The Ultimate Guide to Casablanca Attractions: Top Things to Do & See
Casablanca hits you like a wave—bold, unpredictable, electric. It isn’t a postcard-perfect medina or a neatly packaged slice of Morocco’s past. No, this city is raw energy wrapped in Art Deco façades, where the Atlantic crashes against its shores, and the streets hum with a rhythm entirely their own. Here, tradition doesn’t whisper—it collides with modernity at full speed.
Stand beneath the towering Hassan II Mosque, where ocean mist mingles with the scent of salt and stone, and you’ll feel it—the gravity of history pressing against the pull of the future. Turn a corner, and you’re in the heart of the old medina, where cobbled alleys spill into neon-lit boulevards, where a street vendor’s call to prayer overlaps with the thrum of rooftop DJs. The past isn’t forgotten—it’s just moving too fast to linger.
This isn’t a city that waits to be admired. It demands to be felt, explored on foot, tasted at a seafood stall, absorbed in the golden glow of a sunset over the Corniche. Casablanca isn’t Morocco’s most obvious beauty, but once it gets under your skin, you’ll wonder why you ever looked anywhere else. In this guide to Casablanca, we explore the white city inside out.
Table of Contents
Historical Landmarks: Where Time Refuses to Stand Still
Casablanca doesn’t freeze history in time—it lets it simmer, clash, and rebuild itself. The past isn’t neatly preserved here; it haunts, evolves, rebels. Colonial boulevards cut through ancient medinas, Art Deco façades rub shoulders with Moroccan riads, and somewhere in between, the city’s soul pulses like a heartbeat that never syncs to a single rhythm.
Hassan II Mosque – A Monument to the Impossible
Picture this: a minaret taller than any in the world, standing defiant against the Atlantic’s roaring waves. The Hassan II Mosque isn’t just a religious site—it’s Casablanca’s exclamation mark, a jaw-dropping blend of faith and fearless ambition. Part of its floor hovers over the ocean, an architectural dare against the laws of nature. Inside? Cedar ceilings carved by hand, marble expanses so vast they look endless, mosaics so intricate they demand a second look. And when the retractable roof opens to the sky? It’s nothing short of divine.
Pro Tip: Non-Muslims can visit on guided tours—worth every second. Arrive early. Let it sink in.
The Old Medina – Chaos, Beauty, & the Real Casablanca
Forget polished, postcard-perfect medinas—Casablanca’s Old Medina is rough, raw, and ridiculously alive. Walls stained with time, cats darting through doorways, shouts of market vendors slicing through the air. Here, every turn is unpredictable: one alley is a maze of handcrafted leather shops, the next bursts with the smell of sizzling street food.
What to Try? A piping-hot Khobz bread sandwich stuffed with grilled sardines, olives, and harissa. Casablanca street food at its finest.
Street Smarts: This medina isn’t curated for tourists. Stay aware, embrace the chaos, and don’t be afraid to haggle—it’s part of the dance.
Mahkama du Pacha – The Palace That No One Talks About
This place is a paradox. A stunning Andalusian-Moroccan palace, yet somehow one of Casablanca’s best-kept secrets. Inside, it’s a symphony of carved cedar, marble archways, and sunlit courtyards—the kind of place you expect to find on a postcard, but instead, it hides in plain sight.
The Catch? Getting in is a game of patience—you need special permission (or luck). But if you manage? You’ll step into one of the most breathtaking architectural gems in Morocco.
Cultural Centers & Museums: Casablanca’s Unfiltered Soul
Casablanca isn’t a city that wears its culture on its sleeve—it keeps it tucked away, waiting for those with the curiosity to dig deeper. Beneath its modern skyline and frantic energy, there’s an artistic undercurrent, a tapestry of stories, woven from centuries of migration, trade, and reinvention. To understand this city, you need to step off the main roads and into the places where its soul has been painted, sculpted, and archived.
Villa des Arts – The Rebel Heart of Casablanca’s Art Scene
You’d walk right past it if you didn’t know. A sleek, white-walled Art Deco mansion, tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, hiding some of Morocco’s most provocative contemporary art. This isn’t just a gallery—it’s a statement, a challenge to everything you thought you knew about Moroccan creativity.
Inside?
- Abstract canvases that explode with color.
- Sculptures that look like they belong in a dystopian future.
- Installations that whisper, shout, and demand you pay attention.
Free entry—because the best things in Casablanca don’t always come with a price tag.
Museum of Moroccan Judaism – A Story Almost Forgotten
Casablanca keeps secrets. Some of them are hidden in back alleys, others in plain sight. And then there’s this place—the only Jewish museum in the Arab world, quietly preserving the legacy of a community that once thrived here.
