What to Do in Casablanca from a Cruise Ship
If you are docking in Casablanca for a few hours, the best things to do are the Hassan II Mosque, the Old Medina, the Corniche Ain Diab, and the Habous Quarter. The Casablanca cruise port is located just 1 km from the Old Medina and 3 to 4 km from the Hassan II Mosque, making it easy to explore independently or with a guided shore excursion. Whether you want a half-day tour or a full-day experience, here are the top Casablanca cruise port things to do for cruise passengers.
Guided tours and outdoor activities for cruise passengers in Casablanca — port pick-up and drop-off, private or group, return to ship guaranteed.
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Table of Contents
- Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Casablanca?
- What’s in Port Casablanca?
- Getting from Casablanca Cruise Port to City Centre
- Top Things to Do in Casablanca from a Cruise Ship
- Casablanca Tours from Cruise Port
- Cruise Lines That Stop in Casablanca
- Safety Tips for Cruise Passengers
- Frequently Asked Questions
Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Casablanca?
Cruise ships docking in Casablanca arrive at the Port of Casablanca, one of the largest artificial ports in the world. The port is a major commercial and tourist hub in Morocco, with a dedicated cruise terminal that welcomes international ships.
The Casablanca cruise terminal offers customs services, souvenir shops, and tour operators ready to guide visitors. From the terminal, you can easily reach the main attractions of Casablanca, either on foot or by taxi. For more background on the city, see Casablanca on Wikipedia.
If you are also stopping in Tangier during your cruise, you can read our Tangier cruise port guide for a complete overview of both Moroccan ports.
What’s in Port Casablanca?
The Port of Casablanca is more than just a cruise terminal. Here is what you can find there:
- Cruise Terminal — welcomes international cruise ships, with customs services, souvenir shops, and tour operators
- Commercial Hub — container and cargo terminals handling exports such as phosphates, agricultural products, textiles, and seafood
- Fishing Port — local fishing boats supplying fresh seafood to the markets
- Dining and Entertainment — restaurants and cafés near the port serving fresh seafood and Moroccan cuisine
For more information about Casablanca as a destination, see the official Visit Morocco website.
Getting from Casablanca Cruise Port to City Centre
Getting from the Casablanca cruise port to the city centre is easy and straightforward. You have several options depending on your preference, mobility, and budget.
On Foot (10–15 minutes to the Old Medina)
The Old Medina is just 1 km from the cruise terminal, about 10 to 15 minutes on foot. This is the simplest and most economical option if you want to explore the historic district first.
Petit Taxi (5–20 minutes depending on destination)
Taxis are available at the port and offer a direct, comfortable ride. Here are the approximate distances and fares:
| Destination | Distance | Travel time | Approx. fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Medina | 1 km | 10–15 min on foot | 20–30 MAD |
| Hassan II Mosque | 3–4 km | 5–10 min by taxi | 30–50 MAD |
| Corniche Ain Diab | 8 km | 15–20 min by taxi | 60–100 MAD |
| Panoramic tour (2–3h) | — | 2–3 hours | From 250 MAD |
Shuttle Buses and Public Transport
Many cruise lines or tour operators provide shuttle services to central Casablanca. The local bus network and the Casa Tramway also connect the port area to the city centre, though they may be less convenient for cruise passengers with limited time.
Private Transfers
For a more personalised and efficient journey, you can book a private transfer. This is ideal if you want to combine several attractions in one day, or if you are travelling with a group.
Top Things to Do in Casablanca from a Cruise Ship
Casablanca offers a unique blend of modern and traditional experiences. Here are the highlights most cruise passengers prioritise during their stop.
1. Visit the Hassan II Mosque
The Hassan II Mosque is the largest mosque in Morocco and the seventh-largest in the world. It is one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors, with guided tours available at fixed times. Learn more about the Hassan II Mosque on Wikipedia.
Guided tour times for non-Muslim visitors:
- Saturday to Thursday: 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 15:00, 16:00
- Friday: 9:00, 10:00, 15:00, 16:00
- Times may change during Ramadan and religious holidays.
Entrance fees:
- Adult: 140 MAD
- Student: 70 MAD
- Child over 6: 30 MAD
- Child under 6: Free
2. Explore the Old Medina
The Old Medina is a maze of alleys with traditional stalls selling carpets, ceramics, jewellery, and leather goods. It is just 1 km from the cruise port, making it one of the easiest attractions to reach on foot. Haggling with vendors is part of the experience.
3. Walk through the Habous Quarter
The Habous Quarter is known for its traditional Moroccan architecture, artisanal shops, and the Royal Palace surroundings. It offers a quieter, more authentic alternative to the Old Medina.
4. Relax at La Corniche Ain Diab
La Corniche is a coastal area with restaurants, cafés, and views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is about 8 km from the port, or 15 to 20 minutes by taxi.
5. Discover United Nations Square
United Nations Square shows the modern side of Casablanca. Visitors can admire the architecture and learn about the city’s global role.
6. Visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism
The Museum of Moroccan Judaism tells the story of Morocco’s Jewish heritage, one of the richest in the Arab world.
7. Explore the Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation
This museum houses a great collection of Moroccan art and artifacts, including jewellery, ceramics, and paintings.
8. Enjoy Local Moroccan Cuisine
No trip to Casablanca is complete without trying authentic Moroccan dishes: tagines, couscous, freshly baked breads, and mint tea. These can be found in family-owned restaurants and street food stalls in the Old Medina.
