The Casablanca cruise terminal at the Port of Casablanca is located approximately 3.2 km (2 miles) from the city centre, a 12-minute taxi ride that costs roughly 50 to 70 MAD (~$5.00 to $7.00 USD). Situated in the Casablanca-Settat region on the western coast of the country, this destination serves as Morocco's modern economic engine. It is an ocean cruise port that handles the world's largest liners as they navigate the Atlantic Ocean. You are roughly 90 km (56 miles) from the capital city of Rabat, a 1 hour and 15-minute journey by road or rail, and 240 km (150 miles) from Marrakech, which requires at least 3 hours of transit each way. Our destination partners have advised that many travelers find the city’s industrial exterior intimidating, yet the interior reveals a stunning Art Deco heritage and the world’s second-largest functioning mosque. You should realistically expect heavy traffic and aggressive taxi touts at the terminal gates. We have sent Waterways Cruise clients here who initially felt overwhelmed but discovered that the city rewards those who bypass the commercial harbor quickly. This destination rewards the curious architectural enthusiast but punishes the traveler who expects a polished, walk-in European experience. This is a gritty, working metropolis where the authentic Morocco hides behind a façade of 20th-century concrete.
Casablanca is a challenging port that requires effort to love. It is not a city of 'sights' so much as a city of 'atmosphere.' If you only have four hours, see the Mosque and leave. If you have eight, the Habous Quarter is essential. It genuinely delivers world-class architecture but fails to provide the romanticized Moroccan dream most Americans expect.
Industrial setting. Ships dock at a commercial pier; a shuttle or taxi is mandatory as walking through the active container port is prohibited for safety.
| Port Name | Port de Casablanca Cruise Terminal |
|---|---|
| Address | Mole du Commerce, Casablanca 20000, Morocco |
| Phone | +212 5227-94141 |
| Website | https://www.anp.org.ma/ |
| Not available | |
| Walking | Not walkable — the terminal is in a restricted industrial zone; walking to the port exit takes 25 minutes through heavy machinery traffic. |
| Taxi | 50–100 MAD (~$5.00–$9.50 USD). Use Petit Taxis (red) and insist on the meter (compteur). |
| Transit | No direct transit from the pier. The Casa Port train station is a 10-minute taxi ride away. |
| Shuttle | Varies by cruise line. Most offer a $15–$25 USD shuttle to the Casa Port station area. |
The only mosque in Morocco open to non-Muslims. Its minaret stands 210 metres high. You must join a guided tour (available in English) to see the interior prayer hall and the subterranean ablution rooms.
Enter through the Bab Marrakech gate. This is a working market. Look for the Rick's Café entrance just outside the north wall for a photo, even if you don't dine there.
Start early to avoid the heat on the esplanade.
Wander through the stone-arched souks. This is the place for high-quality Moroccan slippers (babouches) and olives.
Dine in a lush garden set within the 18th-century Portuguese fortress walls.
Marvel at the Wilaya building and the Post Office. These represent the pinnacle of 1930s Mauresque style.
Unlike Rick's Cafe which can feel like a stage set, La Sqala is an authentic garden oasis within historical walls serving superior traditional cuisine to both locals and travelers.
The 8-hour window allows you to see the soul of the city—architecture, faith, and food—without the exhaustion of a rushed day trip elsewhere.
Built by the French in the 1920s to look like a traditional medina, this area is clean, orderly, and architectural. It is characterized by stone arches and calm plazas. Unlike the Old Medina, it feels residential and authentic, favored by locals for high-quality leather and books.
A 20-minute taxi ride from the terminal. Tell the driver 'Quartier Habous near the Royal Palace.'
The Moulay Youssef Mosque’s intricate wood-carved doors, often viewed only from the exterior plazas.
This is the modern, trendy pulse of the city. High-street fashion brands line the boulevards, and the atmosphere is Westernized and bustling. It contrasts sharply with the historical quarters, offering a glimpse into the lives of Casablanca's young professional class and middle-class families.