Push open the heavy wooden doors and you’ll step into a world most travelers never see. Handwritten Torah scrolls, silver-embroidered prayer shawls, and a reconstructed 1930s synagogue—it’s like walking through a portal into a Morocco that most people don’t even know existed.
Why It’s Worth Your Time?
Because history isn’t just about who stayed—it’s about who left, and the echoes they left behind.
Hidden Gem Alert: No crowds. No rush. Just you, the artifacts, and the weight of everything they represent.
Abderrahman Slaoui Museum – A Love Letter to a Vanishing Morocco
If Casablanca had a memory palace, this would be it. The Abderrahman Slaoui Museum isn’t just a collection of art—it’s a snapshot of an era that’s slipping away.
Inside?
- Vintage Moroccan travel posters from the golden age of tourism.
- Intricate Berber jewelry that glows like it has its own inner fire.
- Handwritten letters, sketches, and photographs—whispers from another time.
Why It Feels Different?
Because while Casablanca is a city in a hurry, this place stands still. It holds onto beauty the way we hold onto dreams that feel too delicate to wake up from.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Just See Casablanca—Feel It
Skip these places, and you’ll leave with half the story. This city isn’t just about what’s happening now—it’s about the traces of what came before, the culture that refuses to be erased, and the artists shaping what comes next.
Casablanca hides its soul. Go find it.
Architectural Highlights: Where Casablanca Wears Its History
Casablanca isn’t just a city—it’s an architectural battleground, where Moroccan tradition wrestles with French modernism, where Art Deco curves slam into brutalist towers, and where every street is a collision of past and future. It’s not polished. It’s not predictable. It’s a visual riot, and if you know where to look, it’s nothing short of spectacular.
Hassan II Mosque – The Crown Jewel, the Untamed Titan
We’ve already talked about it, but let’s be clear—you haven’t seen Casablanca until you’ve stood beneath the minaret of the Hassan II Mosque. It’s not just a mosque. It’s an engineering rebellion, a structure so audacious it dares to float over the Atlantic, its foundation stretching into the sea like a challenge to gravity itself.
The Experience?
- Tiles that took 10,000 artisans to craft.
- A minaret so tall it seems to break through the sky.
- A retractable roof that opens like the heavens themselves.
Even the air feels different here. It carries the scent of salt and marble dust, and when you step inside, the silence wraps around you like a cloak.
Pro Tip: Catch it at sunset. The ocean, the golden light, the sheer magnitude—you’ll never forget it.
Art Deco Casablanca – The Ghost of a Glamorous Past
Casablanca wasn’t built like the rest of Morocco. When the French arrived, they didn’t just colonize—they redesigned, turning the city into a playground of Art Deco architecture. Today, much of it is fading, but if you know where to look, you can still see the city’s Golden Age flickering through the cracks.
Where to Find It?
- Boulevard Mohammed V – The epicenter of Art Deco Casablanca. Grand facades, geometric balconies, and storefronts that look frozen in time.
- Cinéma Rialto – A 1930s masterpiece still standing tall, where jazz once played and velvet curtains framed the silver screen.
- Hôtel Lincoln – A haunting ruin, its bones still whispering of a past when Casablanca was glamorous, reckless, alive.
The Vibe?
Imagine 1930s Paris, dipped in Moroccan sunlight, then left to age under the relentless sea air. That’s Casablanca’s Art Deco district—beautiful, crumbling, and completely unforgettable.
Sacré-Cœur Cathedral – The Forgotten Giant
There it is. White, towering, abandoned. The Sacré-Cœur Cathedral is a monument to a Casablanca that no longer exists—a time when the French built Christian cathedrals in Muslim cities, thinking their rule would last forever.
Today?
- No prayers. No pews. Just silence.
- Gothic arches dripping with decay.
- A shell of history, too grand to erase, too empty to revive.
Climb to the top. The view is Casablanca raw and real—skyscrapers, crumbling medinas, the distant shimmer of the Atlantic. It’s eerie, it’s haunting, and it’s one of the city’s most overlooked gems.
Place Mohammed V – Where Power Has a Postcard View
If Casablanca had a main stage, Place Mohammed V would be it. This isn’t just a square—it’s the city’s power center, lined with the grand white-washed buildings of the French Protectorate.
The Landmarks?
- Wilaya (City Hall) – A perfect blend of Moroccan craftsmanship and European ambition.
- Palace of Justice – A towering tribute to colonial grandeur.
- Banque du Maroc – Where money, architecture, and history collide.
Why It’s Special?
It’s a reminder—Casablanca wasn’t just another Moroccan city. It was meant to be a statement, a capital of European ambition in North Africa. Walk through it, and you can still feel the weight of that history.
