tickets in advance, and securing your spot early!
Enjoy your cultural immersion in this Moroccan town and don’t forget that you can always drop me your questions below, in the comment section. I’d be happy to help you out!
Safe travels,
Victoria
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