Its name familiarity may have grown after the 1942 film of the same name, but Casablanca has been a business and economic hub in Morocco, the Maghreb region and Arab world for centuries. The largest city in Morocco, Casablanca’s ideal location on the Atlantic Ocean has made it one of the largest artificial ports in Africa. In recent years many global financial companies have set up within the city, intertwined with a diverse mix of places of worship, the Old Medina and grand squares.

GETTING THERE AROUND
Mohammed V International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Africa and the hub of Royal Air Maroc, which operates flights to several North American destinations. The Al Bidaoui train links the airport to two of the city’s main railway stations (Casa-Port Railway Terminal and Casa-Voyageurs Railway Station). Within the city, Casablanca Tramway connects much of Casablanca across four lines. A rapid bus system also operates, and Uber and Careem ride shares are available.

LODGING
Hôtel Particulier Le Doge – Relais & Châteaux
This Art Deco hotel dates back to the 1930s, and its character and opulence are evident in the unique guestrooms, lavish restaurant, bar and spa. Each guestroom features a different design, promising a special experience for every guest.

Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca
Expect views of Lalla Meryem Beach and the Atlantic Ocean, complementing guestrooms with Moroccan-influenced décor, expansive windows and furnished balconies. A Mediterranean restaurant, lobby lounge, seasonal poolside restaurant, spa, gym and outdoor pool with cabanas also grace the property.

Le Square by Onomo Collection
Within the lively Gauthier district, this boutique hotel offers refined guestrooms and suites, blending history with modernity and Art Deco heritage with contemporary hospitality. A ground-floor café, Levantine restaurant and rooftop bar embrace Casablanca living at its finest. The on-site spa partners with Botanika Marrakech to offer locally inspired and natural treatments.

DINING
La Brasserie Bavaroise
The city’s historical and lasting French connections are best seen here, where exceptional French cuisine and drinks are expressed in menu items such as oysters, steaks, chicken fricassee, French wines and decadent desserts.

Le Cabestan
Its coastal location is reflected in its dishes, drinks and atmosphere; Mediterranean flavors, ingredients and techniques coalesce. Peruse the Moroccan wine list, indulge in fresh seafood and pastas, and soak in the sea views.

Dar Dada
Dine within a traditional Moroccan courtyard at Dar Dada, tasting the best flavors and plates of Morocco such as Moroccan layered pastries, fattouche salad, slow-cooked lamb shoulder and various couscous dishes.

ATTRACTIONS
Hassan II Mosque
The second-largest mosque in Africa and one of the largest in the world, Hassan II Mosque defines the city’s skyline with its 689-foot-tall minaret. The mosque overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and its grounds encompass many fountains, hammams, a museum on Moroccan history and an extensive library.

Mohammed V Square
One of the city’s central squares, Mohammed V Square is a historically significant place and the administrative center of the city, established in 1916 and featuring many monuments and statues as well as a large circular fountain. The square is also known as Pigeons’ Square for the number of birds in the area.

Old Medina
Narrow and winding streets lined with lively markets, cafés and shops reflect Casablanca’s history. Souks sell spices, handicrafts and textiles; and traditional architecture and landmarks like La Sqala bastion transport visitors to another era.

GT PICKS
While it may seem a bit of a tourist trap, Casablanca’s Rick’s Café, founded by former American diplomat Kathy Kriger in 2004 and based on the fictional café in the movie Casablanca, is actually quite popular and books up in advance. Expect a dress code and enjoy live music, including a pianist playing period jazz. GT editor in chief Kimberly Inlander enjoyed lunch there during a 12-hour layover in the African city.