When romantics think of Casablanca, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the legendary “Casablanca” movie from 1942 starring Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart. In reality, the popular movie has little to do with this vibrant city, as it was shot entirely at the Warner Bros Studios in California.
So, what is Casablanca known for? This bustling city of Morocco is famed for its Parisian-style Art Deco architecture, the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, tree-lined boulevards of the New Medina, and a cosmopolitan, ocean-facing district called La Corniche.
This 3-day itinerary takes you to some of the best tourist attractions in the city, includes tips on where to eat and where to stay, and offers a few suggestions for day trips from Casablanca.
Your first stop is the Hassan II Mosque, one of the most impressive attractions in Casablanca. With its ceilings decorated with gold leaf, beautiful marble flooring, and colourful ceramic tiles, the mosque is a testament to amazing craftsmanship. Built to commemorate the sixtieth birthday of King Hassan II, this intricate masterpiece is the largest mosque in Morocco and has the second tallest minaret in the world. The sheer size of this mosque is incomprehensible. For example, the prayer hall can accommodate about 25,000 worshippers, while the giant courtyard fits 80,000 people. Join a guided tour of the mosque to learn more about the history, architecture, and significance of this sacred place.
Shopaholics visiting Casablanca can spend a few hours at the Marina Shopping Centre. Located on the seafront right between the port and the mosque, this shopping mall is home to many shores and shops ranging from toy stores and trendy clothing shops to jewellery boutiques and sports stores. In case you get hungry, there is an elegant food court where you will find many cafes and restaurants serving both traditional Moroccan foods and international cuisine.
The next place on our list is for all you cinema fans visiting Casablanca. Opened 20 years ago by former U.S. diplomat Kathy Kriger to recreate the famous bar from the iconic 1942 movie, Casablanca, Rick's Café is probably the most visited restaurant and bar in the city. The details are spot on, from the geometric black-and-white marble floors and arched doorways to the vintage roulette table and the authentic piano from the 1930s. Visit to listen to live jazz performances, snap a photo in front of the legendary piano, sip on a gin martini, and try delicious foods like champagne oysters, seafood linguini, grilled sea bass, and the signature Rick’s cheesecake. Because of the café’s legendary status, you should definitely make a reservation well in advance.
Start your afternoon walk in the Old Medina (Ancienne Medina). The city’s pulsating heart for centuries, this ancient walled market offers a different vibe from the medinas in Fez and Marrakesh. Instead of souks selling handmade souvenirs for tourists, the old Medina in Casablanca is mostly about vendors who offer everyday goods to the locals. Go for a stroll through its winding alleyways lined with whitewashed buildings, haggle with shopkeepers over the price of spices and foods, and have a cup of rich Arabic coffee at one of the cute cafes.
To mingle with the locals and sample fresh Moroccan food, pay a visit to the nearby Central Market in Casablanca. It is an open-air meat, fish, and vegetable market popular with residents and tourists alike. Not to be missed is the seafood souk where stalls are packed with everything from freshly-caught oysters and sardines to shrimp, lobster, and swordfish. The Central Market is also home to a few shops that sell traditional goods and souvenirs.
Your next stop is one of the oldest cinemas in Morocco, the legendary Cinéma Rialto. Constructed in 1929 and designed by architect Pierre Jabin, the magnificent Art Deco cinema has 1,300 seats, of which 400 are located on the supervising floor. Cinéma Rialto hosted an opening ceremony for international films back in the day and attracted international artists such as Josephine Baker, Edith Piaff, and Charles Aznavour.
We end our afternoon walk at Place des Nations Unies (United Nations Square). A blend of architectural styles, the square serves as a junction for Casablanca’s major avenues. You will find contemporary and modernist structures, as well as some of Casablanca’s most beautiful Art Deco buildings here. The centrepiece of Place des Nations Unies is the modernist Clock Tower which serves as one of the entrances to the medina. An interesting fact is that the tower that stands today in the middle of the square is actually a replica. The original clock tower was demolished in the 1940s. The square also hosts different events ranging from public exhibitions and live music performances to art installations.
The beating heart of Casablanca, Mohammed V Square is your first stop in the morning. The picturesque square is surrounded by bustling cafes, chic boutiques, and government buildings including the National Bank, the French Consulate, and the Justice Palace. Check out the beautiful statue of Louis Hubert Lyautey and the central fountain from 1976. In the evening, the lights illuminate the square and create a wonderful atmosphere.
Museum lovers will want to visit the beautiful Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum. Spread across 3 floors in a small building in downtown Casablanca, this tiny museum displays the collection of a local art collector and businessman Abderrahman Slaoui. Permanent works include everything from a private collection of jewelry and old posters about tourism to crystal objects and paintings by Jacques Majorelle and Muhammad Ben Ali Rbati. There are also new rotating exhibitions featuring contemporary local artists from Morocco.
Welcome to Arab League Park, a beautiful public park lined with tall African palm trees, lush gardens, and peaceful ponds. In 2018, the park was remodelled and the landscapes look better than ever before. You will come across shaded paths, a variety of exotic trees and plants, gorgeous fountains, playgrounds, and sports courts. Don’t miss the unique Sacred Heart cathedral which serves as a cultural centre nowadays. There are a few nice cafes with nicely decorated terraces where you can sit down for a drink and read a book on a hot summer day.
