There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Casablanca into a quick city adventure. From CMN, the ONCF Train can get you into town in around 100 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Casablanca, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Morocco vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Casablanca is roughly 100 minutes from CMN via ONCF Train. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in MAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some MAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Casablanca from CMN
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONCF Train | ~100 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~120 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the ONCF Train is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Bag Storage Near CMN
Luggage storage is available at Inquire at information desks in Terminal 1 arrivals hall.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Casablanca.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Casablanca:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $8 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $23 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Casablanca.
What’s Worth Seeing in Casablanca
For a layover visit to Casablanca, we’d suggest Hassan II Mosque and Habous Quarter (New Medina). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
If you’d rather stay inside CMN — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Pearl Lounge (Terminal 1)
- Duty Free Shops CMN
Eating Well on a Casablanca Layover
- In the city: La Sqala and Restaurant du Port de Pêche are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Casablanca.
- At the airport: Paul (Mohammed V Airport) and L’Escale Restaurant (CMN) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at CMN, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Casablanca itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Morocco that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at CMN include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Morocco also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Casablanca count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave CMN. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.