Final Take: A City That Refuses to Look the Same Twice
Casablanca is not a postcard city. It doesn’t sit still. It doesn’t wait for admiration. It changes, erodes, rebuilds, adapts. Every corner is a surprise, every street a clash of styles and stories.
You don’t just look at Casablanca’s architecture.
You chase it.
Modern Attractions: Where Casablanca Moves at Full Speed
Casablanca doesn’t just hold onto the past—it accelerates into the future, leaving behind a skyline that gleams, a pulse that never slows, and a cityscape where steel, glass, and relentless ambition define the new Morocco. If you thought Casablanca was just souks and historic medinas, think again. This city is bold, fast, and unapologetically modern.
Morocco Mall – Where Luxury Meets the Atlantic
Casablanca doesn’t do anything halfway, and Morocco Mall is proof. This isn’t just a shopping center—it’s the biggest mall in Africa, an oceanfront kingdom of designer stores, entertainment, and culinary indulgence.
Inside?
High-end brands like Louis Vuitton & Gucci
An indoor aquarium you can actually dive in (yes, really!)
A rooftop terrace where you can sip espresso while watching the Atlantic roar
Why Go? Whether you’re shopping for designer labels, grabbing a quick bite, or just soaking in the opulence, this place is a spectacle. Even if you hate malls, you need to see it.
Anfa Place – The Corniche’s Sleekest Escape
If Morocco Mall is where Casablanca flexes its size, Anfa Place is where it refines its style. This beachfront complex is polished, breezy, and effortlessly chic, blending upscale shopping with the kind of ocean views that remind you why this city is unlike any other.
What’s the vibe?
- Boutique stores with a laid-back feel
- Seaside cafés where locals sip mint tea as the waves crash
- A perfect mix of leisure and luxury without the overwhelming crowds
Best time to visit? Sunset. Period. The golden light, the salty breeze, the sound of the tide—it’s Casablanca at its most cinematic.
Casablanca Twin Center – The Icons of the Skyline
Two glass towers. A city on the move. The Casablanca Twin Center is more than just a pair of skyscrapers—it’s a symbol of the city’s evolution, a statement that Casablanca isn’t just Morocco’s past, it’s its future.
Why It Matters?
- Casablanca’s most famous skyline silhouette
- A shopping mall, offices, and even a luxury hotel packed inside
- The top floors offer insane panoramic views of the city
Pro Tip: Hit the Sky 28 lounge at the Kenzi Tower Hotel for cocktails with the best cityscape in Morocco. Casablanca stretches out below you, buzzing, glowing, alive.
La Corniche – The Beating Heart of Casablanca’s Nightlife
Casablanca’s Corniche isn’t just a seaside promenade—it’s a way of life. By day, it’s a breezy escape for joggers and families. By night? It transforms. Neon signs flicker on, clubs and lounges come alive, and the city’s energy shifts into high gear.
Daytime Vibes?
- Walk along the Atlantic, feel the ocean spray on your skin.
- Stop for a fresh seafood lunch at a beachfront café.
- Catch surfers carving through the waves at Ain Diab.
After Dark?
- Hit Cabestan or Le Petit Rocher for drinks with an ocean view.
- Dive into Casablanca’s best seafood at La Scala.
- Let the night take you where it will—this city knows how to party.
Theatro Casablanca – Where the City’s Energy Never Sleeps
Nightclubs in Morocco? You bet. And Theatro is the king of them all. Housed in a converted theater, this place isn’t just about dancing—it’s about a full-on immersive nightlife experience, complete with dazzling lights, world-class DJs, and an atmosphere that screams Casablanca after dark.
Expect:
- A mix of Moroccan and international beats
- A crowd that knows how to move
- An energy that doesn’t dip until the sun comes up
Not a club person? Come anyway. Even just watching from the bar is an experience.
Final Take: Casablanca is Always Moving
Casablanca isn’t just a city you visit—it’s a city you keep up with. It doesn’t pause, doesn’t wait. Whether you’re strolling through a designer mall, sipping tea with an ocean view, or getting lost in the pulsing nightlife, one thing’s for sure:
You won’t find this energy anywhere else in Morocco.
Culinary Experiences: Casablanca on a Plate
Casablanca doesn’t play by the rules—not in its skyline, not in its streets, and definitely not on its plates. Here, food isn’t just fuel—it’s a headlong dive into Morocco’s wild mix of flavors, cultures, and contradictions. It’s centuries-old spice blends colliding with ocean-fresh seafood. It’s a street vendor tossing sizzling sardines onto a crusty baguette while, a few blocks away, a rooftop bistro serves foie gras with a view of the Atlantic. It’s unfiltered, it’s electric, and if you eat the right way, it’s unforgettable.