Located just a short walk from Arab League Park, Villa des Arts de Casablanca is a lovely museum that houses a large theatre room and a few exhibition spaces. Inside the gallery, you will find more than 800 Moroccan contemporary art pieces, as well as works by international artists. The permanent collection includes sculptures, textiles, and paintings. There are also temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists from Africa. The museum hosts many cultural events throughout the year.
After lunch, make your way to the Church of Notre Dame of Lourdes. Built in the mid-20th century, this Roman Catholic Church is known for its modernist European architecture and gorgeous stained glass windows which are creations of the renowned French artist, Gabriel Loire. The murals on the walls are simply breathtaking and easy to fall in love with. There is also a nice grotto just outside the entrance where you can light candles and pray.
You will find Parc Murdoch right at the entrance of Victor Hugo Boulevard. What makes this public park so special is that it enhances the quality of life for the residents of Casablanca. There are basketball and tennis courts, jogging paths, a kid’s area with roller skates and scooters, and many other recreational facilities. If you are seeking relaxation, Parc Murdoch has plenty of lush greenery, shaded areas, and picnic tables. On your way out, stop by the small amphitheatre where local artists occasionally perform.
Your next stop is the Royal Palace of Casablanca, one of the most beautiful landmarks in the city. Built in the 1920s as one of the King’s residencies in Morocco, this majestic palace is a feast for the eyes with its magnificent facades, elegant doors, and extensive gardens. The only downside is that the palace is not open to the public and is mostly used for special ceremonies and official events. However, you can admire the beauty of the palace’s grand exterior from the outside.
Notre Dame De Lourdes Church, Parc Murdoch, and the Royal Palace of Casablanca are all part of Casablanca’s Quartier Habous (New Medina). Known for its Moorish-style buildings and wide streets, this architectural and cultural gem was built by the French in the 1920s. The vibrant neighbourhood is also a terrific place to go on a shopping spree. You will find many bustling souks that sell everything from fragrant spices and Aladdin-style lamps to colourful carpets, wool-woven rugs, and baked clay ceramics.
Wish to enjoy magnificent ocean views and satisfy your shopping craving at the same time? Begin your morning walk at Anfaplace Mall, a large shopping centre located right by the ocean. It is a place where travellers can find international brands, from casual to luxurious retailers. Anfaplace Mall has a nice food court anchored by famous fast-food chains such as McDonalds, KFC, and Burger King, as well as casual local eateries and cafes.
Our next stop is one of the most recommended areas to go in the city. Welcome to La Corniche, a cosmopolitan, ocean-facing suburb of Casablanca that will leave you breathless. Also known as the Ain Diab district, the beach area and boardwalk is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and hotels. Visit the El Hank lighthouse, grab a cocktail in a chic beachfront bar, and see one of the many soccer games happening on the sand. La Corniche is more of a vacation-type spot than the rest of Casablanca and many bars serve alcohol.
At the end of La Corniche, you will find Ain Diab Beach. This true coastal gem with its golden sands and turquoise waters is an ideal place to visit for beach lovers visiting Casablanca. You will find plenty of family-friendly facilities here ranging from classy seafood dining establishments and cafes to several snack stalls, public bathrooms, and showers. The sunset views from Ain Diab Beach are spectacular.
Make your way to the nearby Parc Sindibad, an enchanting amusement park in the heart of Casablanca. With its meticulously landscaped gardens, picturesque pathways, and lush greenery, the park itself looks amazing. It is a perfect place to enjoy heart-pounding adventures like giant roller coasters (Freefall Tower). There are also attractions for the little ones ranging from interactive games and boat rides along the park’s waterways to a cute merry-go-round. Don’t leave the park before checking out the small zoo.
Begin your afternoon walk at the Mohammed V Stadium, a sporting complex that opened back in the 1950s and was named after King Mohammed V of Morocco. The stadium hosts club and international football games and has a seating capacity of about 67,000 visitors. It is also used for concerts and other cultural gatherings. From the outside, Mohammed V Stadium looks impressive with a blend of traditional Moroccan and modern design.
Looking for something fun to do in Casablanca? Suitable for both adults and children, Yasmine Fun Park is a nice indoor amusement centre packed with video games and a cool area for bumper car races. Check out the laser game room and some of the other VR gaming machines.
Your last stop is the impressive Twin Centre. Nestled 28 floors above ground, these two giant skyscrapers are a sight to behold. The two skyscrapers are home to a hotel, offices, bars, shops, and restaurants. Whether you wish to have a memorable dining experience at La Grande Casa, ride the elevator to floor 28 where you will find a café with fabulous city views, or have a drink at the 5-star Kenzi Tower Hotel, there is plenty to look forward to when visiting the Twin Centre.
Nestled on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca has a Mediterranean climate with mild weather temperatures. The warmest time of the year is in July and August. It is also the busiest time of the year when many tourists flock to Casablanca to enjoy good weather. The best time to visit the city is probably in late spring and summer from May to October when the weather is nice with little chance of rain. We should also mention that the wet season in Casablanca which usually falls around the months surrounding November is known to be rainy and windy.
• The Casablanca International Theatre Festival: Celebrating the art of theatre, the Casablanca International Theatre Festival promotes cultural exchange and brings together Moroccan and international theatre groups. Expect to find a diverse program of discussions, workshops, and plays held in different theaters and outdoor areas in the city.
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