When most people think of Morocco, cities like Marrakech, Fes or Chefchaouen usually come to mind first. Casablanca often becomes simply the place where travellers land before heading elsewhere.
That is a shame.
While Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city and economic powerhouse, it’s also a fascinating blend of modern life, French colonial architecture, Atlantic Ocean views and authentic Moroccan culture. It may not have the winding alleyways of Fes or the colourful souks of Marrakech, but if you know where to look, Casablanca offers a completely different side of Morocco.
Whether you’re spending one day before your tour begins or a couple of nights exploring the city, here are my favourite places to visit.
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The Hassan II Mosque is, without question, Casablanca’s most iconic landmark.
Perched dramatically on the Atlantic Ocean, it is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a soaring minaret reaching 210 metres into the sky. Part of the mosque actually extends over the ocean, creating one of Morocco’s most spectacular architectural sights. It is also one of the few mosques in Morocco that welcomes non-Muslim visitors through guided tours.
Inside you’ll find intricate cedar wood ceilings, hand-carved plaster, beautiful zellige tilework and marble from across Morocco.
Travel Tip: Book one of the official guided tours to appreciate the incredible craftsmanship and history behind the building.
type hereOne of my favourite parts of Casablanca is the Habous Quarter, sometimes called the “New Medina.”
Built during the French Protectorate in the early 20th century, it combines traditional Moroccan architecture with wide, walkable streets, making it much easier to explore than some of Morocco’s older medinas.
You’ll find:
This is one of my favourite places to buy gifts without feeling overwhelmed.
Travel Tip: get treats at Patisserie Bennis Habbous and sit and drink tea at a nearby cafe and people watch
Need a break from sightseeing?
Head to Ain Diab and stroll along Casablanca’s Corniche.
Locals come here to jog, meet friends, enjoy coffee overlooking the Atlantic or simply watch the waves roll in. During summer the beaches become lively, while sunset is one of the best times to visit.
Although the classic film Casablanca wasn’t actually filmed in Morocco, Rick’s Café was created to capture its timeless atmosphere. Set inside a restored 1930s mansion beside the old medina, it recreates the famous movie setting with elegant arches, live piano music and vintage décor.
Even if you simply stop in for a drink, it’s worth experiencing the atmosphere.
Casablanca’s Old Medina feels very different from Marrakech or Fes.
It’s smaller, more relaxed and much less touristy. Here you’ll find everyday Moroccan life unfolding around you—small cafés, local markets, fishermen returning from the harbour and neighbourhood shops that have served locals for generations.
Sometimes the best travel experiences happen when you simply wander.
Pro tip: hire a guide (you can do that through me) to see not all only all the gems of the medina but of the city centre too!
Many visitors don’t realize Casablanca has one of the world’s largest collections of Art Deco buildings.
Throughout the city centre you’ll discover elegant façades, balconies and historic buildings dating back to the early 20th century, reflecting Casablanca’s unique blend of Moroccan and European influences.
If you enjoy photography, this is a wonderful area to explore.
Want to experience everyday Casablanca?
The Central Market is full of fresh seafood, colourful produce, flowers and local ingredients.
Many of the seafood stalls will even cook your selection while you wait.
Travel Tip: this is where you will have some of the best seafood in Morocco.
For something completely different, Morocco Mall offers luxury shopping, restaurants, cafés and entertainment overlooking the majestic Atlantic.
It provides an interesting contrast to Morocco’s historic medinas.
Casablanca has one of Morocco’s best food scenes.
Don’t miss:
The city is also home to excellent international restaurants thanks to its cosmopolitan population.
Travel Tip: book an evening food tour through me to eat your way around the city!
One of my favourite moments in Casablanca isn’t inside a museum.
It’s standing by the ocean as the sun begins to set, watching the waves crash against the shoreline while the call to prayer echoes across the city.
It’s a beautiful reminder that Casablanca isn’t just Morocco’s business capital—it’s a city with soul.
Travel Tip: my favourite place to watch the sunset is at Le Crepuscule Cafe on the corniche.
If you’re someone who enjoys discovering the quieter side of a city, don’t miss the beautifully curated Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum.
Housed inside an elegant 1940s villa, this intimate museum feels more like stepping into the private collection of a passionate art lover than visiting a traditional museum. Inside you’ll find beautifully displayed Moroccan jewellery, vintage travel posters, paintings, decorative arts, ceramics and fascinating objects that tell the story of Morocco’s artistic and cultural heritage. The museum is known for its thoughtful curation and peaceful atmosphere, making it a welcome escape from the bustle of Casablanca.
Travel Tip: Leave time to enjoy the café on the top floor—it’s one of Casablanca’s hidden gems.
Standing proudly beside the lush Arab League Park is the striking Sacred Heart Church (Église du Sacré-Cœur), one of Casablanca’s most recognizable landmarks.
Built in the 1930s during the French Protectorate, the church is a fascinating blend of Neo-Gothic architecture and Art Deco influences. Although it no longer functions as a church and is now primarily used as a cultural and exhibition space, its soaring white façade and peaceful surroundings make it well worth a visit. Depending on restoration work or special events, you may even be lucky enough to find it open and be able to step inside to admire its beautiful interior.
Travel Tip: Combine your visit with a stroll through Arab League Park and the nearby Art Deco district—everything is within easy walking distance.
You’re probabaly asking, how long should I stay in Casablanca?
For most travellers, one or two nights is perfect.
That gives you enough time to explore the Hassan II Mosque, enjoy great food, wander the Habous Quarter and experience the city’s unique atmosphere before continuing your Moroccan adventure. Many experienced travellers recommend focusing on a handful of highlights rather than trying to see everything.
My Personal Tip
I always tell my guests not to compare Casablanca to Marrakech.
They’re completely different cities.
Marrakech dazzles with colour and history. Casablanca reveals itself more slowly. It’s sophisticated, authentic and wonderfully local. Give it a chance, and you’ll discover a side of Morocco that many visitors miss.
Many of my private and small-group Morocco itineraries begin or end in Casablanca, making it the perfect introduction to this incredible country.
Whether you’re dreaming of wandering ancient medinas, camping beneath the Sahara stars or discovering hidden villages in the Atlas Mountains, Casablanca is often the first chapter of an unforgettable journey.
Contact me to plan your journey, including Casablanca.
Prices in € and USD$. Subject to change without notice as exchange rate varies and local prices change.
