Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city and economic hub – a bustling metropolis beyond its famous movie namesake. It offers diverse neighborhoods that are all excellent choices for visitors, each suited to different travel styles. Below we explore the top districts to stay in Casablanca, from the historic Old Medina to the beachfront Corniche, highlighting who they are best for and what to expect in each. All of these areas are safe and traveler-friendly, but each has its own character and advantages to match your needs.

City Center (Downtown Casablanca)

The City Center (Centre Ville) is the vibrant heart of Casablanca and a natural choice for newcomers. This district is an active urban core filled with cafes, restaurants, shops, and many of the city’s iconic sights. You can walk to key attractions like the Old Medina, Mohammed V Square, and even the Hassan II Mosque from here. The mix of modern buildings and colonial architecture gives the area a cosmopolitan atmosphere. If you want everything at your doorstep and a feel for Casablanca’s energy, downtown is ideal ****.

Best Suited For:

• First-time visitors who want a convenient base close to major sights.
• Business travelers (the downtown area includes offices and the port).
• Travelers who enjoy walking – most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance.
• Night owls who appreciate lit streets and activity in the evenings (downtown remains lively).

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Around Place des Nations Unies and Mohammed V Square – central landmarks with many hotels, eateries, and tram stops nearby.
• Near Casa Port train station, which is close to the Old Medina and marina, offering easy transit and a lively waterfront scene.
• Along Boulevard Hassan II or Boulevard Mohammed V, where you’ll find historic Art Deco facades, cafes, and quick access to tourist sites.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• The immediate port dock area (north of Casa Port) – this zone is more industrial and quiet at night, with fewer amenities for tourists.
• Isolated side streets behind the big avenues – some backstreets in the center can be deserted or feel run-down after dark, so it’s better to stay on well-traveled blocks.
• Any hotel on a major traffic artery if you’re sensitive to noise (downtown traffic can be heavy; opt for a side street or higher floor).

Pros:

• Central location – you’re at the hub of Casablanca’s attractions and transport.
• Extremely walkable – many top sights (Old Medina, Rick’s Café, Arab League Park) are within a short walk.
• Plenty of restaurants and cafes, plus grocery stores for convenience.
• Wide range of accommodations from budget guesthouses to five-star hotels.
• Well-served by public transport (Casa-Port train, multiple tram lines, and abundant taxis).

Cons:

• Heavy traffic and noise at times, as it’s a busy downtown area.
• Some older, small hotels are a bit dated or in need of renovation – research reviews before booking.
• Lacks a traditional Moroccan ambience – it feels modern and commercial compared to historic districts.
• Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded spots (as in any big city), so you need to stay alert in busy squares.
• Ongoing construction in some areas (new buildings or road works) can cause minor disruptions.

Average Prices:

• Budget – ~300 MAD (≈ $30) per night
• Mid-range – ~600 MAD (≈ $60) per night
• Luxury – ~1,200 MAD (≈ $120) per night

Old Medina (Ancienne Medina)

Casablanca’s Old Medina is the compact walled old town, packed with winding alleys and local markets. Though smaller and less maze-like than the medinas of Fez or Marrakech, it has a gritty charm with colorful souks and street art. You’ll find stalls selling spices, crafts, and souvenirs amidst everyday local life. The Old Medina’s location is great – it borders the downtown and sits near the port, with the Hassan II Mosque just a short walk away. For travelers seeking a more traditional atmosphere and budget-friendly stays, this area is often the top pick ****.

Best Suited For:

• Budget travelers and backpackers – accommodations here (and just around the medina) are among the most affordable in the city.
• Travelers after an authentic local experience – you’ll be amidst ordinary residents and market vendors, not just tourists.
• Culture and history enthusiasts – the old city vibe, historic mosques, and proximity to heritage sites appeal to you.
• Photographers and explorers – plenty of interesting street scenes, from narrow lane ways to traditional shops and a glimpse of daily Casablanca life.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Just outside the Medina walls near Casa Port or Place des Nations Unies – here you can find hotels and riads that give easy access to the medina but also to transportation and city facilities.
• Near the Hassan II Mosque end (Sour Jdid area): Staying on the medina’s seaside edge puts you close to the Mosque and ocean breeze, while still a short walk from the old quarter.
• Along well-traveled medina streets (like the main souk route from Bab Marrakech gate): This ensures you’re in a lively, safer part of the Medina with shops open and people around.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Deep inside the Medina’s tiny alleys – if your accommodation is too far in, it might be hard to find, inaccessible by car, and very deserted at night. Staying toward the edges or near known entry gates is easier.
• Very quiet backstreets of the medina after dark – while the Medina is generally safe, some inner lanes have no streetlights or activity late at night, which can feel uneasy for visitors.
• Confusing location names: Make sure your lodging is actually in or next to “Ancienne Medina” of Casablanca (and not in a distant neighborhood with a similar name). Avoid places that are in the medina but far from a main gate, to save hauling luggage through winding paths.

