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25 Best Things to Do in Casablanca (Morocco)

Morocco’s main port and the largest city in the Maghreb, Casablanca is a multicultural financial centre known more for its modern construction than its history.

For one, the Hassan II Mosque is the largest mosque on the continent, and a technical achievement with a retractable roof on its prayer room and a high level of artistry in its fittings.

Casablanca’s boulevards were drawn up in the 20th century when forward-thinking French urban planners were given free rein.

This led to a cross-pollination of European and Moroccan design, best seen in the arcades and whitewashed walls of the Quartier Habous, a new Medina for immigrants from around Morocco.

The oceanfront Corniche meanwhile is enriched with Africa’s second-largest mall, beaches, a theme park, a multiplex cinema and sunset views of the Atlantic.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Casablanca:

1. Hassan II Mosque

On a promontory above the ocean is Africa’s largest mosque and the third-largest mosque in the world.

The Hassan II Mosque was consecrated in 1993 after less than eight years of construction, and has a capacity for 105,000 worshippers, 25,000 inside and another 80,000 on the grounds.

One of many staggering feats is the minaret, the world’s second-tallest, at 210 metres and with a laser beam pointing towards Mecca.

The dimensions of the Hassan II Mosque may be awe-inspiring but there’s also exquisite craftsmanship in its marble columns, horseshoe arches, chandeliers, woodcarving and zellige mouldings, all produced by 6,000 master artisans from around Morocco.

A guided tour of the interior, departing on the hour, is not to be passed on, during which you’ll learn more mind-bending facts about the prayer hall’s retractable roof, the vast hammam in the basement and can stop to wonder at the Atlantic.

Included in : Full-Day Casablanca & Rabat Guided Tour

2. The Corniche

The Boulevard de la Corniche curls along Casablanca’s oceanfront for several kilometres, with a palm-lined boardwalk that has seen a lot of regeneration since the 2000s.

On one side are sandy beaches, mostly with private beach clubs, sloping gently to the water.

On the other are hotels, restaurants, fast food chains, bars, exclusive nightclubs, hookah joints and a great deal more.

At the west end is the mammoth Morocco Mall and Parc Sindibad, and we’ll deal with those later.

Behind the Corniche in the eastern Anfa neighbourhood are many of Casablanca’s most opulent homes, roosted on the hillside.

Come to the Corniche late in the afternoon to amble by the Atlantic and watch the sunset from a cafe terrace.

Suggested tour : Private Half-Day Guided Tour of Casablanca

3. Place des Nations Unies

Somewhere to take the pulse of the city, the Place des Nations Unies is a transport hub, plotted at the very beginning of the French Protectorate to link the new city with the Old Medina.

Place des Nations Unies is in a constant state of flux, and the most recent overhaul came in the 2010s with the construction of the Casa Tramway station.

The square is enveloped in mostly modern architecture, although there are a couple of hints from the early days of the square at the famous Hotel Excelsior (1916), and the clock tower, erected in 1908, pulled down in 1948 and reconstructed closer to the Medina in 1993. A modern reference point is the Kora Adia (1975) by architect and sculptor Jean-François Zevaco.

This openwork half-globe symbolises Casablanca’s openness to the world.

4. Mahkama du Pacha

Like stepping into an Andalusian palace, the Mahkama du Pacha is a parliamentary building holding Casablanca’s court of justice, but also serving as a space for state receptions.

True to its name, this was also previously a residence for the Pasha (governor). The complex was built in 1941-42, and the design came from Frenchman Auguste Cadet (1881-1956), who played a key role in development of the surrounding Quartier Habous.

One explanation for the palace’s appearance is that modern building materials were unavailable at the time because of France’s war effort, so the Mahkama du Pacha was constructed in the traditional style, brick by brick, using zellige (mosaic tilework), multi-foil arches, honycomb stuccowork, cedar timber and green tiles.

In true Moorish style, the interior courtyard has an octagonal fountain and fragrant orange trees.

To get in, you can either take your chances and ask the guard to let you sneak a peek for a minute or two, or purchase passes for a guided tour in advance from the ticket office at Hassan II Mosque.

5. Quartier Habous

A calmer, cleaner alternative to the Old Medina, the Quartier Habous is a planned district, built between the 1910s and the 1950s to cope with a sudden influx of migrants from around Morocco.

Habous was built in the style of a traditional Medina, using Moorish style and materials, but at the same time its French architects applied Modern urban planning concepts.

In amongst the intricately moulded street arches, horseshoe arcades and whitewashed buildings are street cafes where you can watch the neighbourhood going about its business over a glass of mint tea and a pastry.

Vendors are famously less pushy in the Quartier Habous and you can seek out leather goods, olives of all sizes and descriptions, traditional clothing, Moroccan sweets, tagines and spices.

An obligatory stop is the little Pâtisserie Bennis, handcrafting traditional Moroccan treats since 1930.

6. Art Deco Architecture (Mauresque)

Casablanca went through unprecedented growth during the days of the French Protectorate.

The economic development that was implemented by General Lyautey (1854-1934) as a kind of insurance against insurgency, is represented by grand boulevards and a style of architecture that blends the curving lines of Art Deco with traditional Moroccan features like zellige, interior courtyards and climate-adapted design.

Many of the best works of Mauresque architecture in Casablanca are on the streets bounded by Mohammed V and Avenue Lalla Yacout to the north and south, and Rue du Prince Moulay Abdellah and rue Ibn Batouta to the west and east.

At the still-working Cinéma Rialto on the corner of Rue Mohammed el Qorri and Rue Salah ben Bouchaib, Josephine Baker entertained American troops for the first time in the Second World War.

Also see Hotel Guynemer (2 rue Brahim Belloul), Hotel Transatlantique (79 rue Chaoui) and Hotel Lincoln, in a state of semi-ruin across from the Marché Central.

In contrast Hotel Volubilis, at 20-22 Rue Abdelkrim Diouri, has come through a successful restoration programme.

7. Place Mohammed V

In the time of the French Protectorate this square, laid out in the 1910s, was named after General Lyautey and as the base of French power is framed by Mauresque architecture.

Check out the 1918 Grande Poste (central post office) on the northern frontage, as well as the 1925 Palais de Justice to the east.

Most striking of all is the Wilaya, former prefecture building to the south, constructed in 1930 and impossible to miss for its square clock tower, which has an air of Venice to it.

You’ll find out pretty quickly why Place Mohammed V has the popular nickname “pigeon square”, and you can pause in the evening and watch the fountain’s water and light show.

8. Old Medina

While Medinas in other Moroccan cities can be traced back hundreds of years, Casablanca’s old walled city is surprisingly young.

It was reconstructed by Sultan Mohammed Ben Abdallah following an earthquake in 1755, and was then almost completely razed during the Bombardment of Casablanca by the French in 1907. The upshot is that this almost indecipherable district of scruffy intertwining streets holds less tourist appeal than its counterparts in Marrakesh and Fez, but merits a daytime visit for anyone who wants to see the real Casablanca.

You can browse for typical Moroccan gifts like olives and argan oil close to the grand arched entrances.

A couple of streets in from Boulevard des Almohades on the north end, you may happen upon the Ettedgui Synagogue, on Rue Al-Aidi Ali Al-Maaroufi, destroyed during the American bombing of Casablanca in 1942 but now restored and rededicated by King Mohammed VI in 2016.

9. Private Half-Day Guided Tour

This is a good point to note that you can be forgiven for feeling intimidated by parts of Casablanca.

So if you want a guiding hand and true local context, there’s a highly rated four-hour tour on GetYourGuide.com.

Available morning or afternoon, the tour can be tailored to your tastes, but ticks off all of the essentials, like the Quartier Habous, the Hassan II Mosque, Place Mohammed V, the Central Market, Notre Dame de Lourdes (more next) the Morocco Mall and Anfa, with its plush hillside residences.

You’ll travel in an air-conditioned minivan, and your guide will fill you in with lots of interesting facts about Casablanca’s customs, culture and history.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are available.

10. Notre Dame de Lourdes

Unlike Casablanca’s deconsecrated Église du Sacré-Cœur, Notre Dame de Lourdes (1954) continues to hold services.

This peculiar Modernist building was the work of architect Achille Dangleterre and engineer Gaston Zimmer, with a tall and almost featureless silhouette that belies the beauty of the interior.

There you can enjoy the beautiful stained glass by master glass artist Gabriel Loire (1904-1996) who contributed to churches across Europe and North America.

The lower, lateral walls of the nave are made up entirely of this stained glass: Designed to evoke Moroccan carpets, these panels represent the Immaculate Conception and various Marian apparitions, including at Lourdes.

Above are slender, purely decorative strips between the bulky concrete pillars, casting multicoloured light on the floor of the nave.

11. Villa des Arts de Casablanca

Close to the intersection of the Zertouni and Roudani Boulevards, the Villa des Arts de Casablanca is managed by the ONA Foundation.

This arts organisation stages exhibitions, seminars, music performances and educational workshops, both here and in Rabat.

The Casablanca location is an exquisite Art Deco villa from 1934, and for tourists is mainly a place to come to sample Moroccan art at temporary exhibitions.

When we put this list together at the end of October there was a retrospective exhibition for surrealist turned hyper-realist painter Hamid Douieb, as well as talks by author Mamoun Lahbabi and poet Abdelhak Najib, and a recital by soprano Jalila Bennani.

12. Muhammadi Mosque

Another of the main sights in the Quartier Habous is this spectacular neo-Moorish mosque, named for Mohammed V who ordered its construction and completed in 1936. As with much of the architecture in Habous, the design came from Auguste Cadet, and Mohammed V would visit the site regularly throughout construction.

The building, accommodating 6,000 worshippers, has an unusual, irregular plan, with seven horseshoe-arched doorways on three facades.

In the prayer room are 60 columns over 11 arcades perpendicular to the qibla.

Look for the unusual polygonal columns, and cast your gaze up to the chandeliers, one of which weighs three tons.

The courtyard was modelled on the Moorish mosques of Andalusia, covering 900 m2 and with an imposing central fountain in marble.

13. Museum of Moroccan Judaism

Casablanca’s Jewish population is anything from 2,000 to 4,500 strong, and located in the European City where there are kosher restaurants, community centres and a Jewish school.

Also here, on Rue du chasseur Jules Cros, is the museum dedicated to Judaism in the Arab world.

This was founded in 1997 in a former orphanage for Jewish children, dating back to 1948. Something particularly enlightening here is text from Morocco’s revised 2011 constitution, referring to Hebraic influences as a cornerstone of Morocco’s national unity.

Also a must-see is the recreated jewellery-making workshop of Moroccan Jew Saul Cohen, displaying his tools and workbench.

Artefacts abound at the museum, including a menorah, mezuzahs, the 1944 bimah from the city’s Beni-Issakhar Synagogue, and all sorts of costume, jewellery and art over hundreds of years.

14. Musée de la Fondation Abderrahman Slaoui

An elegant 1940s Art Deco villa, just west of Place Mohammed V, houses this museum presenting the collections of businessman Abderrahman Slaoui (1919-2001). A highlight is a set of more than 80 vintage posters, for tourism and North African products.

There are also marvellous pieces by master jewellers from the 19th and 20th centuries, and a remarkable study of traditional Moroccan costume conducted by photographer and designer Jean Besancenot in the 1930s.

You can pore over works by Mohammed Ben Ali R’bati, held as the first Moroccan figurative painter, and the first to feature in exhibitions in Europe.

Afterwards call in at the museum’s cafe, which has a pleasing view of the city.

15. Phare d’El Hank

An abiding feature of the Casablanca skyline, this lighthouse is at the tip of El Hank peninsula, to the west of Casablanca’s harbour and at the east end of the Corniche.

Raised in the second half of the 1910s, the 51-metre lighthouse is equipped with a second-order Fresnel lens and has a range of 30 nautical miles.

The Phare d’El Hank opens on a pretty informal basis.

If you’re one of the lucky ones you’ll be able to climb 256 marble steps for an awesome view of the Atlantic, Casablanca and the Hassan II Mosque.

Also on a visit you’ll see how Casablanca’s richest and poorest neighbourhoods exist side by side.

16. Forêt de Bouskoura-Merchich

Green space is at a premium in Casablanca but on the southern outskirts is almost 3,000 acres of newly planted, mostly eucalyptus forest.

The Forêt de Bouskoura-Merchich is still developing and until the late-2010s facilities were a little sparse.

But slowly picnic areas, toilets and much-needed litter receptacles are being added, and the forest is becoming a go-to for bike rides and morning jogs.

If everything goes to plan there will eventually be a lookout tower, a nature visitor centre, a restaurant, a sensory trail and five children’s playgrounds across four main zones.

17. Temple Beth-El

The largest of Casablanca’s 30+ synagogues can seat 500 worshippers and is an important centre for the city’s Jewish community, and the main venue for spiritual events.

For instance, it was here in April 2019 that Rabbi Yoshiahu Pinto was named Supreme Chief Rabbinical Court Master in Morocco, a post that had been left unfilled for a century.

Temple Beth-El was built in 1942 and needs to be seen inside for its stuccowork, golf leaf, stained glass and chandeliers.

The interior was renovated in 1997, and is a worthwhile detour for anyone inspired by Casablanca’s rare multiculturalism.

18. Morocco Mall

Africa’s second-largest mall opened in 2011 between Plage Ain Diab and Plage Madame Choual.

The Morocco Mall has upwards of 350 stores and services, and contains a 1,000,000-litre cylindrical aquarium holding 40 different species.

As for fashion brands, there’s a mix of premium labels like Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Dior, Fendi and Emporio Armani, plus midmarket retailers from Zara to Pull & Bear, Oysho, H&M, Gap, Bershka, Adidas, Nike, Stradivarius and the like.

For books, movies and a wealth of other media there’s an enormous two-level branch of the French chain Fnac, while the mall’s own Souk has almost 50 handpicked artisans selling jewellery, oils, scents, cosmetics, spices, honey, kaftans and hand-embroidered linens.

Food-wise there are dozens of eateries, whether you’re up for noodles, pizza, sandwiches, crêpes, gelato, frozen yogurt and everything in between.

Last but not least there’s a cinema with two IMAX 3D screens.

19. Casa Tramway

If you’ve been away from Casablanca since the 2000s you’ll be taken aback by the slick new mass transit system that has slashed journey times in the city.

The Casa Tramway opened in 2012 and has two lines, with two more due to open in 2022. T1 runs from Sidi Moumen to Lissasfa (69 mins end to end), and T2 is between Sidi Bernoussi and Ain Diab Plage (77 mins). The lines intersect twice, at Abdelmoumen/Anoual and Ibn Tachfine/Mdakra.

Running these lines are swish Citadis Type 302 trams by the French maker Alstom.

As of 2019, a single trip is 8 dh (0.83) and a double is 16 dh.

To save hassle you’ll need exact change when you buy your ticket from the station kiosks, although you can buy a multi-ride pass at the kiosk on Mohammed V Square.

20. Derb Ghallef

Part of the southern Maârif area, Derb Ghallef is a commercial area boasting the second-largest flea market in the country.

The market is immense, cluttered and confusing, trading antiques, furniture and clothes, but is most famous for its consumer electronics.

Bargain hunters come in their droves for phones, laptops and other gadgets.

For tourists the souk is something to witness for its pure mayhem, more than a place to shop.

The passages aren’t paved, and can become sweltering in summer and turn into rivers in winter.

But what you may find appealing are plenty of street vendors and small restaurants for kebabs, tagines and nuts.

For respite make for the Horticulture Garden, a short walk to the east.

21. Parc Sindibad

The only theme park in Morocco is in a wooded are at the west end of Plage Ain Diab.

In the 20th century Parc Sindibad was a much-loved day out for young Casa residents, but closed due to financial problems in the early 2000s.

Then in the 2010s, with the arrival of a beach resort, the park was redeveloped by a partnership that included Compagnie des Alpes, which owns big French theme parks like Parc Astérix and Futuroscope.

At the time of writing in 2019 Parc Sindibad had some 24 rides and attractions, as well as a small zoo on its east side and a karting track to the south.

The big draws are Le Serpent, a steel rollercoaster, Al Mouja, a toboggan water ride, and Ain Rokh, a tethered balloon for a bird’s eye view 42 metres over the park.

22. Tamaris Aquaparc

Around 15 kilometres west along the Route d’Azemmour from Ain Diab is the Tamaris Aquaparc, ideal for families with younger kids and bored teenagers.

The water park has 10,000 m2 of treated and filtered water in lush, landscaped terrain.

Alongside a large wavepool, beach and lazy river you’ve got a whole line-up of slides, colour-coded Green (family-friendly), Red (a little more daring) and Black (high-speed). The black slides have names like Boomerang, Cannon Bowl and Kamikaze, while smaller children and toddlers can play in a shallow area with fountains and climbing equipment.

There’s a snack bar for burgers, sandwiches and shawarmas, and after you’ve dried off you could go bowling at the 12-lane alley next door.

23. Anfaplace Shopping Center

Right on Boulevard de la Corniche in Ain Diab is a modern, three-storey shopping mall, also loaded with familiar international brands.

Just by way of introduction you’ll find Clarks, H&M, Accessorize/Monsoon, Marks & Spencer, NewYorker, The Body Shop, Swatch, and on-the-go food and drink chains like Starbucks, Paul, McDonalds, KFC, Domino’s and Burger King, all anchored by a big branch of Carrefour.

There’s a surf school on the beach in front of the mall, and a bit further along the boulevard is the Cinéma Megarama Casablanca multiplex.

24. Rick’s Café

We’ve seen by now that Morocco’s chief port and main financial centre may not have the romance of the 1942 Bogart classic.

But a replica of Rick Blaine’s swanky “gin joint” opened on the north edge of the city’s Medina in 2004. A place to lie low while you’re bartering for letters of transit, Rick’s Café is an upmarket restaurant in an historic courtyard mansion, with interior decor inspired by the movie’s main set.

There are horseshoe arches, stencilled brass light fittings, balustraded balconies, and palm fronds casting moody shadows on the white walls.

There’s even a genuine Pleyel piano from the 1930s, with a live pianist playing standards from the 30s,40s and 50s.

Expect to hear “As Time Goes By” more than once each evening.

25. Dream Village

About halfway between Casablanca and the city of Mohammedia close to the forêt des Cascades is a resort with an ecological theme.

The main attraction at Dream Village is the zoo, where trails wind through landscaped greenery next to basic but mostly well-maintained enclosures for tigers, lions, flamingos, emus, bison, bears and waterfowl like swans and ducks.

There’s a leisure park too, aimed mainly at children, with slides, pools, pedal boats and rides, and an equestrian club for horseback riding lessons and treks.

25 Best Things to Do in Casablanca (Morocco):

• Hassan II Mosque
• The Corniche
• Place des Nations Unies
• Mahkama du Pacha
• Quartier Habous
• Art Deco Architecture (Mauresque)
• Place Mohammed V
• Private Half-Day Guided Tour
• Notre Dame de Lourdes
• Villa des Arts de Casablanca
• Muhammadi Mosque
• Museum of Moroccan Judaism
• Musée de la Fondation Abderrahman Slaoui
• Phare d'El Hank
• Forêt de Bouskoura-Merchich
• Temple Beth-El
• Morocco Mall
• Casa Tramway
• Derb Ghallef
• Parc Sindibad
• Tamaris Aquaparc
• Anfaplace Shopping Center
• Rick's Café
• Dream Village

12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Casablanca

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Casablanca is the main gateway to Morocco , and many visitors' first taste of the country, as it is home to the primary international airport.

This bustling city is Morocco's business powerhouse and industrial center, with a modern swagger that is unseen in other parts of the country.

Needless to say, compared to the history and heritage of Marrakesh and Fes , it can't compete, and most visitors only pass through or stay one night. Despite the fact that Casablanca's tourist attractions and things to do may be few, you will find some gems if you delve a little deeper.

The modern Hassan II Mosque is one of the city's best places to visit, and a tour of the building is worth an overnight stay in town.

Architecture fans will also want to spend some time in Casablanca's downtown district, which is home to plenty of preserved Mauresque facades.

Discover the best places to visit in the city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Casablanca.

1. Take a Tour inside the Hassan II Mosque

2. admire downtown casablanca's architecture, 3. explore casablanca's medina, 4. enjoy some sea air along the corniche, 5. visit casablanca's cathedral du sacre coeur, 6. shop in the central market & souq haboos, 7. hit the beach in mohammedia, 8. visit the museum of moroccan judaism, 9. day trip to azemmour, 10. explore el jadida's unesco-listed citadel, 11. day trip to oualidia, 12. head down the coast to safi, history of casablanca, where to stay in casablanca for sightseeing.

On the shoreline, just beyond the northern tip of Casablanca's medina (old city), the Hassan II mosque dominates the entire city.

Finished in 1993, it is the second largest mosque in the world, covering two hectares in size with the world's tallest minaret (200 meters high).

The prayer hall can accommodate 25,000 worshippers, while the courtyard (which boasts a retractable roof) can fit another 80,000.

Astonishingly intricate decoration covers every centimeter of surface. The location, right on the tip of the rocky bay above the ocean, is thoroughly dramatic.

Non-Muslims can visit the mosque on free guided tours, which are run by the mosque. The tours begin at the mosque's western entrance several times a day.

If your time in Casablanca is limited, you can take in the major highlights of the city on the private half-day Casablanca City Tour , which includes a tour of the Hassan II Mosque, visits to both Marche Central and Quartier Harbous, and photo stops along the seafront Corniche and in downtown's Place Mohamed V. Pickup and drop-off at central city hotels is included, and transport is in a comfortable air-conditioned car or minibus depending on the size of your group.

Address: Boulevard Sidi Mohammed ben Abdullah, Casablanca

Place Mohamed V is the central plaza of Casablanca and is home to many of the city's important official buildings, including the main post office, Palace of Justice, Prefecture, French consulate, and the main Bank of Morocco.

The building facades all sport the neo-Moorish style (known as Mauresque) that French Resident-General Lyautey planned out for the city as he set about modernizing Casablanca in the early 20th century.

The downtown district of Casablanca between Place Mohamed V and Boulevard Mohamed V is brimming with this style of architecture, which blends Art Deco and Art Nouveau with traditional Moroccan design.

In particular, take a stroll down Rue Tahar Sabti and Boulevard Mohamed V to admire some of the best preserved building facades.

Address: Place Mohamed V

Although Casablanca's medina (old city district) doesn't have the same historic atmosphere as the medinas of Fes and Marrakesh , the maze-like tumble of alleyways is still an interesting area to stroll.

The medina here mostly dates from the early 19th century, with the Sqala (the sea-facing defensive wall) the earliest building works here, dating from the era of Portuguese control over this part of the coast in the 18th century.

As the district is a combination of market streets and residential, it's a great place to experience the pulse of Casablanca life.

There are also some interesting koubbas (shrines) dedicated to local Muslim holy men in the medina's southern section.

Address: Avenue des FAR

For sea views and fresh sea breezes close to downtown, head to the Hassan II Mosque and stroll the eastern end of Casablanca's Corniche road from here. You can snap dramatic photographs of the mosque jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean from this vantage point as well.

The Corniche road trails west from here, along Casablanca's shore, all the way to the city's beachfront district of Ain Diab.

Much of Ain Diab's shoreline is now home to luxury hotels and restaurants. The public stretch of beach here isn't particularly clean, so the private beach clubs do a roaring trade, with sun worshipers lapping up the rays and splashing in the club swimming pools.

On sunny weekends, Ain Diab's section of the Corniche is a great spot for people watching, with plenty of local families heading here for picnicking and promenading.

You can get a tram all the way to Ain Diab from central Casablanca.

Address: Boulevard de la Corniche

This graceful cathedral was built in the 1930s, and its architecture is a harmonious blend of both European Art Deco architecture and Moroccan style.

The church was left to wither for decades, with its interior falling into serious dilapidation, but it is currently being restored. Unfortunately, this means it can't be visited, but if you are interested in architecture, it's still well worth a walk here to see the grand white facade.

Another church worth visiting in central Casablanca is the modernist-style Notre Dame de Lourdes (on Boulevard Mohamed Zerktouni), built in the 1950s and lit by a vast stained-glass window.

Address: Boulevard Rachid, Casablanca

Casablanca's bustling central market (Marche Central), between Rue Allal Ben Abdallah and Boulevard Mohamed V, is a must for tourists who want to throw themselves into the midst of city life.

Right in the city center, the market is where locals come to buy and sell everything from fresh produce to household supplies, but it's mostly known for its seafood and fish stalls.

For visitors, there are stalls selling local spices and spice mixes and other culinary condiments such as argan oil that make great foodie gifts to take back home. A few shops selling local crafts, including baskets and metalware, have also slipped into the mix.

The courtyard is home to plenty of cheap restaurants serving up hearty portions of traditional Moroccan dishes and seafood plates, fresh from the fishmongers next door.

The market itself is built in the distinctive Mauresque architectural style (blending elements of traditional Islamic architecture with European styles).

For a more souvenir-oriented market, head to Souq Haboos in Quartier Haboos, south of central Casablanca. This small district was built during the 1930s and again draws on Mauresque style.

The market here offers plenty of traditional Moroccan handicrafts, from carpets to ceramic tiles.

This seaside city, about 28 kilometers north of Casablanca, is fronted by some fine beaches and can be used as a more relaxed alternative to staying in Casablanca. Although home to Morocco's second largest port and related industries, Mohammedia has plenty of laid-back charm.

The petite medina district is a delight to wander through, while the New Town area is attractively laid out, with grand, palm-tree-lined boulevards.

Most visitors, though, are here for the beach. During summer weekends, when half of Casablanca seems to have decamped here for the day, the cafés and restaurants bustle and the sand thrums with activity.

Mohammedia has regular train connections with Casablanca.

This villa in Casablanca's tranquil, well-to-do suburb of Oasis, is dedicated to the history of Morocco's Jewish community, which stretches back for 2,000 years. The villa itself has a long connection with the local Jewish community and was used as a Jewish orphanage.

Photographs, traditional costumes, religious objects, and dioramas are exhibited here, tracing the rich heritage of Moroccan Jews, concentrating on Casablanca's Jewish community. The collection is well labeled, with plenty of information explaining the history and cultural significance of the exhibits.

The most interesting exhibit is the synagogue, originally hailing from the town of Larache, which has been transplanted and reconstructed here.

Address: Rue du Chasseur Jules Cros, Oasis

When tourist boards started promoting Morocco's Atlantic coastline, they somehow left little Azemmour off the list.

But this village, 88 kilometers south of Casablanca, has a history stretching back to Punic times, and a wonderful handful of sites showcase that long tenure.

The adobe-built ramparts encircling the small medina area are Azemmour's main historic attractions, and they connect to the kasbah (fortress), which dates from the 16th century. This is a great place for aimless strolling. It's also possible to walk atop the ramparts at some points.

Azemmour's beach (a couple of kilometers out of town itself) is also one of the best along the Atlantic coast, and is a well-kept secret. Indeed, half of Azemmour's charm lies in the fact that nobody else seems to stop off here.

El Jadida, 102 kilometers south of Casablanca, is home to a sea-facing, UNESCO-listed 16th-century fortress (Cite Portugaise) , which is well worth stopping off to explore on any journey heading south down the coast.

You can scramble up onto the ramparts for excellent sea views and then wander through the lanes where various sections of the fortress have been preserved.

In the northeastern corner is the fortress prison, which was later converted into El Jadida's synagogue.

Make sure to visit the atmospheric cisterns, in the center of the fortress, which were used as a filming location in the famous Orson Welles' movie Othello .

This charming seaside village, about 182 kilometers south of Casablanca, has a chilled-out vibe that's perfect if you're worn out after visiting Morocco's bustling cities. The Saadian-era Kasbah (fortress) is reason enough for a trip here, but for most visitors, Oualidia is all about seafood dining and the sweep of beach that runs along the lagoon.

During summer, Oualidia bustles with day trippers and weekenders from Casablanca taking a break from city life.

Oualidia is a favorite stop for foodie travelers wanting to sample seafood — local restaurants serve it up pulled fresh from the sea that day.

About 237 kilometers south of Casablanca, Safi has been an important port since Roman times, but it was the Almohade rulers who surrounded the city with grand ramparts and made it an intellectual and spiritual center.

The Portuguese occupied the city in 1508 and added to the architecture by building the stately Dar el Bahar Fortress on the shoreline which is now the town's most recognizable monument.

If you're heading down the coast to Essaouira, this is a worthwhile stop-off to break up the journey and explore the fortress and the town's medina district.

Safi is also Morocco's most famous ceramic center, and you'll find plenty of shops and stalls selling pottery throughout the town.

The origins of Casablanca can be traced to the medieval town of Anfa, which is now one of the city's suburbs.

Anfa became the capital of a Berber principality in the aftermath of the Arab invasions of the 7th and 8th centuries. The Berbers embraced Islam but quickly succumbed to heretical doctrines, setting up their own prophet and a Qur'an in Berber language.

The principality was known as Berghouata, and its tribal inhabitants joined a Kharijite rebellion against the Arab governor of Tangier. In the 11th century, the Almoravids waged holy war against these heretics, who were finally defeated by the Almohad Sultan Abdul Mou'min.

The town came under the influence of the Merenids during the 13th century, but eventually became independent as the dynasty weakened.

The Portuguese destroyed the town in 1468 in reprisal for piracy. Portugal sent a fleet of 50 vessels and 10,000 soldiers to occupy the town, which was sacked and then abandoned. But piracy soon revived, and the Portuguese returned in 1515 and destroyed the town once again.

In 1575, the town was rebuilt, fortified, and renamed Casa Branca by the Portuguese in an attempt to establish control over the area. However, the Portuguese rulers fell under constant attack by surrounding Muslim tribes and were finally forced to abandon the town following a terrible earthquake in 1755.

Under the reign of Sidi Mohamed ben Abdallah (1757-1790), the town was rebuilt with a mosque, madrasa, hammam, and a fort and renamed Dar El Beida (The White House), which the Spanish eventually translated as Casablanca.

To soak up Casablanca's modern vibe and historic sights, the best place to stay is in the city center, near the old medina, which lies about a five-minute taxi ride from the Hassan II Mosque. Another popular place to stay is on the oceanfront, especially in the upscale Anfa neighborhood, near the Corniche. From here, it's less than 10 minutes by taxi to the city center.

Luxury Hotels:

• About two kilometers from the Hassan II Mosque and within walking distance of the old medina, the Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche , with a spa and heated indoor pool, is popular for its friendly staff and chic, jewel-toned guest rooms. Breakfast is included in the rates.
• Steps from Place Mohamed V, the boutique Hotel Le Doge Relais & Chateaux resides in a grand Art Deco Villa, with glamorous rooms, great food, and attentive service.
• If you prefer to stay in an oceanfront resort, the Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca exudes contemporary Moroccan elegance. Facilities include a day spa and an outdoor pool and Jacuzzi with private cabanas.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Right next door to the Four Seasons, the oceanfront Pestana Casablanca is a great option for families or extended stays, with its apartment-style accommodation. It's just a hop across the promenade to the beach.
• In the city center, a short drive from the old medina and less than three kilometers from the Hassan II Mosque, the pet-friendly Kenzi Tower Hotel boasts great city views from its upper-floor rooms, and the hotel has free parking, a swimming pool, and fitness center.
• Also popular in the mid-range bracket for its good-sized, business-style rooms, the Kenzi Basma is right in the city center within walking distance of the Old Medina.

Budget Hotels:

• Ibis Casablanca City Center has fresh modern interiors in its rooms, a restaurant, and a convenient location opposite the Casa-Port railway station, which also offers easy access to the old medina.
• Right across from the Casa Voyageurs railway station and about two kilometers from the central market, Al Walid Hotel is popular for its good facilities with a restaurant, gym, and spa, as well as its simple but good-sized rooms.
• Nearby Ibis Casa Voyageurs is another affordable option, close to public transport in the city center. It offers a restaurant, free car parking, a nice outdoor terrace, and small but contemporary rooms.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Atlantic Coast Destinations: For sun-drenched holiday relaxation check out the resort town of Agadir , to the south of Casablanca. Or head north to the capital, Rabat, with its museums and small medina area. From Rabat, hop farther up the coast to Tangier , a major port city, famous for its 1950s artistic heyday.

Heading Inland: From Casablanca, take the train inland to the red city of Marrakesh , Morocco's premier tourism destination, famed for its walled medina and the Djemaa el-Fna. Marrakesh is the perfect place to get in some city action before heading out into the Atlas Mountain region, with its gorges, desert, and mudbrick kasbahs.

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25 Best Things To Do in Casablanca

Casablanca is one of the most important and visited cities in Morocco. In fact, it is the economic capital of the country and its most populated city with almost 5 million inhabitants. In this post we tell you 25 things to do in Casablanca, the biggest city in Morocco.

Here are the best places to stay in Casablanca. Get the best deals and discounts on hotels here.

25 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN CASABLANCA

The hassan ii mosque.

Apart from being the biggest city in Morocco , Casablanca caught our attention because of this incredible mosque. It is the second largest in the world, after the one in Mecca, and the highest ever built. Its minaret measures 172 meters. It was inaugurated in 1993 and its exterior occupies more than 30,000 square meters, generating capacity for more than 90,000 people.

The minaret has a laser that points to Mecca and can be seen from several kilometers away. It is the only mosque in the country that can be visited, although in a guided way. However, you must pay 120 dirhams per person (about 12 euros). A rather high price compared to most monuments in the country, but they have to recover somehow the more than 500 million euros invested in its construction.

Walking around the Corniche

Like Doha, Abu Dhabi and the great Arab cities overlooking the sea, Casablanca also has a Corniche. It would be our promenade. Walking around while enjoying the sea breeze and the view of the beautiful Hassan II mosque is an incredible thing to do in Casablanca. Casablanca also has great beaches .

Shopping at Anfaplace Shopping Centre

Casablanca has more shopping centres than any other city in North Africa. Casablanca is a modern city and if you feel like going shopping or disconnecting from so much tourism, you can do so in this shopping centre. It is located on the Corniche itself and has 3 floors and over 80 shops to entertain you.

Being Humphrey Bogart at Rick’s Café

An interesting thing to see in Casablanca is the famous Rick’s Café, the place that appears in the film Casablanca, starring Humphrey Bogart. However, this café never existed, since the film was shot entirely in Hollywood. Tourists visited Casablanca and could not find the coffee. Finally, after many disappointments and great expectations, the city decided to build the café, which is decorated just as it appears in the film. If you’re looking for something fun to do in Casablanca, come to Rick’s Café (even if you know it’s the fake one, or the real one, it depends on how you look at it).

Discover the old Medina of Casablanca

Casablanca is the most modern city in Morocco, yes, but it also retains its ancient medina , which contrasts sharply with the city’s grand avenues. Compared to other medinas in other rather touristy destinations in Morocco , the medina of Casablanca is quite small and less authentic. It should be noted that an earthquake in 1755 destroyed it almost completely and that in the last 100 years have taken many urban changes in the city, which obviously have affected and much of the character of this historic place.

Get lost in its labyrinth streets and don’t get tired of haggling to get some product that catches your eye.

Photographing the Clock Tower

It’s one of the emblems of Casablanca. This Clock Tower was built in 1911 by the French captain Dessigny with the aim of convincing the inhabitants of the city of the need to get used to the pace of life marked by the industrial society. However, the one we see today is not the original, but a replica. In 1948 it was demolished because it was in a precarious condition and was not rebuilt until 1993, so look at it with love!

Getting to know the United Nations Square

Right next to the Clock Tower is one of the ugliest squares we have ever seen. Although it is not superfluous to know it since it is one of the neuralgic centers of Casablanca. It is a real chaos: cut off by the tram, full of people, tourists and without many attractions other than shops and restaurants. You have to be careful because it is full of pickpockets who are waiting for any carelessness to take over your things.

Is it safe to travel to Morocco? Our experience and advice .

Getting lost in the Central Market

This interesting market is surrounded by buildings from the French colonial period. It was created during that time to meet the most select requests of the Europeans who lived in Casablanca. Today it is still the most important market in Casablanca. There you can find everything from fish and meat to a variety of spices. Without a doubt, even if you are not planning to buy anything, visiting it is something to do in Casablanca.

Visit Mohammed V Square

In contrast to the United Nations, this is one of the most beautiful squares in the city. It is considered the heart of Casablanca and contains many architectural gems. Many of the buildings around it are Mudejar in style (combining Moroccan and French influences). Among them are the Palace of Justice, the French Consulate, the National Bank and the Prefecture. It is a quiet space where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful architecture.

Walk around the Art-Deco neighborhood and be surprised by its buildings

Just west of Mohammed V Square is the so-called Art-Decó neighborhood. Along the busy Mohammed V Avenue, you can enjoy numerous facades of this artistic movement that transformed part of the city.

Make a stop at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart

Also known as Casablanca Cathedral, it is not really a cathedral. It is named after its monumental appearance, in the neo-Gothic style. It was built in 1953 to serve the Catholic community that lived in Casablanca but its stage as a church lasted a few years. In 1956, with the political independence of the country from France and Spain, lost Catholic faithful and ceased to operate. Today it is used as a cultural center.

Relaxing in the Arab League Park

Casablanca is a rather chaotic city and to be able to enjoy spaces like this one is appreciated. After a busy day of sightseeing, there are few better things to do in Casablanca than to stroll around surrounded by beautiful palm trees.

Photograph the Twin Center, the twin towers of Casablanca

At 118 metres high each, these twin towers are the tallest in Morocco. Both have 28 floors and were built in 1998. Inside is the second largest shopping centre in Africa, a supermarket and many shops.

Have a drink at Sky 28

You can’t leave Casablanca without seeing the city from above. To do so, the best thing you can do is go up to the 28th floor of the Twin Center, where the Sky 28 restaurant is located. Although the dishes are well above Casablanca’s average, it’s a place worth visiting. Especially at night, with a cocktail in hand, with music in the background and Casablanca at your feet, is there a better plan possible?

Don’t miss the Quartier Habous

Or also known as Nueva Medina. Even if it falls a bit far from the city centre, it’s worth a visit. It is much quieter and more authentic than the old one, without so many crowds or tourists. If you want to buy some local crafts, this is one of the best places to do so.

Visit the Olive Souk

In the Quartier Habous there are several things that caught our attention: one of them was a souk dedicated to olives. Although it’s nothing fancy, getting closer and discovering it is an interesting thing to do in Casablanca.

Go to the Mahkama du Pacha Palace, one of the best monuments to see in Casablanca

This is one of the best treasures in the city, although visiting it is not easy. You are not always allowed to enter and if you are lucky, you must visit it with a guide, as it is used as a court of justice. It is located next to the neighborhood market and its interiors are spectacular. Don’t miss it!

Eating a sweet at Bennis Habous Bakery

If none of the above attractions in the Quartier Habous catches your eye, at least you can take advantage of your visit to the neighborhood by enjoying the typical Moroccan pastries. The Bennis Habous bakery is one of the most famous in the city and trying some of its sweets is a must in Casablanca.

Shopping at the Morocco Mall

It’s the largest shopping mall in Africa. It is located on the outskirts of the city, although it is perfectly accessible on foot from the Hassan II mosque. It takes approximately 40 minutes on foot. In the mall you will have an infinite number of options: many shops, IMAX, restaurants and even a fish tank with sharks that will take you to the shopping malls of Dubai.

Overall, it’s good, but if you want to get a feel for the country, you’d better go shopping in the souks!

Approaching the Sidi Abderrahman Shrine

This is one of the funniest things to do in Casablanca. The site hides a rather fascinating history. Sidi Abderrahman, considered a saint by some Muslims, came from Baghdad in the 19th century and settled on this islet. The marabout lived there until the end of his days and is now a pilgrimage site.

Access to the temple where Sidi Abderrahman is buried is forbidden to non-Muslims. The rest can be visited.

Visit the imposing Royal Palace, an impressive place to see in Casablanca

The King of Morocco has Royal Palaces in all the important cities of Morocco and Casablanca is no exception. The city’s Royal Palace is located in the Quartier Habous. Entry to the building is prohibited, as in all the Royal Palaces in the country, although it is possible to see its doors (with the permission of the guards).

Visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism

If you are looking for something different to do in Casablanca and you have enough time, it is not bad to visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism. It is the only Jewish museum in the entire Arab world, which makes it even more special. There you will learn a little more about the history of the country and its religions. Interesting but not essential.

Go to Derb Ghallef for electronics

Although you can find everything in this souk, it is basically attractive because there are many electronic devices, especially mobile ones. Many are counterfeit and some are probably stolen. You’ll also find a lot of pirated movies. Without a doubt, it is one of the most fun things to do in Casablanca.

Have fun in Parc Sindibad

If you have several days in Casablanca and you travel with children you can visit the playground Sindibad. Although it’s not a big deal, I’m sure your children will appreciate it if you take the time to disconnect from the stress of Moroccan markets. As for the entrance, the prices are really cheap: 75 dirhams a ticket with unlimited attractions.

Escape to Rabat

Although Rabat is usually a place to escape from the main tourist routes in Morocco, it never hurts to get to know the country’s capital. We were pleasantly surprised. Besides breathing its institutional air, hides many attractions like the beautiful Kasbah of the Udayas or the Necropolis of Chellah . Besides, it is relatively close to Casablanca: you will not take more than 1 hour by train.

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Casablanca: 18 Best Things to Do and Places to Visit

“Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine.” To get in the mood of visiting beautiful white Casablanca, remember the iconic romantic drama from 1942 starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. First, you can taste the charm of Casablanca on screen and after, step into the city and experience this feeling for real. The scene is yours.

Take a look at the list of the best things to do and places to visit in this biggest Moroccan city architecturally built with a touch of European style. Travel to Morocco and meet Casablanca!

Hassan II Mosque

One of the largest mosques in the world, is a place to meet God and at the same time to admire the intricate and detailed decorative work of every piece of building and courtyard. Hasan II Mosque was recently completed, only in 1993 and is also open to non-Muslims. You can easily find the mosque. Just take your steps to the side of the ocean, the 210-meter-long minaret can easily guide you.

One may think, Casablanca film was made in Casablanca. But the truth is, it was all Hollywood set. And so it was Rick’s bar. But tourists travelling to Casablanca still can find this iconic bar, relax with piano music and enjoy their drink. Admire stylish setting and feel like you are a main hero now and part of the movie past.

Cathedrale Sacre-Coeur

The Sacré-Cœur Cathedral was designed by the French architect Paul Tournon and built in 1930. Nowadays it is a home of exhibitions and fairs. We recommended to visit the tower, the view is fantastic.

Habous neighborhood and King’s palace

Where the king sleeps? In the palace! However, you don’t get the chance to see the interior of this opulent home, but you still can admire King’ palace from a large open square in front. This palace can be found in quiet “quartier” called Habous. Wide and well maintained area is one of the most pleasant places in Casablanca where you don’t meet crowds of tourists. Just another face of Casablanca.

Mahkama du pacha

Mahkama du pacha is a parliamentary building, sometimes referred to as the ‘Prefecture of Habbous’. Inside you can admire traditional Moroccan architecture with arches, mosaic decorations and ornaments and this place is considered for the paradise of photographers. For entry is needed to gain permission, and be aware, this can be difficult because the building is still in use.

La Corniche

The sun and beach relax on the west from the II Mosque! Visit La Corniche and enjoy the holiday atmosphere. Corniche Boulevard is lined with shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. Beautiful place to enjoy a peaceful walk in sand.

Moroccan Jewish Museum

The history of the Jewish nation in Morocco is stored in the Museum of Moroccan Judaism. Visit this place that expresses respect for a different religion in the Arab world. You will have the honor to view historical artifacts, photographs, tools or clothes.

Marche Central

Rush and excitement, you can only find on the market. Go to a central market where you witness a typical act of getting the best from the best. You never know what catches your eye. Maybe fresh figs or traditional Moroccan leather shoes will now travel in Morocco with you.

Notre Dame de Lourdes

20 000 Catholics live in Casablanca and Notre Dame de Lourdes serves for these believers inside of the beautiful sacred place with modern architecture. Inside you can find enormous stained windows and Moroccan carpets of the highest quality. And also, Notre Dame gives you peace and a little break from the rushing city.

Mohammed V Square

Don’t miss a visit of the city center square Mohammed V. In the square you will find the Palace of Justice building, and it is also a perfect meeting point not only for tourists. You can also enjoy the unique Moroccan street food and soak up the atmosphere of Casablanca’s life.

Eating in Casablanca

Prepare your hungry bellies for a properly grilled lamb. In Casablanca you will taste authentic Moroccan dishes as well as European cuisine. You will come across many French restaurants, but there are also Spanish and Indian ones.

Bab Marrakech Souk

Bab Marrakech is a symbol of the old market and the old Medina. Don’t forget to insure your memories with beautiful Moroccan souvenirs. We encourage you to buy authentic spices or leather products, but you will surely be enchanted by more beautiful things in the shops and markets well-known for Bab Marrakech.

Villa des Artes

More than 800 permanent artworks along with temporary expositions, Villa des Artes offers you the opportunity to meet contemporary arts of Moroccan culture . Native and international artists present their work in the Art Deco building.

Street art is always an eye strain, whether you are an artistic expert or not. Stroll through the streets of Casablanca and enjoy the masterpieces created under the veil of the night.

Up to the clouds! Or at least on the 28th floor. Visit the extravagant bar Sky 28 and enjoy the views of the city. Life will flow under you in old Medina and you will become a silent observer with a drink in hand.

Parc de Jeux Sindibad

Park Sindibad is an amusement park projected for family fun on attractions designed for the child’s happiness . You can spend a good part of your day and besides the fun and good views of the city during your rides, you can also visit restaurants, souvenir shop or small ZOO with lions. The park was reopened in 2015 and before, it was a popular place for photographers who wanted to take pictures of abandoned place, a little ghost town, which used to be full of life and happy laughs. But today life is overflowing here again.

Morocco Mall

Fancy to visit Africa’s largest shopping mall and looking for some global luxury brands? Come to Morocco’s Mega Mall, which can be found just outside of Casablanca. A different world from the markets on the streets and souks, but you can also find here many attractions as 3D IMAX cinema, ice skating or kiddie theme park Adventureland.

Island Marabout de Sidi Abderrahmane

A pilgrimage site where Sidi Abderrahmane Thaalibi, a Moroccan saint, was buried. You can find the tiny island just a few meters away from the coast and get there on the newly built bridge. This place is all about legends and myths and has a mysterious vibe. Come visit this place and seek spiritual enlightenment.

20 Days: Morocco Journey

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Should You Visit Casablanca, Morocco?

· our answer to this question, plus the best things to do in casablanca, safety in casablanca, and more. [updated november 2022] ·.

Casablanca is the biggest city in Morocco, yet many people simply pass right by it when visiting this Northern African nation. This is because it is often referred to as nothing more than a concrete jungle, and many people opt to head directly to other cities like Marrakech , Rabat , and Fes. At most, visitors decide to fly into Casablanca, spend one night there, and head to another city the next day.

Is Casablanca just a concrete jungle or is there more to do?

While there are good reasons to do this, I think that this question deserves a little bit of looking into. Should you spend more than one day in Casablanca? Is Casablanca worth visiting? After all, Casablanca didn’t even make the top five on our list of the best cities to visit in Morocco . This post is going to dive into these questions, and provide a few reasons why there is more to Casablanca than just concrete. More specifically, this post is going to cover the best things to do in Casablanca, how to get there, how to get around, safety, and more. While this post won’t cover what to wear when visiting Casablanca, I did write a whole post on what to wear in Morocco that I recommend reading before your trip.

Is Casablanca Safe to Visit?

Morocco is usually the first country that westerners visit in the Arab World, and this is largely due to its level of familiarity. Morocco kind of bridges the gap between European and Middle Eastern culture and influence, and it truly does make for a great first Arab country to visit. In truth, Morocco is unique in and of itself, and while there are components of both European and Arab cultures in Morocco, it has developed a culture of its own over its 1000 years of existence. Personally, I think that Morocco’s culture is much more similar to the cultures of Middle Eastern countries, but it is still very unique in and of itself.

Regardless, my point is that if this is your first time visiting an Arab country, you are likely to be apprehensive. As an American, I heard plenty of stories of terrorism, violence, and crime associated with “the Middle East,” and even I was a bit apprehensive about visiting Morocco for the first time. Well, there are several things wrong with that fear, but I think the most important one to note is that Morocco isn’t even in the Middle East. Morocco is as far from the Middle East as New York City is from Mexico City, or London is from Istanbul. Italy and Greece are both closer.

Important note: Morocco isn’t even in the Middle East.

Morocco is a very safe country to visit. There are few threats of violence here, and I would argue that there is no more threat of violence here than there is in Western Europe or the United States. While you want to take caution in any new place that you travel, there is no need for any different level of caution than you would have in Paris or Rome. Personally, in all of my experiences in the Arab World, I have felt just as safe as I would in Europe. This includes cities like Dubai , Abu Dhabi , and Muscat.

The most common crimes in Casablanca are pickpocketing and scamming.

Casablanca is not the safest city in Morocco. As it is the largest, it also has the most criminals. You’ll find this anywhere, though. There are very few threats of violent crime here, as the most common types of crime you could run into are pickpocketing and scamming. Pickpocketing is a real issue, and you should never keep things in your back pockets. Especially with the close nature of the markets, having a phone or wallet disappear is very easy if you aren’t careful. However, as long as you are careful and keep an eye on your things, there is very little threat to you in Casablanca.

Best Things to Do in Casablanca, Morocco

1. take a tour of the hassan ii mosque.

The Hassan II Mosque is the highlight of Casablanca, and I don’t think anything else is even close. This grand mosque is one of the biggest in the world, and is the second-biggest mosque in all of Africa. The architecture is an absolute marvel, and the interior decor is stunningly beautiful. Visitors can take a 45-minute guided tour for 130 dirhams, which is currently about $12 (November 2022). Note that if you want to enter the mosque, you do not need to be a practicing Muslim, but you do need to follow the mosque’s rules. These include no use of cell phones or video recording devices, as well as the mandatory covering of knees and arms. There is no need to wear a head-covering, and shoes must be left at the designated place near the entrance. For more information on tour times and current prices, be sure to visit the mosque’s website directly.

2. Visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism

Morocco is a majority Muslim country. The religious split between Islam, Christianity, and Judaism isn’t even close. In fact, the country is 99% Sunni Muslim. However, Morocco prides itself as being an extremely religiously tolerant nation, having proud Jewish and Christian populations scattered throughout the country. While Jews and Christians only comprise about 1% of Morocco’s population, they have still been allowed more or less to freely practice their faiths for over a millennium. In fact, many tour guides will point out the three ball design that traditionally tops mosque minarets in Morocco, as it symbolizes unity between the three major monotheistic faiths of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.

Jewish people have been living in these lands for over 2,000 years and have contributed significantly to what has become the modern country of Morocco. The Museum of Moroccan Judaism is a testament to that, and aims to preserve and share the history and role of Jewish people in Morocco. For more information on tickets and hours of operation, check out the Museum of Moroccan Judaism’s website.

3. Grab a Drink at Rick’s Cafe

While Casablanca is famous for more reasons than just one, the 1942 movie that shares its name definitely helped to put it on the map. This movie was a massive success, and it threw a lot of attention and publicity Morocco’s way. Nowadays, I think one of the best things to do in Casablanca is to visit Rick’s Cafe , which is very reminiscent of the cafe that the movie centers around.

While finding alcohol can be a hard task in Morocco, Rick’s Cafe is one place where you can definitely sit down and have a drink. There is also frequently live entertainment here, making an evening stop for a beer at Rick’s cafe one of the best things to do in Casablanca.

4. Go Shopping in the Markets of the Habous Quarter

Morocco is known around the world for its bustling markets. I mentioned in my Marrakech travel guide that the souks, or markets in the city are some of the best places to visit. The same is true in Casablanca, except that the vibe is a little different. While locals do go to the markets in both cities, Marrakech’s souks are very geared towards tourism. The merchants tend to speak very good English, and they are used to jacking up the prices for tourists.

I’m not saying that the merchants in Casablanca won’t do this, but they certainly deal more with locals than the souks of Marrakech do. The Habous Quarter, or the New Medina, is filled with local artisans of all kinds who are looking to peddle their wares. I bought a leather bag here, and it has held up for years. From Moroccan rugs to spices and perfumes, the Habous Quarter has it all. Just be sure to follow my tips for haggling in Morocco , as the first price is normally at least twice what you should pay.

5. Spend an Evening in the Mohammed V Square

The Mohammed V Square, or Place Mohammed V in French, is the main square of Casablanca. This square is surrounded by administrative buildings, and is located right in the heart of the city. While there are people here all day long, I think that the best time to hang out here is in the evening when it really starts to get crowded. This place gets very lively in the evenings, and you’ll see all kinds of interesting things happening here depending on the day.

Going for a stroll through the park on a weekday evening is actually one of the best things to do in Casablanca.

From vendors setting up shop to people hanging out and playing games, this is a great place to go and witness Moroccan people just living their lives. This square is very close to the Arab League Park, which is the main green space of Casablanca. I think just sitting here for an hour or two and going for a stroll through the park on a weekday evening is actually one of the best things to do in Casablanca.

6. Admire the Cathedrale Sacre-Coeur

As I mentioned earlier, Morocco is 99% Sunni Muslim, but that doesn’t mean the city’s only beautiful places of worship are mosques ! The Cathedrale Sacre-Coeur is the Catholic cathedral of Casablanca, and it is stunning. While it has been more or less out of service since the Catholic French occupation ended in the 1950’s, it is still a sight to behold. The interior is beautiful, and the view of the city from the spires is what really makes visiting the Cathedrale Sacre-Coeur one of the best things to do in Casablanca. There is a fee to climb the stairs, but it is minimal and worth every dirham!

How to Get to Casablanca

Flying to casablanca.

Flying into Casablanca is extremely straightforward, as Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport (CMN) is the biggest and busiest in Morocco. I mention in my post on finding cheap airfare that typically, bigger airports offer better flight options. This is true for Casablanca! This airport usually has the best flight options of any airport in Morocco, meaning convenient flight routes and often cheaper airfare. There are even several direct flights from the United States to Casablanca. The airport is located about 40 minutes outside of the city center, and you can get from the airport to the city center by either taxi or train.

– R E A D –

Airport to Hotel

If you ask me, the best way to get from the Casablanca airport to your hotel is by booking a private transfer with our partners at Welcome Pickups .

Welcome Pickups offers personalized, private, comfortable rides from the airport into the city for about the same price as a standard taxi. They monitor your flight status while you are in the air, and a driver will be waiting for you holding a sign with your name on it as soon as you arrive.

Otherwise, I highly recommend the train, as it is safe, efficient, and a fraction of the cost of a taxi. The taxis operate under a flat rate from the airport to the city center, which is currently between 250-300 dirhams, or around $30. The train departs every hour from the early morning until about 10:00pm, and the fare is 42 dirhams, or roughly $3. Tickets can be purchased directly in the airport station. If you want to go to the city center, it is usually best to get off at the Casa Port Station.

Ground Transportation to Casablanca

If you are coming from another city in Morocco, there are two main ways to get to Casablanca: again, taxis and trains . If you are taking a taxi, it will likely drop you off right at your accommodation. If you are taking a train, it will probably drop you off at the Casa Voyageurs Station, which is a bit outside of the city. From there, you can either taxi to your accommodation or take another train to Casa Port Station.

How to Get Around Casablanca

TRAM | TAXI | BUS | TRAIN | UBER

Casablanca has the best public transportation in Morocco by far.

The city is served by taxis, trams, trains, buses, and even Uber. I found that the most convenient ways to get around were by tram and Uber. I am often wary of taxis, but I did take a couple in Casablanca and found them to be safe and trustworthy. As with anywhere, be sure the driver either uses the meter or agrees to a price before your journey begins. I still prefer Uber, though, because I think it is one of the safest forms of car transportation that exists , due to its GPS tracking. For more information on getting around in Casablanca, check out this great and detailed post on TripSavvy.

The Best Time to Visit Casablanca

Casablanca has surprisingly great weather all year. Despite being located in a country that houses part of the Sahara Desert, Casablanca’s weather is pretty beautiful for the majority of the year. The winter months see more rain than others, but temperatures tend to stay in the higher 50’s or lower 60’s. In the hottest months of the year, the temperatures normally cap out at 90 degrees, which is really tolerable all things considered. I think that the best time to visit Casablanca is in the spring, when the temperatures are beautiful, the rainier months have ended, and the crowds of tourists are still at home.

The weather is beautiful in Casablanca during the spring.

Another great time to visit Casablanca, if you want a more cultural experience, is during the holy month of Ramadan. This frequently occurs in the spring, which ties in beautifully with what I mentioned above. While Morocco has a very different feel during Ramadan than it does during other months, there is a lot of beauty on display during this month, which is the holiest month of the year for Muslims. If you are curious about visiting Morocco during Ramadan, be sure to read my post on traveling to Muslim countries during Ramadan to have a better understanding of what to expect.

Is Casablanca Worth Visiting?

Now, the central question of this post: is Casablanca worth visiting? And if so, how long should you visit Casablanca? Let me unpack this a little bit. Firstly, Casablanca is absolutely worth visiting, and I would never recommend skipping it. To me, Casablanca is kind of like New York City, in that it is a metropolitan center with a lot of concrete and industrial areas, but that doesn’t make it a bad place to visit. Just like New York City has plenty of great things for tourists to do, so does Casablanca. You should absolutely visit Casablanca on any trip to Morocco.

I would never recommend skipping Casablanca.

With that being said, the amount of time that you should spend there varies. If you have the time, I recommend spending two or three days in Casablanca . While you could cycle through most of the top things to do in Casablanca in a day, I think that giving yourself a little bit of extra time is a good idea. There are beautiful areas by the beach that make for great day trips, and hustling through the city in just one day really doesn’t do it justice.

If you are operating on a tighter itinerary, I recommend that you allow at least one full day to explore Casablanca. If you are arriving at night, I recommend spending that night plus one more in Casablanca before leaving. If you are arriving in the morning, Maybe consider taking a later train or taxi to your next city the next day. Casablanca, in my opinion, should be a destination in and of itself on your itinerary and not just a place that you pass through on your way to Marrakech or Fes.

That’s all we have for you about Casablanca! Hopefully this post is helpful as you start planning your journey to Morocco’s biggest city. If you were wondering “Is Casablanca worth visiting?” I hope that this post has helped answer your questions!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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Your Trip to Casablanca: The Complete Guide

The coastal city of Casablanca is the largest in Morocco, with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, an eclectic culinary scene, and unique architecture that draws inspiration from both Moorish and French Art Deco styles. There are many reasons to visit Casablanca. Some come to visit Hassan II Mosque, home to the largest religious minaret in the world ; others come to unwind on the Atlantic beaches or to surf the winter swell. Some visitors are drawn by the romance of the iconic movie "Casablanca" but stay for the city's gritty, authentic insight into modern Moroccan life. Whatever your reasons for visiting the White City, use our planning guide—which includes tips on when to visit, what to eat, and where to stay—to help you get the most out of your trip. 

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Although Casablanca is a year-round destination, summer (June to August) is traditionally considered the best time to visit. The weather is warm and dry, although not as uncomfortably hot as it is in Morocco’s interior cities at this time. Many important cultural events, including the Festival de Casablanca, are held in the summer. 
• Language: As in the rest of Morocco, there are two official languages in Casablanca; Standard Arabic and Tamazight (Berber). The most commonly spoken European language is French, although many people can speak some English. 
• Currency: Moroccan dirham. 
• Getting Around : The Casa Tramway offers a convenient, efficient, and affordable way to get around Casablanca. If the tram’s two lines don’t cover your chosen destination, private taxis (petit taxis in Morocco) are a helpful alternative. 
• Travel Tip: Although summer offers the best weather, consider traveling in spring or fall to avoid crowds of vacationers and inflated prices. 

Things to Do

Casablanca is very different from Morocco's Imperial Cities, where medieval architecture and atmospheric souks are the main attractions. Instead, the city offers a more authentic, everyday Moroccan experience. Join the locals strolling hand-in-hand along the seafront promenade known as La Corniche. Feast on fresh seafood and rich tagines in hidden restaurants, or wander through the Old Medina to the port and the remains of the city's 16th-century Portuguese fortress. Throughout the city, architectural landmarks abound, from those built in classic Moorish style like Makhama du Pacha to graceful European structures like L’Église du Sacre-Cœur.

• Shop for souvenirs in the Quartier Habous, a neighborhood built by the French in the 1930s. Its design and architecture blend the best of Moorish and Art Deco influences to create a unique style known as Mauresque. Wander along cobbled streets beneath ornate archways and arcades, shopping for traditional Moroccan crafts at artisan stalls along the way. 
• Take a stroll along La Corniche, Casablanca's seafront promenade. Stop for a swim in the sea or a picnic on the beach, rent a surfboard, sip cocktails at an ocean-view seafood restaurant, or take a guided tour of the city's most famous landmark: the overwater Hassan II Mosque. 
• Discover Casablanca's rich cultural scene with an exhibition at Villa des Arts de Casablanca, perhaps, or a concert at the historic Cinéma Rialto. The city's most famous cultural events, the Festival de Casablanca and Jazzablanca, usually occur in late summer and April, respectively.

Find out more about how to spend your time in Casablanca with our helpful guides on the best things to do in Casablanca , the ultimate 48-hour Casablanca itinerary , and the best day trips from Casablanca . 

What to Eat and Drink

Thanks to its large size and culturally diverse population, Casablanca has one of Morocco's most eclectic culinary scenes. You will find cuisines from around the world represented here, from the complex dishes of India and China to sophisticated Japanese delicacies to comfort foods full of the flavors of Italy and Mexico. However, it's also a great place to sample classic Moroccan dishes . Must-try staples include tagine (a rich stew of meat and vegetables, flavored with spices, nuts, and dried fruit), couscous, and pastilla (a savory pie made from meat wrapped in layers of paper-thin pastry). Above all, though, Casablanca is renowned for its seafood. Restaurants at the port and on La Corniche offer the chance to savor fresh-caught fish, oysters, and lobsters while admiring views of the ocean from which they came. 

Alcohol is more prevalent in Casablanca than in many smaller Moroccan towns, and you will be able to order imported beer, wine, and spirits from most international restaurants and upscale hotels. Some places even offer wine from Moroccan vineyards. However, traditional Moroccan restaurants usually don't serve alcohol for religious reasons. There are plenty of delicious alcohol-free alternatives, including freshly squeezed orange juice, dark Arabic coffee, and of course, Morocco's most ubiquitous beverage: mint tea. 

For specific advice on where to eat, read our articles on the best restaurants in Casablanca and the top foods to try in Casablanca . 

Where to Stay

Casablanca’s accommodation is as diverse as its restaurant scene, with everything from traditional Moroccan guesthouses to five-star hotels by international luxury brands. Where you stay is a matter of personal preference. Those that like to be at the heart of the action should choose a central location close to Mohammed V Square and Place des Nations Unies, two of the most important public squares in Casablanca. The Gauthier district is a trendy choice, with plenty of fashionable hotels and a wealth of restaurants, bars, and shopping boutiques within easy walking distance. Alternatively, many of the city’s most luxurious hotels are located away from the city center on La Corniche or the El Hank peninsula. These areas boast spectacular sea views and easy access to Casablanca’s beaches. 

Read our article on the best hotels in Casablanca to find out more. 

Getting There

Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) is the largest airport in Morocco and one of the five busiest in Africa . It’s the main port of entry for most visitors to the country, and getting from the airport to the city center is easy via train or petit taxi. You can catch a train or a long-distance bus to Casablanca from most major cities if you're already in Morocco. Trains are operated by the national rail network ONCF , while the two biggest bus companies are CTM and Supratours . Both methods of transport are safe and affordable. 

Culture and Customs

Morocco is an Islamic country, and as such, non-Muslim visitors should be careful not to offend with behavior that would usually be acceptable at home. In particular, both genders (but especially women) should dress conservatively in clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. This is especially important if you plan on visiting Hassan II Mosque, as you won’t be allowed in otherwise. 

In Morocco, you should always use your right hand to shake hands, give a gift or tip, and eat. The left hand is reserved for bathroom duties in Islamic countries and is considered unclean. Other necessary customs include always removing your shoes before entering someone’s home, never drinking alcohol in public places (i.e., on the street), and keeping public displays of affection to a minimum. The latter is especially relevant for LGBTQ+ travelers since homosexuality is still illegal in Morocco . 

Money Saving Tips

• The first and most important way to save money in Casablanca is to remember that prices are often negotiable. This is true for souvenirs and food for sale in the Old Medina and the Central Marketplace, taxi fares, and sometimes even sightseeing tours. A good rule of thumb is to offer half of the original asking price and then haggle until you both agree on a price somewhere in the middle. 
• If you use the Casa Tramway to get around, explore the different passes and choose the one that gives you the best value (this will depend on the length of your stay and how often you will be using the tram). For example, a weekly subscription card works out cheaper than a standard prepaid card if you plan on using the tram more than 10 times within the week. 
• If you use the petit taxis to get around, choose one with a working meter. This can be pretty difficult, so alternatively, be sure to agree on a price before you accept the ride. Remember that taxi fares in Casablanca increase by 50 percent after 8 p.m.
• Restaurants in Casablanca are generally affordable by Western standards. However, if you’re dining on a shoestring, remember that street stalls and local restaurants (especially in the Central Marketplace) charge a fraction of the price compared with smart restaurants geared towards tourists. They can be just as tasty, too. 
• If you plan on making a few day trips from Casablanca, grand taxis (shared minibusses) are the cheapest way to travel. However, buses and trains are also affordable, safer, and more comfortable. 

Hassan II Mosque Official Website. " Key Figures. " 2020.

Moroccan National Tourist Office. " Language. " 2020

Casablanca Airport Official Website. " Casablanca Airport. " 2020

OutRight Action International. " Morocco. " 2020

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Travelers Often Skip Casablanca—7 Reasons It’s Actually a Must-Visit City in Morocco

By Jen Murphy

To a romantic, Casablanca is a mythical place that exists in a dream inspired by the 1942 film starring Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart. The reality is that the movie Casablanca was actually filmed on a soundstage in Hollywood and the real Casablanca is often overlooked by tourists who gravitate to the souks of Marrakech and Fez or the exotic beaches of Essaouira and Tangier. Casablanca is a city for travelers who like to feel like a local, rather than a tourist, and who want to experience the present as well as learn about the past. The enormity of Casablanca, Morocco's most populous city, means visitors have to make an effort to discover its hidden details. Once you get beneath the surface, you’ll see that Casablanca’s mix of grit and style feels a lot like Los Angeles. Here’s why it’s worth a visit.

1. Casablanca is a hotbed of fascinating architecture. Architecture buffs will geek out on the city’s diverse building styles, from Art Deco to radically modern. To truly understand the stories behind the city’s great buildings, join an architectural tour with Casamémoire , a nonprofit preservation organization working to have parts of the city designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco, is a testament to incredible craftsmanship. It took more than seven years and as many as 10,000 artisans to complete the intricate masterpiece. The palm-lined Boulevard Mohammed V, in the heart of old Casablanca, is a reminder of the French influence on the city. One of the finest examples of Art Deco design, Cinéma Rialto, lies just off the main drag. Mahkama du Pacha, located in the Habous neighborhood and built in the early 1950s, is a Moroccan architecture and craftsmanship gem. Église du Sacré-Couer, a desacralized cathedral built in the ’30s, now hosts concerts and art exhibitions and is a striking mix of Gothic and Art Deco style, while Église Notre Dame de Lourdes, built in the ’50s, is a beautiful example of Brutalist architecture with stunning stained glass panels inside.

2. The city has a serious arts and culture scene. Many of Casablanca’s historic Art Deco villas have been reborn as galleries and museums. Recently, the neon Pop Art of graffiti artist Ramzi Adek was on display at La Villa des Arts . The ’30s Art Deco villa was renovated by Casamémoire president Rachid Andaloussi and now hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions of contemporary art. A ’40s Art Deco villa on the central Rue du Parc was transformed to showcase the extensive private collection of art-loving Moroccan businessman Abderrahman Slaoui. During his travels throughout Morocco, he collected everything from Bohemian glass and vintage jewelry, all now on display in Le Musée de la Fondation Abderrahman Slaoui . In 2012, the city’s old industrial slaughterhouse was reimagined as La Fabrique Culturelle des Anciens Abattoirs de Casablanca , a hub for of-the-moment street art exhibitions and urban dance and music events.

3. Casablanca is a great restaurant city. Unlike Marrakech, Casablanca has a buzzy restaurant scene fueled by both locals and visitors. La Corniche, the city’s waterfront boulevard, lined with umbrella-shaded beach cafés, chic lounges, and ocean-view restaurants, wouldn’t seem out of place on the French Riviera. Unparalleled Atlantic views and a stylish crowd have made Le Cabestan the reservation to score on La Corniche, dating back to 1927, when the chic French restaurant first opened its doors. A 2011 renovation has kept the scene relevant, but the old standby now has competition from Bleu . Located just down La Corniche, the Four Seasons’s fifth-floor Mediterranean restaurant has become an instant hot spot thanks to its oceanfront views, outdoor terrace and fire pit, and smart nautical-inspired decor, including a striking mural of thousands of ceramic mussel shells created by Canadian design studio Moss & Lam . A raw bar showcases Dakhla oysters, prawns, and the day’s catch and diners can watch chefs cook behind a large custom grill in the center of the dining room. The barmen’s complex mocktails, infused with teas and made theatrical with dry ice, make up for the lack of booze (the restaurant’s liquor license is still pending).

After working at legendary Parisian restaurant Le Fouquet’s, Taki Kabbaj moved to Casablanca and bought Le Rouget de L’Isle. His menus of French classics pair perfectly with the restaurant’s romantic setting in an art-filled ’30s villa and its garden. La Sqala Café Maure is another of the city’s prettiest garden settings. Hidden behind the ocher walls and Majorelle blue doors of an 18th-century fortress at the edge of the old medina, Café Maure’s tranquil setting and menu of traditional Moroccan tagines and fresh juices make it a popular brunch spot. If you’re looking to splurge on a romantic meal, book a table at F.Kabbaj , a French restaurant in the Racine area specializing in locally farm-raised foie gras.

By Kate Lloyd

By Lauren Murdoch-Smith

By Margaux Anbouba

4. You can have a great meal at a tourist trap. Tourists, particularly Americans, can’t resist dining at Rick’s Café , not because of the food, but because of the sultry atmosphere inspired by the bar made famous in the iconic film. American owner Kathy Kriger got all the details right, from the mosaic-tiled floors and arched doorways to the piano man who taps out Sinatra tunes. The culinary experience was recently elevated thanks to a collaboration with chefs from the Four Seasons: Diners who book the Taste of Place get a private tour of the restaurant with Kriger followed by a four-course wine-paired meal that highlights the freshest local ingredients.

5. You can have a farm-to-table experience. After years working in Miami’s nightlife business, Asmaa Benmaazouz returned home to her family farm just outside of Casablanca and turned it into a working dairy farm. La Ferme de Bousko welcomes guests for farm tours and cheese tastings. Weekend programs are perfect for families and give kids the chance to milk goats while parents learn about composting. Benmaazouz studied cheese-making in France and her cows and goats provide milk for the half-dozen cheeses she makes and sells to local restaurants and grocers. Guests are welcome to bring their own wine for a paired tasting.

6. You can practice at Morocco’s only Bikram Studio. Tucked away in a residential section of Casablanca’s Anfa neighborhood, Om Yoga is the first and only yoga studio in Morocco to offer Bikram classes. Owner Nabil Scally opened the stylish, palm-shaded space in 2013 and has expanded its offerings to include power, aerial, yin, vinyasa, and hatha yoga as well as TRX classes. His daughter, Camila Harris, is one of his top teachers and she effortlessly flows between French and English instruction. In addition to daily classes, Om offers weeklong retreats.

7. There’s a legitimate surf culture. Casablanca’s beach scene is reminiscent of Venice Beach, a bit gritty and surf-crazed. Surf schools line La Corniche, ladies paddle out in burkinis, and each September pros from around the globe descend here to compete in the Quiksilver Pro surf competition. The neighboring little beach town of Dar Bouazza feels more like Santa Monica with its fancy houses and café-lined streets. The talented instructors from Ain Diab Surf School will take you surfing at the best breaks here. After your surf session, stop by Kai Shapes , a funky surfboard company run by an American shaper.

Casablanca in One Day—the Best Things to Do

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Casablanca may be the largest city in Morocco, but you can easily hit all the top things to do in Casablanca in one day. This article will walk through the best itinerary for what to do in Casablanca with some travel tips to tour this city.

Forget what you know or think you know about this thriving city. What you’ll find is an incredible modern gateway into the incredible country of Morocco. It may just be a perfect mix of ancient and modern.

Casablanca feels different than much of the country, and it doesn’t offer as much in the way of tourism. However, I think it’s still a city worth seeing, if for no other reason than the Hasan II Mosque.

This post will tell you all about what to do in Casablanca. It’ll be a busy, fun-filled day, but one you won’t soon forget!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. Please read the  full disclosure  for more information.

Casablanca in One Day Itinerary

If you’re short on time and want to get a quick list of the top things to do in Casablanca, here is what I recommend.

• Visit the Hasan II Mosque
• Stroll along the Corniche and grab lunch at the water
• Get souvenirs at the Quartier Habous New Medina
• Enjoy the Mahkama du Pacha
• Grab an incredible dinner at Rick’s Cafe

If you have time and interest, you can check out the Old Medina and compare it to the New Medina.

Is Casablanca Worth Visiting?

The name Casablanca conjures up images of romance, Hollywood royalty, and all things exotic. Contrary to popular opinion, Casablanca was around long before the movie that made it famous.

Before you visit Casablanca, put away your perceptions of the city. If you expect to see the same city the star-struck lovers made famous, you’ll certainly set yourself up for disappointment.

It was founded around 700 B.C., well before Bogart and Bacall made us fall in love with it. Interesting note: the movie “Casablanca” wasn’t even filmed in Casablanca, or even in Morocco!

Casablanca was originally called Anfa, meaning hill, in the Berber language by the nomadic tribes who lived there. The Portuguese took control of the city in the 15th century and renamed it Casa Branca, meaning the white house.

The city and much of the country were later under Spanish and French rule when it was renamed Casablanca. The name has stuck, of course.

Most of the city was destroyed in 1755 by the earthquake that destroyed much of Lisbon and the surrounding areas in Portugal . When it was rebuilt, it was given an Arabic name, though it is still popularly known as Casablanca, or Casa, by the locals.

Casablanca is a port city and the second-largest port in North Africa. It is Morocco’s chief port and is considered its business and economic center. It is also one of the largest financial centers on the continent.

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How Long Should You Spend in Casablanca?

For as large a city as Casablanca is, there isn’t a lot to do there as a tourist. I’ll share what I saw and what I recommend as a must-see when you visit.

Since your interests may be different from mine, you may want to create your own trip plan. You can hit the highlights within one day, and in my opinion, that’s enough time to spend.

Of course, if you want to dig deeper into the culture and get a feel for living there, you will want to spend more time. But of the cities that we visited during the trip in Morocco, I was glad I spent one day in Casablanca to allow more time in other places.

Top 9 Things to Do in Casablanca

Though there aren’t a ton of things to do in Casablanca, I enjoyed my time there. Here are the things we saw and enjoyed.

1. Hassan II Mosque

This was by far my favorite thing to see in Casablanca. It’s a stunning mosque, and in fact, it’s one of the few in the entire country that visitors are allowed to see inside for a tour. It is the largest mosque in Africa and one of the largest in the world.

Interestingly, our guide and the mosque guide both said it is the third-largest in the world (behind Mecca and Medina). However, according to Wikipedia, it is the 10th-largest.

The minaret is the second tallest in the world at 689 feet (210 meters). An astounding 105,000 people can worship there, with 25,000 inside the mosque and 80,000 on the mosque’s outer grounds.

It was built in 1993 and was designed to impress with walls made of marble and a hand-carved cedar retractable roof. The structure is Islamic Arabic and Moorish in style.

Everything inside the Hassan II Mosque is from Morocco, except the columns are Carrera marble from Italy, and the glass chandeliers are Venetian glass from Murano, Italy, near Venice.

The craftsmanship is incredible, and it took 6sixyears to build with 3,000 workers on three shifts a day for 24-hour days total. Just think about that massive effort!

Downstairs is the Hammam, where ablutions are done to purify and ritually bathe before prayer. There is a private balcony for the king, the royal family, and official visitors. The mosque is partially over the ocean, and there are lookout points on the mosque grounds with some nice views.

This tour was amazing; my only complaint is the group size. There were at least 200 or more in the tour group, so it was difficult to hear the guide. Even so, it was still worth walking through the mosque.

It costs 130 DH ($12.50 USD) for the guided tour, which is the only way to enter the mosque if you are not Muslim. Tours are offered Saturday through Thursday at 9, 10, 11, 12, and 3 in English, Spanish, and French. On Fridays, they are not offered at 11 and noon, and during Ramadan, hours are different, so check the schedule online . In the summer, they are offered at four as well, from Saturday through Thursday.

From mid-March to mid-September, they also do more tours in the afternoon, so it’s definitely worth checking the online schedule to pick a good time for you.

You must remove your shoes but are given a small bag to carry them while on the tour. You do not need to cover your head, but as this is a religious place, you must cover your shoulders and knees. The tour lasts for around 45 minutes. The Hassan II Mosque is located at Blvd Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah, Casablanca 20450, Morocco .

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2. Corniche

Next, go to the Corniche located on the water’s edge. It’s a long strip that offers a nice walk with a lot of restaurants overlooking the water and shops. If you’re interested in beaches in Casablanca, this is a great place to go.

There is also a picture of the King and his family (noticeably without his wife) with the Pope from early 2019. We didn’t choose to spend time here, but if you have more than one day, I would recommend checking out the restaurants and the public beach here.

The Moroccan mall is not far from the Corniche, the largest in Africa. We chose to skip stopping here, but you may find it interesting. Also, we drove through an area that our guide called the “Beverly Hills” of Casablanca, where the wealthy live. He said homes go for $1 million USD and more.

In this area, we saw Franklin Roosevelt Boulevard and a large building that is now a private villa but was once the Anfa Hotel. This is the place where the 1943 conference was where Roosevelt, Churchill, General Gaul from France, and Mohammed V of Morocco met after World War II.

The Corniche area is on Boulevarde de la Corniche. Boulevard Sidi Mohammad Ben Abdallah, where the Hassan II Mosque is located, turns into this road. There are some areas where you can lay in the sun and a beachfront area (both public and private) if you are so inclined. There is also a beautiful “renewed” area park where people ride horses and play football (soccer), as well as a surf school.

3. Hippodrome Casa-Anfa

We made a short stop at the Hippodrome, where there is horse racing, gambling, and golfing. There is also a large annual festival, Jazzablanca . Most people in this area, and in Morocco, are Islam, which prohibits drinking, gambling, and smoking. However, some people do choose to do these things, and of course, there are places where they are offered.

You can walk through and see the gates where the horses and riders anxiously wait before the race and the tracks they run on. It’s a quick stop but interesting to see.

Hippodrome Casa-Anfa is located at Rue Lice d’ANFA, Casablanca, Maroc، Morocco .

4. Notre Dame de Lourdes Catholic Church

There are two Catholic churches in Casablanca, Notre Dame and Sacre Coeur. Unfortunately, the beautiful Sacre Coeur was closed for construction when I went, so we did go to Notre Dame.

In my opinion, there is nothing very attractive about the outside of this church, and the inside is a bit of a bland concrete slab. The only redeeming quality is the stunning stained glass windows throughout the building.

I’m a historic architecture fan and typically love churches, but this one didn’t offer much for me to love. You may feel otherwise, so if you have the opportunity to visit, please do and let me know what you think.

There is no entry fee to visit Notre Dame, and it is located at the corner of Avenue Mers Sultan & Boulevard Mohammed Zerktouni .

5. Quartier Habous New Medina

Quartier Habous is the “new” market, or medina, built in the 1930s. It is a bit of a Westernized medina with wide and clean streets open to the sky.

Walking around was a surprisingly pleasant experience as none of the people engaged with us unless we paid attention to an item. Even then, they weren’t pushy at all. There were some nice souvenirs here and some nice quality items.

There are also a couple of nice mosques that you can look at on the outside only. The Royal Palace is nearby. However, visitors are not able to go inside for tours. Not unless the King invites you.

It’s still a beautiful building and worth taking a peek at. And you never know; the King is now reported to be single. 😉

The location for the new medina is on Boulevard Victor Hugo, Casablanca 20490, Morocco .

6. Mahkama du Pacha

Mahkama du Pacha (also known as Makhamat al-Pasha) was one of my favorite things to see, and it is just a minute’s walk from the new medina in Casablanca.

I had read that you couldn’t enter without a local guide. However, I did see a bit of conflicting information. Our guide had a tip ready in case it was needed, but it wasn’t.

This building was built to be the residence of the Governor and is now an administrative building housing the courthouse. Construction was carried out during World War II, though it was done with traditional methods.

It features some beautiful mosaics, intricate wood scrolling, and bright colors. It’s a beautiful building inside and worth visiting.

Makahma du Pacha is located at 12 Rue Moulay Ismail, Casablanca 20550, Morocco . It is open from 9 to 4 , but closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

7. Muhammad V Square

Next, we went to Muhammad V Square, named after the former king of Morocco. City Hall is here, along with a large Casablanca sign for taking pictures and gazillions of pigeons!

There are more pigeons than I have seen outside St. Mark’s in Venice and Plaza Bolívar in Bogotá. In fact, it’s locally known as “pigeon square.” Across the street is the interestingly beautiful and modern opera house, currently under construction. People were selling things in the square, and many people were walking around.

We were a bit underwhelmed, to be honest. I had read this was a destination to see, and there wasn’t much appeal beyond the Casablanca sign.

This was the first place where we saw the Water Men.

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The Water Men don long red robes and wear colorful big red hats. You can’t miss them and will find them in the main squares in Casablanca, Marrakesh, and other large cities.

Historically, they were water sellers. Their belief is that water is given by God to all, so they give it to thirsty people from their goatskin bags into bronze cups.

The color of the robes helps them be seen from afar. In return for the water, people gave them food. Now, the Water Men are purely for tourists. If you want to get a picture of them, be ready to hand over 10 DH or more.

I read an article that described them as looking like displaced mariachi, and I laughed out loud. But the description is so fitting!

8. Old Medina

Our last stop before a late lunch was to the old medina. We only spent a few minutes here since we walked through Quartier Habous and the new media. It’s very different as much of it is covered with fabric.

Where the new Medina has wide streets and is open air, this one feels a bit narrower and smaller in space. It’s a bit busier and more frenetic than the new medina as well and a very different experience.

9. Rick’s Cafe

I’ll admit I was a bit on the fence about going here. The restaurant inspired Rick’s Cafe in the film Casablanca, which, as I already mentioned, wasn’t even filmed in Casablanca.

It’s a re-creation built to honor the movie with an ambiance and feel similar to the restaurant in the famous movie. I grew up in Boston and never went to Cheers as it’s not the real Cheers but a re-creation, and yet, I was drawn to check out Rick’s.

I was glad I did! This place is amazing and it’s a top Casablanca restaurant. You are paying for the name, and it was not an inexpensive meal, but the food is incredible, the service very good, and the ambiance amazing.

You feel like you’re transported to another time when big band music played, and Louie Armstrong still sang with his horn. Sinatra and all of the old classics. It was a really lovely experience and a nice, comfortable way to end our tour.

It can be difficult to get a seat without reservations, but it is a bit easier off-hours (we went mid-afternoon). It’s worth trying to get a reservation here if you can to avoid a significant wait (or not being able to dine).

Rick’s Cafe is located at 248 Boulevard Sour Jdid, Casablanca 20250, Morocco .

How to Get Around Casablanca

There are several options for touring Casablanca, ranging from private tours, guided tours, and self-tours. I have included some useful information below that may help you to decide the best option for you.

Private Tour Guide

We decided to hire a tour guide as we were short on time. Though the main attractions of what to see in Casablanca are in a fairly central area, it likely would have taken more than one day to see everything. Plus, I like to learn more about the history and culture of the places I visit, so I enjoy walking tours.

We did decide to splurge and get a private guide to show us around Casablanca. We were glad we did so we could customize what we saw there. If you have a short period of time for a Casablanca city tour, this is a great option.

We booked our guide through the hotel and paid 800 Dirhams (around $75 USD) for around five hours. It ended up being a little more as we did get lunch towards the end, and he offered to wait for us and to bring us back to the hotel. This is higher priced than other options, but we thought it was worth the convenience and flexibility.

You can book him directly, and I highly recommend him. He let us completely customize our tour, was very informative and patient with my many questions, and we really enjoyed our time with him. We felt this was worth the money.

Our guide was Zouhir Wahbi (he goes by “Wahbi”) of Transport Touristique, email: [email protected] or 00 (212) 675 755 415. You won’t be disappointed, and we both felt this was money very well spent.

Group Tours

Many group tour options are available in Casablanca. There are several we were looking at on Get Your Guide that looked appealing, and this site has both private and group tours. There are also tours, including a visit to Rabat, the capital of Morocco, that I would have done had we had more time.

If you have more than a day, there are a lot of great day trips to take from Casablanca. Check these out, as they are some of the trips I wanted to take if I had more time!

Self-Guided Tour

Of course, you can also tour on your own. A tram serves the city, and you can also take taxis or walk. If you decide only to see a few things and aren’t very interested in history, this is a good option.

Uber is not available as of this writing, but the company hopes to get back into Morocco at some future point in time.

Where to Eat in Casablanca

There are many dining options in a city as large as Casablanca. The following are the restaurants that were near where I stayed that I can recommend.

L’Etoile Centrale

In addition to Rick’s mentioned above, another restaurant I highly recommend is L’Etoile Centrale. It is beautiful inside, featuring traditional and quaint Moroccan design. The food was spectacular as well.

We got our first tagine of the country there, and it didn’t disappoint, along with couscous and pastilla, a traditional dish from Fez made of phyllo dough, chicken, cinnamon, and powdered sugar. It is both savory and sweet and delicious. We did get the spicy chicken version, which wasn’t overly spicy, but it was tasty.

The couscous was exceptional, including the sauce. Finish any meal with sweet mint tea, but ask for it to be unsweetened with sugar on the side unless you like very, very sweet tea.

Service was fairly good, though we found service overall in Morocco to be a bit slow to our standards. They tend to be more in line with France, where meals are enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

L’Etoile Centrale is located at 107 Boulevard Ben Abdellah, Casablanca 20000, Morocco .

Marche Central

Another dining option is in Marche Central or the Central Market. It’s only a couple of blocks from L’Etoile Centrale. It’s mostly a market for fish and produce, but they have a number of restaurants to choose from as well.

We didn’t eat here but walked through, and the servers were quite eager for us to dine. It was an interesting experience to walk through to see how the locals shop, and the price points seemed to be a bit lower than the other restaurants we were in.

Restaurant Les Fleurs

We ate at this restaurant the night I met up with the group I toured Morocco with. I didn’t love my meal, but the other people I went with did enjoy theirs.

I got a Moroccan soup called harira. It’s a tomato-based soup with pasta, lentils, and chickpeas. I found it to have little taste, and I dumped a large amount of salt in it for it to be palatable. The rest of the group got tagines and other dishes, and they did enjoy their dinners.

Before you write off harira, I did have it at another restaurant later on in my trip, and it was very good. Harira is a traditional dish eaten during the period of Ramadan when people fast from sun up to sundown. In the evening, after sundown, they eat a small meal, often a bowl of harira.

Restaurant Les Fleurs is located at Avenue des FAR, Casablanca 20000, Morocco .

Best Hotels in Casablanca

In a city as large as Casablanca, you can be sure there are a lot of great hotels available. The area that we stayed in was safe and convenient for walking around, so I’d recommend it.

We stayed at the Moroccan House Hotel located at 04 Boulevard Mohamed Smiha, Casablanca 20000, Morocco . It was a good tourist-class and local-style hotel that was low-cost. The area is convenient to some good restaurants and was safe to walk around.

A couple of other hotels nearby that may be worth looking at if you are seeing a more Western-style hotel is the Odysee Center Hotel . Another option is the Best Western Hotel Toubkal .

How to Get to Casablanca

Casablanca and most major cities in Morocco are served by trains and buses. This page has information about the train and bus lines and links to schedules that will be helpful. An international airport, Mohammed V International Airport, also serves Casablanca.

Airport in Casablanca

If you fly into Casablanca, you will likely go through Mohammed V International Airport, airport code CMN. It’s an older airport, and the passport control was not terribly efficient, but nothing really stands out about it to me. I was in a bit of a jet-lagged haze, stumbling through, and it was thankfully easy enough to navigate.

When you walk out to the baggage area, you will see some taxi drivers, depending on the time of day, and just outside the doors, there is a massive cluster of people driving them or waiting for them. It’s around a 30-minute drive from downtown Casablanca.

Moroccan Currency

I’ll admit that I was a bit confused about the currency. According to xe.com, the source I use for currency conversion, Morocco, uses Moroccan Dirham (MAD).

However, when you see prices in the country, it is typically shown as “DH,” and the locals simply call it “dirham.” You will notice that I show the costs above as “DH” and not “MAD,” and that’s why.

What to See in Casablanca in One Day

Ahh, Casablanca. I had read that there isn’t much to do there so when I found the same, I wasn’t disappointed. There was more to do there than I expected.

It is a pretty modern city and easy to get around, so it’s a nice intro to Morocco, and I think it’s worth a quick stop. There aren’t a lot of things to see in Casablanca for a city of its size. However, it’s worth visiting, and this article included what to do in Casablanca, whether you have a day or more.

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Insiders’ Casablanca, Morocco Tourism Guide for the Best Trip

Hi there! Planning a trip to the beautiful city of Casablanca? Welcome to your essential Casablanca, Morocco tourism guide! 

Casablanca is such a unique city, and one that I absolutely recommend checking out on a Morocco vacation. 

Casablanca is often bypassed for more popular cities such as Marrakesh and Chefchaouen, however, I definitely recommend spending at least a couple days in Casablanca as well. 

There are many direct flights from North America and Europe into Casablanca, and from the city you can easily access other major cities such as Fes, Marrakech and Rabat by car. 

In this Casablanca, Morocco tourism guide you’ll find an overview of the must see attractions, fantastic accommodation options, and delicious restaurants. 

For a detailed guide with more in-depth reviews, be sure to check out our guide to the best things to see and places to visit in Casablanca, Morocco ! 

Let’s get right into the Casablanca travel guide!

Casablanca, Morocco Tourism Guide for the Best Trip

Sleep – the best hotels in casablanca.

There are tons of hotels and guest houses to choose from all across the city, and many are so beautiful!

When looking for accommodations in Casablanca, I recommend three main neighborhoods: Anfa (near the beach), Habbous (a nice market neighborhood) and City Center (where most of the action is.)

Luxury Hotels

Casablanca is home to many stunning, luxury hotels that make wonderful places to stay while in the city! 

Some of the most popular and best hotels in Morocco can definitely be found in Casablanca. Additionally, many of these luxury hotels are still quite affordable, with rates from $90+ per night. If you’re looking for a luxury accommodation, without paying the same price that you would in many European and North American cities, you’ll definitely find great options in Casablanca. 

• During my trip to Casablanca we stayed at The Four Seasons. It’s a beautiful hotel right on the beach in Anfa. It is about 15 minutes by car from downtown Casablanca, but taxis are inexpensive and it was nice to be in a quiet area! 
• Radisson Blu Hotel Casablanca City Center
• Le Casablanca Hotel
• ONOMO Hotel Casablanca City Center  
• Boutique Hotel Gauthie

Mid-Range Hotels

There are many mid-range hotels and AirBnbs that travelers can stay in all over the city. Many of these hotels are absolutely beautiful and offer gorgeous accommodations at an affordable price. 

You’ll find a plethora of mid-range hotels to choose from, usually averaging $40-$80 per night. 

• Relax Hotel Casa Voyageurs
• Adagio Casablanca City Center
• Hotel Moroccan House

Budget Accommodations

For budget accommodations in Casablanca, definitely check out the many riads (guest houses) around the city. 

A riad is a traditional type of Moroccan home, featuring an indoor courtyard/garden. Many riads, in addition to being absolutely gorgeous, are run by locals and are often located near medinas. Definitely check out riads in Morocco for a very authentic experience. There are more riads in nearby cities of Marrakech and Fes than in Casablanca, however. In Marrakech, a single room can go for as little $8 a night. Tip: Most riads are also listed on AirBnb!

• Mosque view luxury room with private terrace

Eat – The Best Restaurants in Casablanca

Le basmane – $$$ (expensive option).

Check out Le Basmane for a traditional Moroccan dinner! These meals are pricey for Moroccan standards ($18-30 per dinner), but well worth it for the food. The restaurant also serves alcohol, which isn’t always available in other restaurants around the city. In addition to the delicious food, there is also a belly dancing show at 10pm every night!

Le Marly – $$ (moderate option)

Le Marly is such a wonderful restaurant and I highly recommend it for dinner! The restaurant is very chic and I absolutely adored the atmosphere, it reminded me of quaint restaurants in Paris. 

The one issue we had, however, was the very potent smell of smoke throughout the entire restaurant. Sit on the patio to avoid this! Click here for Le Marly’s website + menus!

Rick’s Cafe – $$ (moderate option)

Rick’s Cafe is a famous Casablanca restaurant – made after the famous movie Casablanca. The ambiance is amazing and it really feels like you’re stepping back in time to the 1940s. 

The food is good and overall, it’s a really fun experience to visit Rick’s Cafe.  Be sure to check out our full review of Rick’s Cafe , complete with menu recommendations, reservation information, and dress code regulations.

Cafe Bianca – $$ (moderate option)

Cafe Bianca is attached to Villa Bianca , another hotel near the Four Seasons . This restaurant has a plethora of options including pasta, salads, meats, and sushi.

They have outdoor seating and it is such a fantastic place for a meal any time of day!

The Medinas – $ (very affordable option)

While touring the medinas, we highly recommend trying the food from local restaurants, shops, and carts. There are a lot of meat, bread, and veggie options to choose from.

It’s a ton of fun to sample all of the different local dishes, and the prices can’t be beat!

Adventures – The Best Places to Visit in Casablanca

There are so many fun places to visit in Casablanca during your trip!

These are some of my top recommendations, but be sure to also check out my Itinerary for the Perfect 7 Days in Casablanca for even more recommendations and information!

Take a Food Tour 

One of my favorite things to do when visiting a new place is to take a food tour! There are so many delicious food places to visit around the city, and it’s so fun to try local cuisine and learn more about the culture.  

Food Tour Options:

• Casablanca Food Tour
• Moroccan Street Food Tour
• Casablanca Food Tour – Marché Central & Seafood Lunch
• Cooking with a traditional Moroccan Family

Take a City Tour 

If you have a limited amount of time in Casablanca, a city tour is a fantastic way to see many of the major sites! 

Even if you’re staying in Casablanca for a longer vacation, a city tour is a great activity for your first day in the city, so you can get to know the neighborhoods and learn about fun things to do! 

Casablanca City Tours: 

• Casablanca City Tour
• Local Experience on Foot
• Casablanca City Tour – AirBnb  

Check out Habbous

During your visit to Casablanca, spending time in the neighborhood of Habbous is a must. 

Habbous, also known as the New Medina, is an open-air market filled with food, pottery, crafts, art, and so much more.

Although Habbous is a medina, it is much smaller and more relaxed than the Old Medina. Because of its small size, it is significantly easier to navigate and you definitely won’t get lost in a maze of shops and food stalls. This is where I did the majority of my shopping!

Check out the Old Medina

The Old Medina in Casablanca is such an exciting place to visit. This walled, historical center of the city is filled with tiny maze-like streets with tons of shops, food stalls and vendors. 

There is so much to do and see in Old Medina, and you can spend hours wandering around the little streets. Expect to get lost, as it is almost impossible to navigate the interior of the medina – however, this is all part of the fun! 

The Old Medina is much busier and more crowded than Habbous (the New Medina), but both are absolutely worth visiting.

Take Day Trips

While visiting Morocco it is very easy to travel between cities. You can take guided tours, rent a car, or take trains. Morocco has a great train system and Rabat (the capital) has a new, modern train station. The trains are fast and inexpensive in comparison to private cars. 

Casablanca is a good place to base yourself for day trips! There are many other major cities located quite close by. Rabat is 1 hour by car and Marrakech, Fez and Tangiers are all about 3 hours away by car.  For more information about day tours and to read about our experiences, check out our post all about the best day trips from Casablanca .

Guided Day Trips from Casablanca: 

• Marrakech Day Trip including Lunch, Camel Ride from Casablanca
• Casablanca to Marrakech Day Trip with Camel Ride
• Chefchaouen Bleu City Day Trip from Casablanca
• From Casablanca: Full Day Trip to Tangier by the High speed train

So there you have it! I hope you enjoyed this Casablanca, Morocco Tourism Guide! 

There are so many things to do and see in Casablanca, and it should absolutely be added to any Morocco vacation itinerary! 

If you found this post helpful, I appreciate you sharing it with friends and on social media! 

Ready to keep planning your Morocco trip? Be sure to check out our other posts : 

• Review Of Rick’s Cafe in Casablanca, Morocco
• Itinerary for the Perfect 7 Days in Casablanca, Morocco
• Tips for traveling to Morocco
• Morocco Female Traveler Lookbook
• The Best Day Trips from Casablanca, Morocco
• Packing Guide for Morocco in August

This Casablanca, Morocco tourism guide includes affiliate links. Read our disclosure  here .

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16 comments.

This is an amazing adventure! Enjoy. Thank you for sharing. Christine Rapoza❤️

Fabulous places!

For eating in Casablanca, i would recommend Boccaccio, Madeleine de Proust, paopao, Amorino, Iloli and Nkoa to go 🙂

Thanks so much for the recommendations! I will definitely check them out on my next trip!

I would love to stay at that 4 seasons…on the beach…in Morocco. That sounds like a dream!

I absolutely loved Casablance and your photos make me want to go back asap! Also I found some new things that I missed last time, so need to change that, right? Great work!

What a fun adventure. I would definitely love to explore Casablanca and Morocco.

The mosque is incredible. I adore all the detailed mosaic tiles featured in Moorish architecture!

Sounds like such a fun adventure, the Old Medina looks so cool!

Wow – We’ll be at the Four Seasons beach front! Casablanca is gorgeous. I love all of the art and tilework. Food looked great too. Thanks for the recs!

It’s amazing because it’s surprisingly very affordable! I felt so lucky to be able to splurge for a couple nights for a special occasion and still not break the bank! Definitely recommend.

I had no idea there really was a Rick’s cafe! I always thought it was just fictionalized from the movie. I am such an old movie buff, and have seen Casablanca more times than I can count. I always wanted to see this city….and yet, it’s still on my list! Thank you, I hope to eventually one day see all these spots!

Absolutely love your recommendations and pictures! I have love to visit the habbous and the old medina. I love the everyday hustle-bustle of a city and Casablanca would definitely be a top pick to experience that.

This place looks so beautiful! I would love to go shopping there! So many beautiful things and the towns just look adorable! Great photos 😍

Planning a trip to Morocco next year. Love your suggestions. I, too, love taking Food tours. The Habbous also sounds like a must-see.

I’m licensed tour guide and tour operator in Morocco 🇲🇦. I would like to thank you for this amazing words and informations about Casablanca Morocco, as I invite everyone to our safe country 😉

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What are the 9 Best Things To Do in Casablanca Morocco? Casablanca City Guide

Casablanca City Guide. What are the places to visit and the top things to do in Casablanca Morocco? This guide is a list of the best activities in Casablanca including where to eat and where to stay in Casablanca.

When I arrived in Casablanca Morocco , my first impression was an odd one. I remembered the movie Casablanca, a film full of intrigue and adventure that had charmed me and made me want to visit the city.

As I was walking around in the small streets of the big city, I couldn’t see any of the landmarks that were so familiar in that film.

I was surrounded by huge skyscrapers, lots of traffic, the sound of honking horns, and passersby hurrying to work. It felt like a cold, big metropolis. An economic center that had been stripped of soul and charm. If I had left Casablanca immediately without visiting the city properly, that’s the impression I would still have today.

Casablanca sometimes feels like a cold, concrete jungle…

I ended up settling down in Casablanca and stayed with some Spanish friends in a house on the outskirts of the city. Every day I would take a local bus to reach the city center.

I was trying to recapture the feelings I had from the movie Casablanca. At first, it felt like I was chasing something that didn’t exist anymore. However, it didn’t take long for me to fall for the peculiar charm of the city.

Casablanca is indeed the economic capital of Morocco and as such, lacks the traditional charm of other cities like Tangier , Marrakech or Chefchaouen . However, I think that Casablanca has a charm that only reveals itself if you take the time to discover it.

Spending time near the wharf and talking with the fishermen as they come back to port with their catch of the day will make you connect with the essence of the city in its people.

I understand that the nature of Casablanca itself doesn’t invite people to discover and connect with its genuine side and I think most people that visit it won’t have much time to spend there. Because of this, I decided to write a guide for the best things to do in Casablanca in two days.

This guide includes all the ”touristic” activities but also a few hidden gems and things that you could do to truly feel connected with the people of Casablanca, Morocco.

Tip: See my  Morocco Travel Page  for a complete overview of all my travel guides and blog posts about Morocco!

Morocco T r a v e l G u i d e : 19 useful things to know before traveling to Morocco

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Plan your trip to Casablanca

Where to stay.

• Best mid-range choice: Hotel Syracuse
• Top Riad: Riad Dar El Malaika

Top experiences in and around Casablanca

• Highlights of Casablanca City Tour
• Historical and Cultural Casablanca City Tour
• Casablanca City Night Tour

Plan your trip to Morocco

• 19 things to know before traveling to Morocco
• 3 itineraries to discover the best of Morocco
• Morocco Safety Guide
• Renting a car in Morocco
• Best travel insurance for Morocco

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Things you need to know before going to Casablanca City

First of all, you need to know that Casablanca is huge! It’s the biggest city in Morocco. It’s also one of the largest and most important cities in Africa, both economically and demographically.

According to a population estimate from 2014, the city has a population of about 3.35 million in the urban area and over 6.8 million in the suburbs.

Casablanca is the main city-port of Morocco. It’s also the city that is considered the economic capital of Morocco so this contributes to the feeling the city gives of being a huge cold metropolis.

Most foreign and domestic companies doing business in Morocco have their headquarters in Casablanca. If you’re looking forward to relaxing in a calm little Moroccan village, Casablanca is probably not the best choice.

The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Morocco

Where is Casablanca City?

Casablanca is located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco. The city is located 87 km south of Rabat and 244 km north of Marrakech .

It’s in the ideal location for any traveler wanting to discover the Moroccan coast. Beautiful surf towns such as Essaouira and Taghazout are easily reached from Casablanca.

S u r f i n g in Morocco: a Guide to the 9 Best Surfing Spots in the country

A bit of history about Casablanca Morocco

Casablanca was founded and settled by the Berber during the seventh century. The city was used as a port by the Phoenicians and later by the Romans and was called Anfa.

When the Portuguese conquered the city in 1468, they decided to call it Casablanca, meaning “white house” in Portuguese. It was an important Portuguese port until it fell to the hands of the Spanish crown.

The Europeans eventually abandoned the area in 1755 following an earthquake that destroyed most of the town.

The town was finally reconstructed by Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah (1756–1790), the grandson of Moulay Ismail and an ally of George Washington. The town was called ad-Dār al-Bayḍāʼ – the Arabic translation of the Portuguese Casa Branca.

A few recommendations and tips before visiting Casablanca

Before visiting Casablanca, I would suggest learning a few words of Moroccan Arabic or French. Most Shop owners and taxi drivers in Casablanca only speak these two languages while the younger generation is starting to learn English.

Learning a few words of Moroccan Arabic will help you during your visit. I highly recommend getting your hands on the Lonely Planet Moroccan Arabic Phrasebook .

It is packed with all the essential words and phrases you will need on your trip to Morocco and will help you in every situation — from finding a hotel room to ordering tajine or joining the local festivities this book will cover almost every situation you could imagine.

I would also recommend getting a map software on your phone that works offline.

Google Maps has helped us navigate the streets of Casablanca and many other Moroccan cities.

One of the cool features of Google Maps is that it can be used both online and offline. Connect to the wifi at your hostel and download a map of the part Casablanca you wish to explore.

This map works with the GPS chip in your phone so it will continue working, even when you’re offline.

And finally, I highly recommend getting a Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle . Although the tap water in Casablanca is not dangerous, it may contain many new bacteria that your body just isn’t used to.

If you drink water using this bottle, any dirt, bacteria or parasites gets trapped in its filter, while the clean water passes through.

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Arriving at Casablanca airport and how to get from Casablanca airport to the city center

Mohammed V international airport in Casablanca is considered the busiest one in the country. Many people landing in Morocco will first arrive in the country through this airport.

Although the Casablanca airport is quite busy, it’s very far from the city center and reaching it can be a bit tricky. In this guide, I will explain how to get from Casablanca airport to the city center.

You can get from the airport to the city center by bus, train, shared taxi, or with a rented car .

Everything you need to know about renting a car and driving in Morocco

A very convenient way to get from the airport to the city center is by bus. There is currently a CTM bus that leaves the airport on an hourly basis and takes 45 minutes to reach the city center.

The bus leaves the airport from Terminal 1 and you buy your ticket directly on board for 20 MAD

Trains leave the airport on an hourly basis and it takes about 45 minutes to reach downtown. They operate daily between 6 AM and 10 PM.

They leave from terminal 1 of the airport and a ticket is around 42 MAD. You can buy your ticket directly at the station at the airport.

By shared taxi

Taxis are waiting at the main terminals of the airport. They typically charge between 250 and 300 MAD to bring you to the city center. They also charge the same to bring you from the city center to the airport.

Driving there

If you are renting a car , it will be easy to drive from Casablanca airport to the city center. Just follow highway N11 towards the city center. It should take 40 minutes to get from there to the city center.

Should you exchange money at Casablanca airport?

Airport exchange offices are never the best place to change money, I would suggest just changing a small amount of cash into Dirhams at the airport and taking the train to Casa Port station.

The boulevard located next to this station is lined up with banks and money exchange bureaus with a much better rate than those at the airport.

Morocco Budget Guide: How much does it cost to travel in Morocco?

Is Casablanca safe?

Casablanca city is a very safe place to visit. Because it’s a huge modern metropolis where many companies have their headquarters, the security and police presence is greater than in any other Moroccan cities.

Petty crime is not a major concern in Casablanca but it still occurs. It’s important to be aware at all times and keep your eyes on your belongings.

Don’t carry around large amounts of money, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry. It’s better to keep a low profile.

The best solution to avoid being pick-pocketed is to stay aware of your belongings and surroundings at all times. You should leave all your important items at your hotel and walk around only with what you need.

I suggest always keeping your wallet in your front pocket or carry a moneybelt. Another great option is to travel with a s lash-resistant and lockable anti-theft bag . I would also recommend getting good travel insurance that covers theft. HeyMondo

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Top things to do in Casablanca in two days

Here is a list of the best places to visit in Casablanca if you have just a few days to visit the city. I have arranged the activities on this list by days but feel free to come up with your schedule where you see fit.

I would also strongly suggest going on a guided city tour in Casablanca to see all the highlights and learn more about this interesting city!

Day One in Casablanca

1. visit the splendid hassan ii mosque.

This beautiful mosque should definitely be on your list of awesome things to see in Casablanca. This enormous building was built to commemorate the former king’s 60th birthday.

The mosque stands right at the edge of the water and its 210 meter-tall minaret is one of the city’s major landmarks. The building showcases the talent and craft of Moroccan artisans.

It features pristine marble flooring, hand-carved stone, and wood, cedar ceilings covered with gold leaves and stunning multi-colored tiles.

Tours of the mosque are conducted between prayers for visitors dressed appropriately. This mosque is the biggest in Africa and the 3rd largest in the world.

The mosque can accommodate a maximum of 105,000 worshipers for prayer: 25,000 inside the mosque hall and another 80,000 on the mosque’s outside ground.

The size of the prayer hall is spectacular! The roof retracts letting in the sunlight.

The spectacular marble floors keep people cool, and the ceilings with their gorgeous chandeliers are a sight to behold.

The architecture of this building is extraordinary. In certain locations, one can view the Atlantic as it rolls to shore next to the Mosque.

What are the opening hours of the Hassan II mosque?

Visiting the mosque is only allowed outside of prayer time and it’s only possible to visit the mosque with a guided tour. The time of the guided visits varies throughout the year and afternoon tours never take place during Ramadan .

Morning Tours – tours at 9 am, 10 am and 11 am and 12 am Afternoon Tours of the mosque– 3 pm and 4 pm During Ramadan – tours at 9 am, 10 am and 11 am Fridays – tours are at 9 am and 10 am, and 3 pm and 4 pm

The tours are conducted in English, French, German and Spanish, and bring visitors in the prayer hall and into subterranean ablutions rooms.

How much is a ticket to visit the Hassan II mosque?

A guided tour of the mosque costs 130 MAD for adults and children older than 12 years old. Children aged 4 to 12 years old will only have to pay 30 MAD while kids younger than that can enter the mosque for free.

Where can you buy a ticket to visit the Hassan II mosque?

Tickets to visit the mosque can be bought at the ticket office that is right at the entrance of the religious complex next to the parking lot. You only need a ticket if you want a guided tour inside the mosque.

Tours of the mosque last a bit less than an hour.

How to get to the Hassan II mosque from the city center of Casablanca?

The Hassan II Mosque is easily reached on foot from the city center. It’s located at about half an hour walk from the Casa Port train station. It’s also possible to reach the mosque by hopping in a taxi. Getting there should cost between 15 and 20 MAD.

How to get to the Hassan II mosque from the airport?

There is no direct connection from Casablanca Airport to Hassan II Mosque. You can get there by first taking a train from the airport to gare Oasis.

From there you can take a tram to Place Nations Unies and walk the remaining distance to Hassan II Mosque.

2. Walk around Casablanca cathedral

This beautiful white church is often considered to be one of the most amazing African churches. It was built in 1930 when Morocco was still under the French protectorate.

When Morocco gained its independence, Casablanca’s cathedral was converted into a school and then into a cultural center. At the moment it no longer serves as a religious place but it became one of the top touristic attractions in Casablanca.

This abandoned church, also known as the Church of the Sacred Heart, seems out of place but also in perfect harmony with its surroundings.

Most people who visit the church find it a bit odd that such a beautiful monument would be left abandoned. I really enjoyed walking around it during the afternoon. the whole area that surrounds it is very quiet and peaceful.

It also creates a stunning backdrop for any picture!

3. Enjoy a tune played on the piano at Rick’s Cafe

You remember how I told you at the beginning of this article that I was desperate to find the streets and places that appeared in the movie Casablanca when I first visited the city?

Well, this cafe was designed to recreate the bar made famous by Humphrey Bogart in the movie. Needless to say, I spent most of my time in Casablanca enjoying drinks in this gorgeous coffee bar.

This classical movie had set certain expectations about Casablanca before I even set foot in the city…

This piano bar is filled with details meant to capture the spirit of the movie; An old piano from the thirties, a sculpted bar, curved arches, and balconies.

This restaurant is usually very busy so it’s best to reserve a table ahead of time if you want to go there for dinner.

The restaurant is open for lunch from 12:00 noon until 3 pm; for dinner from 6:30 pm until 1 am. Rick’s Café is open 7 days a week including the month of Ramadan and holidays.

The food there is great and at a very affordable price. You can enjoy your meal while listening to a jazz ensemble!

If you want to see what the restaurant looks like before heading there, have a look at the stunning pictures on the restaurant’s website !

4. Mohammed V Square

One could say that this square is the heart and soul of Casablanca city. It’s the administrative center of the city and the square is surrounded by buildings of the early 1920s.

Most of these buildings have gorgeous Hispanic-Muslim architecture with white facades and gold-colored stones.

I would recommend visiting this square at night when the water fountains are working and bathed in a golden light.

5. The King’s Palace

I would recommend ending your first day in Casablanca with a visit to the king’s palace.

The Moroccan king has many palaces around the country and this is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful. It has beautiful patterns and designs on its outside wall.

Unfortunately this palace like the rest of the king’s palaces can only be admired from the outside. Going inside is strictly forbidden. However, it’s worth it just to make a short stop and admire the exterior.

The palace is located near the new medina (also called the Habous quarter).

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Day Two in Casablanca

6. spend time with local fishermen.

If you really want to feel the spirit of Casablanca, you should start your second day there by visiting the port and spending time with the fishermen.

Casablanca has always been the most important port in Morocco. It used to be the biggest fishing port in Morocco before it transitioned into becoming a shipping port.

The fishing industry has never completely disappeared from Casablanca however and the fishermen have always been the heart and soul of the city. Spending time near the port is a great activity to do in Casablanca!

The port of Casablanca is super easy to find, it’s on the main street in the city center and really close to Casa Port train station! You can get there by taxi from any part of the city.

There are fishermen fishing from the rocks right next to the port and they’re super happy to have a conversation with foreigners.

There are also small boats in the harbor that can take you on a small fishing trip. I don’t know how much they charge but you can always negotiate with the captain.

If fishing is not your thing but you enjoy eating fresh fish, you can always go to one of the stalls next to the port and eat grilled fish or shrimp.

It’s a fun experience and very cheap: buy the fish or seafood you like, hand it over to the vendor and they will clean the fish right in front of you.

7. Wander in the little streets of the old medina

If you want a totally genuine experience take a long walk in the old medina. It almost feels like every little street in the old city of Casablanca is connected to a story.

The old city of Casablanca lies between the port and Hassan II’s mosque. Walking there feels like traveling back in time.

If you walked around the old medinas of other Moroccan cities like the ones of Marrakech or Fez , you’ll find this one much easier to navigate in comparison.

Getting lost in the old medina is a fun thing to do in Casablanca…

The streets of the old medina are filled with little shops and a very animated open-air market.

You can find everything there, from delicious Moroccan food, weird antiques, wooden statues, hand-made soap and vintage memorabilia.

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8. The Corniche

If you want a pleasant long walk by the sea, head over to the corniche boulevard. This long avenue is constantly blown by a gentle sea breeze.

It’s the perfect place to enjoy a stroll while listening to the mellow sound of the waves hitting the shore.

There is a good deal of nice places to eat and drink along the seafront and some people compare this beach boulevard to the Malecon in Havana.

It’s a common meeting place for street performers and there’s always some kind of show happening on the avenue.

You’ll get some of the best sunsets over the Atlantic from La corniche…

I would recommend avoiding the corniche on the weekend because it tends to get really crowded. After sunset, the area’s trendy nightclubs, cocktail lounges, and sea-facing bar terraces quickly fill up.

Dining options along the Boulevard de la Corniche range from simple counter-serve joints to fancy French restaurants. La corniche is located in a part of the city known as Ain Diab.

9. Be astonished by the architecture of Mahkama du Pacha

To see the most astonishing example of Moroccan architecture, you’ll have to go to the Mahkama du Pacha. This stunning building is a perfect example of ancient Moorish construction techniques.

The walls are covered in beautiful tiles, the doorways and ceilings present an intricate array of carved stone and the plasterwork incorporates floral designs and calligraphy.

This building was formerly a pasha’s residence but it now houses government office. Because of this, you can only enter the building with a guide but it’s absolutely worth it.

You can get a guide to visit this building from the ticket office at the Mohammad Hassan II mosque.

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Where to eat in Casablanca – What are the best restaurants in Casablanca?

Casablanca has some of the best food and the best restaurants you’ll find in Morocco .

Casablanca remained under the French protectorate for a long while and was at a certain point under Portuguese and Spanish occupation.

Because of this, the food that you’ll find there is an interesting fusion of Moroccan and European elements.

Whether you’re interested in fine dining, foreign dishes or local delicacies Casablanca will provide!

Here are three of my favorite restaurants in Casablanca:

Le Riad restaurant

If you’d like to start your journey in Morocco by sampling authentic traditional cuisine, Le Riad restaurant is the best place to start!

This place is a hidden gem and it’s easy to walk by the facade of the restaurant without realizing that an amazing culinary experience awaits inside. The tagines served here all have the most delicious blend of vegetables and meat with just the right amount of couscous.

A great option at this restaurant is the chicken with olives and lemon tagine. Every meal is served with warm bread and olives.

If you want a Moroccan feast at an affordable price, head over to Le Riad restaurant as soon as you set foot in Casablanca!

Blend Gourmet Burger

If you’re looking for the best burger in Casablanca, this is the place to visit. This restaurant challenges the idea that a burger should be categorized as fast food.

Eating here is a gourmet experience and I bet you’ll want to come back again and again.

The burgers here are cooked to perfection and the buns are just right, not too dry or soft. This restaurant is also famous for its fresh fruit juices and tasty lemonades

Brasserie La Tour

Brasserie La Tour is a bit more expensive than the restaurants I usually recommend and is located inside a hotel but I loved the food there so much I couldn’t leave it from this list.

This restaurant is actually a combo of the Brasserie (European menu) and the Atelier Oriental (Moroccan options). In a way, it’s the best of both worlds, you get to savor French specialties and Moroccan delicacies at the same venue.

The breakfast at Brasserie La Tour is fantastic and the spreads are delicious. Fresh juice, fruit, egg dishes, mint tea, Moroccan pancakes with honey, what more could you ask for!?

If you go there later during the day, I’d recommend trying the savory hummus, the lentil soup or the chicken tagine.

This restaurant also has very kind and professional waiters.

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Where to stay in Casablanca?

Casablanca is a city where it’s worth staying a few days to fully discover it. It’s best to stay there at least a night or two.

It is a city rich in traditional architecture. One of the best experiences you can have in Morocco is staying in a Riad, typical rich Moroccan houses with indoor courtyards and fountains, designed with zellij (Moroccan tiles).

It’s possible to stay in beautiful riads in a small town called El Jadida, just an hour and a half from the city center of Casablanca. The city also offers a good choice of private apartments and studios for mid-range budget travelers.

Casablanca doesn’t really have backpackers hostels like other Moroccan cities do.

What are the best mid-range budget stays in Casablanca?

During my time in Casablanca, I spent a bit of time hopping between guesthouses. Here are two of my favorite places in Casablanca:

• Stayhere Casablanca

This property is one of the coziest houses you’ll find in Casablanca. The place truly feels like a home. It has large bright rooms, big comfortable beds, a terrace, and a lovely kitchen.

This place is located in the city center, at 5 minutes walking from the Arab League Park. If you want to feel like you’re in a home far away from home, definitely consider booking this place when you’re in Casablanca.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Stayhere Casablanca”

• Mosquee and Sea View Casablanca

Mosquee and Sea View Casablanca is a complete apartment that comes equipped with everything you could wish for. It has a washing machine so you can wash your clothes after a long day walking around the medina.

The flat also has a fully equipped kitchen, 2 bedrooms, and a lovely living room.

This apartment is right next to the beach and offers stunning views as the name says it.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Mosquee and Sea View Casablanca”

What are the best Riads in Casablanca?

One very special type of Moroccan building that incorporates elements of the Moroccan history is the Riad.

Riads are typical Moroccan buildings that started appearing during the Idrisid dynasty. they usually have indoor courtyards with gardens and fountains. One notable feature of their construction is that they are designed with zellij (Moroccan tiles).

No stay in Morocco would be complete without at least one night in a Riad. Here are some of the best riads near Casablanca (note that these are located in El Jadida, an hour and a half south of Casablanca):

• Riad Dar El Malaika

This beautiful riad has everything to make you relax, enjoy your stay, and feel like a king. This riad is absolutely magnificent and even the shared photos on booking.com can’t really capture the beauty and class of the place.

Riad Dar El Malaika has a small pond in its inner courtyard, lots of beautiful vegetation and plants, stunning arches and columns, and sumptuous beds.

If you want to stay in a palace without breaking your piggy bank, book this amazing place !

Click to check out rates and availability for “Riad Dar El Malaika”

• Riad Soleil D’orient

This riad is an oasis of peace and tranquility. If you want a relaxing stay in El Jadida away from the buzz of Casablanca, this is the riad you should book.

The riad has a lovely roof-top terrace where you can relax and enjoy your favorite book in a long chair.

In Riad Soleil D’orient , you’ll be at a walking distance from the markets, the Portuguese fort and the sea. A really nice breakfast is served in the garden of the property every morning.

The breakfast is a selection of fresh fruits, orange juice, eggs, cake, several types of pancakes and homemade jams.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Riad Soleil D’orient”

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How to get to Casablanca City?

Casablanca is the economic capital of Morocco. Most major companies have their headquarters in Casablanca and as such, it’s easily accessible from many other Moroccan cities.

Since November 2018 there is a high-speed train that connects Tangier , Rabat , and Casablanca. This train covers the distance between these coastal cities in the blink of an eye.

The fact that Casablanca is so close to Rabat also makes it ideal to visit the two cities back to back on a trip along the Moroccan coast.

How to get to Casablanca from Rabat by train?

Casablanca and Rabat are located very close to each other. The two cities are quite similar in terms of size and look and people often think that Casablanca is the Moroccan capital.

If you visit Morocco and first travel to Rabat, your next stop should inevitably be Casablanca.

You can look online on the ONCF website for the timetable of the trains going between Rabat and Casablanca.

Once you know which train you will take, you can go to the main train station in Rabat called Rabat Ville and buy your ticket there.

There is a train that leaves every 30 minutes and it takes about 50 minutes to reach Casablanca from the Capital city. The price of a ticket is between 35 and 80 MAD.

How to get to Casablanca from Rabat with your own car

The distance between Rabat and Casablanca is very short so it’s convenient to drive there if you have your own car or if you are renting one .

There is a toll highway between the two cities (highway A1) and it takes about one hour to cover the distance between Rabat and Casablanca by car.

How to get to Casablanca from Tangier by train

Tangier is a great starting point to visit the Atlantic coast of Morocco. If you want to take a high-speed train between Tangier and Casablanca, you’ll have to go to the Tangier Ville railway station.

You can look online on the ONCF website for the timetable of the trains going between Tangier and Casablanca.

Once you have an idea of the schedule, you can buy your ticket directly at the station.

The high-speed train takes two hours to cover the distance between the cities and a ticket costs around 250 MAD.

How to get to Casablanca from Tangier with your own car?

If you have your own car or if you are renting one , the road from Tangier along the coast is definitely a pleasant drive. The driving distance between Tangier and Casablanca is 338.82 km.

It should take around 3 hours to reach the southern city.

Driving from Tangier to Casablanca is a great idea if you have the time and if you want the freedom to stop along the coast and take great pictures.

You will also drive through other beautiful cities such as Rabat (the capital of Morocco) and Larrache (where you can visit the Ruins of Lixus).

Driving between the two cities means you can stop at any moment and enjoy the beaches…

To drive from Tangier to Casablanca simply follow highway A1 towards the south along the coast.

Casablanca is a big city, a huge metropolis in fact! But if you take the time to discover it, you’ll love it. I hope this guide will help you do just that.

If you have any questions or comments that you’d like to add to this article, don’t hesitate to get in touch or write your questions down in the comments below.

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Top Things to Do in Casablanca, Morocco

Places to visit in casablanca.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

31. Les Météorites Messagères Du Ciel Origines

32. Dar Al Ala

33. Foret De Bouskoura

34. Casa Tramway

35. Yasmine Fun Park

36. Jardin L'Hermitage

37. Mausolee Sidi Abderrahmane

38. Mosquee Al Qods

39. Isesco Park

40. Hammam Ziani

41. Spa & Hammam Istanbul

43. Navette Casablanca

44. TAXI NAVETTE, AIRPORT PICK UP, AIRPORT DROP OFF, RIDES

45. Casablanca Tours

46. The DoorZ Escape Game

47. Le CasArt Bar

48. Cinema Rialto

50. Premium Transfers & Tours - N4Y

51. Nice Week Tours

52. KineSPA Casablanca

53. Starry Morocco Tours

54. Om Yoga Casablanca

55. Tamaris Golden Tours

56. Wang Thaï Spa

57. Marché Solidaire

58. Chauffeur Prive Maroc

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60. La Petite Perle De Bien Etre Spa

What travellers are saying.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Casablanca Is Not What I Expected; Here’s Why Everyone Should Visit

Robin O'Neal Smith

• Destinations

There are many reasons to visit Casablanca. Many come for religious reasons, others for the beaches, and of course, some feel the romantic pull of the movie Casablanca , and want to see the town for themselves (even though the film was actually shot in the U.S.).

Located in western Morocco on the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and is considered its economic and business center. The city is a mix of modern cosmopolitan buildings and old historic downtown.

Why We Visited Casablanca

A friend of mine was born in Casablanca. She had never returned to her birthplace, and when a group of us were discussing a European cruise, she mentioned her desire to visit. As we planned the trip, we looked at cruises that had ports of call in Casablanca. We were excited to see another country and continent.

Planning Our Trip to Casablanca

I was aware Casablanca was not a town where you wanted to wander around alone from the research I had done. Experts recommended safety in small groups and taking cruise-approved tours.

Our group of seven all had different ideas of how to spend our time in Casablanca. Three of us signed up for one of the tours that would take us to see the highlights of Casablanca, and the other four chose to visit the medina and wander around the town on their own as a small group.

Our Time In Casablanca

Our tour gave us a panoramic ride through the streets and squares of Casablanca with stops at the most famous and popular tourist destinations. Our first stop was the Mosque of Hassan II, then a drive through the Medina for a glimpse of routine life in the city, Habous Quarters as a shopping stop, and our final stop was a tour of the Place Mohamed V to view the governmental buildings.

Robin O’Neal Smith

Mosque Of Hassan II

Our excursion’s highlight was a visit to the magnificent Mosque of Hassan II , the second largest mosque in the Islamic world after Mecca. It is the main tourist attraction in the city.

The mosque dominates the shoreline cityscape. An immense building, the prayer hall accommodates up to 25,000 people, and another 80,000 can gather in the courtyard (it has a retractable roof). It is the only mosque in the city that non-Muslims are permitted to visit.

The mosque interior is intricately decorated with the exquisite work of over 10,000 master artisans from Morocco. A treasure trove of artistry and craftsmanship, you can view cedar carpentry, stucco moldings, and zellij tile work. Touring the building alone is worth a visit to Casablanca.

The Old Medina in Casablanca consists of various alleyways that seem like a maze full of Moroccan tradespeople selling meats, seafood, vegetables, baked goods, candles, fabrics, spices, and everyday goods.

You can immerse yourself in the city’s authentic traditional Moroccan culture with whitewashed buildings and, in some places, what resemble rundown shacks beside art deco-style facades for a taste of authentic residential life.

Habous Quarters

A calmer, newer, and cleaner alternative to the Old Medina is the Quartier Habous or New Medina. It is a planned district built in the style of a traditional Medina. We wandered along the cobbled streets to shop for traditional Moroccan crafts that included quality Berber jewelry, beaded slippers, Moorish lamps, and sacks of spices during our stop.

I enjoyed photographing the fruits, flowers, and things in the market.

Place Mohamed V

Home to many important official buildings, Place Mohamad V is the central plaza of Casablanca, and the square has beautiful gardens and a central fountain. All of the buildings showcase a neo-Moorish style.

What I Liked And Disliked

I felt very safe during our entire well-organized tour. We were transported from place to place by bus, and there were times I looked out at the congested traffic and thanked my lucky stars I was not driving.

The Mosque of Hassan II is gorgeous. It is beautiful inside and out. The grounds and building are impeccably groomed. Everything inside is polished and shined.

I didn’t enjoy shopping in the stores. You could tell the people working were paid according to their sales. They followed you wherever you went and tried to sell you everything you glanced at.

I wanted to ride a camel while I was in Africa, and I did not get that opportunity, so that was disappointing, but it gives me something to look forward to on our next visit.

Happy Surprises

The beauty and quality of some of the goods in the New Medina were amazing. Beautiful rugs, tablecloths, other artistic cloth products, and the spices were delightful.

The quality and variety of the fresh fruit sold at open markets were impressive. I loved seeing the colorful fresh flowers in the markets.

I Was Shocked

I sort of expected a glamorous town after all the movie hype (even though the movie was filmed in the States). But aside from the Mosque and a few government buildings, it was not glamorous or flashy.

The traffic in the old city was horrid. Cars two inches from the next one, cutting in and out of traffic jams. Our tour guide said, “People shouldn’t buy cars in Morocco, and if they do they should make sure they have three things: good tires, good brakes, and good luck!” As I looked out the bus window, I thought it was so true.

In the Old Medina, I was surprised by boxes sitting along the street in front of shops. Both unpacked delivery boxes and trash boxes blocked the view of many of the businesses.

And the electrical wiring from house to house, business to business, was another surprising feature. Let’s just say their wiring would never, ever pass code here in the U.S.

Another very shocking detail was the number of homes that had satellite dishes on their roofs. Almost everywhere you looked, there was a dish. Some of the houses were old and rundown but had a modern Satellite dish on their roofs.

What I Would Do Differently On My Next Visit

If I visit Casablanca again, I would love to tour the city at night. The different lights and colors would be spectacular.

If I return during the day, I would venture a bit inland to Marrakech. It is about a three-hour drive from the port of Casablanca and supposedly full of activity.

Travel Tips

Consider traveling in spring or fall to avoid inflated prices and large crowds. We visited in October, and the weather was delightful.

Non-Muslim visitors to Morocco should remember to dress conservatively with their knees and shoulders covered. (You will not be permitted into the mosque if they are not.)

If you visit because you enjoyed the movie Casablanca , visit Rick’s Cafe in the Old Medina. It is a recreation of the gin joint from the movie. For more Moroccan inspiration, consider

• 8 Must-Visit UNESCO Sites In Morocco
• 9 Hidden Secrets In Morocco’s Sahara Desert
• A Photographer’s Paradise: 14 Best Places To Capture In Morocco

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

Things to do in Casablanca, Morocco – 5 of the best reasons to visit!

Casablanca in Morocco is often overlooked as a travel destination, since most tourists bypass Morocco’s largest city and head on to Marrakech and Fes. But instead of immediately hopping on a train or connecting flight, it’s worth it to spend at least a day or two discovering all the things to do in Casablanca, Morocco.

If you believe the guidebooks, you might feel that Casablanca isn’t worth much time. But before rushing off to Marrakech, here are five reasons we think you should stay in Casablanca for more than a couple hours:

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

1. Food in Casablanca – the cosmopolitan restaurant and nightlife scene

Marrakech is one of the most stylish Moroccan cities and the destination of choice for the fashionable set visiting Morocco. But Casablanca still has enough affordable and trendy restaurants to be a culinary destination of its own.

One popular hot spot is Blend , a burger restaurant where you will probably have a hard time getting a table during prime dining hours. After indulging in one of their gourmet burgers, hit up La Bodega , a Spanish-style tapas bar where expats gather for drinks in a loud but fun atmosphere.

Looking for something a little more refined when you visit Casablanca? Make a reservation at upscale, waterfront establishment Le Cabestan and ask for a table by the water. Prepare to shell out American prices for ocean views, beautiful patrons and top-notch food.

You may also enjoy: Delicious Moroccan Food – 14 dishes you must try

For weekend brunch, visit La Sqala , which serves fresh squeezed juices and traditional Moroccan breakfast foods in a beautiful outdoor setting within the walls of an old fortress.

2. Visit Mosque Hassan II in Casablanca, Morocco

Most Westerners have never been inside a mosque, but if you’re visiting Casablanca, Mosque Hassan II offers the rare opportunity to take a tour. Sitting on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s one of the world’s largest mosques and Morocco’s top architectural wonder. The Mosque that was commissioned by King Hassan II, is one of the top things to do in Casablanca, taking seven years to build and holding up to 25,000 worshipers.

Looking for a tour of Casablanca? This private half day tour of Casablanca will show you all the major sites

Tours are offered in several languages at set times daily, except on Fridays. Visitors to Mosque Hassan II should dress conservatively and respectfully (make sure your arms, shoulders, neckline and knees are covered) and bring a pair of socks, as you’ll be required to remove your shoes for part of the tour.

3. Admire the Art Deco Architecture in Casablanca

Bustling downtown Casablanca will leave you feeling like you stepped into a time machine. French architects who embraced the Art Deco movement of the early 20th century practically took over Casablanca, and there are plenty of historic buildings to see.

Some of them are unfortunately in crumbling disrepair while others are well maintained. Overall, this neighbourhood is an authentic slice of Morocco’s history as a French colony.

Read about visiting Petra Jordan – my ultimate travel guide

The best place to take in the sights is Boulevard Mohammed V, where you can stroll alongside Casablanca’s brand new tram. Eventually the street leads to Place des Nations Unies, a large and busy square surrounded by shops, restaurants and offices.

Discover the wonders of Casablanca on a 4-hour discovery tour with a local

Other notable sites to see examples of Moroccan/French architecture in Casablanca include the Grande Poste, the clock tower of the Wilaya (government building), the Banque d’Etat and the Sacre Coeur Cathedral, which is no longer a functioning church.

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Check out these fun tours of Casablanca

Take a private half day tour of Casablanca to visit the famous sights in Casablanca or “White House”, in Arabic Dar El Beida. This 5 hour religions of Morocco tour takes you to some of Casablanca’s holiest sites. Take this 4 hour tour of Casablanca with a local to gain an insight into the city’s diverse history and culture.

Where to stay in Casablanca

If you’re looking for a stylish hotel in Casablanca, check out the following places to stay;

Boutique Hotel in Casablanca

Hotel and Spa Le Doge Casablanca – In the heart of the Art Deco district of Casablanca, Le Doge is a gem of a hotel, where authenticity and sophistication are key. The building’s 30s architecture is carried through in the interior décor and the conservation of central period elements.

Stay at the sophisticated Hôtel & Spa Le Doge in Casablanca’s Art Deco istrict

Budget hotel in Casablanca

Ibis Casablanca City Centre – An affordable hotel with compact rooms but breakfast included and centrally located for sightseeing.

Stay at the affordable and centrally located Ibis Casablanca City Centre

Contemporary hotel in Casablanca

Barcelo Anfa Casablanca – located in the very heart of Casablanca, this contemporary hotel draws on Art Deco design reflected in its colours, geometric patterns and warm materials.

The Barceló Anfa Casablanca is ideal for groups and couples, located in the heart of the city

Self-catering accommodation in Casablanca

Pestana Casablanca – A contemporary design apart-hotel with kitchenettes in all rooms, located close to the beach with swimming pool and gardens.

Stay at the contemporary design apart-hotel Pestana Casablanca close to the beach

4. Explore the Markets in Casablanca

While there are definitely more historical and attractive medinas in Marrakech and Fes, the Casablanca medina is worth checking out simply because there are few other tourists there. If you’re wondering what to do in Casablanca, the markets certainly offer a rare peek into the daily life of the city’s Moroccan residents.

To explore Casablanca with a local, take this 4-hour tour of Casablanca that includes the markets and medina

Don’t spend too much time shopping here – most of the souvenirs are imported from other parts of the country and therefore more expensive. The entrance to the medina is located off of Place des Nations Unies.

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A better shopping destination to visit (even if you aren’t shopping) is Marche Central. This buzzing street market was originally designed for Europeans but today it caters to both expats and Moroccans.

If you like seafood, you can select a freshly caught fish and then take it around the corner to a grill to have it cooked to perfection. Or just find a nearby cafe for a mint tea to watch the comings and goings in the market.

Discover the 20 best things to do in Petra Jordan – plus itinerary ideas

The market also sells fruits, vegetables and other food items, making it a great spot to stop before a picnic on the beach. Just don’t forget to haggle for the best price!

5. Explore the growing Art Scene of Casablanca

Inexpensive rents make Casablanca an ideal place for artists to live, and a plethora of abandoned buildings provides a canvas. One can’t-miss is Les Anciens Abattoirs , a former slaughterhouse that still has meat hooks hanging and blood stains on the floor.

A collective of cultural associations and artists, La Fabrique Culturelle, has taken it over recently and turned it into a gallery space and performance venue.

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Another popular up-and-coming space is La Galerie 38 , which supports local Moroccan artists as well as international names. La Galerie 38 is connected to Le Studio des Arts Vivants, a large studio that is at the centre of Morocco’s contemporary art scene.

Students of all ages can take lessons in music, art, dance and theatre with teachers from all over the world. The best representation of the increasingly modern Moroccan art scene is Galerie L’Atelier 21. They offer pieces from both emerging and established local designers.

Read about more sunshine destinations: Paradise Valley – blue pools and waterfalls in Morocco 30 amazing things to do in Lanzarote 12 fun and unexpected things to do in Tenerife

Anna Rice is the writer behind The Weekend Jetsetter , a travel blog written for those want to see the world – without quitting their day job. A publicist by day, Rice spends her weekends, holidays and vacation days globetrotting in 2-5 day chunks. You can read more of her Morocco tips on her site , or follow her on Instagram

Photo credits: Mosque Hassan II by boredallrounder | Mosque architecture by GregMontani | Casablanca food by TheUjulala | Art deco by Stratageme2015 | Casablanca boats by Chengtzf (Pixabay) | Oranges by Eduardo C.G (unsplash) | Casablanca Market by hewy on Flickr | Casablanca fish by Magale Abbe on Flickr | Casablanca Art Deco by Maret on Flickr |

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This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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Sunday 25th of September 2022

Thanks a lot! There is a beautiful place you maybe forget is Habous quarter. An ancient and historic neigborhood with a small market for traditionnal berber clothes

Heather Cowper

Wednesday 26th of October 2022

@ Staph Thanks for the tip, that's good to know

Friday 12th of August 2016

Thanks for the info about Casablanca... I definitely want to visit it now

Wednesday 9th of December 2015

Did u feel safe by yourself>

@marnie This was a guest post but I have visited Marrakech, albeit with my hisband and felt perfectly safe. I do think though that if you were travelling alone as a woman you would need to be conservative in your dress and behaviour

Tuesday 20th of May 2014

Great ideas...I love the art deco architecture.

Wednesday 21st of May 2014

@Corinne Yes, I didn't realise that there was some French architectural influence here.

Anna @ The Blonde Banana

Thanks again for the feature!

@Anna you are very welcome and perhaps my next trip to Morocco will include Casablanca

Is Casablanca worth visiting?

I didn’t fall in love with Casablanca.

It’s industrial. It’s dirty. And some might say devoid of charm.

Yet the famous white city is also Morocco’s largest metropolis, and indeed one of the most important financial and economical centres in all of Africa. Rabat may be the political Capital, with Marrakech and Fes flying the flag for culture, but Casablanca is the beating business heart of Morocco . Strategically positioned on the coast, Casablanca boasts one of the largest artificial ports in the world, and is home to the Royal Moroccan Navy. I never thought I’d be walking down wide tree-lined boulevards past naval colleges and sailors on a trip to North Africa!

I have to be honest. I didn’t particularly want to go to Casablanca.

With Roman, French and Portuguese roots, in it’s heyday the city was the place to be. However today, visions of long forgotten grandeur  suggested that the Morocco we know and love clearly wasn’t going to show her face here. Yet we’re often asked by blog readers if Casablanca is worth visiting. So in the interests of broadening our knowledge and experience of Morocco, Hubbie and I decided it was time to see the place for ourselves.

It’s the first time we have let the blog dictate our destination , and I worried that we weren’t staying true to ourselves, or to the ethos of Conversant Traveller.  Still, it would be a new adventure, and since we’re becoming known for being a bit of an ‘authority’ on travel to Morocco, it seemed like something we just had to do.

READ MORE : 25 Top Instagrammable Places in Morocco

Getting to Casablanca

It’s relatively easy to reach Casablanca, with several international flights landing there daily. If you’re already in Morocco, the train network is reasonably extensive, surprisingly comfortable, and pretty cheap . For a popular route such as Marrakech to Casablanca it is advisable to arrange tickets in advance to ensure you get a seat! You can check the timetable and fares at oncf but you can’t make an online purchase without a Moroccan credit card. Your best bet is to buy them in person at the train station a few days before your journey, or if that isn’t practical, ask your hotel to arrange it for you. Alternatively you can use an agency such as Marrakech Tickets who will purchase tickets and send them to you, for a fee.

Travelling to Casablanca was in fact our very first Moroccan train experience , and we were childishly excited! We’d been staying in a converted church in the historic coastal town of El Jadida, and a £4 first class ticket for the 1 hour 20 minute journey to Casablanca was a no brainer.

It was an interesting experience, and one that we’d be happy to repeat. We had an entire first class carriage to ourselves and it was actually pretty decent, if a bit squeaky. There was a train attendant whose sole job seemed to be spraying some noxious scent into the air conditioning unit, enveloping the carriage in a haze of chemical apple. No doubt a special perk of the first class service. Or perhaps just to mask any odious smells seeping from the on-board toilets. Which were not especially pleasant but functional.

Things to do in Casablanca

On paper, there are several things to do in Casablanca. Yet we were disappointed by everything we saw. Except for the truly astounding Mosque Hassan II, and the world famous Rick’s Cafe.

Mosque Hassan II

If Hubbie and I were impressed with the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, we were totally blown away by Casablanca’s Mosque Hassan II.  It’s the third largest mosque in the world , and one of the very few you can visit as a non Muslim. If you do nothing else in Casablanca, make sure you don’t miss this. You won’t regret it!

Designed by French architect Michel Pinseau for King Hassan II’s birthday, the mosque is one of the most beautiful buildings you will ever have the pleasure of seeing. The marble walls are all painstakingly hand crafted , the roof is retractable for special occasions, and the floor is so polished it looks like a mirror.

Towering at 210 metres, the minaret is the tallest in the world, and at night, a laser at the top shines towards Mecca.

The lavishly constructed mosque Hassan II is perhaps a stark contrast to the rest of Casablanca, and understandably there is still some local resentment towards the construction . No compensation was given to the former residents of the promontory land on which the mosque was built, and funds for the staggering $800 million project were reputedly raised from public subscription, not all of it voluntary.

Yet most Moroccans are proud of their world famous monument , not least because Mosque Hassan II is a building open to all Muslims for worship, rather than just something to be enjoyed by the wealthy. Indeed, the mosque is so vast that it can hold 25,000 worshippers inside, and a further 80,000 in the outside courtyards.

Tips for visiting the mosque

• Mosque Hassan II is open to visitors on guided tours Saturday to Thursday, at 9am, 10am, 11am, and 2pm.
• Arrive in time to purchase your ticket from the office (down the stairs on the left side of the building) and collect a plastic bag to carry your shoes around in (you cannot wear them inside).
• Make sure you bring a pair of socks as those floors are cold!
• Women don’t need to wear headscarves or long skirts, and photography is allowed in all areas of the tour.
• Tours last for one hour and cost DH 120.

Our tour guide spoke excellent English , and although she was clearly on a tight schedule, questions were welcomed and we were given time to take photos. She even tolerated Hubbie sneaking away from the group for some better shots, although he was under her beady eye at all times! As well as the main prayer hall, we were also shown the water fountains and even the lavish hammam beneath the mosque, for washing prior to prayer. The latter is no longer used, which is a shame.

Religion is the cause of many of the world’s troubles. It’s also the root of much of it’s beauty too , none more apparent than the Hassan II Mosque here in Casablanca. I would never suggest that aesthetics are a reason for religious loyalty. Yet maybe if our places of worship back home in the UK were half as impressive as the mosques in Morocco, I might have taken religion more seriously as a child, instead of unceremoniously dropping baby Jesus whilst playing Mary in the school nativity. Or absconding from Sunday School in favour of rope swings and sweet shops.

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Rick’s Café

Rick’s Café is a bit of an institution. One born from a famous movie , and a determined American who saw an opportunity and ran with it.

If you’ve never seen the film Casablanca , you’ll almost certainly have heard of it. Some say it’s America’s all time favourite movie! Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman put the city of Casablanca firmly on the map with their romantic World War II drama. At the centre of which was Rick’s Café, a nightclub owned by Bogart’s character, American Rick Blaine.

Many fans don’t realise that Casablanca was filmed 1000’s of miles away in Hollywood, rather than here in Morocco. And that the  Rick’s Café they flock to see appeared many decades after the movie was released. That the venture has been so successful is testament to the dedication of owner Kathy Kriger , a former American diplomat who has lived in Morocco for nearly 20 years. A passionate and imaginative lady, Kathy enticed investors to Rick’s by adapting one of the most famous quotes of the film to use in her pitch…

“Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, I’d like you to buy into mine”.

So now it’s confession time. Neither Hubbie nor I have actually seen the movie Casablanca . Something I felt ashamed of until I discovered none of my peers had either. To be fair, it was a bit before our time, and even our parent’s time for that matter! I ordered the DVD before our trip, but in the event decided not to watch it until our return. I wanted to see if the Rick’s Café experience was dependent on having seen the movie.

It wasn’t. We loved it, and agreed it was one of our most enjoyable evenings out during the trip. We were lucky to have one of the best seats in the house (naturally!), on the ground floor patio across from the jazz trio , and couldn’t stop grinning at finally being here.

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The decor was elegant, the musicians transported diners to a bygone era, and the staff kept the Casablanca magic alive despite having to deal with star struck tourists and the same inane questions day in, day out.

The food was tasty, if a little unexceptional, but what you’re here for is the atmosphere . It’s the sort of place that could serve up a mediocre burger and chips (which it doesn’t) and still have the guests buzzing. The menu was certainly a refreshing change from tagine and couscous. We tried goat’s cheese croquettes with honey and lavender, tropical prawn salad and of course the famous Rick’s cheesecake.

The fact that we enjoyed ourselves without being able to relate to the film speaks volumes for the establishment.

Having returned home and finally watched Casablanca , I can confirm that Rick’s Café has indeed captured the spirit of the film , right down to the last detail. Whether you’ve seen it or not, an evening at Casablanca’s most famous restaurant is a must!

Tips for dining at Rick’s Café

• Book a table well in advance, especially at the weekend, and aim to arrive after 8 p.m.
• The jazz begins at 9 p.m.
• There are taxis outside for your journey home.

READ MORE : Best Restaurants in Marrakech

What else is worth visiting in Casablanca?

To be honest, after the mosque and Rick’s, our Casablanca experience went a bit down hill. We visited the Old Medina, the Art Deco quarter, as well as some of the markets and were sorely disappointed with them all. It wasn’t because they weren’t glammed up for the tourists (indeed, we were looking forward to seeing a non touristy side of Morocco), but everywhere just screamed neglect . Which is a shame, since a bit of love and attention could do wonders for this famous historical city.

Art Deco Quarter

The beautiful Art Deco facades along Boulevard Mohammed V  are one of Casablanca’s most famous sights, and a reminder of the long forgotten glory days. The street was built in 1915 and was once the city’s main thoroughfare, lined with restaurants and covered arcades on either side.

Sure, the buildings were pretty impressive, and wouldn’t have looked out of place in continental Europe, but they looked forlorn dilapidated, and the whole street stank of urine and drains. Today the area is pedestrianised with a tramway running through the middle, but the stonework was still filthy from years of traffic fumes, and it seems that no thought has been given to the future upkeep of one of Casablanca’s historical gems.

Seriously, I wouldn’t bother visiting unless you have a lot of time to kill and are a keen historian or architect.

READ MORE : L’Iglesia – Sleeping in a Church in El Jadida near Casablanca

Marché Central

Markets are central to everyday life in Morocco, and it’s always fun to wander around the stalls, listening to the banter and bustle. But not here. Located just off Boulevard Mohammed V, Marché Central was once a thriving local market. Yet today it’s a sad place with little more than a few snack cafes and some sorry looking fish counters. Pedestrianisation of the street and subsequent poor management by the city left the market with no parking for clients or deliveries. Just another example to add to Casablanca’s air of neglect.

There may be a glimmer of hope however, as a tender has been launched for the redevelopment and restoration of Marché Central. Perhaps in a year or two a visit here will be a different experience.

Having explored many an old medina in Morocco , we had high hopes for the one in Casablanca, but it fell far short of expectation. Perhaps that was our problem. Expectation. We shouldn’t really be comparing the place to everywhere else we’ve visited in the country, but I guess it’s only natural. Casablanca’s ancienne medina , like the rest of the city we’d seen, was crying out for a bit of attention. We’re told it’s being restored but work hasn’t yet been completed, and you have to look really hard to discover any semblance of charm. Hopefully the old medina will be much improved after the restoration, but at the moment, it isn’t somewhere we’d particularly recommend.

Feeling deflated, we retreated to our hotel and counted down the hours to our flight home.

Yet I couldn’t help but feel we must be missing something. Surely Casablanca had something else worth visiting, some hidden gem we’d overlooked. So I asked Kathy Kriger from Rick’s Café , someone who knows a thing or two about Casablanca, both from an insider and outsider perspective, for her advice.

She suggests checking out some of the lesser known attractions, and here are some of her favourites.

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Musée de la Fondation Abderrahman Slaoui 

This museum, named after a real life treasure hunter from Fes, is housed in a beautifully restored art deco villa not far from the Cathedral Sacré Cœur. There are several artistic and ethnographic exhibitions, but Kathy recommends the beautiful collection of early 20th prints and posters . Something a bit different to the usual stuffy museum displays!

Museum of Moroccan Judaism

The Jewish community has played an integral part in the development of Moroccan culture over the years. You may have noticed many Moroccan cities have a Mellah district. ‘Mellah’ is the Arabic word for ‘salt marsh’, and also the name of the very first Jewish settlement in Fes. Initially a place of privilege and protection for the Jews from Arab attack, the Mellah districts were later poor and miserable places, similar to the European Ghetto . European colonisation at the beginning of the 20th Century allowed the Mellah areas to open up and Jews were allowed to prosper, bringing exciting economic opportunities to the country. Moroccan cuisine is also influenced by the Jews, such as the famous salt preserved lemons used in numerous dishes and tagines. The Museum of Moroccan Judaism in Casablanca follows this fascinating history, and has a special exhibition about the Berber Jews of south Morocco, who in fact pre-dated the Arabs!

Parks and Squares

Parc League Arabe

This park in downtown Casablanca is famous for its rows of towering palm trees , but today is poorly maintained and cluttered by ice cream sellers and game rides. Kathy tells me that the park is undergoing redevelopment and when completed in March 2017 the city residents hope it will once again be as stunning as it was before. The palm trees are staying!

Parc ISESCO

Parc ISESCO is a beautifully laid out and well maintained neighbourhood park, unlike many of its counterparts in Casablanca. Known as the ‘second lung’ of the city , the park is surrounded by Art Deco villas, and is only about 10 minutes walk from the souk of the New Medina (Habous). Parc ISESCO is a great place to chill out for a while after all your sightseeing, and a real haven of peace and tranquillity.

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Souks and Shopping

Magasins Solidaires et Equitable

This huge government-owned treasure trove  is a great place to do your shopping before heading home. Whilst it lacks the charm of the souks, it has a huge range of products from all over Morocco under one roof, from argan oil and honey to couscous and cosmetics. The prices aren’t bad either. Kathy says the cumin sold here is the best she’s ever tasted!

If you want to give your nose a workout, this spice souk is the place to go. Each stall has its own specialities, and it’s a very visual (and olfactory!) experience to wander through the terraces taking it all in. There is a regular market too, as well as the one vendor in Casablanca who sells live snails!

Bennis Patisserie

Located in the Nouvelle Medina (Habous area), this place does the best Moroccan sweets . It’s lovingly decorated with intricate tiling, and is always bustling. Four generations of bakers have been satisfying the sweet toothed inhabitants of Casablanca since the 1930s, and it’s highly likely that the little treats scented with orange blossom, almonds and cinnamon served with your mint tea have come from here.

We’ve always found it difficult to buy sweet and pastries in Morocco, as usually the stalls we come across are in the souks and covered with flies! This is definitely somewhere we’ll make a bee-line for if we ever return to Casablanca. Moroccan sweets are the best!

Where to stay in Casablanca

Normally our travels in Morocco involve quirky hotels, luxury riads and sumptuous retreats . Perhaps rather naively we assumed Casablanca would offer the same. Yet it proved to be a bit of a nightmare trying to find somewhere that matched madam’s requirements. Yeah, I know, we’re just too picky.

Casablanca has bland business hotels , and a few establishments calling themselves ’boutique’ or ‘arty’, but frankly they looked a little like the insides of seedy Parisian boudoirs that were long since past their prime. In the end we stayed at the Sofitel. It’s a brand we know and love and the Sofitel Tour Blanche in Casablanca had amazing city views. In the event, our hotel experience fell far short of expectation (it was their policy to only have one of everything in a double room for two, one pair of slippers, one bath robe, one tea cup etc, and we read in reviews that they charge extra if you ask for more!), but the panorama from our room made up for the negatives.

We perhaps should have tried the arty  Hôtel & Spa Le Doge , the smart Gauthier Boutique Hotel  or even the dazzling but dated Art Palace Suites .

Search Casablanca Hotels

The Verdict

So, is Casablanca worth visiting? If you’re a frequent traveller to Morocco and want to experience a different and perhaps more ‘gritty’ side to the country, then by all means head on over. Casablanca is not at all like Marrakech, Fes or Meknes, and gives you a glimpse into life beyond the souks, riads and palaces of those glitteringly popular Imperial cities. On the other hand, there is no shame in enjoying those tourist hot spots (we do!) and sticking two fingers up at those who persist in telling you to get off the beaten traveller trail, and discover the ‘real’ side of a destination.

We spent two days in Casablanca, and felt that one would have been sufficient. The city just didn’t push our buttons, and the only two places worth visiting can be done in an afternoon and an evening. Having said that, Mosque Hassan II was without doubt one of the most stunning pieces of architecture we’ve ever seen. I’m tempted to say our trip to Casablanca was worth that alone.

So if you’re passing through Casablanca on your travels, by all means spend the night. Just don’t expect too much and you’ll be ok!

Thanks so much to Kathy Kriger for her insider tips, and for convincing us Casablanca is perhaps worth more than just a glance. 

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Thanks ..most informative article If one wants to relax at a beach resort in Morocco for a few days where would you suggest? Your article explains clearly why Casablanca is not on many tours for any length of time

Hi Melvyn, for beaches there’s Essaouira, Agadir, Legzira, Taghazout, or over in the east Al Hoceima.

My friend and I will be in Morocco with a tour group in February-March. We have an extra day in Casablanca at the end (due to air schedule). Our intent was to take a market and cooking class (another good alternative I think for a day in Casa). However, no food tours on Friday–(Possibly no market? What happens on Friday?) Since we will have seen the Mosque and other Casa “sights” with the tour group, do you have a suggestion for a day tour out of the city? Also, thanks for your (and other’s) posts with alternative suggestions of what to do in the city.

Sure, you could do a day trip to somewhere like Rabat, or perhaps El Jadida on the coast (we’ve written about El Jadida here https://www.conversanttraveller.com/hotel-liglesia-el-jadida-morocco/ ), neither are far by train. Or you could go to Volubilis or Meknes (although both are a fair bit further than Rabat or El Jadida) https://www.conversanttraveller.com/volubilis-moulay-idriss-day-trip/ Fridays in Morocco are always quiet – it’s their equivalent of our Sundays, lots of places are shut, as families gather together to share the traditional meal of couscous.

interesting blog post. We just got back from a Morocco tour and our take on Casablanca was the same as yours. We decided to stay an extra day at the end of tour (in Casa), not knowing that it’s mostly smelly and very dirty. We walked around the waterfront, took taxi to Jewish museum, had lunch at a Moroccan fast food chicken place, rested at hotel for a while, went back out to explore on foot, eat at casa port train station, back to hotel. We did see the mosque on final day of tour, and went by Rick’s while we were in the bus.

Considering the rich history of Judaism in Morocco, the museum is very weak. This is likely because there is no remotely objective history of the Jews being told in the Islamic world, and most of the Judaic history has been stolen and destroyed. There were many brutal pogroms against the Jews (in addition to daily humiliation and degredation by Arabs). As recently as 1912, the Jews of Fez were thrown off the roof tops of the mellah, the synagogues were looted, defiled, destroyed, their houses were burnt, their property stolen, the women and young girls were raped, people were beaten mercilessly. In 1948, most of the remaining Jews wisely fled. It’s a shame the Jews were treated this way.

Hi Andrew, thanks for your comment, and insight in Judaism in Morocco. We’ve always been interested in learning more about the Jews here, because all the cities have the Jewish ‘Mellah’ areas, but never really tell us much about the history, aside from their work with salt. History can be embarrassing and I suppose it’s understandable from a commercial/tourism perspective that perhaps the country doesn’t want to shout too loudly about the negative periods of its past, but I agree that the reality of what happened should be told honestly and to anyone who is interested. We found a similar tale in Venice when we did a tour of the ghetto area, really fascinating and heartbreaking to discover that beneath the shiny surface there was actually a lot of dreadful behaviour that went on. It’s good to talk about these things, they shouldn’t be forgotten.

Hi Heather, interestingly, I read mixed origins of the ‘mellah’ name, none really having to do with trading in salt (our guide also said that the Jews traded in salt). One mellah may have originally been on a ‘salty marsh’ area. Alternately, I read (backed by an account from the 1870s) that the Jews, who were experts in using salt to make meat kosher, were forced by the Muslims to salt the decapitated heads of the vanquished enemies of the Muslims, so that they could be displayed on poles. It was considered the ultimate degredation to have the ‘lowly’ Jews salt one’s head.

It certainly does seem that no-one quite knows the definitive answer when it comes to the mellahs. The most comprehensive discussion we had was with a guide who we spent a day with in Fes, who mentioned the salt marsh and the decapitated heads too. Maybe there’s another blog post in all this somewhere…

Please note that your link to the Judaism museum leads to an online casino.

Hi Ricardo, thanks for the heads up, had no idea! It’s obviously changed since I first put it in, have removed it, cheers!

My wife and are planning to visit Morocco in May, this year. What other cities do you suggest other than Casa. Definitely we are going to visit the great mosque. Thanks for the blog.

Hi Kalif, depending on how long you’re over there, I’d suggest Marrakech, Fes, Meknes and Chefchaouen. If you have longer, there’s also Tangier. And yes, definitely visit the mosque in Casa, it’s just stunning. Have a great time!

What a shame you didn’t love Casa. My daughter lives there, she moved from Marrakesh to live in a more real and less touristy part of Morocco and I visit. She has taken me to so many interesting places. Yes some of it is gritty, but it’s real and has a life of its own which isn’t just about milking tourists. The people are friendly and respectful. Eating out is a delicious experience from gorgeous restaurants, eg Organic Kitchen in the main town, LaSqala in the medina, Friday couscous in Habous restaurants to amazing street food. There are lovely parks, the beach is a great walking place and there are good beach restaurants or for authentic experience enjoy Harissa soup on the beach. Have a drink at the top of the Sky tower and enjoy fab views and sunsets. The modern city is vibrant and yes there are tatty bits and they are working hard to regenerate it but there is loads to see if you look beyond the hotel room and the tourist books. Check out @koolcasa for street food tours and @katebliving for local pictures. But yes don’t expect Marrakesh, Chefchaouen, Fes etc because Casablanca as the finance capital is different.

Hi Anji, thanks for your comment, it’s good to hear another perspective of Casa beyond the tourist eyes. It’s very difficult to get a true impression of a place in just a couple of days and we know we barely scratched the surface, yet as tourists (because that’s what we were) we just felt it didn’t quite do it for us. We certainly weren’t expecting the dazzling (maybe a bit too neon) lights of Marrakech, indeed that’s why we went to Casa in the first place. I think it’s perhaps a great place to live, and really have a chance to get to know the city, rather than coming as tourists. Sounds like we need to come anyway to try out some of those restaurants!

Thanks for this advice. We’re likely going to Morocco next year, and there’s so much to choose from in putting together an itinerary.

Pleasure, hope you have a wonderful time when you get there!

These photos are drool worthy – so much culture! I admit I have always wanted to visit this area 🙂

Yes, it’s very photogenic, especially the mosque. Just a shame about a lot of the rest of the city.

My wife and I are visiting Morocco later in Feb 2017. I have been to Tangiers in the early 90’s when I was a Naval Officer stationed in Spain… I remember pushy Souk Merchants and the Moroccan men wanting to buy my blonde girlfriend (not my wife with whom I am currently married to)… We are flying into Casa, and staying a night or two…. Thank’s for your Blog…

Did they offer 10,000 camels? I get that a lot (again, could be the blond hair!), but these days a lot of people just say it as a joke, and a bit of banter. Hubbie is sometimes tempted to take them up on it 😉 Must have been fascinating to have been in Tangiers in the 90s, what an experience! I hope this trip lives up to expectations and that your wife enjoys it too.

That’s a great story about Rick’s! And don’t feel bad – I only saw Casablanca in graduate school when my roommate forced me to watch it. He was appalled I hadn’t yet seen it 🙂

Sad:( BUT yeah… I guess if it’s on the way on your map then a night is a great idea…Thanks for the input. Well… I believe the movie wasn’t filmed there anyways so no big expectations here. Hopefully, maybe one day we get to visit that side of the world:)

I hope you do too, it’s an amazing country, and even if Casa isn’t the jewel in the crown, it’s kinda cool to say we’ve been 🙂

Such a shame, it sounds like a bit of love and care would do wonders for the city and bring it back to how it was during it’s peak years. Definitely not putting it on the list for our first trip this year, although the mosque does look amazing. Thanks so much for checking it out!

Yeah, it’s not a place for a first trip to Morocco, hope you have a great time wherever you’re going!

aw i’m slightly disappointed that Casablanca IRL is nothing like the movie but thankful to have read your post before my trip!

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Meknes – the subdued Imperial city sister

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EPIC MOROCCO

From ancient cities to the sahara, embrace cultural riches and enchanting landscapes in north africa., about your trip.

Journey deep into the Sahara, explore the majestic kasbah of Ait-Ben-Haddou, and stargaze with an expert astrologer on this 11-day Moroccan adventure. You’ll experience local culture and marvel at the architectural wonders of Casablanca and Fez. Away from the usual tourist trail, you’ll explore more remote places such as the blue city of Chefchaouen and the Todra Gorge, deep in the High Atlas mountains. Foodie highlights range from authentic Berber meals in the desert to contemporary dishes at a trendy rooftop venue in Marrakech. All of our trips are flightless in destination, with 100% of all carbon emissions offset. It's just part of how we see the world while being good to it.

Trip Highlights

• Snap photos of brilliantly blue houses in Chefchaouen
• Dine Berber style under the stars in the Sahara
• Meander through the mazey alleyways of the Fez Medina
• Ride a camel through the desert at sunrise
• Hike through the otherworldly Dades Gorges

Your Itinerary

Arrive in casablanca.

Touch down in Casablanca, the coastal city where your Moroccan journey begins. You’ll be picked up and taken to your hotel, just a 10-minute walk from the Old Medina. Gather in the lobby for a welcome meeting at 6pm with your Local Insider, who will accompany the group throughout the trip. It’s then time to head into the city centre for dinner in an authentic riad (a traditional Moroccan house centered around an inner courtyard) – a perfect opportunity to break the ice and discuss the days ahead with your fellow travellers.

Accommodation

Gray boutique hotel casablanca, activities included.

• Welcome dinner
• Airport transfer

Stroll through the photogenic streets of Chefchaouen

After breakfast, head straight to the Hassan II Mosque, the second-largest functioning mosque in Africa, which is dramatically situated on a rocky outcrop jutting into the Atlantic Ocean. Its 210m (690ft) high minaret, completed in 1993, is the second-tallest in the world. After exploring the complex, leave Casablanca behind and head north to the enchanting city of Chefchaouen, which lies beneath the craggy peaks of the Rif mountains. Take a walking tour through the atmospheric cobblestone alleyways and admire the beautifully preserved 15th-century buildings painted in shades of blue.

Dar Echchaouen Maison d'Hôtes & Riad

• Hassan II Mosque visit
• Chefchaouen walking tour

Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis and eat with a local family

This morning, your journey continues south to the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, built around 300BCE on a fertile plain surrounded by wheat fields. Formerly the capital of the Berber kingdom of Mauretania, it gained Unesco World Heritage status in 1997 and is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Morocco today, replete with marble columns, intricate mosaics and plinths bearing Latin inscriptions. After you’ve finished exploring, head to Fez, considered by many to be the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco. Here, you’ll join a local family for a home-cooked dinner in the old medina district and enjoy a unique storytelling experience.

Palais Houyam

• Volubilis guided tour
• Home-cooked meal and storytelling with a local family

Soak up the atmosphere of Fez Medina

Embrace the eclectic mix of colours, sounds and aromas as you wander through Fez Medina – the sprawling, walled centre of the city. Its labyrinthine streets are lined with souks selling everything from street food and spices to handwoven textiles and homewares, while architectural highlights include the Bou Inania Madrasa with a green-tiled minaret, the ornate Bab Bou Jeloud gate and the Nejjarine Fondouk, which houses a woodwork museum. End the tour by tucking into lunch at a traditional restaurant in the Medina, before spending the rest of the day at leisure.

• Fez Medina walking tour
• Nejjarine Fondouk visit
• Bou Inania Madrasa visit

Venture deep into the Sahara

Rise and shine – it’s time to leave the city bustle as you head into the pristine wilderness of the Sahara. After breakfast, you’ll journey to the far south of Morocco, eventually arriving in the tiny desert village of Merzouga, close to the Algerian border. It’s the gateway to the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes, which reach 150m (490ft) high and cover a barren, golden expanse of 28km (17mi) from north to south. You’ll stay overnight in a luxury riad – an idyllic spot to unwind, tune into nature and take in sublime sunset views.

• Merzouga desert visit

Visit a Gnawa village and dine Berber style under the stars

Travel by 4x4 to a remote village where you’ll learn about the culture of the Gnawa people who originated from sub-Saharan Africa, and are renowned for their spiritual music and unique dancing. For lunch, tuck into medfouna, a southern Moroccan speciality that’s similar to a stuffed pizza but without cheese. Brace yourself for a bumpy ride as you continue across the dunes to the desert camp you’ll call home for the night. Expect lots of mint tea, songs around a campfire and hearty Berber food. Come nightfall, enjoy a wine-tasting session and gaze in awe at the starry sky through a telescope, guided by an expert astronomer.

Desert Camp Jaimas Madu

• Gnawa village visit
• Wine tasting
• Astronomy experience

Go camel riding at sunrise and explore the Todra Gorge

No visit to the Sahara is complete without experiencing the most traditional mode of desert transport: camel riding. Saddle up first thing in the morning, taking in the gorgeous sunrise before swapping the desert for the High Atlas mountains as you head north to the Todra Gorge. Prepare to be dazzled – this otherworldly, rust-coloured expanse of steep-sided canyons ranks among the most spectacular scenery in Morocco. You’ll arrive at your cosy, mountainside accommodation in time to sip cocktails while watching the sunset paint the sky with a pinky-tangerine glow.

Riad Bahammou

• Sunrise camel ride
• Todra Gorge visit
• Sunset cocktails

Hike through the Dades Gorges and join a local family for lunch

Over many centuries, the Dades River, which flows for 350km (220mi) from the High Atlas mountains to the Sahara, has carved dramatic gorges and canyons into the rugged interior of the country. Today, you’ll set off on a guided hike through this epic landscape and gain a fascinating glimpse into life in this part of rural Morocco. Eventually, after traversing farmland and riverine forest, you’ll arrive at a series of striking rock formations, aptly named the Monkey Fingers due to their peculiar shape. A well-earned lunch at a local guesthouse awaits.

• Dades Gorges hike

Explore kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou and enjoy a street food tour of Marrakech

Of all the kasbahs dotted around Morocco, Ait-Ben-Haddou is arguably the most impressive. Feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you explore this Unesco World Heritage site, which you may well recognise from Game of Thrones (2011-2019) and Gladiator (2000). Stop by a tea house for a thirst-quenching mint tea and home-baked Moroccan pastry before hitting the road to Marrakech. Expect a sensory feast as you join an evening street food tour and if you're brave enough, try some local delicacies! Dishes you can try include tagine and couscous, doughy pastries, sheep’s head and snail soup.

2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hôtel & Spa

• Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou visit
• Tea at a local tea house
• Marrakech Street Food Tour

Unlock the secrets of Moroccan cuisine in a cooking class

Now familiar with Moroccan food, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to make it for yourself. After discovering the core techniques and flavour combinations used in Moroccan cuisine, enjoy the fruits of your labour for lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the city at leisure or treat yourself to a soothing massage at the hotel spa. Reconvene for a farewell group dinner at L’mida restaurant and embrace an innovative, modern twist on classic Moroccan dishes. The candlelit roof terrace, overlooking the medina, is the perfect spot to conclude your epic Morocco trip.

• Cooking class
• Farewell dinner

Depart from Marrakech

After one last breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your new friends as your Moroccan adventure comes to an end. Check out of the hotel at midday and make your way to the airport to catch your flight home – or extend your stay and explore what else Morocco has to offer.

Optional Activities

What's included.

• 5 nights traditional riad accommodation
• 1 night luxury riad accommodation
• 1 night desert camp accommodation
• 1 night premium hotel accommodation
• 2 nights boutique hotel accommodation
• Private and local transport
• 10 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 7 dinners
• Local Insider
• Arrival transfer from Mohammed V International Airport (CMN)
• Storytelling with a local family

What's Not Included

• Travel Insurance
• Flights to and from the destination

Customer Reviews

This stylish gem of a hotel is perfectly positioned for city centre exploration. You're just 10 minutes from the old Medina, and about the same from the Corniche with its parks, shops and sparkling Atlantic views. Inside, decor feels high-end and design-led, with a warm organic colour palette and elegant furnishings. 

Experience life in an opulent Moroccan riad overlooking the resplendent blue houses of Chefchaouen. Wood-beamed ceilings, candlelit terraces and communal lounges with roaring fires create a warm, soothing ambience at this atmospheric retreat. The outdoor pool, with mountain views, is the perfect place to relax and cool off.

This traditional riad is an oasis of tranquility, tucked away from the bustling streets of Fez Medina. Zellige-tile floors, traditional four-poster beds, and handcrafted furnishings made by local artisans create an authentic vibe in every room. Take a trip to the spa and hammam (bath house) to unwind and recharge.

Embrace the peace of this desert hideaway at the foot of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Highlights include an outdoor pool, lantern-lit courtyard, and living areas with tadelakt walls, handwoven rugs and plush sofas. The sunset views here are unforgettable – as is the homemade Moroccan food.

Sip mint tea around a roaring fire, enjoy hearty Berber cooking and dine under the stars at this isolated desert retreat. You’re bound to sleep well in the cosy haima tents, all of which come with private bathrooms and ensuite showers. When you wake, emerge from your tent to freshly squeezed orange juice and Moroccan crepes.

Terracotta walls blend in with the ochre landscape at the traditional Riad Bahammou, in the Dades Gorge valley of the High Atlas. Tuck into Moroccan fare at the restaurant before finishing your day with a nightcap in the onsite bar. The pool is the perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring and the rooms are traditionally decorated and comfortable enough for all to enjoy. This is a magical place and we're sure you'll enjoy your stay.

A rooftop bar and restaurant, an illuminated outdoor pool and a traditional hammam are a handful of the perks at this elegant hotel in the trendy Gueliz neighbourhood of Marrakech. All rooms have private balconies, Egyptian cotton bed sheets and complementary luxury toiletries. 

COVID Safety

Your safety and wellbeing are our top priority, so we’ve put the following measures in place on all our TRIPS:

• Our average group size is 10 people (max 18), which gives you all the security of being in a group whilst avoiding a crowd.
• Where possible, we use small/ boutique accommodation – this means fewer guests and reduced exposure to other travellers.
• We require all accommodation providers to share protocols around the extra health and hygiene measures they are taking.
• Included activities are exclusive to our group wherever possible, to minimise contact with others.
• Covid-19 negative test results or vaccine certificates may be required. Please check the entry requirements for the destination you are travelling to. Our travel experts can assist you in finding this information.
• We recommend you confirm all guidance on official government sites and check that you are able to travel with your travel insurance issuer. Your travel insurance may be invalidated if you travel against government advice. Our travel experts can assist you in finding this information.

Important Info

• You must be aged 25 years or over to join this trip.
• Please be sure to check whether or not you need a visa to enter the country you're travelling to. Please refer to our Booking Terms & Conditions for further information.
• If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or accessibility requirements, please notify our Customer Support team as soon as possible.
• We won't charge you extra if you travel alone – you'll be allocated a twin room with another traveller of the same gender.
• To upgrade to a private room, share a room with a friend, or book pre- and post-trip accommodation and/or airport transfers, please contact our Customer Support team.
• Please be aware that travel insurance is compulsory for all travellers.
• Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. While unlikely, these changes can happen due to circumstances beyond our control. We will always do our best to ensure minimal impact on your experience.
• Please be aware images on this page are for illustrative purposes and may not reflect your itinerary exactly.
• PLEASE NOTE - FROM 2024 - THE MARRAKECH STREET FOOD TOUR WILL BE OPTIONAL

Additional Info

Cancellation policy.

The world of travel is changing – and that's why we’re offering flexible booking conditions, to take the stress out of booking in times of uncertainty.

You can get a full refund should you need to postpone or cancel your trip up to 56 days prior to departure. 

Read our Booking Guarantee to find out more about how our Support Team can help you. 

For the full details and cancellation charges, see our Booking Terms & Conditions .

Terms & Conditions

Please refer to our Booking Terms & Conditions .

Hassle-Free Booking

When booking with us, you’ll benefit from a low deposit payment option, flexible cancellation options and personal customer support. T&Cs apply .

Lifelong memories

Our unique curated trips offer you the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation. Join us and see the world with our like-minded travellers who will feel like friends from day 1.

Your Trusted Travel Companion

Since 2011, millions of people have trusted Culture Trip to help them discover the world.

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The best places to visit in Canada from cosmopolitan cities to the Rockies

Apr 11, 2024 • 10 min read

Experience the best of Canada with these top places to visit © Hero Images / Getty Images

Visitors to Canada are equally as wowed by the wildlife and wilderness as they are by the cultural and culinary offerings in the cities that speckle this sprawling nation.

Look for polar bears on the arctic tundra of Churchill or cruise Vancouver’s curvy coastline in a canoe while gawking at the city skyline. Feast on five-star fusion cuisine in Toronto, or take in a street-side jam session in Montréal. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to experience something new, these are the best places to go in Canada. But you'll have to plan your trip ahead because this is the world’s second-largest country – you can’t see it all in just one go.

Best for diversity

A vibrant jumble of cultures and neighborhoods , Toronto strikes you with sheer urban awe. Will you have dinner in Chinatown or Greektown? Five-star fusion or a peameal bacon sandwich? In Ontario ’s coolest city, designer shoes from Bloor-Yorkville are accessorized with tattoos in Queen West, while modern art galleries, theater par excellence, rocking band rooms, and hockey mania round out the megalopolis.

This is far and away Canada’s most diverse city, as well as its largest – about half of Toronto’s residents were born in another country.

Local tip : Snap a photo of the CN Tower  (one of the top spots to visit in Toronto ). For an added thrill: check out Edgewalk, where you can shuffle around the tower’s perimeter while taking in unparalleled city views.

2. The Canadian Rockies 

Best for mountain views

The sawtooth, snow-topped mountains straddling the British Columbia — Alberta border inspire both awe and action. Five national parks – Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, Waterton Lakes and Jasper – offer countless opportunities to delve into the lush wilderness with ribbons of hiking trails , rushing whitewater and powdery ski slopes to satisfy travelers looking for mountain thrills. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Canada in winter , but there is outdoor adventure aplenty during the summer months, too.

Planning tip: For a different perspective, take the train and experience the grandeur from the comfort of your seat: luminous lakes, jumbles of wildflowers and glistening glaciers glide by as the steel cars chug up mountain passes and down river valleys en route to points east or west.

Wondering where locals go in Canada? Check out some of our writers' favorite spots .

3. Manitoulin Island

Best for Canada’s First Nations culture

The largest freshwater island in the world, floating right in Lake Huron’s midst, Manitoulin is a slowpoke place of beaches and summery cottages. Jagged expanses of white quartzite and granite outcroppings edge the shoreline and lead to shimmering vistas. First Nations culture pervades, and the island’s eight communities collaborate to offer local foods (wild rice, corn soup) and eco-adventures (canoeing, horseback riding, hiking). Powwows add drumming, dancing and storytelling to the mix for immersive experiences that connect you with the people and the land of the country that we now know as Canada.

4. Vancouver 

Best for urban life with access to nature

Sea-to-sky beauty surrounds the laid-back, cocktail-loving metropolis of Vancouver . There are skiable mountains on the outskirts, beaches fringing the coast and Stanley Park ’s thick rainforest just steps from downtown’s gleaming skyscrapers.

For the best of both worlds, pick up provisions and a cold beer and picnic at one of the amazing city parks (it’s legal to drink alcohol at most of them during the summer). 

Shop and stroll through the diverse and charming neighborhoods – you may even spot a celebrity along the way. Known as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver is the filming location for many TV and film productions shot throughout the year.

Planning tip: With its mild climate and beautiful beaches , Vancouver is definitely one of the best places in Canada to visit in summer.

5. Baffin Island

Best for Inuit art and incredible landscapes

The rugged landscape of Baffin Island is home to cloud-scraping mountains and a third of Nunavut’s human population. It’s Canada’s largest island (the fifth biggest in the world) and the ideal place for an arctic safari where you can spot narwhals, belugas and bears in their natural habitat. The island’s crown jewel is Auyuittuq National Park – its name means “the land that never melts,” and indeed glaciers, fjords and vertiginous cliffs fill the eastern expanse. The park is a siren call for hardcore hikers and climbers – and more than a few polar bears.

Local tip: Baffin Island is also a center for Inuit art; studios for high-quality carving, printmaking and weaving can be found in many of the small towns.

6. Vancouver Island 

Best for nature, surf beaches and boutique food ventures

Picture-postcard Victoria is the heart of Vancouver Island , beating with bohemian shops, wood-floored coffee bars and a past steeped in English tea culture since the 1840s.  British Columbia ’s capital city is full of charm, but it’s only the kick-off point to an island that has a bounty of natural wonders to explore.

Brooding Pacific Rim National Park Reserve includes the West Coast Trail, where the wind-bashed ocean meets a mist-shrouded wilderness, and surfers line up for Tofino’s waves. With so many outdoor adventures to try, this is one of the best places in Canada for nature lovers.

Detour: Wandering foodies will want to head to the Cowichan Valley, which is studded with welcoming small farms and boutique wineries.

Find out how to see Canada by train.

7. Whistler 

Best for skiing, mountain biking or summer paddle-boarding

This 2010 Winter Olympics venue is one of the world’s largest, best-equipped and most popular ski resorts, and it’s only a 90-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. Featuring over 200 marked runs winding down two towering mountains – Whistler and Blackcomb – this alpine village is paradise for skiers of all levels.

Skiing may be Whistler ’s raison d’être, but summer visitors with their downhill mountain bikes and stand-up paddle-boards outnumber their ski-season equivalents, making the resort a year-round hot spot for locals and visitors alike. Adding more diversity, Whistler has recently developed a thriving arts and culture scene, with highlights like the Audain Art Museum and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre taking the stage as equally appealing attractions to the famed slopes.

8. Old Québec City

Best place to visit in Canada for romantics

Québec’s capital is more than 400 years old, and its stone walls, spired cathedrals and jazz-filled cafes suffuse it with atmosphere, romance, melancholy, eccentricity and intrigue on par with any European city. The best way to soak it all up is to walk the old town’s labyrinth of lanes and get lost amid the street performers and cozy inns, stopping every so often for a café au lait and flaky pastry.

The city is also home to Québec’s scenic highway, Rte 132. Circling the Gaspé Peninsula , this road winds past the sea and the mountains, as well as charming towns. More than 700,000 people drive it each summer. Of course, it has yet to approach the romantic popularity of Canada’s “honeymoon capital,” Niagara Falls, a region that draws more than 14 million annual visitors. But head for La Gaspésie instead, young lovers. Because if you’re on your honeymoon, you don’t need 14 million other people hanging around.

9. Montréal

Best for music lovers 

As Canada’s second-largest city and the country’s cultural heart,  Montréal  is a marvel for music lovers. From June to August, Montréalers get high on sunshine in parks, beaches, mountaintop forests and endless festivals. The steamy outdoors is more alive than ever with arts-loving visitors filling the streets (and the cool of performance spaces), while rooftop bars turn into parties. The best jazz-influenced musicians in the world play to equally jazzed spectators at the annual  Montréal International Jazz Festival , where there are over 500 performances and shows to enjoy (and countless are free). Nature is also never far away in Montréal where a network of cycling paths, waterways and islands crisscross the city. No wonder Montréalers grow up jogging, paddling canals and skating in the fresh air.

Planning tip:  Check out  Tourisme Montréal  for the latest live music events, big and small, throughout the city. 

10. Rideau Canal

Best for ice skating

Opened in 1832, this 200km-long (124 miles) waterway – consisting of canals, rivers and lakes – connects Ottawa and Kingston via 47 locks. The Rideau Canal is at its finest in wintry Ottawa, where a stretch of it becomes the Rideau Canal Skateway – the world's largest skating rink.

People swoosh by on the 7.8km (4.8 miles) of groomed ice, pausing for hot chocolate and scrumptious slabs of fried dough called beavertails (a quintessentially Canadian treat). February’s Winterlude festival kicks it up a notch when townsfolk build massive ice sculptures.

Local tip: Once the canal thaws, it becomes a boater’s paradise, meaning you can appreciate it whatever time of year you visit.

11. The Prairies

Best for big-sky road trips

Solitude reigns in Canada’s middle ground. Driving through the flatlands of Manitoba and Saskatchewan turns up uninterrupted fields of golden wheat that stretch to the horizon, eventually melting into the sunshine. When the wind blows, the wheat sways like waves on the ocean, punctuated by the occasional grain elevator rising up like a tall ship.

Big skies mean big storms that drop like an anvil, visible on the skyline for miles. Far-flung towns include arty Winnipeg , boozy Moose Jaw and Mountie-filled Regina, interspersed with Ukrainian and Scandinavian villages.

12. Niagara Falls

Best for an iconic travel experience

Niagara Falls may be relatively short (it doesn’t even crack the top 500 worldwide for height), but when those great muscular bands of water arc over the precipice like liquid glass, roaring into the void below – and you sail toward it in a mist-shrouded boat – the falls never fail to impress.

While you’re there, extend your stay and head beyond the falls on a two-wheel biking adventure along the Greater Niagara Circle Route, or take a go at the Wildplay Zipline to the Falls , a pulse-pounding rush of a ride that offers unparalleled views of the falls below as you zoom through the sky.

Read on for the best experiences to be had in Canada.

13. Bay of Fundy

Best place to spot whales

It has lighthouses, boats and trawlers, fishing villages and other maritime scenery, yet Fundy is not your average Canadian bay. That’s because its unique geography results in the world’s most extreme tides, capable of reaching 16m (56ft) – about the height of a five-story building.

The tides stir up serious whale food, with krill and other plankton attracting fin, humpback and blue whales to feast, as well as endangered North Atlantic right whales, making a whale watch here an extraordinary must-do.

14. Churchill

Best for polar bear encounters

The first polar bear you see up close will take your breath away, and there’s no better place for an encounter than Churchill , Manitoba, which happens to be right on the bears’ migration path. From late September to early November, tundra vehicles head out in search of the razor-clawed beasts, sometimes getting you close enough to lock eyes with the beautiful bears. Summer lets you kayak or stand-up paddleboard with beluga whales.

15. Drumheller

Best for dinosaur enthusiasts

Dinosaur lovers get weak-kneed in dust-blown Drumheller , where paleontological civic pride runs high thanks to the Royal Tyrrell Museum , home to one of the planet's pre-eminent fossil collections. The world’s largest “dinosaur” is here, too – a giant fiberglass T-rex that visitors can climb and peer out of (through its mouth). Beyond the dino-hoopla, the area offers classic Badlands scenery and eerie, mushroom-like rock columns called hoodoos.

Planning tip: Follow the scenic driving loops; these take you past all the good stuff.

This article was first published Jul 11, 2021 and updated Apr 11, 2024.

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Looking to see the planetary parade June 3? NASA says you may be disappointed. Here's why.

If you're wanting to see a parade of planets, experts say later this month may be better for viewing an actual celestial show..

Folks who are expecting to see a dazzling parade of planets on Monday June 3 may be disappointed by what they end up seeing in the sky and, instead, experts are saying they should manage their expectations and wait until the end of the month to see the planetary alignment .

The past couple of months have been pretty eventful for backyard astronomers. First, the solar eclipse in April, then the northern lights made a rare appearance in May, and now a parade of planets will make its 2024 debut.

Stargazers are supposed to be able to see six planets, Jupiter, Mercury, Uranus, Mars, Neptune and Saturn, aligned.

However, experts from NASA and Astronomers Without Borders both agree that it won't be the best time to see the planetary parade. That's because Uranus, Mercury and Jupiter will be swallowed up by the sun's light and be too close to the horizon to be visible.

Northern lights: Northern lights in US were dim compared to 'last time mother nature showed off': What to know

Experts say be patient: Planet parade will be more of a show later in June

"To me, the closest thing to a planet parade is June 29th, when you’ll have Saturn, the third-quarter Moon, Mars, and Jupiter arrayed across the sky at dawn," Preston Dyches, a public engagement specialist for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory told USA TODAY. Dyches has a background in astronomy and hosts NASA's " What's Up ," a monthly video series that describes what's happening in the night sky.

Andrew Fazekas, the communications manager for Astronomers Without Borders, says that when it comes to the planetary parade on June 3, it will be nearly impossible to see all the planets with the naked eye.

Both Fazekas and Dyches agree that it's better to see the planetary parade on June 29, instead.

On June 3, Jupiter, Mercury and Uranus are going to be "way too close to the sun," said Fazekas. So, it will be difficult to see those three planets.

So, folks who do decide to rise before the sun does on Monday morning just to get a glimpse at this celestial phenomenon could be setting themselves up for disappointment.

In this case, good things come to those who wait. And waiting until the end of the month will give stargazers a better chance at viewing the planets.

"If you're patient and you wait until the end of the month, these planets will move farther away from the sun higher up in the early morning sky," Fazekas told USA TODAY "So, that you will get an easier chance to pick them out in the sky.

Folks will not only get a better view of the planetary parade if they wait until June 29, but they'll be able to gaze at the stars on Friday night into Saturday morning, instead of having to view it during the work week like they would this Monday morning.

Excitement from solar eclipse, northern lights creating planet parade hype

People are expecting to see something amazing the morning of June 3, said Fazekas. But, he's worried the expectations set by two very viral celestial events, the solar eclipse and northern lights, and sensationalization on social media could raise people's expectations a bit too high and lead to a lackluster experience.

He adds that he's concerned one bad experience that was overhyped online could steal people's enthusiasm about astronomy.

"What worries me is that we set people up for disappointment," said Fazekas "And then they won't want to do it again."

According to Fazekas, he's never seen so many people interested in sky-watching, and he doesn't want the excitement to end.

What will you be able to see?

According to a program called SkySafari Pro, you will be able to see the following during the planetary parade on June 29:

• Jupiter, which will be closest to the horizon.

What is a planetary parade?

Basically, it's when the planets form a straight line and look like they're marching across the night sky and form a sort of space parade.

It's also known as a large planetary alignment, states Delaware Online , a part of the USA TODAY Network.

What equipment do you need to view a planetary parade?

According to Fazekas, you will still need binoculars and telescopes to see some of the planets.

"Neptune is a planet that you need strong binoculars or a small telescope to be able to see," said Fazekas. "And it's not easy to find either."

Folks who go out to stargaze on June 28, will be able to see Neptune right next to the moon. On June 29, it will be farther away from the moon, and be above it instead.

Apps, like Skyview on the Apple app store, can turn people's phones into a tool that helps them identify celestial bodies in the night sky.

Where will you be able to see the planetary parade?

According to Fazekas, people will need to do the following to get a view of the planetary parade:

• Get up early, before sunrise.
• Find a spot with a clear view that faces the east or southeastern sky.
• Have your binoculars or telescope ready to view planets that aren't visible to the naked eye.