For more inspiration on things to do in Morocco, see our guide on things to do in Tangier from a cruise ship.
Casablanca Tours from Cruise Port
If you prefer a stress-free experience with guaranteed return to your ship, here are the tours most popular with cruise passengers docking in Casablanca. All include port pick-up and drop-off, a licensed guide, and a return-to-ship guarantee.
🕌 Hassan II Mosque Guided Tour — From €15 per person
A guided visit of the Hassan II Mosque, including the prayer hall, the minaret, and the ocean views.
🏛️ Casablanca Panoramic Tour — 3 Hours — From €25 per person
A panoramic tour of Casablanca covering the Hassan II Mosque, the Old Medina, United Nations Square, and the Corniche.
🛍️ Casablanca & Habous Quarter Tour — From €35 per person
A guided visit of Casablanca and the Habous Quarter, including the Royal Palace surroundings and the artisanal shops.
🚐 Casablanca & Rabat Excursion — From €65 per person
A full-day excursion to Rabat, the capital of Morocco, including the Hassan Tower, the Kasbah of the Udayas, and the Royal Palace.
🌟 Private Casablanca Tour with Driver and Guide — From €80 per group
A fully customised private tour with your own driver and guide. Ideal for couples, families, and small groups.
If you are also stopping in Tangier, you can compare our Tangier shore excursions or explore our private Tangier shore excursions.
Cruise Lines That Stop in Casablanca
Several major cruise lines include Casablanca in their itineraries, offering passengers a unique opportunity to explore its rich cultural heritage and bustling markets. These include:
- P&O Cruises — Azura, Ventura
- MSC Cruises — MSC Divina, MSC Magnifica
- Azamara Cruises — Azamara Quest, Azamara Journey
- Star Clippers — Star Clipper, Star Flyer
- Marella Cruises — Marella Explorer, Marella Discovery
- Emerald Yacht Cruises — Emerald Sea, Emerald Sky
If your ship is stopping in Casablanca, we can arrange Casablanca Morocco cruise port tours tailored to your arrival and departure times.
Safety Tips for Cruise Passengers
Casablanca is generally safe for cruise passengers in tourist areas. As in any city, follow these basic tips:
- Choose official transportation — use licensed taxis, shuttle buses, or private transfers
- Avoid unmetered taxis — always ask the driver to use the meter
- Keep an eye on your belongings — especially in crowded areas like the Old Medina
- Know your route — if using public transport, plan ahead
- Book a return-to-ship guaranteed tour — this protects you if traffic or unexpected delays occur
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do in Casablanca from a cruise ship?
From a cruise ship, the highlights of Casablanca include the Hassan II Mosque, the Old Medina, the Habous Quarter, the Corniche Ain Diab, and United Nations Square. A guided Casablanca tour from the cruise port covers all of these in a few hours.
What’s in port Casablanca?
The Port of Casablanca includes a cruise terminal with customs services, souvenir shops, and tour operators, as well as a commercial hub, a fishing port, and dining options near the port.
Where do cruise ships dock in Casablanca?
Cruise ships docking in Casablanca arrive at the Port of Casablanca, one of the largest artificial ports in the world. The cruise terminal is located about 1 km from the Old Medina and 3 to 4 km from the Hassan II Mosque.
How far is the Hassan II Mosque from the Casablanca cruise port?
The Hassan II Mosque is approximately 3 to 4 km from the cruise terminal, about 5 to 10 minutes by taxi. The fare is approximately 30 to 50 MAD.
Can I visit the Hassan II Mosque as a cruise passenger?
Yes. The Hassan II Mosque welcomes non-Muslim visitors with guided tours at fixed times. Tours run Saturday to Thursday at 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 15:00, and 16:00, and Friday at 9:00, 10:00, 15:00, and 16:00. Times may change during Ramadan.
How much does it cost to visit the Hassan II Mosque?
Entrance fees are 140 MAD for adults, 70 MAD for students, 30 MAD for children over 6, and free for children under 6.
Do you offer Casablanca tours from the cruise port?
Yes. We offer Casablanca tours from the cruise port, including the Hassan II Mosque guided tour, the Casablanca panoramic tour, the Casablanca and Habous Quarter tour, the Casablanca and Rabat excursion, and a private tour with driver and guide.
What are the best Casablanca Morocco cruise port tours?
The best Casablanca Morocco cruise port tours include the Hassan II Mosque guided tour (from €15 per person), the Casablanca panoramic tour (from €25 per person), and the private Casablanca tour with driver and guide (from €80 per group).
How long does it take to get from the Casablanca cruise port to the city centre?
The trip from the Casablanca cruise port to the city centre takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on the destination and traffic. The Old Medina is 10 to 15 minutes on foot, while the Corniche Ain Diab is 15 to 20 minutes by taxi.
What languages are your Casablanca tours available in?
Our guides speak English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, and Arabic. Let us know your preferred language when booking on WhatsApp.
Ready to Book Your Casablanca Tour?
Casablanca tours from the cruise port for cruise passengers — port pick-up and drop-off, private or group, return to ship guaranteed.
Want details about our Casablanca cruise port tours? You can also explore our things to do in Tangier from a cruise ship and our Tangier shore excursions.
📲 Get more details on WhatsApp
We speak English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, and Arabic.
Tangier Escapade — Place de la Kasbah via Bab Kasbah, 90000 Tanger, Morocco