Pros:

• Authentic atmosphere – experience the old-town feel with markets and locals, a stark contrast to modern downtown.
• Great for bargain shopping – you can haggle for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs directly in the souk.
• Typically the cheapest area to stay – many simple hotels and family-run guesthouses offer low rates.
• Close to major attractions: walking distance to Hassan II Mosque and the famed Rick’s Café (a replica from the film).
• Street art and character – parts of the medina have murals and a lived-in charm not found in newer districts.

Cons:

• The medina is a maze – easy to get lost in the narrow lanes at first, so have an offline map or ask locals for directions.
• Limited car access – taxis cannot enter the tiny streets; you’ll have to walk your bags from the nearest gate.
• Infrastructure is old: some budget accommodations might have spotty hot water or less comfort (consider it part of the adventure).
• Nightlife is almost non-existent inside the medina – it gets very quiet once shops close, so for evening dining or entertainment you’ll head out to other areas.
• Fewer high-end options – luxury travelers might find only a couple of upscale hotels on the outskirts of the Medina, as inside is mostly budget and mid-range lodging.

Average Prices:

• Budget – ~200–250 MAD (≈ $20–25) per night
• Mid-range – ~500 MAD (≈ $50) per night
• Luxury – ~1,200 MAD (≈ $120) per night (luxury options are mostly just outside the Medina walls, as very few premium hotels are within the old quarter itself)

Gauthier (Art & Dining Quarter)

Gauthier is a trendy uptown neighborhood known for its art galleries, stylish cafes, and international restaurants. It offers a more cosmopolitan, upscale vibe with a mix of young professionals, expats, and local artists. Walking the streets of Gauthier, you’ll spot contemporary art installations and chic boutiques – it’s often described as an “art lover’s dream” with a diverse array of eateries and galleries. This district sits just to the west of the City Center, roughly around Boulevard d’Anfa and the surrounding blocks, making it central yet calmer than downtown. If you enjoy modern city life with a touch of art and nightlife, Gauthier is a great choice.

Best Suited For:

• Foodies and cafe lovers – Gauthier has many highly-rated restaurants (from sushi to Italian to Moroccan fusion) and coffee shops on every corner.
• Art enthusiasts – numerous art galleries (like Galerie 38, L'Atelier 21) and design stores are in this area, showcasing contemporary Moroccan art.
• Travelers looking for nightlife aside from clubs – here you find trendy lounges, wine bars, and live music venues, popular with the local trendy crowd.
• Solo or business travelers who prefer a safe, modern neighborhood with reliable amenities and English-speaking staff at many venues.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Around Place 🕓 16 Novembre and Rue Al-Massira Al Khadra – this vicinity has many cafes, restaurants, and a park, making everything reachable on foot.
• Along Boulevard d’Anfa in Gauthier/Racine area – staying on or just off this major boulevard means easy access to taxis and a short ride to both downtown and the Corniche.
• Near well-known galleries like Laredo Art Gallery or Galerie H – not for the galleries per se, but these landmarks are in the heart of Gauthier, where the atmosphere is lively and safe.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• The far edges of Gauthier that blend into purely residential zones (e.g. too far south toward Mers Sultan, or west toward Bourgogne) – you might end up away from the restaurants/shops that make the area fun.
• Any accommodation on a currently under-construction block – Gauthier is growing, so check recent reviews to avoid staying next to a noisy construction site.
• Confusing neighborhood names: ensure your stay is in Gauthier/Racine specifically. Don’t accidentally book in a distant suburb when the listing says “close to Gauthier” – verify the map location.

