Strolling through the streets of Casablanca is magical. With the most Art Deco architecture in Morocco, this city will dazzle you with its fresh and modern feel.
Casablanca is the biggest city in Morocco and it has a seamless blend of both traditional and modern living. It’s home to a melting pot of cultures with a fascinating mix of Arab, African and European cultures.
Casablanca is an enchanting destination that is so much more than an Old Hollywood movie title. In fact, this seaside city boasts lively beaches, modern shopping, world-class restaurants and plenty of history and culture.
But Casablanca is a massive city, so choosing the right neighborhood is super important. This is exactly why I’ve put together this article on where to stay in Casablanca. I aim to make your life (well at least this decision) a hell of a lot easier.
I’ve compiled the top places to stay in Casablanca and orgnaised them by interest, so you’ll be able to pick the one that best suits you and your travel style. So, whether you’re a culture vulture, history buff, party animal, or traveller with kids in tow – you’ve come to the right place!
Let’s get right to it – here are my top picks for where to stay in Casablanca, Morocco.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Casablanca.
Cosy room with city views | Best Airbnb in Cassablanca
A comfortable private room with ensuite and a city-centre location. You’ll get treated to sunrise and excellent views across the city and over the water right from your bed.
Hotel Central | Best Hostel in Casablanca
Hotel Central is the best hostel in Casablanca. This property boasts 36 rooms outfitted in the traditional Moroccan style and each has a bathroom, satellite TV and free wifi. Not in town long? This is also our pick for where to stay in Casablanca for one night.
My Loft Anfa | Best Hotel in Casablanca
Without a doubt, My Loft Anfa is the best hotel in Casablanca. Not only is it located in the best neighborhood in Casablanca to stay in for nightlife, but it is close to the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms, modern amenities, luggage storage and free wifi.
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.
Racine
Casablanca is a fun and lively city with a bustling nightlife scene. It boasts everything from Irish pubs and relaxed wine bars to thriving bars, buzzing clubs, and energetic dancefloors.
Ain Diab
If you want to know where to stay in Casablanca with kids, we’ll look no further. The Ain Diab neighbourhood is one of the best places in Casablanca to stay in because of its great beaches, cool surf clubs and an excellent selection of restaurants and shops.
Casablanca is a magical and mystical city that excites and enchants visitors.
The largest city in Morocco, it boasts an awesome selection of historical and religious landmarks, world-class restaurants, modern shopping, and plenty of bars, nightclubs and cafes. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Casablanca.
The city is located in the central-western part of the country and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. It covers an area of 220 square kilometres and is divided into eight districts, which are further subdivided into 16 subdivisions, one municipality and more than 45 neighborhoods.
To help you plan your time in Casablanca, this guide will explore the best areas to stay in Casablanca based on travel interests and need.
Sour Jdid is a massive and sprawling neighborhood set in northwestern Casablanca. It is home to some of the city’s most prominent landmarks and is well connected throughout the region.
Head southeast from here and you’ll arrive in the Old Medina. One of the most historic parts of the city, Old Medina is a labyrinth of narrow streets and winding alleys that has great shops, cafes and restaurants.
Set southwest of Old Medina is Racine, a lively and vibrant neighborhood characterised by its bars and clubs, and its towering twin skyscrapers.
Travel southeast and you’ll arrive in Habous. One of the coolest places to stay in Casablanca, Habous is a charming neighborhood that combines modern French appeal with traditional Moroccan style.
And finally, Ain Diab is a fantastic neighborhood located on the shores of the Atlantic. Our pick for where to stay in Casablanca with kids, this neighborhood has it all – surf, sand, fun and sun!
If you’re still not sure where to stay in Casablanca, don’t worry! Because in the next section we’ll break down each of the best areas to stay in Casablanca in detail.
Casablanca’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look at the best places to stay in Casablanca. Each is 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 in Casablanca for Your First Time
Sour Jdid is a massive neighborhood located in northern Casablanca. It stretches from the shores of the Atlantic and spreads down towards the city centre. This neighborhood boasts everything from beaches and bars to historic landmarks, popular tourist attractions and world-famous restaurants. Because of all of this, Sour Jdid is our pick for where to stay in Casablanca for your first time.
This is also one of the best places in Casablanca to stay in 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.
Things to See and Do in Sour Jdid
- Marvel at the stunning Hassan II Mosque.
- See an exceptional collection of art and décor at the Villa Des Arts de Casablanca.
- Enter the Medina via the ancient Bab Marrakech gate.
- Visit the striking L’Eglise du Sacre-Coeur.
- Dine on delicious seafood and enjoy the ocean views at Le Cabestan.
- Step back in time by visiting Rick’s Café, a recreation of the bar made famous by the film Casablanca.
- Excite your sense with a mouthwatering meal at La Sqala.
- Go for a stroll through Parc de la Ligue Arabe.
- Be amazed by the architecture and design of the Synagogue Beth-El.