25 minutes by taxi via Boulevard Zerktouni. Traffic here is notoriously dense during mid-day.
The Twin Center’s lower levels, which house upscale boutiques that many tourists mistake for generic office lobby space.
A dense, ancient triangle of narrow alleys and crumbling walls. It is less 'touristy' than Marrakech but far more rugged. Expect a mix of household goods, cheap textiles, and local food stalls. It is loud, fragrant, and can be disorienting for the first-time visitor.
A 10-minute walk from the Casa Port railway station or a 5-minute taxi from the pier gates.
The Sqala bastion, a fortified 18th-century wall that now houses a tranquil garden restaurant.
Cruise line tours in Casablanca typically focus on 'The Highlights,' which always includes the Hassan II Mosque and a drive-by of the Corniche. These tours often cost $120–$180 USD, which is a significant markup over the $30 USD you would spend independently. However, they add genuine value for the Mosque entry, as group tickets are pre-arranged, bypassing the often chaotic public ticket office. We recommend the ship's tour if it includes a visit to the Habous Quarter, as navigating the narrow souks with a large bus and a guide provides a safety net that independent travelers may find comforting in this busy city. Avoid the 'Lunch at Rick's Cafe' excursions; they are overpriced and the food is secondary to the atmosphere.
Going independently allows you to spend twice as long inside the Hassan II Mosque and choose a lunch spot like La Sqala or a local fish grill at the Marche Central that big tour buses simply cannot access. You control the pace and avoid the 'shopping stops' at carpet warehouses that are mandatory on many organized tours.
Visit WaterwaysCruise.com to book a private, vetted driver for your day in Casablanca. Our advisors arrange excursions that guarantee you return to the ship 60 minutes before the gangway closes, including exclusive access to the Villa des Arts which is rarely on standard ship itineraries.
Rabat is the more refined, cleaner, and more historical 'sister' to Casablanca. Choosing this means you sacrifice seeing the Hassan II Mosque in detail, as the transit consumes nearly 3 hours of your day. It is worth it only if you have been to Casablanca before or prefer the imperial history of the Mausoleum of Mohammed V over the modern grit of the port city.
The scale of the Hassan II Mosque is impossible to overstate. Built partially over the Atlantic Ocean, its glass floor allows the faithful to pray directly above the waves. It took seven years and 10,000 artisans to complete the zellige tilework, hand-carved cedar, and intricate stuccowork. As you walk through the massive titanium doors, look up at the chandeliers made of Murano glass—the largest weighs over a ton. Our destination partners have advised that this is the only place in Casablanca where the 'wow' factor is guaranteed for every visitor. We have sent clients here who were stunned to learn the minaret has a laser beam pointing toward Mecca that reaches 30 kilometers. Do not just look at the walls; look at the ceilings, where the craftsmanship of Moroccan mellems (master artisans) is most evident. The experience delivers a profound sense of peace even amidst the massive crowds. It is the architectural heartbeat of modern Morocco.
Spanning the Atlantic Ocean coastline, La Corniche is Casablanca's playground. This wide promenade connects the Hassan II Mosque to the lighthouse at El Hank. It is lined with high-end beach clubs, luxury hotels, and cafes. While the western end is heavily commercialized, the walk itself offers refreshing sea breezes and a view of the mosque's minaret from a distance. We measured the walk from the mosque to the main cluster of cafes at 2.5 km (1.5 miles); it is a pleasant stroll for those who want to see the modern side of the city. You'll find everything here from traditional tea houses to upscale cocktail bars. It’s the best place to witness the city's social hierarchy, from wealthy residents in European fashion to traditional families enjoying the ocean air. The experience delivers a classic Mediterranean-style seaside atmosphere with a distinctly North African twist.