The Streets: Where Casablanca’s Real Flavor Lives
Forget white tablecloths and overpriced menus. The real Casablanca happens in the open air, where smoke rises from makeshift grills, where the scent of cumin and sizzling lamb curls into the night air, where every bite tells a story without pretension, without ceremony—just pure, unfiltered taste.
What to Hunt Down?
- Hout Quari – The street-food legend. A fried fish sandwich, dripping with harissa, crunchy pickles, and lemon—a salty, spicy explosion wrapped in fresh khobz.
- Maakouda – Deep-fried potato fritters, golden and crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, served hot and reckless with a smear of chili sauce.
- Bissara – The working-class breakfast of kings—a thick, velvety fava bean soup, drowned in olive oil and dusted with cumin, best slurped down with torn chunks of bread before the city even wakes up.
Where to Get It?
- Derb Omar Night Stalls – No signs, no seating, just rows of vendors grilling, frying, and stuffing bread with flavors that shouldn’t make sense but somehow do.
- Marché Central – If it comes from the sea, you’ll find it fresh, hot, and straight off the grill here. No-fuss seafood at its absolute finest.
Street-Smart Tip: Don’t ask for a menu—there isn’t one. Just point, pay, and prepare to taste something that will ruin you for life.
Ocean on a Plate: Casablanca’s Seafood Obsession
The Atlantic slaps Casablanca’s shores all day long, so it’s no surprise that the city worships at the altar of fresh fish. From hole-in-the-wall grills to high-end restaurants, seafood isn’t just an option—it’s a way of life.
Must-Try Dishes?
- Sardines à la Chermoula – Tiny, packed with flavor, grilled over charcoal and bathed in garlic, cumin, and lemon. One bite, and you’ll understand why sardines rule this city.
- Grilled Sole – Simple. Perfect. A whole fish, seared to perfection, drizzled in olive oil and served with just enough saffron rice to make you wish you had more.
- Seafood Pastilla – The Casablanca remix of Morocco’s classic dish: flaky pastry stuffed with shrimp, calamari, and almonds, dusted with cinnamon and sugar. Sweet? Savory? You decide.
Where to Eat It?
- Le Port de Pêche – No frills, just fresh fish, lemon wedges, and the sound of the ocean crashing in the background.
- Taverne du Dauphin – Small, packed, and legendary—ask for whatever came off the boat that morning and trust the chef to do the rest.
Secret Move: Find the unmarked stalls near the fishing port—local fishermen grilling the day’s catch for whoever’s hungry enough to wait.
Tradition, Slow-Cooked & Sacred
For all its speed, steel, and skyscrapers, Casablanca still knows how to slow down—especially when it comes to the dishes that have been perfected over centuries of Moroccan culinary genius.
What to Order?
- Tagine de Poisson – Casablanca’s signature tagine—fish stewed to perfection, swimming in a sea of tomatoes, peppers, and saffron. Rich, deep, and the kind of dish that lingers in your mind long after the last bite.
- Rfissa – The ultimate comfort food—chicken braised in spiced broth, served over torn msemen (layered bread) and lentils. Warm, fragrant, and completely addictive.
- Harira – Morocco in a bowl. A thick, tomato-based soup loaded with lentils, chickpeas, and whispers of cinnamon. Served piping hot, preferably after sundown.
Where to Experience It?
- La Sqala – A historic fortress turned into a Moroccan food paradise—lush gardens, bubbling fountains, and plates that taste like home-cooked magic.
- Dar Dada – If your Moroccan grandmother had a restaurant, this would be it. Traditional flavors, perfected.
Casablanca After Dark: Global Flavors, Rooftop Vibes
Casablanca isn’t just Moroccan—it’s French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, and everything in between. This city eats like a global passport, and when the sun goes down, the options explode.
Where to Dine in Style?
- Le Rouget de l’Isle
– Classic French, done with absolute elegance. Think foie gras, truffle risotto, and a wine list that could make a grown man cry. - Boga Boga
– Paella that will transport you straight to Spain, served in an intimate setting where every dish feels like a work of art. - Sky 28
– Perched at the top of the Twin Center, this rooftop bar offers 360° views of the city, craft cocktails, and an atmosphere so electric it practically hums.
Casablanca at Midnight? If you’re not sipping on a minty mojito at Le Cabestan, you’re doing it wrong.
The Final Bite: Casablanca Eats Without Apology
This city doesn’t cook for tourists. It doesn’t tame its flavors, doesn’t ask for approval. It grills, stews, fries, and plates up food with the confidence of a city that has nothing to prove. You either keep up or miss out.
Casablanca doesn’t serve meals—it serves experiences.
Eat bold. Eat everything.