Pros:

• Safe and upscale ambiance – Gauthier (and neighboring Racine) are considered among the safest areas in Casablanca, with many embassies and luxury residences.
• Fantastic dining and entertainment – you’ll have no shortage of restaurants, from local gourmet spots to international chains, plus art galleries and chic shops.
• Central convenience – it’s right next to downtown and Maarif, so you can reach other areas quickly by taxi or even walking for some (about 20 minutes walk to the City Center).
• Generally quiet at night (apart from the buzzing restaurant streets) – it’s a good balance between activity and relaxation.
• Modern amenities – hotels and apartments here tend to be newer or boutique style, often with higher standards of comfort.

Cons:

• Few tourist sights within Gauthier itself – it’s more for ambiance; you’ll still travel to the Hassan II Mosque or museums (though nothing is too far by taxi).
• On average a bit pricier for food and lodging than more local districts – you pay for the trendy location.
• Limited budget accommodation – there are not many hostels or super-cheap hotels in Gauthier, so shoestring travelers might have fewer choices here.
• The vibe is cosmopolitan, which means it lacks traditional Moroccan architecture or markets – some travelers might find it less “authentic” for that reason.
• Daytime traffic on main avenues (like Blvd. d’Anfa) can be busy, making crossing the street an adventure – though smaller streets are peaceful.

Average Prices:

• Budget – ~300 MAD (≈ $30) per night
• Mid-range – ~700 MAD (≈ $70) per night
• Luxury – ~1,300 MAD (≈ $130) per night

Anfa (Upscale Residential District)

Anfa is an affluent neighborhood known for its leafy streets, luxury villas, and exclusive atmosphere. Interestingly, “Anfa” is the old name of Casablanca, and today this district lives up to that legacy with its high-end shops and quiet elegance. It’s situated to the southwest of the city center, extending towards the coast (bordering the Ain Diab area). Staying in Anfa gives you a sense of Casablanca’s elite lifestyle – there’s even an old golf course (Royal Golf Anfa) in the middle of it. Accommodation here is limited (mostly upscale hotels and apartments on the edges of Anfa), but if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the city with a luxury bent, Anfa is a top pick.

Best Suited For:

• Luxury travelers and diplomats – those who want a 5-star or boutique hotel experience in a quiet, secure area.
• Travelers with a car or private driver – Anfa is spread out and more residential, so having your own transport makes it easier to reach other parts of the city.
• Visitors on long stays or relocations – expats or business travelers (e.g. working in the new Casablanca Finance City nearby) might prefer Anfa’s calm environment.
• History buffs with curiosity – Anfa has historical significance (site of the 1943 Casablanca Conference during WWII at the old Anfa Hotel) and some Art Deco heritage amidst its modernity.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Near the Anfaplace Shopping Center – this is at the coastal edge of Anfa. Staying here gives you immediate access to upscale shopping and dining, plus the beach across the road.
• Bordering Maârif or Gauthier – the eastern side of Anfa blends into these lively districts. Lodging on streets at the edge (like around Boulevard d’Anfa or near Twin Center) means you get Anfa’s safety with close reach to restaurants/shops in adjacent areas.
• Close to the Corniche end of Anfa – the north-west part of Anfa approaches the El Hank lighthouse and Corniche. Here you might find luxury hotels that technically sit in Anfa but offer sea views and quick hop to Ain Diab attractions.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• The deep interior of Anfa’s villa quarters – unless you’re renting an entire villa, there’s no reason to stay in the middle of a residential block far from main roads. You’d feel isolated with no cafes or taxis nearby.
• Unlit residential lanes at night – Anfa is very safe, but some streets are purely houses with high walls; if you stay too far from the busier avenues, walking at night can be uneventful and dark (though not dangerous, just inconvenient).
• Don’t confuse “Anfa” with “Casablanca-Anfa Airport” in older references – the airport relocated and the area is now Casablanca Finance City. Ensure your accommodation is in the intended neighborhood and not just named “Anfa” while actually being far out.

Pros:

• Exclusive and secure feel – many locals consider Anfa and its adjacent Golden Triangle (Triangle d’Or) among the safest places in Casablanca. You’ll see police presence near VIP residences, adding to safety.
• Peaceful environment – a nice break from the downtown hustle: less honking, more trees, and upscale residential vibes.
• High-end shopping and dining – besides Anfaplace mall, there are luxury boutiques and fine restaurants scattered in this area. Great if you enjoy upscale cuisine or need high-quality services.
• Some historical charm – Anfa has hidden pockets of Art Deco architecture and old mansions that hint at Casablanca’s mid-20th-century glamor.
• Spacious accommodation – many lodging options are apartments or larger suites, giving more room to spread out compared to the cramped medina hotels.