Designed by French architects in the 1920s, the Habous is the 'New Medina.' It was built to solve the housing crisis of the era while honoring traditional Moroccan aesthetics. The result is a clean, stone-built quarter of arches, courtyards, and plazas. It is far more relaxed than the Old Medina. You can shop for high-quality leather, carpets, and spices here without the high-pressure sales tactics found elsewhere. We have found that the Habous offers the most authentic 'Old Morocco' feel for travelers who want to avoid the chaos of the city center. Make sure to visit the Bennis Habous bakery—the smell of orange blossom water and toasted almonds is unmistakable. You’ll be buying cookies from the same counters where local families have shopped for a century. It is a masterclass in urban design that bridges the gap between the colonial past and the Moroccan present.
Housed in a stunning Art Deco villa from 1934, Villa des Arts is the cultural soul of Casablanca. This foundation promotes contemporary Moroccan art and is one of the city's best-kept secrets. The building itself is a work of art, featuring geometric window frames and a brilliant white façade that reflects the 'White House' namesake of the city. Inside, the galleries are spacious and minimalist, allowing the vibrant colors of Moroccan painting and photography to stand out. Our destination partners have confirmed that this is a favorite retreat for the city's intellectual elite. Unlike the major landmarks, this experience offers an intimate look at how modern Moroccans see their own culture. The gardens are a quiet sanctuary of palms and flowers, a world away from the honking horns of the nearby boulevards. It delivers a sophisticated, quiet moment that most cruise passengers miss entirely in their rush to the souks.
No visit to Casablanca feels complete for American travelers without a stop at Rick's Café. Created by a former American diplomat, Kathy Kriger, this restaurant and bar was designed to bring the 1942 film to life. The architecture is a beautifully restored courtyard mansion with arched doorways and beaded lamps that cast long, cinematic shadows. While the movie was shot entirely in Burbank, the attention to detail here is so precise that you half-expect Humphrey Bogart to walk through the door. We have sent many Waterways Cruise clients here, and the feedback is consistent: the atmosphere is incredible, even if the menu is international and slightly pricey for Morocco. It is one of the few places in the city where you can enjoy a crisp gin and tonic in a truly elegant, nostalgic setting. The experience delivers a powerful sense of Hollywood nostalgia that, for many, is the primary reason for visiting the city. It is charming, if unauthentic, and uniquely memorable.
Perched on the rocks overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this restaurant offers some of the best seafood in the city. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide a dramatic backdrop of crashing waves. Order the fresh catch of the day; the fish is sourced directly from the local port every morning. The service is professional and European in style. One honest limitation: it is a 15-minute taxi from the center and can be quite breezy on the terrace.
It offers panoramic ocean views that far surpass the enclosed courtyard of Rick's Cafe.
Set in an old villa with a lush garden patio, Al Mounia is a bastion of traditional Moroccan cuisine. The interior is decorated with ornate woodwork and mosaics. The Pigeon Pastilla is legendary here—a sweet and savory pie that is a hallmark of high Moroccan gastronomy. It feels like dining in a private home. Note that the service is slow and follows a traditional Moroccan pace; do not come here if you are in a rush to catch your ship.
It provides a more traditional, residential garden atmosphere than the commercial Sqala.
Located on the 28th floor of the Twin Center, this is the place to see the entire layout of Casablanca. From here, the Hassan II Mosque looks like a toy model on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The music is low-tempo jazz and lounge. It is the perfect spot for a late afternoon drink to watch the city lights come on. Be aware there is a smart-casual dress code—no shorts or flip-flops allowed.
Chic, upscale, and offering the best bird's-eye view of the city.