Beaches & Leisure: Where Casablanca Unwinds in Style
Casablanca moves fast—a city of deals, deadlines, and traffic that never stops. But when it needs to breathe, it turns to the Atlantic, stretching along miles of coastline where the pulse slows, the air thickens with salt, and the ocean takes center stage. Here, luxury lounges rub shoulders with wild, unspoiled shores, and sunbathers share space with surfers carving through the waves. Whether you’re looking for a high-end beachfront escape or a raw, untamed Atlantic experience, Casablanca delivers.
Ain Diab – The Beating Heart of the Corniche
Casablanca’s Ain Diab Corniche is where the city lets loose. This isn’t just a beach—it’s a lifestyle, a stretch of golden sand where sun-seekers, joggers, and café dwellers coexist with crashing waves and neon-lit nightlife.
By Day?
- Sun, sand, and waves—rent a lounge chair and let the Atlantic do its thing.
- Café culture at its finest—mint tea with an ocean breeze? Yes, please.
- Surfers riding the Atlantic swells—Casablanca’s surf scene is stronger than you think.
By Night?
- Beach clubs transform into nightlife hotspots—Cabestan, Tahiti Beach Club, and Bodega take over.
- Live music, cocktails, and views that stretch forever.
- The city’s energy shifts—the sea becomes a backdrop, the people become the show.
Pro Tip: Sunset here hits different. Whether you’re standing barefoot in the sand or sipping a cocktail at a rooftop bar, this is Casablanca at its most cinematic.
Bouznika Beach – The City’s Wild Side
If Ain Diab is Casablanca’s polished, social playground, Bouznika is its untamed cousin. Located about 40 minutes south, this stretch of coastline is raw, rugged, and unapologetically beautiful.
Why It’s Worth the Trip?
- Clean, soft sand that stretches for miles—far from the city’s bustle.
- Surf conditions that attract Morocco’s best wave-riders.
- Hidden seafood shacks serving the freshest catch straight off the grill.
What to Eat?
- Grilled sea bass—charred, smoky, dripping with lemon.
- Fresh oysters—salty, briny perfection.
- Tagine de poisson—because even at the beach, Morocco’s slow-cooked magic can’t be ignored.
Getting There: Rent a car or grab a grand taxi—it’s worth every mile.
Jack Beach – The Surfer’s Sanctuary
Casablanca’s best-kept secret, where the waves are relentless and the crowd is zero. If you’re chasing the perfect break, this is your spot.
What to Expect?
- Consistent swells that bring surfers from all over Morocco.
- Fewer tourists, more locals—this isn’t Ain Diab, and that’s the whole point.
- A laid-back, bohemian vibe—nothing but sand, sea, and a few makeshift snack stands.
Know Before You Go: This isn’t a sunbather’s paradise—it’s for wave chasers and ocean purists. Bring your board or rent one from the nearby surf schools.
Beachfront Dining & Lounges – Where Style Meets the Shore
Casablanca does beach culture differently—it’s not just about sunbathing. It’s about long, slow meals with a view, about watching the waves crash while a waiter brings you the freshest seafood and a glass of chilled rosé.
Top Beachfront Dining Picks?
- Le Cabestan – The king of seaside dining. Fine seafood, a high-end vibe, and views that stretch forever.
- Boga Boga – Spanish tapas, cold drinks, and an atmosphere that feels like a beach holiday in Barcelona.
- La Terrazza – Italian food done right, served with the sound of the waves in the background.
Where to Lounge?
- Skybar at Villa Blanca – Rooftop elegance, ocean breeze, and the best sunset seats in town.
- Tahiti Beach Club – Swim, sip, and soak in Casablanca’s high-end beach scene.
- Bodega – A beachside tapas and cocktail bar where the music never stops.
The Move? Start at a beach café, transition to a seaside dinner, end the night at a lounge with the city lights reflecting off the Atlantic.
The Final Take: Casablanca’s Coastline is Its Escape
Casablanca is fast, relentless, always moving—but when it slows, it slows by the sea. The coastline is where the city breathes, where the Atlantic reminds everyone that no matter how high the skyscrapers get, the ocean is bigger, wilder, eternal.
Whether you’re chasing waves, chasing sunsets, or chasing a night that stretches till dawn, Casablanca’s beaches deliver.
Shopping Destinations: Where Casablanca Spends, Bargains & Collects Stories
Casablanca doesn’t just shop—it hustles, negotiates, and collects. Whether you’re after high-end fashion, vintage treasures, or bargains so good they feel illegal, this city has it all. From sleek malls that scream modern Morocco to hidden souks where the art of the deal is a way of life, shopping in Casablanca isn’t just about buying—it’s about experiencing.
Morocco Mall – When Bigger is Better
You can’t talk shopping in Casablanca without bowing down to Morocco Mall—the largest mall in Africa, an architectural flex that merges luxury with spectacle. This is where Gucci meets traditional Moroccan artisanship, where you can shop, eat, watch a movie, and dive into a freaking aquarium—all under one roof.
