Day Trips & Excursions: Casablanca

Rabat

Approximately 1 hour by high-speed Al Boraq train.

The capital city of Morocco, Rabat presents a more relaxed and elegant atmosphere. Historical sites include Hassan Tower, Kasbah of the Udayas, Chellah Necropolis, and a more manageable Medina.

Travel Information

Transportation: High-speed Al Boraq train (Casa-Voyageurs to Rabat Ville) or standard ONCF trains.
Exploration: Independent travel by train, local taxis, or walking. Organized tours are also available.
Time: A full day for main attractions.
Explore day trips from Casablanca on GetYourGuide.

Nearby Coastal and Rural Destinations

Beyond the city, explore tranquil coastal towns and glimpse rural Moroccan life.

El Jadida

Approximately 1.5 hours by train or car. A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved 16th-century Portuguese fortified city (Mazagan). Visit the atmospheric Portuguese Cistern.

Details

Coastal fortress.
Direct train from Casa-Port or Casa-Voyageurs.
Half to full day for Portuguese city and sea.

Mohammedia

Approximately 30 minutes by train or car. A coastal city north of Casablanca with a quieter atmosphere. Features a pleasant beach, golf course, and small marina. A local escape.

Quick Escape

Pleasant beach.
Golf course and marina.
Half-day trip.

Cultural Countryside Excursions

Ben Slimane Region

Rural landscapes and farming practices.
Vineyards and potential wine-tasting experiences.
Best accessed by private car or taxi.
Glimpse Morocco's countryside.

Settat Town

Authentic provincial town experience.
Center for agriculture and livestock.
Lively weekly souk (market).
Accessible by train or bus.

Coastal Recreation & Notes

Skhirat BeachWide sandy shores, calm waters.
Dar BouazzaRelaxed beach vibe, surfing, beach clubs.
Seasonal ActivitiesTypical beach activities.
AccessBest by taxi or private car.

Booking Day TripsConsider GetYourGuide for convenience.
Train TravelEfficient for cities like Rabat, El Jadida, Mohammedia.
TaxisGood for local coastal areas.
Flexible PlansAdapt trips to interests.

Day Trip Advice

Booking trains and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons, is wise.

Multi-Day Regional Exploration

For travelers with more time, Casablanca serves as a starting point for exploring Morocco's imperial cities and diverse landscapes.

Marrakech

Approximately 2.5-3 hours by train. Morocco's "Red City" is a frequent next destination. Spend 3-4 days there for its unique atmosphere.

Fes & Meknes

Fes: 3-4 hours by train. Meknes: 30-40 minutes before Fes. Ancient medinas, historical sites, and traditional craftsmanship.

Tangier

Approximately 2.5 hours by Al Boraq high-speed train. A historic port city overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar with distinct European influences.

Sahara Desert Experience

For an unforgettable adventure, consider a 3-4 day tour from Marrakech (or Fes) to the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga.

Trip Details

Camel treks and desert camps.
Overnight stay under the stars.
Multi-day organized tour, usually via 4x4 vehicles.

Suggested Imperial Route

After exploring Casablanca (1-2 days), travel by train for an in-depth cultural journey through Morocco's imperial past.

City Sequence

Rabat (1 day), then Meknes (1 day).
Fes (2-3 days) for ancient medinas and tanneries.
Contrasting urban and traditional Morocco.

Planning Your Longer Journey

Marrakech trainsFrequent, comfortable.

Fes trainsDirect service from Casa-Voyageurs.

Tangier trainsAl Boraq high-speed accessibility.

Chefchaouen optionBus from Tangier.

Desert toursMost practical and safe for remote areas.

Peak seasonBook trains and tours early.

Travel Note

For remote areas like the Sahara Desert, organized tours are the most practical and safe option.
Book trains and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Consider flight departures from other cities like Marrakech (RAK).
This layout presents a compelling contrast between urban and traditional Morocco.
It caters to various travel durations.

Itinerary Suggestions

Customize your travel plan with these structured itinerary ideas based on duration and interests.

-hour Layover Highlights

1

Morning Arrival

Arrive CMN, train to Casa-Voyageurs/Casa-Port. Head to Hassan II Mosque for a guided tour.

2

Lunch Experience

Central Market for fresh seafood cooked on the spot.

3

Afternoon & Evening

Explore Habous Quarter for artisan shops, mint tea. Dinner along Corniche (Ain Diab), then return to airport.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 days

Day 1: Arrival, Hassan II Mosque guided tour, Corniche Ain Diab walk and sunset. Dinner with sea views.
Day 2: Old Medina immersion, bargaining. Lunch near medina. Museum of Moroccan Judaism or Villa des Arts. Evening: Traditional hammam, dinner.
Day 3: Habous Quarter exploration, traditional pastries. Head to airport or day trip to Mohammedia.
Consider GetYourGuide for booking activities.
Adapt to your preferences.
Enjoy a relaxed pace.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience 7 Days

Days 1-3: Casablanca in-depth (landmarks, medinas, cultural sites). Add cooking class on Day 3. Explore Morocco Mall/AnfaPlace. Diverse dining.
Days 4-5: Day trip to Rabat via Al Boraq. Explore Hassan Tower, Kasbah of the Udayas, Chellah Necropolis. Return to Casablanca or stay in Rabat.
Days 6-7 (Option 1): Coastal retreat/relaxation. Dar Bouazza or Skhirat Beach. Corniche amenities, spa treatment.
Days 6-7 (Option 2): Further city exploration/departure. Revisit favorite spots (Sacred Heart Cathedral, Notre Dame de Lourdes), souvenir shopping. Prepare for departure.
Tailor to your interest.
A balanced trip.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

Casablanca Days 1-2

Explore city sites.

Imperial Cities & Desert Days 3-10

Rabat (2 days), Fes (3 days), Sahara Desert tour (3 days/2 nights).

Marrakech & Departure Days 11-14

Marrakech (3 days). Fly from Marrakech (RAK) or return to CMN.

Planning Note

Itineraries maximize experiences based on time. Adapt them to your pace, interests, and energy. Allow for spontaneity and soaking in the city's atmosphere.

Day Trips & Excursions