Cosy room with city views | Best Airbnb in Sour Jdid
A comfortable private room with ensuite and a city-centre location. You’ll get treated to sunrise and excellent views across the city and over the water right from your bed.
Melliber Appart Hotel | Best Hotel in Sour Jdid
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.
Appartement Panoramique | Best Apartment in Sour Jdid
This excellent apartment is situated in one of Casablanca’s best neighborhood. It is close to all the top tourist attractions and there are shopping, dining and nightlife at its front door. This property offers a range of features, like free wifi, and guests can soak up the sun on the outdoor terrace.
Magnificent Studio | Best Apartment in Sour Jdid
This excellent studio apartment is ideally located. This Casablanca accommodation is close to the Arab League Park. Scare Coeur Cathedral and is within walking distance of restaurants, bars and shops. It has one comfortable bedroom, two bathrooms, a full kitchen and washing machine.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Old Medina – Where to Stay in Casablanca 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 neighborhood bursting with history. It is the best neighborhood in Casablanca to stay in if you’re someone who’s looking to immerse themselves in the stories, legends and culture of the city.
The Old Medina is also our top recommendation for where to stay in Casablanca on a budget because it’s where you’ll find a high concentration of backpacker hostels and affordable hotels.
So, whether you’re looking for history and culture, or simply the cheapest bed in town, the Old Medina in the best area in Casablanca to stay in for you!
Things to See and Do in Old Medina
- Visit the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
- Marvel at the design, detail and decor of Ould el-Hamra Mosque.
- Browse the winding paths of the chaotic and exciting Old Medina.
- 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 the city walls, the last remains of Casablanca’s 18th-century fortification.
Self contained studio apartment | Best Airbnb in Old Medina
This cosy apartment with its classic Morrocan colour pallete and art deco facade will have you feeling like you been swept back in time to the Casablance of old in no time. It’s got all the modern features you’ll have come to expect, and great beach access
Hotel Central | Best Hostel in Old Medina
Hotel Central is the best hostel in Casablanca. This property boasts 36 rooms outfitted in traditional Moroccan style and each has a bathroom, satellite TV and free wifi. Not in town long? This is also our pick for where to stay in Casablanca for one night.
Prince de Paris | Best Hotel in Old Medina
This excellent four-star hotel is one of our favourites in the Old Medina because provides so many features at an affordable price. It provides comfortable and stylish rooms with a variety of features. There’s also an on-site nightclub, a beauty salon, and an awesome restaurant and bar.
Riad Lala Fatna | Best Guest House in Old Medina
This is one of the best places to stay in Casablanca if you’re looking for a home away from home that won’t break the bank. The Riad Lala Fatna is conveniently located in the city centre. It offers relaxing rooms with a range of modern features to ensure a comfortable stay.
#3 Racine – Where to Stay in Casablanca for Nightlife
Casablanca is a fun and lively city with a bustling nightlife scene. It boasts everything from Irish pubs and relaxed wine bars to thriving bars, buzzing clubs, and energetic dancefloors. Casablanca is a fantastic place to visit if you’re looking to let your hair down and enjoy a night on the town.
The Racine neighborhood is our top choice for where to stay in Casablanca for nightlife because you’ll find so many different options packed into a small space. Simply take a walk down any of Racine’s beautiful streets and you’ll find yourself with a variety of unforgettable nightlife options.
Things to See and Do in Racine
- Take in the incredible panoramic views of the city from Sky 28.
- Explore the Twin Centre, two towering skyscrapers that are home to shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Listen to live music as you enjoy a mouthwatering meal at La Java.
- Choose from a wide range of sophisticated and unique cocktails and drinks at Le Kimmy’z.
- Drink refreshing beers as DJs spin the latest tunes at Le Jefferson.
- Indulge in French fare and incredible wines at Peter’s Restaurant.
- Enjoy good food, great music and a welcoming atmosphere at Le Chester’s.
Chic apartment with awesome decor | Best Airbnb in Racine
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. Great for Instagrammers.
Boutique Hotel Gauthier | Best Hotel in Racine
The Boutique Hotel Gauthier is one of our favourite Casablanca accommodation options because of its central location near bars, shops, restaurants and landmarks. This four-star hotel has 35 spacious rooms, each outfitted with modern amenities and stylish decor. Guests can relax in the library or soak up the sun on the terrace.
Ennasma | Best Hotel in Racine
Conveniently located at the heart of the city, the Ennasma is a great place to stay if you’re looking to enjoy Casablanca’s nightlife. This hotel has 24 modern rooms outfitted with excellent amenities. It also boasts an outdoor terrace and an on-site bar, perfect for enjoying a drink before a night on the town.