What’s Inside?
- Luxury brands: Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel—the whole lineup is here.
- Moroccan craftsmanship: An entire section dedicated to traditional goods without the souk haggling.
- Entertainment overload: Ice skating rink, arcade, cinema, and yes—an aquarium you can actually dive in.
Why Go? Even if you’re not a mall person, this place is a sight to behold. Come for the spectacle, stay for the espresso with an Atlantic view.
AnfaPlace Mall – Where Shopping Meets the Sea
Sleek, stylish, and set right by the ocean, AnfaPlace is Casablanca’s laid-back shopping destination. It’s not as massive as Morocco Mall, but that’s exactly the point—it’s calmer, breezier, and less overwhelming.
What Makes It Special?
- Seafront cafés where shopping bags share tables with surfboards.
- International brands without the tourist chaos.
- A chill, beachside vibe that makes browsing feel effortless.
The Move? Shop, then step onto the Corniche for a sunset walk—because shopping should always come with an ocean breeze.
Marché Central – The Art of the Bargain
Casablanca is modern, but its soul still lives in its markets. Marché Central is a sensory overload, where you’re not just buying things—you’re negotiating, smelling, tasting, experiencing.
What to Expect?
- Fresh seafood markets—watch locals pick fish so fresh it’s still flipping.
- Spices that smell like Morocco itself—saffron, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, all at bargain prices.
- Handmade goods that carry the weight of history—ceramics, lanterns, textiles, each with a story to tell.
Street-Smart Tip: The first price is never the real price. Haggle, smile, walk away—and watch the price drop like magic.
Derb Ghallef – The Underground Kingdom of Knockoffs & Rare Finds
You want the real Casablanca? You’ll find it in Derb Ghallef—a sprawling, chaotic, back-alley labyrinth of deals, rip-offs, and second-hand treasures. This is where you can buy anything—electronics, fashion, antiques, even things you didn’t know existed.
What’s for Sale?
- “Almost real” designer bags, watches, and sneakers—fake? Maybe. Convincing? Absolutely.
- Vintage cameras, vinyl records, and collectibles—Casablanca’s best-kept secret for hidden gems.
- Tech gadgets at underground prices—laptops, smartphones, gaming consoles, straight from who-knows-where.
Why Go? Even if you don’t buy a thing, just walking through feels like a cinematic experience—the energy, the shouting, the backroom deals happening right before your eyes. It’s Casablanca, unfiltered.
Quartier Habous – The “Souk” Without the Chaos
If the Old Medina is Casablanca’s beating heart, then Quartier Habous is its refined soul. Built by the French in the 1930s, this district combines the charm of a traditional Moroccan souk with the neatness of European planning.
What’s Unique Here?
- Authentic Moroccan leather goods—belts, bags, and jackets that smell like craftsmanship.
- Traditional bookshops stacked with hand-bound Qur’ans & ancient manuscripts.
- The most famous pastry shop in Casablanca—Bennis Habous, where pastilla is baked to perfection.
Best Find? A hand-woven Moroccan rug—not cheap, but something that will outlive you and still look incredible.
The Final Take: Casablanca Shops Like It Lives—Fast, Loud & Unapologetic
Whether you’re chasing high-end fashion, haggling for a deal, or digging for vintage gold, Casablanca makes sure you earn it. Shopping here isn’t passive—it’s an interaction, a performance, a game.
Come prepared. Come ready to play. And if you’re good? You’ll walk away with more than just souvenirs—you’ll leave with stories.
Transportation & Getting Around: Mastering Casablanca’s Chaos
Casablanca isn’t a city that welcomes you with open arms—it throws you straight into the deep end. The streets are alive, unpredictable, relentless. Cars, taxis, trams, scooters, pedestrians—all moving at their own speed, obeying a set of unspoken rules that only locals seem to understand. If you’re visiting for the first time, buckle up—because getting around Casablanca isn’t just about transportation, it’s about survival, strategy, and a little bit of luck.
The Tramway: The Only Time Casablanca Moves in a Straight Line
If there’s one stress-free way to navigate the madness, it’s the Casablanca Tramway. Sleek, modern, and immune to the city’s legendary traffic jams, this is the closest thing to order in a city built on chaos.
Why Use It?
- No haggling, no confusion, just a ticket and a smooth ride.
- Two lines covering 60+ stations, including key spots like Ain Diab, the Old Medina, and Casa Voyageurs train station.
- Runs from early morning till nearly midnight—so you can get from one end of the city to another without breaking a sweat.
Pro Tip: Buy a rechargeable card instead of single tickets—it’ll save you time and spare you the frustration of fumbling for change.
