Strolling through the streets of Casablanca is genuinely magical.
And before you ask… no, it’s nothing like the movie! I lived here for three months, and not once did I stumble into a smoky piano bar or witness a dramatic airport goodbye. But what you do get are wide Art Deco streets, salty sea air and a buzzing city that feels like it’s caught halfway between the past and the present.
Casablanca is the biggest city in Morocco, and you feel that mix of old and new everywhere you go. Traditional bakeries sit next to cute cafes, and the blend of Arab, African and European influences gives the place a vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
It’s a proper seaside city with lovely beaches, modern shopping, great restaurants and plenty of culture (if you know where to look). But it is huge, and choosing the right neighbourhood will make a massive difference to your experience.
In this guide, I’ve collated my top areas to stay in the city and noted who they are best for. Whether you want to let loose in the clubs or enjoy a quiet holiday with the fam, I’ve got ya!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Sour Jdid
Sour Jdid is a massive neighbourhood located in northern Casablanca. It stretches from the shores of the Atlantic and spreads down towards the city centre. This neighbourhood boasts everything from beaches and bars to historic landmarks, popular tourist attractions and world-famous restaurants.
Old Medina
Located to the east of Sour Jdid is the Old Medina. The heart of ancient and medieval Casablanca, the Old Medina is a neighbourhood bursting with history.
Gautier
The streets are full of small cafés, easy food spots, and places that feel local rather than polished for tourists. You can walk everywhere, grab a cheap coffee, find good food, and slip into a bar that feels friendly, but not overly fancy.
Habous
If you want to know where to stay in Casablanca with kids, we’ll look no further. The Habous neighbourhood is one of the best places in Casablanca to stay in because of its chill, safe vibes and excellent selection of restaurants and shops.
Ain Diab
This coastal neighbourhood is packed with beach clubs, bars and late night restaurants, making it one of the liveliest areas in the city.
A Guide to Casablanca’s Best Neighbourhoods
Casablanca is a popular place to visit when travelling in Morocco, and it’s full of vibey different neighbourhoods that all offer something a little different from the last, so be sure to read each section carefully and pick the one that’s right for you!
1. Sour Jdid – Where to Stay for Your First Time
Sour Jdid is a massive neighbourhood located in northern Casablanca. It stretches from the shores of the Atlantic and spreads down towards the city centre. This neighbourhood boasts everything from beaches and bars to historic landmarks, popular tourist attractions and world-famous restaurants. It’s a fantastic place to stay in Morocco.
This is also one of the best places to stay if you want to experience the elegance, sophistication and atmosphere of the city. Here you can enjoy cafes and restaurants, as well as a variety of traditional and typical Moroccan haunts.
Best For: First-timers, culture, mosques, and a more local neighbourhood close to major sights.
The Vibe: Busy, authentic and everyday Casablanca.
Proximity to Airport: Around 45-60 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic.
Transport Level: Walkable for the mosque and Corniche, and easy taxi access everywhere else.
Budget: Mid?range, with plenty of affordable local food spots around.
Crowds: Moderate. Tourists crowd near the mosque, but mostly locals in the surrounding streets.
Top Things to Do in Sour Jdid
- Marvel at the stunning Hassan II Mosque.
- Step back in time by visiting Rick’s Café, a recreation of the bar made famous by the film Casablanca.
- Excite your senses with a mouthwatering meal at La Sqala.
- Be amazed by the architecture and design of the Synagogue Beth-El.
- Browse local cafés and bakeries in the backstreets for a taste of everyday Casablanca.
- Walk the seaside promenade near the mosque for ocean views and photo spots.
Best Airbnb: Ocean views apartment
Imagine waking up to views of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean as you sip on your morning espresso. It sounds dreamy, right? Not only does this snazzy apartment have incredible views, but you have a fully equipped kitchen, cosy bedroom and relaxing living room. It’s no wonder this place books out fast. To avoid missing out, I’d recommend getting your place reserved before it’s too late.
Best Hotel: Melliber Appart Hotel
The Melliber Appart Hotel is our top pick for where to stay in Sour Jdid because of its central location. It is close to popular tourist attractions, restaurants, bars and the beach. They offer spacious and clean rooms, a laundry service, and free wifi throughout.
Best Apartment: Family Aparthotel
This snazzy studio apartment is ideal for couples or if you’re travelling with a group of friends. You can enjoy either one or two-bedroom apartments that come with a fully equipped kitchenette, a dining area, and a private bathroom, and if you’re lucky, you might even get a balcony or terrace. This apartment is in a great location close to shops, cafes and restaurants all within walking distance.
2. Old Medina – Where to Stay on a Budget
Located to the east of Sour Jdid is the Old Medina. The heart of ancient and medieval Casablanca, the Old Medina is a neighbourhood bursting with history. It is the best neighbourhood to stay in if you’re someone who’s looking to immerse themselves in the stories, legends and culture of this Moroccan city.
The Old Medina is also my top recommendation for where to stay on a budget because it’s where you’ll find a high concentration of backpacker hostels (well, one of the only hostels in the city!) and affordable hotels.