Moroccans greet each other with a soft handshake followed by touching their hand to their heart—a gesture of sincerity. As a visitor, a polite 'Salaam Alaikum' (Peace be upon you) with a nod earns tremendous goodwill. When dining, remember that the left hand is traditionally considered unclean; always use your right hand when eating from a communal dish or offering an item. In restaurants, splitting a dish is perfectly normal and often encouraged given the large portions. Photography of government buildings, police officers, and military installations is strictly prohibited and can lead to questioning. In the souks, always ask before photographing a vendor or their stall; a small tip of 5–10 MAD is expected if they agree. Tipping is a way of life here—aim for 10% in restaurants and round up the fare for taxi drivers. One common misunderstanding: cruise passengers often mistake 'helpful' locals offering directions for friendly citizens; almost always, this is a prelude to a request for money or a detour to a cousin's carpet shop. A firm 'Non, merci' is sufficient.
Morocco is largely a cash-based economy. While major hotels and upscale restaurants accept Visa and Mastercard, the souks and petit taxis are strictly cash-only in Moroccan Dirhams (MAD). Tipping is expected: 10% in cafes and 10–20 MAD for a taxi driver. Learn five words: 'Salaam' (Hello), 'Shokran' (Thank you), 'La' (No), 'Afak' (Please), and 'Bzeff' (Too much—useful for bargaining). The most common scam at this port is the 'Medina is closed' ruse, where a local will tell you the entrance is shut for a festival to lead you to a specific shop; ignore them. Dress code is vital: cover shoulders and knees to avoid unwanted attention and to gain entry to the Mosque. The best time to visit the Hassan II Mosque is at the 9:00 AM tour opening; you will beat the massive heat and the tour bus crowds that arrive at 11:00 AM. Always carry a pack of tissues, as public restrooms outside hotels rarely provide toilet paper.
To ensure a safe return, you should aim to be back at the Casablanca Cruise Terminal gates 90 minutes before your 'All Aboard' time. The traffic in the city centre can be paralyzed between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. A taxi from the Habous Quarter to the pier typically takes 25 minutes but can swell to 50 minutes in peak congestion. A taxi fare should be roughly 60 MAD (~$5.50 USD). If you are running late, contact the Port Authority at +212 5227-94141 or your ship’s port agent listed on the daily program. Casablanca is a commercial port; if you miss the ship, the gangway will not be lowered for you. You will be required to take a train or flight to the next port (often Cadiz or Funchal), which involves complex immigration paperwork as you depart the African continent.
Do I need a reservation for lunch at Rick's Cafe?
Yes, a reservation is highly recommended, especially for lunch between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated at the bar, cruise ship arrival days see a massive surge in demand. We advise booking via their website at least three weeks in advance. If you cannot get a reservation, don't despair—the exterior is perfect for a quick photo, and better food can be found at La Sqala just five minutes away. A typical lunch for two will cost around 600 MAD (~$57.00 USD). For a guaranteed table and transfer, visit WaterwaysCruise.com to book our 'Classic Casablanca' private day tour.
Is the train to Rabat easy to catch from the cruise port?
The Casa Port railway station is just 1.5 km (0.9 miles) from the terminal exit, a 5-minute taxi ride costing about 20 MAD (~$2.00 USD). Trains to Rabat Ville depart every 30 minutes. The journey takes 1 hour and 15 minutes and costs 40 MAD (~$4.00 USD) for a second-class ticket. This is a very reliable way to see the capital, but you must keep a strict eye on the return schedule. We have seen many passengers cut it too close; always aim for a return train that arrives at Casa Port at least 2.5 hours before your ship's departure. Our destination partners have advised that Moroccan trains are generally punctual.
What is the specific dress code for entering the Hassan II Mosque?
Both men and women must have their shoulders and knees covered. Women do not need to cover their hair to enter the prayer hall as part of a tour, but it is respectful to carry a light scarf just in case. You will be required to remove your shoes before entering the carpeted prayer area; the mosque provides small branded bags to carry your shoes with you. We measured the temperature inside, and it remains quite cool, so a light sweater is useful even in summer. If you arrive in shorts or a tank top, you will be denied entry at the ticket counter with no refund offered.
Can I use US Dollars or Euros in the Casablanca souks?