Taxis: The Wild West of Casablanca Transport
Taking a taxi in Casablanca? Welcome to the most intense negotiation of your life. There are two types:
Petit Taxis (Red)
- For short rides within the city—cheap, fast (sometimes too fast), and available everywhere.
- Fares start at 7 MAD (less than $1), but always insist on the meter or agree on a price first.
Grand Taxis (White)
- For longer distances or shared rides—think of them as the city’s unofficial bus system.
- Packed to the brim—six passengers squeezed into a car built for four.
- Great for getting to the airport or nearby cities, but expect zero personal space.
Taxi Survival Tips:
- No meter? No ride. If the driver refuses, walk away—another taxi will be there in seconds.
- Know the rough price before you start bargaining.
- At night, fares magically double. There’s no law behind this—it just happens.
Walking: A Gamble Between Beauty & Madness
Walking in Casablanca is half sightseeing, half urban warfare. The city was not built for pedestrians, but if you can handle the occasional heart-stopping street crossing, you’ll get to experience its chaotic beauty up close.
Best Walkable Areas?
- The Corniche – Wide sidewalks, fresh ocean air, zero risk of getting run over.
- Quartier Habous – A pedestrian-friendly maze of shops and cafés, designed for strolling.
- The Old Medina – Narrow alleys where cars can’t reach, but watch out for the occasional donkey cart.
Crossing the Street? Don’t wait for cars to stop—they won’t. Pick your moment, step forward with confidence, and never hesitate. Locals will understand.
Trains & Buses: The Escape Routes
Need to get out of Casablanca? The city’s train system is surprisingly reliable.
ONCF Trains (National Railway)
- Casa Voyageurs – The main station for long-distance travel (Marrakech, Tangier, Fes, etc.).
- Casa Port – More local and business-focused, with trains heading toward Rabat.
- Take the high-speed Al Boraq train if heading north—it’ll get you to Tangier in just over 2 hours.
CTM & Supratours Buses
- For destinations not covered by trains, these are your best bet.
- Comfortable, air-conditioned, and a much safer option than the chaotic Grand Taxis.
- Perfect for heading to places like Essaouira, Chefchaouen, or the smaller towns outside Casablanca.
Final Tip: Always book train and bus tickets in advance—weekends can be packed, and you don’t want to get stuck scrambling at the station.
Getting to & From the Airport: The Casablanca Reality Check
Key Fact: Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport is NOT in Casablanca—it’s 30 km away, which means getting there takes planning.
Best Options?
- Train (Best Choice) – Cheap (50 MAD), fast (takes about 45 minutes), and available directly from Casa Voyageurs station.
- Taxi (The Classic Mistake) – Costs between 250-350 MAD, depending on your negotiation skills (or lack thereof).
- Private Transfers – Hotels and tour companies offer pre-arranged cars—expensive, but stress-free.
What NOT to Do: Never accept a ride from someone inside the airport terminal offering you a “cheap taxi”. They are lying.
Final Take: Move Smart or Get Swallowed Whole
Casablanca isn’t a city that guides you gently—it throws you in and expects you to keep up. If you can master its transport system, you’ll move like a local, dodge traffic with precision, and maybe even win a taxi negotiation battle.
Rule #1: Always know where you’re going. Rule #2: Always know how much it should cost. Rule #3: When in doubt, take the tram.
Get it right, and Casablanca will open up to you like a well-kept secret.
Day Trips from Casablanca: Escaping the Chaos, One Adventure at a Time
Casablanca is fast, loud, relentless—a city that never lets up. But just beyond its skyline, a different Morocco unfolds. Coastal hideaways, ancient capitals, rolling vineyards, and untouched beaches wait just a short drive away. Whether you’re looking for history, nature, or a slow-paced retreat, these day trips let you breathe, reset, and see Morocco beyond the concrete and glass of Casablanca.
Rabat – The Calm, Elegant Capital (1 Hour Away)
Rabat is Casablanca’s complete opposite—laid-back, orderly, and effortlessly historic. If Casablanca is the city that never stops moving, Rabat is the city that never needs to rush.
Why Go?
- Kasbah des Oudayas – A blue-and-white maze overlooking the ocean, where silence is golden and every doorway looks like a postcard.
- Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V – An unfinished minaret from the 12th century standing like a giant’s relic, next to the final resting place of Morocco’s most revered kings.
- Chellah Necropolis – Roman ruins swallowed by nature, where storks nest on ancient columns, and history feels alive in the cracks of the stonework.
The Move? Stroll the kasbah, sip mint tea at Café Maure, and watch the sunset over the Bou Regreg river.
Getting There:
- Train: 1-hour ride from Casa Voyageurs to Rabat Ville (cheap, easy, comfortable).
- Taxi: A bit pricier, but direct.