Best For: First?timers, bargain hunters, culture, and mild chaos.
The Vibe: Chaotic, colourful, traditional.
Proximity to Airport: Around 45-60 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic.
Transport Level: Fully walkable inside the medina, with easy taxi access at Bab Marrakech.
Budget: Very budget-friendly for food, shopping, cafes and hotels.
Crowds: Busy throughout the day, especially around Bab Marrakech and the main market lanes.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to Do in Old Medina
- Enter through Bab Marrakech, the historic gateway into the medina’s maze.
- Browse the winding paths of the chaotic and exciting Old Medina.
- Visit the Old Medina Mosque from the outside, a central landmark tucked inside the neighbourhood.
- Sip peppermint tea and enjoy an afternoon of people watching.
- Excite your senses with a plate of traditional Tajine.
- Delve deep into local history at the Koubba of Marabout Sidi Belyout.
- Explore small artisan workshops where tailors, cobblers, and metalworkers still practice their craft.
- Explore the old Portuguese walls, the last remains of Casablanca’s 18th-century fortification.
Best Airbnb: Marina Luma-studio chic
This marina-front studio is stylish, bright, and surprisingly good value for its location. It’s just a short walk from the Old Medina. The ocean views and private terrace make it feel special. It’s ideal if you want a modern, well?designed space by the water without paying luxury?hotel prices.
Best Hostel: Medina Hostel
Medina Hostel is definitely not the best Moroccan hostel that I’ve been to, but it’s great if you’re on a budget or want to meet people. The location in the Old Medina is unbeatable, the host is genuinely kind, and the atmosphere is social, even if the facilities are pretty basic.
Best Hotel: Casablanca Marriott Hotel
If you’re looking to splash some cash on somewhere a wee bit more comfortable, the Casablanca Marriott Hotel is perfect for you. Located in the heart of Old Medina, you couldn’t be in a better location, surrounded by cafes, restaurants and shops. The hotel has an on-site fitness centre, and the rooms are ideal for getting a good night’s rest after a busy day exploring.
3. Gauthier – Coolest Place to Stay
I love Gauthier, it’s one of the easiest places to stay in Casablanca, and it’s where I’ve been perched up for most of my time here. The streets are full of small cafés, easy food spots, and places that feel local rather than polished for tourists. You can walk everywhere, grab a strong coffee, find good food, and slip into a bar that feels friendly, but not overly fancy.
The streets feel safe and busy in a good way. It’s the kind of neighbourhood where you can wander with no plan and still have a great day. If you want a base that feels young, social, and a bit creative, Gauthier is where you want to be.
Best For: Cafés, food, cool, local vibe.
The Vibe: Young, walkable and easygoing. It’s modern but not polished, with plenty of spots to eat, drink and hang out.
Proximity to Airport: Around 45-60 minutes by car.
Transport Level: Easy to get taxis and very walkable once you’re there.
Budget: Mid-range, but you can still eat cheaply if you know where to look.
Crowds: It’s lively without being hectic. It’s busy at night around restaurants, but not overwhelming.
Top Things to Do in Gauthier
- Grab a coffee at one of the small street cafés.
- Try a new restaurant every day! The area has loads of good, casual spots.
- Pick up pastries or snacks from a local bakery.
- Settle into a laid-back bar for a drink in the evening.
- Explore the nearby streets that blend into Maarif and Racine.
- People-watch from a cafe terrace and take in the local vibe.
Best Airbnb: Chic apartment with awesome decor
This is a modern apartment with heaps of natural light and some really inspired decor choices that blend the old world of Morocco with the new. You’ll find a host of bars and restaurants at the foot of the building. It’s very Instagrammy!
Best Value Apartment: Casablanca City Centre Maarif
This apartment is the best value-for-money stay near Gauthier, in neighbouring Maarif. It’s close enough to walk everywhere, with big, clean rooms and friendly staff. The suites feel more like small flats than hotel rooms, making it a great pick if you want space, comfort, and a solid price!
Best Hotel: Stayhere Casablanca
This place is a step up from your usual backpacker stay! It’s cleaner, brighter, and a bit more put?together. You get space, comfort, and a solid location, which makes it a great deal for travellers who want something nicer without going toooo fancy.
4. Habous – Best Place to Stay for Families
The Habous neighbourhood is one of the best places for families to stay in Casablanca. Also known as the New Medina, it blends French design with classic Moroccan style, giving the whole area a calm feel. You’ll find beautiful architecture, small shops, relaxed cafes and plenty of great places to eat.
Habous is ideal if you want a break from the city’s noise. It feels safe, slow and village-like, with quiet streets that are easy to wander with kids. There are lush parks, delicious bakeries and buzzing souks close by, so you can dip in and out of the action before feeling too overwhelmed!
Best For: Families, quiet streets, culture.
The Vibe: Peaceful, traditional and local.
Proximity to Airport: Around 45-60 minutes by car.