Cons:

• Limited accommodation options – there are only a handful of hotels in Anfa proper, so choices are fewer and often book up early.
• Expensive – as expected, prices for rooms, dining, and even basic services tend to be higher here than elsewhere in Casablanca.
• Not walkable to tourist sites – you will likely need to take a taxi (10-15 minutes) to reach downtown, Old Medina, or other attractions, since Anfa itself is mostly residential.
• Little nightlife or local markets – Anfa isn’t the place for street life or night bazaars; it winds down early. For excitement, you’d go to Ain Diab or Gauthier.
• Ongoing development – parts of Anfa (like the new Finance City) are under construction or newly built, so the landscape is changing. You might encounter road detours or new buildings arising, though this is mostly on the periphery.

Average Prices:

• Budget – ~400 MAD (≈ $40) per night (very few true “budget” options; this would typically be a simple apartment or a guest room in this area)
• Mid-range – ~800 MAD (≈ $80) per night
• Luxury – ~1,500 MAD (≈ $150) per night

Ain Diab (The Corniche – Beach & Nightlife)

Ain Diab is Casablanca’s famous beachfront district, often referred to as “La Corniche.” This long strip along the Atlantic coast is the city’s playground by the sea, lined with beach clubs, restaurants, lounges, and hotels facing the ocean. During the day, locals and tourists flock to Ain Diab Plage for sunbathing and surfing lessons at the surf schools along the shore. By night, the area comes alive with trendy nightclubs, bars, and shisha cafes – making it the top area for those seeking nightlife. Ain Diab offers a resort-like feel that’s unique in Casablanca, with sunset views, ocean breezes, and lively entertainment all in one place. If you want a mix of beach time and nightlife in your Casablanca stay, this is the spot.

Best Suited For:

• Beach lovers and surfers – it’s the only part of the city with a proper beach. You can swim (season permitting) or take surf lessons by day easily here.
• Nightlife enthusiasts – many of Casablanca’s best-known nightclubs and seaside lounges are in Ain Diab. It’s great for dinner with a view, then dancing or enjoying music late into the night.
• Young travelers and groups of friends – the fun atmosphere suits those looking to socialize, meet people, and have activities to do.
• Families who want a vacation setting – during the day, the beach and even the Sindibad amusement park (at the end of the Corniche) offer family-friendly fun. Large resort hotels here also cater well to families with pools and kid-friendly facilities.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Along the central Corniche strip – anywhere on the main Boulevard de la Corniche near Ain Diab Beach will put you steps from sand by day and clubs by night. For example, around Club Val d’Anfa (a well-known spot) is a lively section.
• Near El Hank Lighthouse (northeast end of Corniche) – this area is a bit quieter at night. It’s close to some luxury hotels and you get beautiful sea views and quick access to the Corniche without being in the noisiest part.
• Close to Morocco Mall (southwest end) – the far end of Ain Diab is anchored by one of Africa’s largest malls. Staying near here is great if you want shopping and a slightly calmer beach area; plus, the Sindibad theme park is nearby for kids.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Too far inland from the beach – Ain Diab’s appeal drops if you’re not actually by the coast. A hotel say 1-2 km inland (towards the El Oasis or Hay Hassani areas) would leave you isolated from the Corniche action and you’d need transport for everything.
• The extreme southwest past Morocco Mall – beyond the mall, the city gives way to more isolated beachfront and then suburbs. Unless you specifically want a retreat out there, it’s better to stay within the main Corniche zone to have restaurants and services around.
• Standalone spots with no nearby establishments – if you find a rental far from any other hotels or clubs, note that this area’s security and ambiance is best where there are crowds and lighting. Stick to the stretches of Corniche that are well-populated, especially if you plan to walk at night.