My Loft Anfa | Best Hotel in Racine
Without a doubt, My Loft Anfa is the best hotel in Casablanca. Not only is it located in the best neighborhood in Casablanca to stay in for nightlife, but it is close to the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms, modern amenities, luggage storage and free wifi.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Habous – Coolest Place to Stay in Casablanca
The Habous neighborhood is one of the coolest places to stay in Casablanca. Also known as the New Medina, Habous is a neighborhood that seamlessly combines French flair with traditional Moroccan style. Here you can enjoy beautiful architecture and exquisite design, as well as charming shops, laid back cafes and plenty of delectable restaurants.
Habous is one of the best places in Casablanca to stay if you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle. This neighborhood has a charming village-like feel, which is perfect for relaxing, exploring and wandering throughout the day. From lush and leafy parks to buzzing and eclectic souks, there’s so much to see, do, eat and enjoy in radiant Habous.
Things to See and Do in Habous
- Take a guided tour of 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.
- Be impressed by the stained glasswork at the Notre Dame de Lourdes.
- Feast on mouth-watering Moroccan dishes at Zayna Restaurant.
- Browse the lively stalls at the Olive Souk.
- Visit the majestic Moulay Yousef and Mohammed V Mosques.
- Take a stroll through the leafy and relaxing Isesco Park.
Modern studio apartment ith lots of light | Best Airbnb in Habous
Located a short walk from the city centre and perched on top of the old Habbous neighborhood, this flat has everything you need if you choose to cater for yourselves. A huge kitchen, lots of hanging out space, and a great local make this an easy choice
Leyna Vacancy Homes | Best Apartments in Habous
Leyna Vacancy Homes offers well-equipped and comfortable apartments at the heart of the city. Each apartment is outfitted with a kitchenette, a refrigerator and in-room dining area. There’s also a TV, a private bathroom, and a sofa bed in every unit. Guests can enjoy a variety of attractions, restaurants and shops nearby.
Prestige Holiday | Best Apartment in Habous
Prestige Holiday provides comfortable, clean and private Casablanca accommodation. The property is situated in Habous, one of the coolest places to stay in Casablanca. You’ll enjoy a myriad of eateries, bistros and bars nearby. This property has cosy rooms, modern features, and a variety of on-site services.
Casa Appart Contemporain | Best Apartment in Habous
This property is located in one of Casablanca’s best neighborhoods. It is ideally located close to restaurants, shops and bars, and there are lots of historical and religious attractions close by too. This property has three apartments each outfitted with a range of great features and necessities.
#5 Ain Diab – Where to Stay in Casablanca for Families
If you want to know where to stay in Casablanca with kids, we’ll look no further. The Ain Diab neighborhood is one of the best places in Casablanca to stay in because of its great beaches, cool surf clubs and an excellent selection of restaurants and shops.
The Ain Diab neighborhood is located northwest of the city centre. It stretches along the coast of the Atlantic and is the best neighborhood to stay in Casablanca if you’re looking for a holiday filled with sun, sand, surfing and fun!
Ain Diab also gets our vote for where to stay in Casablanca for families because of its close proximity to exciting attractions and activities. Just a short drive away you’ll find the enormous Morocco Mall and the Sindibad theme park.
Things to See and Do in Ain Diab
- Shop until you drop at the nearby Morocco Mall.
- Enjoy a fun and exciting day at Parc de Jeux Sindibad.
- Swim, splash and play at Tamaris Aquaparc.
- Browse the shops at Anfa Shopping Centre.
- Feast on an incredible selection of Moroccan dishes at Al Tazaj.
- Dine on savoury bites at Tacos de Lyon Ain Diab.
- Learn to hang ten by taking surfing lessons.
- Play in the sand at Ain Diab beach.
Great holiday apartment for small families | Best Airbnb in Ain Diab
This beautiful apartment might not be the biggest place you’ll ever see, but it’s full of charm and packs a punch. The balcony offerst views over the city, and there’s access to a shared pool
Hotel Club Val D’Anfa | Best Hotel in Ain Diab
This is one of our top recommendations for where to stay in Casablanca with kids 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.
Pestana Casablanca Seaside | Best Hotel in Ain Diab
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.
Le Casablanca Hotel | Best Hotel in Ain Diab
Enjoy a restful and relaxing vacation by staying at La Casablanca Hotel. This five-star hotel is ideally situated in the city. It is close to popular tourist attractions, as well as restaurants, the beach, shops and more. It boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, a bar and a tour service.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Casablanca
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Casablanca and where to stay.
What To Pack For Casablanca
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
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.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Casablanca
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.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the best places to stay in Casablanca. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap.
Hotel Central is the best hostel in Casablanca because of its excellent location. It also offers comfortable rooms decorated in the traditional Moroccan style at an affordable price.
My Loft Anfa gets our vote for the best hotel in Casablanca because it is close to great nightlife, popular tourist attractions, world-class restaurants, and excellent shopping.
If you’re travelling across Morocco, and need hostels in other cities too, check out our Best Hostels in Morocco guide.
While Morocco can be very safe, it’s super important to make sure you get travel insurance!
- 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.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
