24-Hour Layover in Casablanca: What To Do
Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) · Morocco
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Key Facts
- Airport: Mohammed V International Airport (CMN)
- Country: Morocco
- Layover window: 24 hours
- Recommended time outside: 18–20 hours — treat it as a mini trip
- Visa & Entry: Visa-free for most Western nationalities up to 90 days. UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait + most African nations also visa-free. South Africans need e-Visa. Connecting passengers without leaving airport don't need visa.
Insider Tip
CMN is 30km south of central Casablanca — ONCF train (40 min, MAD 43) is fastest + cheapest. Train station is inside the terminal, signed clearly. Hassan II Mosque tours are guide-only — book in advance for the next time slot to avoid queues.
Getting to Casablanca City Centre
| Mode | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| ONCF train (CMN to Casa-Port / Casa-Voyageurs) | MAD 43 (~$4.30) | 30–45 min |
| Petit taxi (red) / Grand taxi | MAD 250–350 (~$25–35) | 30–40 min |
| Yango / Careem ride-share | MAD 180–250 (~$18–25) | 30–40 min |
Top Casablanca: Where to Go
Hassan II Mosque
40 min from city centreThird-largest mosque in the world, 60% built over the Atlantic. Non-Muslims can tour inside (MAD 130, 9am-3pm except Friday afternoon).
Old Medina + Place des Nations Unies
45 min from city centreSmaller than Marrakech's medina but more authentic. Walk the wall + grab fresh orange juice at the corner stands (MAD 5).
Rick's Café (recreated from film)
45 min from city centreIn Old Medina — the recreated film bar. Touristy but iconic for layover photos. Lunch MAD 200, drinks MAD 80.
Corniche + Morocco Mall
50 min from city centreAtlantic coast promenade + Africa's largest mall. Best for 12+ hour layovers wanting a beach view + air-conditioned escape.
Eat Like a Local in Casablanca
Tagine + briouates at Restaurant Al Mounia (Boulevard Moulay Youssef) — traditional Moroccan cuisine in a colonial-era villa. Lunch MAD 150-250 ($15-25).
24-Hour Itinerary
Day 1 — Morning
Check into hotel near city centre
Book a hotel within 15 min of the main sights. Luggage storage available at most hotels even before check-in.
Day 1 — Midday
Casablanca signature experience
Use your first afternoon for the city's #1 must-see. Tiredness catches up later.
Day 1 — Evening
Local dinner and evening market or rooftop bar
Evening markets, floating markets, and night bazaars are peak atmosphere. Do this on day 1.
Day 2 — Morning
Second neighbourhood exploration
Mornings offer better light for photos, cooler weather, and fewer tourists at popular sites.
Day 2 — Late Morning
Airport transfer — allow 3 hrs before flight
Build in buffer for morning traffic. International check-in closes 45–60 min before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for a 24-hour layover in Casablanca?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries offer free transit visas or visa-on-arrival for layovers under 96 hours. Check your specific passport requirements before travel and confirm with your airline.
Is 24 hours enough to leave Mohammed V International Airport?
Yes — 24 hours is enough to explore the nearest neighbourhoods of Casablanca comfortably, provided you have transit visa clearance. Allow 2–3 hours total for airport transit (both ways).
What is the best way to get from Mohammed V International to Casablanca city centre?
ONCF train (CMN to Casa-Port / Casa-Voyageurs) is typically the fastest and most affordable option at MAD 43 (~$4.30), taking approximately 30–45 min. Rideshare apps are a convenient alternative.
Is there luggage storage at Mohammed V International?
Yes, Mohammed V International Airport has left-luggage facilities in the arrivals and departures hall. Typical cost is $5–15 per bag for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, many airport hotels offer left-luggage for non-guests.
Connect with other travellers at CMN
Book a transfer or rental from Mohammed V International Airport
Fixed-price airport transfer, licensed drivers, or pick up a rental car — compare and book ahead so you skip the taxi queue.
Things to do in Casablanca
Tours, skip-the-line tickets and local experiences — book ahead to skip queues.
Trains & buses from Casablanca
Compare overland routes — often cheaper, more scenic and skip the airport queue.
Flights from Casablanca
Compare 400+ airlines departing Mohammed V International Airport
Hotels near Casablanca Airport
With 24 hours, a day-use hotel room is worth it — shower, sleep, and recharge before your next flight.
Other layover guides for Casablanca
Planning a longer stay in Casablanca?
Read our full destination guide — hotels, attractions, visa tips, and more.
Casablanca Destination Guide →