India, July 23 -- Casablanca has long had something of an all-business, no-play reputation. That's finally changing, says Amine Hannaoui, vice president of the arts nonprofit Alouane Bladi. "Ten years ago, we had no tourism, but now the city has a story," he said, while showing me several dozen of the city's dynamic street murals. With a pleasant climate year-round, a growing arts and culture scene, ever-alluring shopping, and an over-the-top new hotel, the city has never been more deserving of a longer stopover on your way to Marrakesh or Tangier.

Here's how to spend a perfect day in "Casa," as the locals call it: 9 A.M. Market Morning Photo Credit: Chris Wallace Start your day with a selection of sweets from Patisserie Bennis, a famil...