Pros:

• Beach and ocean access at your doorstep – a rarity in Casablanca, which is otherwise not a resort city. You can enjoy morning jogs or evening strolls on the corniche promenade with Atlantic views.
• Vibrant nightlife and dining – some of the city’s top seafood and international restaurants are here, alongside lounges and clubs, making it ideal if you want to dine and have fun without taxiing across town.
• Beautiful sunsets – watching the sun sink into the ocean from a beach café is a highlight; Ain Diab offers the best sunset vistas in Casa.
• Attractions like Sindibad Park and Sidi Abderrahman Shrine – the Sindibad amusement park (with rides and a small zoo) is great for families, and the historic Sidi Abderrahman mausoleum on a tidal rock off the shore provides cultural interest on certain days.
• Good connectivity – the new Tram line T2 now extends to Ain Diab Plage, linking this area to the city center cheaply and quickly. Taxis are also plentiful along the Corniche.

Cons:

• Far from the historic center – you’ll need about 15-20 minutes by taxi (or ~30 min by tram) to reach downtown or the Old Medina. If your focus is museums and colonial architecture, commuting from the beach can be a minor hassle.
• Generally higher costs – oceanfront cafes and hotels charge a premium. Expect to spend more on average for meals and drinks here than in the city center.
• Limited budget options – Ain Diab mostly has mid-range and luxury hotels. True budget accommodations (hostels or 1-2 star hotels) are scarce in this district. You might find cheap apartments, but quality varies.
• Noisy and crowded on weekends – this is where locals go on their days off. Thursday through Saturday nights can be very busy (and loud) with club-goers, and sunny weekends see packed beaches. If you prefer quiet, you may not enjoy the weekend bustle.
• Ocean conditions – note that the Atlantic here can have strong waves and currents; the beach is great for surfing but only decent for casual swimming in summer. In winter, it’s beautiful but not for swimming – you’d mostly enjoy the view.

Average Prices:

• Budget – ~400 MAD (≈ $40) per night (few budget options; this could be a basic guesthouse or off-season rate)
• Mid-range – ~800 MAD (≈ $80) per night
• Luxury – ~1,800 MAD (≈ $180) per night

Maârif (Modern Shopping District)

Maârif is a lively, modern neighborhood known for shopping and local city life. Centered around the twin skyscrapers of Twin Center and the Mohamed V Stadium, Maârif offers a mix of upscale boutiques and affordable shops, plus a variety of restaurants from fast food to international cuisine. This area doesn’t have historic monuments or ocean views, but it’s one of Casablanca’s most popular districts for residents, giving travelers a chance to live like a local while still being in a central location. The streets are busy by day with shoppers and students, and quiet at night except around a few cafes. Accommodation here tends to be good value, including many furnished apartments, making it a smart choice for visitors on moderate budgets ****.

Best Suited For:

• Shoppers and fashion enthusiasts – Maârif is packed with malls (like Marjane Market, AnfaPlace isn’t far) and branded stores, as well as local designer boutiques and the famous Derb Ghallef electronics market nearby.
• Mid-budget travelers – if you want a comfortable stay without the high prices of the Corniche or downtown, Maârif’s hotels and rentals are often more reasonably priced.
• Travelers who want a blend of local and tourist experience – you’re not in a tourist enclave here. You’ll mingle with local Casablancaise going about their day, which can be a more genuine city experience.
• Sports fans – if you’re planning to catch a football (soccer) match or concert at Stade Mohammed V, staying in Maârif is extremely convenient (it’s right there in the district).

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Maarif Ancien (Old Maârif) around Twin Center – this is the heart of the district, with the iconic twin towers, lots of cafes (including popular ice cream and snack spots) and shopping streets like Rue Chaouia and Boulevard Al Massira Al Khadra. Staying here means everything is at your door – think of it as Maârif’s downtown.
• Around Val Fleuri and Boulevard Ghandi – the southeastern part of Maârif (Val Fleuri) is slightly quieter, mainly residential but still close to the action and has good bus/tram connections. There are some new hotels and the terminus of a tram line (Line T2 at Abdelmoumen) in this area, making it convenient.
• Edges near Habous or Gauthier – Maârif borders the Habous quarter to the east and Gauthier/Anfa to the north. Staying on these edges can give you walking access to those areas (traditional markets in Habous, or restaurants in Gauthier) while still benefiting from Maârif prices.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Next to the stadium on big game days – if there’s a major football match or event at Mohammed V Stadium, the immediate surrounding gets extremely crowded and loud. If your visit coincides with that and you’re not attending, you might avoid booking a stay right by the stadium to steer clear of the frenzy.
• The far south of Maârif (beyond Boulevard Ghandi) – it becomes more of a quiet residential or commercial zone (like Sidi Maârouf area) with little of interest to tourists and can be inconvenient without a car.
• Near Derb Ghallef market if you seek calm – Derb Ghallef on Maârif’s eastern edge is a bustling open-air market famous for electronics and various goods. It’s a colorful place to visit, but lodging directly adjacent might be noisy and hectic in the daytime (and somewhat empty at night). Stay a few blocks away for a better balance.