El Jadida – Portugal’s Ghost Town by the Sea (1.5 Hours Away)
El Jadida is Casablanca’s quiet cousin—a former Portuguese colony frozen in time. With its fortified walls, underground cisterns, and Atlantic breezes, this coastal town feels like a forgotten film set.
What to See?
- Cité Portugaise – A walled city that still carries the fingerprints of Portugal’s past.
- Portuguese Cistern – A hauntingly beautiful underground chamber where light filters through stone, creating reflections straight out of a dream.
- Sidi Bouzid Beach – Soft sands, clear waters, and zero crowds—the perfect antidote to Casablanca’s chaos.
Why It’s Worth It? This is history without the crowds, a coastal retreat without the tourist traps.
Getting There:
- Train: Casa Voyageurs → El Jadida (comfortable, scenic, and affordable).
- Car: A stress-free highway drive along the coast.
Benslimane – Morocco’s Underrated Wine Country (1 Hour Away)
Yes, Morocco has vineyards. And yes, they are shockingly good. Benslimane is lush, green, and completely unexpected, home to rolling hills and wineries that feel like a secret no one is talking about.
What’s the Vibe?
- Château Roslane – The Meknès-based vineyard with an outpost here, serving top-tier Moroccan wines in a French château setting.
- Domaine de Baccari – Rustic, intimate, and perfect for a long, slow lunch under the shade of ancient olive trees.
- Benslimane Forest – If you need a break from the city, this pine-covered retreat is ideal for fresh air and quiet walks.
The Move? Wine tasting without the rush—just vineyards, long conversations, and bottles worth bringing home.
Getting There: Rent a car, drive slow, and make the day count.
Azemmour – The Riverside Gem That Time Forgot (1 Hour Away)
Some places feel like they exist outside of time. Azemmour is one of them. A faded riverside town with colorful murals, ancient medina walls, and an artistic spirit that lingers in the air, it’s the kind of place that doesn’t try to impress—it just is.
What’s the Magic?
- Murals Everywhere – The whole town is an open-air art gallery, where painted walls tell stories of Morocco’s past and present.
- The Oum Er-Rbia River – Rent a boat, float in silence, and see a side of Morocco most people skip.
- The Old Medina – Empty, hauntingly beautiful, and untouched by tourism—walk through at golden hour and feel its quiet magic.
Why It’s Special? Azemmour isn’t about checking off attractions—it’s about feeling a place that refuses to be rushed.
Getting There: An easy coastal drive with the Atlantic as your guide.
Oualidia – Morocco’s Hidden Lagoon Paradise (2 Hours Away)
Want to see Morocco’s most beautiful beach? Oualidia is the best-kept secret on the Atlantic coast. A natural lagoon, protected from the rough ocean waves, where the water is calm, turquoise, and surreal.
Why It’s Unmissable?
- The Lagoon – Perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in waters that feel untouched.
- Oysters, Oysters, Oysters – This is Morocco’s seafood capital, where fresh oysters and grilled fish are the only things you need.
- Cliffside Views – Find a hidden spot, watch the sun set into the water, and try to believe a place this perfect exists.
The Perfect Day? Morning kayak, seafood feast by the lagoon, afternoon nap on the sand.
Getting There: Drive it. You’ll want the freedom to stop, take pictures, and savor every second of the journey.
The Final Take: Casablanca is Just the Beginning
Casablanca is intense, electric, unstoppable—but just beyond the city, Morocco opens up in ways you never expected. Ancient capitals, quiet beaches, sun-drenched vineyards, and ghost towns lost in time—all just a short trip away.
Some cities pull you in. Casablanca pushes you out—out into the unknown, into adventure, into places that make you feel like you’ve unlocked a secret part of Morocco most visitors will never see.
So go. Leave the skyscrapers behind. See what’s waiting just past the horizon.
Casablanca isn’t a city you visit—it’s a city you survive, absorb, and eventually surrender to. It doesn’t welcome you with open arms. It doesn’t slow down to make itself easy. It throws you into the deep end, challenges you to keep up, and if you do? It rewards you with layers of beauty, history, and energy that no other Moroccan city can match.
From the towering Hassan II Mosque, where faith meets the sea… To the souks and markets, where deals are made with a handshake and a stare… To the beaches, where the Atlantic whispers its eternal song… To the street food stalls, where one bite can change your understanding of spice forever…
This city isn’t perfect. It’s gritty, fast, and unfiltered. But that’s exactly why it’s unforgettable.
Come for a day, and you’ll misunderstand it. Stay longer, and you’ll see it for what it truly is—a city that never stops moving, never stops evolving, and never lets you leave quite the same as you arrived.
Casablanca isn’t here to impress you. It’s here to be itself. And that’s more than enough.