Transport Level: Taxis are easy. It’s walkable within its small area, but not as much as other neighbourhoods.
Budget: Mid-range, with plenty of affordable local spots for food and snacks.
Crowds: Quieter than central Casablanca. It can be busy around souks, but manageable for families
Photo: Dan Lundberg (Flickr)
Top Things to Do in Habous
- Marvel at the well-manicured grounds of the Royal Palace.
- See the incredible mosaics at the Mahkama du Pacha.
- Indulge in authentic Moroccan cakes, sweets and treats at the Patisserie Bennis Habous.
- Venture into the city, and be impressed by the stained glasswork at the Notre Dame de Lourdes.
- Feast on mouth-watering Moroccan dishes at local restaurants.
- Browse the lively stalls at the Olive Souk.
- Take a stroll through the leafy and relaxing Isesco Park.
- Visit the bookshops and stationery stores around the main square.
- Stop by the old?school hammams and bathhouses (from the outside).
- Wander the quieter residential lanes to see the French?Moroccan architecture up close.
Best Airbnb: Small nest in a good location, quieta
This apartment is a quiet, well?equipped base near the Royal Palace, with two balconies, a full kitchen and a washing machine, all handy things for busy families. The area has cafés, easy food options and a bus route into the centre. Free parking and a calm, safe feel make it a great value option!
Best Apartments: Medina View, Sunny Apartment
This bright Habous apartment is a calm, modern base with a balcony, full kitchen and free secure parking. The building has 24/7 reception and easy self check?in, and you’re steps from shops, bakeries and green spaces. A comfortable, well?designed stay in a quiet area.
Best Apartment: Luxury Central Apartment
This spacious two?bedroom apartment is a great fit for families, with plenty of room to spread out and two bathrooms that make mornings easier. The full kitchen, washing machine and terrace add comfort for longer stays, and the quiet location with free parking keeps everything simple and stress-free.
5. Ain Diab – Where to Stay for Nightlife
If you want to know where to stay in Casablanca for nightlife, Ain Diab is the spot. This coastal neighbourhood is packed with beach clubs, bars and late?night restaurants, making it one of the liveliest areas in the city.
Ain Diab stretches along the Atlantic and is perfect if you want sun, sea and long nights out. The promenade comes alive after dark, with music, rooftop lounges and plenty of places to eat and drink. It’s also close to big attractions like Morocco Mall and Sindibad Park, so you can mix beach days, shopping and nightlife without travelling far.
Best For: Nightlife, beach clubs, long nights out.
The Vibe: Busy, coastal and social, with bars, lounges and restaurants that stay busy late.
Proximity to Airport: Around 45-60 minutes by car.
Transport Level: Taxis are readily available. It’s not very walkable between venues, but simple enough to get around.
Budget: Mid to high-range, especially along the beachfront and club strip.
Crowds: Busy on weekends and summer evenings. Quieter during the day but very lively after dark!
Top Things to Do in Ain Diab
- Shop until you drop at the nearby Morocco Mall.
- Enjoy a fun and exciting day at Parc de Jeux Sindibad.
- Browse the shops at nearby Anfa Shopping Centre.
- Learn to hang ten by taking surfing lessons.
- Play in the sand at Ain Diab beach.
- Walk the Corniche, the seafront promenade at sunset.
- Hang out at the beach clubs day and night!
- Relax at the rooftop bars and lounges, where most of the nightlife lives!
Best Airbnb: Royal Suite by the Ocean
Located steps away from the beautiful coast, this royal apartment awaits you. Enjoy a cosy living room, a fully equipped kitchen and a bed so comfy you’ll never want to leave. It’s ideal if you’re travelling as a couple or solo and need to recharge your batteries.
Best Hotel: Hotel Club Val D’Anfa
This is one of our top recommendations for where to stay in Casablanca because it is just steps from the beach. You’ll not only love its excellent location but all of the amenities it has to offer, like a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, a terrace and a bar. Rooms are comfortable and elegant and outfitted with all the necessary amenities.
Another Great Hotel: Pestana Casablanca Seaside
With its outdoor swimming, fantastic seaside location, and stunning views, it’s no wonder this is one of our favourite Casablanca hotels. This resort has a spacious room with kitchenettes, washing machines and refrigerators. There’s also an in-house restaurant and a stylish lounge bar.
FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Casablanca
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Casablanca and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Casablanca
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Which Part of Casablanca Should You Choose?
Casablanca is a lively and vibrant seaside city with so much to offer travellers. From its rich history and diverse culture to flavourful food, energetic nightlife, pristine beaches and one-of-a-kind architecture, there’s something for everyone on every budget in this incredible Moroccan city.
After three months of living in Casablanca and exploring every corner of it, I can tell you this: the right neighbourhood changes everything. Each area has its own flavour, and it can either make or break your time there.
I hope after reading my guide, you’ve figured out which base will suit you best. Happy travels, folks 🙂
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Morocco.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Morocco.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
This guide is great. It helped me to make some good decisions to where to stay in Casablanca. Thank you very much.