Casablanca Layover Guide (CMN)

What are you looking for in CMN?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Casablanca Airport (CMN) is located in the province Nouaceur province of Morrocco at a distance of 25 km (16 mi) from its center city. It is also known as “Mohammed V International Airport”. This airport is one of the busiest international airports in Morocco and Africa. It was first opened in 1943 by the United States and named “Berrechid Airfield”. Casablanca is the main gateway to Morocco, and many visitors’ first taste of the country because of the airport. Also, it is known for its culture and arts, including museums, galleries, buildings, mosques, and much more.

Can you leave Casablanca Airport (CMN) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
It's possible to leave Casablanca Airport (CMN) during the layover. But you'll need a visa only if you want to leave the airport. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Casablanca Organized Tours

Hassan II Mosque Guided Visit

The Hassan II Mosque, the third-biggest mosque in the world and the largest in Africa, is one of the top attractions in Casablanca. The Hassan II Mosque, a magnificent masterpiece of Arab-Muslim architecture spread across nine hectares and partially on the sea, is one of the most stunning places of worship in the entire world. With a knowledgeable, local guide by your side, explore the enormous structure while learning about the mosque’s historical and theological significance. » book this tour

Tangier Day Tour by High-Speed Train

You’ll start your trip of Tangier and its surrounds, which will take you to places like the Spartel Cape and the Hercules Caves. The Atlantic Ocean and the Strait of Gibraltar can both be seen well from this location. You will see the mediaeval Medina with its handmade stores and beautiful Minaret, as well as the Kasbah neighbourhood close to the port. » book this tour

Trip to Marrakech with Camel Ride

On this day excursion from Casablanca, immerse yourself in Marrakech’s culture. Take use of the complimentary wifi and air conditioning for the 2.5-hour drive to Marrakech after being picked up from your hotel. Enjoy a camel ride through the lovely Palm Grove when you arrive in Marrakech. After enjoying a typical Moroccan lunch, meet your knowledgeable guide for a tour of the city. Visit places like the magnificent Bahia Palace and the Koutoubia Minaret Market and Mosque. » book this tour

Casablanca Things to do / Sightseeing

Casablanca’s Medina

The Sqala (the sea-facing defence wall), the first building work in this Medina of Casablanca, is from the time when the Portuguese controlled this portion of the coast in the 18th century. The medina itself is primarily from the early 19th century. The area is an excellent spot to get a feel for Casablanca life because it combines residential streets with market areas. In the southern part of the medina, there are a few remarkable kebabs devoted to local Muslim holy men.

Time required: 2 to 3 Hours.

Airport to here: 44 minutes via Private transport.

Rick’s Cafe

The renowned Rick’s Café must be on your list of things to do in Casablanca. This piano bar was created by American ex-diplomat Kathy Kriger and architect Bill Willis and debuted in 2004. It is based on the fictional setting in the famous Humphrey Bogart film Casablanca. On a visit to this bar, you could be excused for thinking that you’ve walked into the 1942 movie thanks to the palm trees, brass chandeliers, table lamps, cocktails, and a baby grand piano tucked behind an archway.

Time required: 1 to 2 Hours.

Airport to here: 44 minutes via Private transport.

Parc de la Ligue Arabe

The Parc de la Ligue Arabe is located south of Place Mohammed V. The largest open space in Casablanca is this park, which was created in 1918 and has an avenue lined with palm trees. The Arab League Park is ideal for games and walks and offers a variety of modest cafes. It allows you to unwind and observe the African vegetation or venture to the Cathédrale de Sacré Coeur, a deserted house of worship on the park’s edge that alluded to Casablanca’s art deco past.

Time required: 3 Hours to Half Day.

Airport to here: 39 minutes via Private transport.

Central Market & Souq Haboos

For those who wish to immerse themselves in city life, the busy Marche Central market in Casablanca is a must-visit location on Rue Allal Ben Abdallah. The market is where folks go to buy and sell anything from fresh produce to household goods right in the middle of the city. There are also several inexpensive eateries there that serve large quantities of traditional Moroccan cuisine.

Time required: Half Day to Full Day.

Airport to here: 42 minutes via Private transport.

Museum of Moroccan Judaism

This home is devoted to the 2,000-year history of Morocco’s Jewish community and is located in the peaceful, affluent district of Oasis in Casablanca. Here, photographs, traditional clothing, religious objects, and dioramas are displayed, documenting the rich legacy of Moroccan Jews with a focus on Casablanca’s Jewish population. The collection is clearly labeled with ample information detailing the historical and cultural relevance of the displays.

Time required: 2 to 3 Hours.

Airport to here: 28 minutes via Private transport.

Safi Port

Safi, which is 237 kilometres south of Casablanca, has been a significant harbour since Roman times, but it was the Almohade kings who fortified the city with impressive ramparts and turned it into a centre of learning and religion. The imposing Dar el Bahar Fortress on the seashore, today the town’s most identifiable landmark, was built by the Portuguese during their occupation of the city in 1508. It is a worthwhile stopover if you’re traveling along the coast to Essaouira to break up the ride and tour the fortress and the town’s medina area.

Time required: 3 Hours to Half Day.

Airport to here: 31 minutes via Private transport.

Sky 28 Bar

Visit the Sky 28 for a taste of opulent and distinctive drinks. The bar allows patrons to enjoy an expensive but deserving cocktail while sitting in a stylish setting and looking out over the city. It is an excellent option if you’re wondering what to do in Casablanca at night because you can enjoy the illuminated city while escaping the bustle of the Old Medina. A relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is produced by live music.

Time required: 2 to 3 Hours.

Airport to here: 37 minutes via Private transport.

Villa des Arts

The Villa des Arts is one of Casablanca’s largest museums and is next to the Parc de la Ligue Arabe. It is a part of the ONA Foundation, one of Morocco’s major cultural institutions. It contains about 800 permanent pieces of art and temporary exhibitions of international and contemporary artists. It also promotes the modern arts within Moroccan culture and tradition. Here, you’ll discover an alternative viewpoint on Moroccan culture.

Time required: 2 to 3 Hours.

Airport to here: 38 minutes via Private transport.

Things to Do in Casablanca Airport (CMN)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
There are airport lounges in Casablanca Airport terminal 1 and 2. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
There are hotels, sleep pods inside the terminal 2 and near the airport. » view all or book an airport hotel online

Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
There is no dedicated sleeping zone at the Casablanca Airport (CMN).

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free WiFi is available at Casablanca Airport (CMN) for 30 minutes. Connect to the “WIFI_Aeroport_MedV” network.

SIM Card: There are several shops within or near the Casablanca Airport (CMN) that sell SIM cards. You can buy local sims including Orange Morocco and Inwi. » buy a global sim card for Casablanca, Morocco that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxis are available 24 hours per day. The Taxi Station is located on the Arrivals Esplanade.

Train: The airport is connected to the rail system. A station is located in the Arrivals Zone (Level 1) (more info).

Bus: Bus service is not available at Casablanca Airport (CMN).

Shuttle: There is no shuttle service at Casablanca Airport (CMN).

Car rentals: There are several companies that are providing Car Rental services at the airport. » view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: The parking area is available at terminals 1 and 2. Opening and charges may vary according to the type and duration of the vehicle.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

There is no Luggage storage & Lockers are available at the Casablanca Airport (CMN). » book a luggage storage or locker at Casablanca Airport (CMN) online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Casablanca Airport (CMN) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks