Things to do in Casablanca: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

Morocco's largest city and economic capital, Casablanca, offers visitors a fascinating blend of traditional Moroccan culture with modern urban energy. With its stunning architecture, beautiful coastline, and rich cultural heritage, there are countless things to do in Casablanca that will make your visit memorable and rewarding.

Must-See Landmarks in Casablanca

Visiting the Hassan II Mosque

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The Hassan II Mosque is not only Casablanca's most iconic landmark but also one of the largest mosques in the world. Built partly over the Atlantic Ocean, this architectural masterpiece features the world's tallest minaret at 210 meters. The mosque's intricate hand-carved stone, stunning woodwork, and breathtaking zellige tilework showcase the best of Moroccan craftsmanship. Non-Muslims can visit the interior through guided tours that run several times daily except on Fridays and religious holidays.

Exploring the Royal Palace and Habous Quarter

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While the Royal Palace itself isn't open to the public, its impressive exterior is worth seeing for its beautiful architecture and ornate gates. Nearby, the Habous Quarter (New Medina) offers a more organized and tourist-friendly alternative to the Old Medina. Built during the French protectorate era, this district features traditional Moroccan architecture with arcades, small squares, and narrow streets lined with shops selling traditional goods, from leather products to olives and spices.

Wandering Through the Old Medina

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For a taste of authentic Casablanca life, wander through the Old Medina's narrow alleyways. Though smaller and less famous than medinas in cities like Fez or Marrakech, Casablanca's Old Medina retains a genuine charm with its bustling marketplaces, local craftspeople, and fewer tourists. The contrast between this ancient quarter and the modern city surrounding it makes for a fascinating cultural experience.

Casablanca's Beaches and Waterfront

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Relaxing at Ain Diab Beach

Ain Diab is Casablanca's premier beach destination, where locals and visitors alike come to enjoy the sun and surf. The beach stretches for several kilometers along the city's Atlantic coast and features a corniche (promenade) lined with restaurants, cafes, and beach clubs. During summer months, it becomes particularly lively with beach volleyball, water sports, and sunbathers. Visit during sunset for spectacular ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze.

Strolling Along La Corniche

La Corniche, the waterfront boulevard, offers a pleasant escape from the busy city center. This palm-lined promenade is perfect for morning jogs or evening strolls, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and modern development on the other. The area has seen significant renovation in recent years and now features upscale restaurants, beach clubs, and swimming pools. The Miami-like atmosphere makes it a popular hangout spot for trendy locals.

Exploring Morocco's Oceanographic Park

For families visiting Casablanca, the oceanographic park offers an educational attraction focused on marine conservation. Located near the corniche, this aquarium and museum complex showcases the rich marine biodiversity of Morocco's coastline through interactive exhibits and displays. It's a perfect activity for a hot afternoon and provides a welcome break from sightseeing.

Top Cultural and Historical Experiences

Visiting the Museum of Moroccan Judaism

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Casablanca houses the only Jewish museum in the Arab world. The Museum of Moroccan Judaism documents the 2,000-year history of Jews in Morocco and their cultural contributions. The museum's collection includes ceremonial objects, traditional clothing, photographs, and a reconstructed synagogue. This unique institution highlights Morocco's tradition of religious tolerance and cultural diversity.

Exploring Villa des Arts

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This Art Deco villa turned art gallery houses a collection of contemporary Moroccan and international art. The building itself is a stunning example of the architectural style that defines much of Casablanca. With regularly changing exhibitions and cultural events, Villa des Arts serves as an important cultural center in the city. The well-manicured gardens provide a peaceful setting for reflecting on the artwork you've just seen.

Admiring Art Deco Architecture

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Casablanca boasts an impressive collection of Art Deco buildings from the French colonial period. Architecture enthusiasts should take a walking tour through the city center to admire landmarks like the Cinema Rialto, Cathédrale du Sacré Cœur, and various apartment buildings with their distinctive geometric patterns, curved corners, and decorative elements. Mohammed V Square and the surrounding area offer particularly good examples of this architectural style.

Shopping in Casablanca

Shopping at Morocco Mall

For a modern shopping experience, visit Morocco Mall, one of Africa's largest shopping centers. Beyond international and local retail brands, the mall features an indoor aquarium, an ice skating rink, and an IMAX theater. The musical fountain shows held regularly in the central atrium add a touch of spectacle to your shopping experience. This air-conditioned complex offers a welcome respite from the heat while showcasing Morocco's modern side.

Bargaining at the Central Market

For a more traditional shopping experience, visit Casablanca's Central Market (Marché Central). The covered market sells fresh produce, spices, flowers, and seafood. The surrounding streets are filled with artisan shops selling traditional Moroccan crafts, leather goods, carpets, and ceramics. Unlike more touristy markets in other Moroccan cities, prices here tend to be more reasonable, though bargaining is still expected.

Exploring Derb Ghallef Electronics Market

If you're looking for electronics, music, or video games, this sprawling market is Casablanca's go-to destination. While it has a reputation for counterfeit goods, many legitimate products can be found at competitive prices. The bustling atmosphere and variety of merchandise make it worth visiting even if you're not planning to purchase anything. Remember to bargain hard and check items carefully before buying.

Dining and Moroccan Cuisine in Casablanca

Dining at La Sqala and Other Top Restaurants

La Sqala, built within an 18th-century fortress, offers traditional Moroccan cuisine in a beautiful garden setting. The restaurant is famous for its breakfast and brunch options, including traditional Moroccan pancakes and mint tea. For seafood, Rick's Café (inspired by the movie "Casablanca") combines excellent food with a nostalgic atmosphere. For fine dining, try Le Cabestan, which offers Mediterranean cuisine with spectacular ocean views.

Enjoying Street Food in the Medina

For budget-friendly and authentic local cuisine, head to the food stalls in the Old Medina. Try local specialties like bessara (fava bean soup), harira (tomato and lentil soup), grilled sardines, or the ubiquitous tajine (slow-cooked stew). Food safety standards have improved in recent years, but it's still advisable to choose busy stalls where the food is cooked fresh in front of you.

Experiencing Moroccan Tea Culture

No visit to Casablanca is complete without experiencing Morocco's famous mint tea service. Many cafés throughout the city serve this sweet, mint-infused green tea in the traditional manner—poured from height to create a frothy top. Café Maure near the Hassan II Mosque offers one of the most scenic spots to enjoy this ritual, with views of the Atlantic Ocean and the magnificent mosque.

Nightlife in Casablanca

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Rooftop Bars and Lounges

Casablanca boasts the most vibrant nightlife in Morocco, with options ranging from sophisticated rooftop bars to energetic nightclubs. Sky 28 at the Kenzi Tower Hotel offers panoramic city views along with craft cocktails. The lounge at the Four Seasons Hotel provides a more relaxed atmosphere with live music and premium drinks. Most upscale venues are located in the Ain Diab and Gauthier neighborhoods.

Live Music Venues

For live music enthusiasts, Casablanca offers several venues featuring both local and international performers. The Boultek Center hosts alternative and rock concerts, while jazz lovers should head to Le Gatsby, which features regular jazz nights in an elegant setting. For traditional Moroccan music, check the program at the cultural center of the Hassan II Mosque Foundation, which regularly hosts concerts of classical Andalusian music.

Experiencing Casino Life

The Casino de Casablanca, located within the Hyatt Regency hotel, offers an upscale gaming experience along with entertainment shows and fine dining. Even if gambling isn't your thing, the casino's restaurant and bar provide a glamorous night out with the possibility of catching a live performance. Remember to bring your passport, as entry is restricted to non-Moroccan visitors.

Day Trips from Casablanca

Visiting the Capital City of Rabat

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Just an hour's drive north of Casablanca, Morocco's capital city of Rabat makes for an excellent day trip. Visit the impressive Hassan Tower, the ornate Royal Palace, the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas, and the modern Mohammed VI Museum of Contemporary Art. Rabat offers a more relaxed atmosphere than Casablanca, with well-maintained public spaces and gardens.

Exploring the Portuguese City of El Jadida

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About 90 minutes south of Casablanca lies El Jadida, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Portuguese cistern and fortified city. The atmospheric cistern, with its reflected light on water, has been featured in several films. The fortified medina offers well-preserved examples of European military architecture adapted to North African conditions. The nearby beaches are less crowded than those in Casablanca, making this an ideal combination of culture and relaxation.

Adventuring to the Atlas Mountains

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For nature lovers, a day trip to the foothills of the Atlas Mountains offers a complete change of scenery from urban Casablanca. Although reaching the high mountains requires more than a day trip, areas like the Oukaimeden Valley can be visited in a day. Here, you'll find traditional Berber villages, scenic landscapes, and a taste of rural Moroccan life. Several tour operators in Casablanca offer guided excursions with transport included.

Conclusion

From architectural wonders and cultural attractions to beautiful beaches and culinary delights, there are countless things to do in Casablanca for first-time visitors. The city's unique blend of traditional Moroccan elements with French colonial influence and contemporary development creates a fascinating urban landscape unlike any other in Morocco. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, cuisine, shopping, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a dynamic North African metropolis, Casablanca offers experiences that will enrich your understanding of Morocco and create lasting memories. As you plan your visit, consider setting aside at least three days to fully appreciate the wide range of things to do in Casablanca and perhaps extend your stay to include some of the rewarding day trips from the city.