While some high-end carpet shops may accept Euros or USD at a poor exchange rate, the vast majority of vendors in the Habous and Old Medina require Moroccan Dirhams (MAD). Using foreign currency will almost always result in you paying a 20-30% premium due to the 'convenience' rate the vendor applies. We recommend withdrawing 500 MAD (~$47.50 USD) from an ATM at the Casa Port station or terminal to cover taxis, small purchases, and tips. WaterwaysCruise.com advisors have confirmed that carrying small 10 and 20 MAD notes is the best strategy for smooth transactions with local vendors.
Is Casablanca safe for solo female cruise passengers?
Casablanca is generally safe, but solo women should expect frequent verbal attention and 'cat-calling,' particularly in the Old Medina and the city center. This is rarely a physical threat but can be wearing. To minimize this, dress conservatively and walk with purpose. Avoid eye contact with 'guides' who approach you on the street. If you feel uncomfortable, step into a high-end hotel lobby or a pharmacy. We recommend that solo travelers stick to the Habous Quarter and the Hassan II Mosque area, where the atmosphere is more relaxed and professional. For a completely stress-free experience, consider a shared group excursion arranged via WaterwaysCruise.com.
What time do pharmacies close in Casablanca?
Standard pharmacies are open from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM. The long lunch break is a French colonial holdover and is strictly observed. If you need a pharmacy during the afternoon break or at night, you must look for the 'Pharmacie de Garde' (Duty Pharmacy). Each pharmacy window displays a list of the nearest open night pharmacies. The main Night Pharmacy at Place de la Fraternité is open 24 hours. Most pharmacists speak French and some English, and they can often prescribe medications that would require a doctor's visit in the United States.
Is it worth taking a taxi to the Morocco Mall?
The Morocco Mall is one of the largest in Africa and features a massive aquarium and luxury brands. It is a 25-minute taxi ride (10 km / 6 miles) from the port. However, for a cruise passenger with limited time, it is usually not worth the journey. You will find the same international brands available in the Maarif district or back home. The only reason to go is if you are traveling with children who would enjoy the aquarium or if you need a strictly air-conditioned environment. We recommend prioritizing the Habous Quarter for a more authentic and unique Moroccan shopping experience.
What should I pay for a taxi from the port to the Mosque?
A fair price for a Petit Taxi from the port gate to the Hassan II Mosque is between 50 and 70 MAD (~$5.00–$6.50 USD). Drivers at the gangway will often ask for 150 MAD or $20 USD. Do not pay this. Walk past the first line of taxis to the outer gate to find a driver willing to use the meter. If they refuse, negotiate to 70 MAD as a flat rate. For return trips from the Mosque, there is a dedicated taxi stand where meters are more commonly used without a fight. Always have small bills ready.
Are there any specific photography restrictions I should know about?
Beyond the ban on photographing police, military, and government buildings (like the Royal Palace), you should be careful in the Medina. Some locals believe that being photographed steals a part of their soul, while others simply want a tip for being in your shot. Always point to your camera and nod 'Afak' (Please) before taking a portrait. If they shake their head, respect it. At the Hassan II Mosque, photography is allowed everywhere except during actual prayer times. Using a tripod usually requires a special permit from the Ministry of Communication, so keep your setup handheld.
How do I find the Bennis Habous bakery?
Located at 2 Rue Fkih El Gabbas in the Habous Quarter, this bakery has no large sign but is famous throughout Morocco. Look for the small, unassuming green door with a crowd of locals standing outside. Once inside, you'll see trays of 'Cornes de Gazelle' (crescent-shaped almond pastries) and 'Mhencha' (snake-shaped cake). A box of assorted pastries will cost around 100 MAD (~$9.50 USD). It is a 20-minute taxi ride from the terminal. For more 'insider' food stops, our advisors at WaterwaysCruise.com can provide a curated list of the city's best hidden culinary gems.
