Stopover at Casablanca airport
Best visits and activities for short and long stopovers
Casablanca International Airport (CMN) > Guide > Stopover
Enjoy a stopover at Casablanca international airport
Do you have a long stopover at Casablanca airport? Layovers can quickly become tiring and stressful, especially after a long flight or just before another multi-hour journey. However, there are ways of turning this wait into a pleasant experience rather than a waste of time. With Casablanca being a frequent transit point between Africa, Europe and America, it's highly likely that you'll find yourself waiting in Morocco's main international airport, Mohammed V Airport. So how can you make the most of your free time?
To begin with, it's essential to define precisely the duration of your stopover. Your options will vary depending on whether you're just passing through for an hour or two, have several hours to spare, or even need to spend the night at the airport. Bear in mind that Mohammed V Airport is located around 30 km from downtown Casablanca, in the commune of Nouaceur. Generally speaking, it takes between 45 minutes and an hour to pass through security and customs, depending on how busy it is. In addition, distances within the terminal can be relatively long. Finally, under normal traffic conditions (traffic in Casablanca can be dense), a cab Casablanca Airport will take between 40 and 60 minutes to reach the city center, while the ONCF train connects the airport with the Casa Voyageurs train station in around 45 minutes.
Things to do at Casablanca airport
If your stopover lasts up to 10 hours between two flights, it is advisable to stay at the airport. to avoid missing your connecting flight. That said, you'll certainly not be bored at Casablanca Mohammed V Airport, as the services and facilities on offer are well worth the detour.
The recently renovated Terminal 1 is the airport's main terminal and offers a wide range of amenities. Here's what you can do while you wait:
Endless shopping : Numerous stores await you, including a large Duty-Free zone where you can shop for international products at tax-free prices. Need to withdraw cash or exchange currency? ATMs and exchange offices are available in public and bonded areas.
Free Wi-Fi : Stay connected with free Wi-Fi throughout the airport. Check your social networks, answer your e-mails or continue your work remotely. What's more, several charging stations for phones and electronic devices are available in the waiting areas.
Relaxation areas with television : TV areas are available, perfect for relaxing while waiting for your flight.
Reading area : Although Casablanca airport does not yet have an official library like some major hubs, you will find quiet corners in some departure lounges where you can read or listen to digital books via your own devices.
Children's playground : If you're traveling with the family, the airport has a play area reserved for children, so they can enjoy themselves while you relax.
Prayer rooms : Separate prayer rooms for men and women are available in each terminal, allowing you to practice your faith in a quiet, respectful space.
Outdoor spaces : Although the airport does not have dedicated open-air terraces for transit passengers, smoking areas are set up outside terminals before check-in.
Smoking areas: Designated smoking areas are the only places where smoking is permitted at the airport. In Casablanca, these areas are located outside the terminals, before the security checkpoints.
FAQs
Does Casablanca airport have a hotel inside?
Mohammed V Airport does not have its own hotel within the terminals. However, several establishments in the immediate vicinity, such as the Atlas Sky Airport Hotel or the ONOMO Hotel Casablanca Airport, offer comfortable and convenient accommodation. These hotels are easily accessible by cab or free shuttle service, and often offer half-day packages, ideal for a stress-free rest, meal or shower before your flight.
How long is a typical stopover at Casablanca airport?
The length of your stopover may vary according to your airline and destination, but it is generally recommended to plan for minimum 2 to 3 hours between two international flights at Mohammed V Airport. This will allow you to pass through security and immigration checks, and retrieve your luggage if necessary, without stress or hurry.
Does the airport offer shuttle services to the city?
From official cabs are available 24 hours a day at terminal exits, providing services to downtown Casablanca and other destinations. And more, the airport train station, located in Terminal 1, offers easy access to the Casa-Voyageurs station in around 45 minutes, thanks to regular ONCF trains. This is a practical and economical option for transit passengers wishing to visit the city or travel elsewhere in Morocco.
32 M
Annual Passenger Traffic
5,714 flights
Flight operations
99%