Pros:

• Excellent shopping – from high-end fashion brands to bargain outlets, Maârif is the retail heart of Casablanca. Great if you love to shop or want to buy some last-minute items.
• Affordable accommodations – on average, hotels and apartments here cost less than those in the city center or beach area, giving you more bang for your buck.
• Modern city vibe with local flavor – you get the feel of contemporary Moroccan urban life. It’s cosmopolitan but not tourist-saturated, so you can practice your French or Arabic with friendly locals in shops.
• Food variety – numerous casual eateries, as well as international options (Maârif even has pizza places, sushi, shawarma, and famous patisseries). You won’t go hungry, and prices tend to be lower than tourist areas.
• Good transport links – major avenues and the tram line run through or near Maârif, plus plenty of taxis. It’s easy to get to other parts of the city from here, and you can even walk to the City Center or Gauthier in 20-30 minutes if you like walking.

Cons:

• Few tourist attractions within Maârif – aside from the Moroccan Jewish Museum (which is a bit south of the core Maârif), this area is more about daily life and commerce. You’ll still need to go to the Old Medina or Corniche for classic sightseeing.
• Urban congestion – traffic can be intense on main roads like Boulevard Zerktouni or near Twin Center, especially at rush hour. Pavements get busy too.
• Minimal nightlife – beyond some cafes and a couple of bars, Maârif doesn’t have the late-night scene of the Corniche. It’s fairly quiet in late evenings, which can be pro or con depending on what you want.
• Lack of traditional charm – expect modern buildings and apartment blocks; if you’re seeking riad-style lodging or old-world ambiance, you won’t find it here.
• Possible noise or crowds in daytime – with construction, commerce, and a youthful crowd (there are schools and offices around), Maârif days are bustling. If you want a tranquil day environment, this may not be it (though nights are calm).

Average Prices:

• Budget – ~250 MAD (≈ $25) per night
• Mid-range – ~500 MAD (≈ $50) per night
• Luxury – ~1,000 MAD (≈ $100) per night

Habous (Quartier Habous – “New Medina”)

Habous is a unique historic quarter also known as the New Medina, located in the southeastern part of central Casablanca. Built by the French in the 1920s, it blends traditional Moroccan medina style with French colonial urban planning. The result is a charming neighborhood of arched arcades, quaint squares, and ornate architecture, quite different from the chaotic Old Medina. Habous is famous for its specialty souks – here you’ll find bookshops, fabric stores, and the renowned olive and pastry markets (don’t miss the local almond pastries from Bennis Bakery). The Royal Palace of Casablanca is adjacent to Habous, adding to the area’s prestige (though the palace itself is not open to visitors, you can see its grand exterior). Staying in Habous is perfect for travelers who want a peaceful, culturally rich environment. Keep in mind, however, that lodging options are very limited within Habous itself, so you might actually stay at the fringe of this area and walk in to enjoy its atmosphere each day.

Best Suited For:

• Culture and history buffs – the mix of Moroccan and colonial French architecture, along with the more authentic market experience, is great for those interested in history and local culture.
• Travelers seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path stay – Habous is not very touristy, so you won’t see crowds of visitors here, especially in the evenings. It has a more relaxed pace.
• Shoppers of traditional goods – if your goal is to buy quality Moroccan crafts, books, or garments, Habous’s shops are known for their quality and fair prices (often better than the Old Medina’s tourist stalls).
• Those who have done the main tourist circuit already – if this isn’t your first trip to Casablanca or you prioritize a unique neighborhood vibe over proximity to big sights, Habous offers a different perspective.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Within the Habous quarter itself – if you can find a guesthouse or apartment right in Habous, you’ll step out straight into picturesque lanes and courtyards. The best spots would be near the central Mahkama du Pacha (the stunning Islamic courthouse building) or by the olive market, so that you’re in the most beautiful part of the quarter each morning.
• Near Parc Murdoch or along Avenue des FAR (Extension) – the small Parc Murdoch is a green space at Habous’s edge. Staying around here or on the accessible main roads by Habous ensures you can easily catch a taxi and have a slightly broader selection of hotels while still being a 5-10 minute walk from the heart of Habous.
• By Casa Voyageurs train station – since true Habous accommodation is scarce, many travelers opt to stay near Casablanca Voyageurs (the main train station, about 2 km north of Habous) at hotels like Ibis or others. This area has mid-range hotels and is a quick taxi ride (or even a long walk) to Habous. It’s not in Habous, but it’s one of the closest areas with more hotel choices and you can visit Habous by day.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Derb Sultan residential area beyond Habous – Habous is actually part of the larger Mers Sultan district. Outside the curated Habous quarter, the surroundings become a typical busy local area (Derb Sultan) which can be a bit rough around the edges. It’s great to explore by day for the market, but you might avoid booking accommodation deep in those alleys as they lack the charm of Habous and can be confusing or dimly lit at night.
• Around Ouled Ziane Bus Station – this is slightly northeast of Habous (near Casa Voyageurs). It’s a major bus terminal but the area around it is not the safest, especially after dark (known for some transient populations). If you are looking at fringe areas, avoid staying too close to the long-distance bus station even if prices are low there.
• Too far from main roads – if you rent an apartment in Habous, try to be within a couple of minutes’ walk of a main street or the edge of the quarter. Habous’s interior is pedestrian-friendly, but if you stay in a nook far inside, you’ll have a longer walk through quiet lanes at night to get back, which might not be comfortable if you’re alone or not used to the area.

Pros:

• Beautiful architecture and ambiance – arcades, mosaics, and well-kept streets make Habous extremely picturesque. It’s a photographer’s delight.
• Great specialty shopping – you can find high-quality babouches (Moroccan slippers), traditional clothing, carpets, and books in the fixed-price shops here. It’s known as a place even locals come to buy Moroccan goods. The souks in Habous are fun to explore and haggling is more relaxed than in tourist-heavy areas.
• Calm and safe – Habous doesn’t have nightlife, which also means it’s calm at night with little foot traffic. The area has a reputation for being safe and is often patrolled due to the Royal Palace nearby.
• Local cafes and cuisine – there are a few famous eateries in Habous, like pastry shops and traditional restaurants, where you can sit and not feel rushed. It’s a nice place to enjoy a mint tea after shopping, among locals.
• Accessibility – While not in the center, Habous is only ~10 minutes by taxi from downtown. It’s also along the route toward the airport and some other parts of Casablanca, so you can navigate from here without much hassle. Public buses serve the area and taxis know “Quartier Habous” well.

Cons:

• Very few hotels – you might only find a handful of small guesthouses or apartments in Habous itself. This means your lodging choices are limited, and you may end up staying in a nearby district instead of right in Habous.
• Quiet at night – by 8 or 9 pm, the shops close and the streets of Habous empty out. There’s not much to do in the evenings in immediate walking distance – no bars or nightclubs here. You’d need to taxi elsewhere for dinner or entertainment after dark, which is an extra step.
• Distance from main tourist spots – if your priority is to frequently visit the Corniche, the museums, or the Hassan II Mosque, staying here will add commute time (about 15 minutes to the Mosque by cab). It’s not far, but it’s not as central as City Center.
• Communication – in Habous, English is less commonly spoken in shops and hotels (French and Arabic are predominant). While this is a minor issue (you can get by or use translation apps), it’s different from downtown where many staff speak some English.
• Limited nightlife and services – after the daytime market, you won’t find late-night pharmacies or 24/7 stores right in Habous. You’d have to go to other areas for any late needs.

Average Prices:

• Budget – ~220 MAD (≈ $22) per night (often a basic apartment or a hostel bed in areas near Habous)
• Mid-range – ~400 MAD (≈ $40) per night
• Luxury – ~800 MAD (≈ $80) per night (there are no true luxury hotels in Habous; this would be for a high-end apartment rental or staying just outside Habous in a nicer hotel)

Comparison Table of Casablanca’s Best Areas

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Each of these neighborhoods offers a fantastic stay in Casablanca, depending on what you value most – be it convenience, culture, nightlife, or local flavor. Consider what fits your travel style, and you’ll be sure to enjoy Casablanca from the area that suits you best.

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