Casablanca Tourist Attractions - The Ultimate Travel Guide

 

Casablanca Tourist Attractions - The Ultimate Travel Guide

Your complete guide to exploring Morocco’s modern heartbeat.

Casablanca is Morocco’s economic powerhouse, cultural melting pot, and the gateway for millions of travelers entering the country every year. While often overshadowed by cities like Marrakech or Fes, Casablanca has its own charm modern, coastal, energetic, and deeply authentic. This guide highlights the best attractions in Casablanca, blending essential tourist spots with local insights to help you enjoy the city like a pro.

Hassan II Mosque overlooking the Atlantic Ocean


Why Visit Casablanca?

Casablanca’s appeal is different it’s not a traditional tourist town. Instead, it offers:

  • Modern architecture mixed with Moroccan tradition

  • Stunning Atlantic coastline

  • Impressive religious and cultural landmarks

  • Trendy cafés, art galleries, and malls

  • Beautiful corniches and beaches

  • Urban energy that feels alive and contemporary

Casablanca is perfect for travelers who want a real Moroccan city experience beyond the touristic image.


 Hassan II Mosque - Casablanca’s Crown Jewel

The Hassan II Mosque is the city’s most iconic attraction and one of the most remarkable religious monuments in the world.

*Highlights

  • One of the largest mosques on Earth

  • Minaret height: 210 meters (the tallest in the world)

  • Built partially over the Atlantic Ocean

  • Hand carved cedarwood, marble floors, and intricate zellij tiles

  • Can host more than 100,000 worshippers

*Why It’s a Must Visit

It’s the only major mosque in Morocco open to non Muslim visitors through guided tours. The scale, craftsmanship, and ocean views make it unforgettable.

*Best Time to Visit

Morning tours (around 9-10 AM) offer the best lighting for photos.


 Casablanca Corniche - Coastal Relaxation

The Corniche is Casablanca’s beachfront promenade stretching from Ain Diab to Anfa. It’s filled with:

  • Beachfront cafés

  • Restaurants

  • Nightlife spots

  • Luxury hotels

  • Scenic walking paths

  • Family friendly spaces

*What You Can Do

  • Relax by the ocean

  • Enjoy fresh seafood

  • Walk along the coast at sunset

  • Swim during summer

  • Visit public and private beaches

*Local Tip

Sundays are vibrant many families gather for walks and picnics.


 Mohammed V Square - Historical Heart of the City

This central square showcases Casablanca’s beautiful French era Art Deco architecture.

*Top Sights

  • Wilaya (City Hall)

  • Palace of Justice

  • French Consulate

  • Pigeons fountain

  • Palm lined boulevards

It’s the best place to see the colonial history of Casablanca blended with Moroccan identity.


 The Old Medina - Authentic Moroccan Life

While smaller than the medinas of Fes or Marrakech, Casablanca’s Old Medina offers a more authentic local feel.

*What You’ll Find

  • Narrow alleyways

  • Street food

  • Souks selling clothing, spices, crafts

  • Local cafés

  • Traditional Moroccan products

*Why Visit?

It’s less crowded and gives a genuine taste of daily life without overwhelming tourists.


 Quartier Habous (New Medina)

Built by the French in the 1930s, Habous blends Moroccan traditional architecture with modern organization.

Habous district with Moroccan architecture

*Top Highlights

  • Beautiful arches and alleyways

  • Souks for leather, books, and clothes

  • The Royal Palace (outside view only)

*Best For

  • Buying authentic souvenirs

  • Handcrafted leather items

  • Traditional pastries like “fekkas” and “ghriba”


 Villa des Arts - Casablanca’s Creative Side

A modern art museum showcasing Moroccan and international exhibitions.

*Features

  • Moroccan contemporary art

  • Sculptures, photography, and painting

  • Cultural events

  • Free entry most days

This place shows Casablanca’s growing art and design scene.


 Parc Sindibad - Family Friendly Adventure

*Casablanca’s large amusement park offering:

  • Roller coasters

  • Boat rides

  • Animal park

  • Kids’ activities

  • Picnic areas

Perfect for families and groups looking for entertainment.


 Ain Diab Beach - Sun, Sand and Sea

*A popular local beach with:

  • Surf schools

  • Beach restaurants

  • Private beach clubs

  • Family friendly areas

*Tip: Go on weekdays to avoid crowds.


 Morocco Mall - Africa’s Largest Shopping Center

*A mega mall offering:

  • Luxury shops

  • International brands

  • Oceanfront food court

  • Indoor aquarium

  • IMAX cinema

Great place for modern travelers who want shopping, food, and entertainment.


 Notre Dame de Lourdes Church

*A surprising architectural site featuring:

  • Modern Catholic church

  • Massive stained-glass windows

  • Quiet, peaceful atmosphere

A rare look into Casablanca’s multicultural heritage.


What to Eat in Casablanca

Try these local dishes:

  • Tajine: chicken, lamb, or vegetables

  • Pastilla: sweet and savory pastry

  • Grilled seafood near the Corniche

  • Rfissa (traditional Moroccan dish)

  • Moroccan mint tea with pastries

For seafood lovers: visit Ain Diab or El Hank restaurants.


How to Get Around Casablanca

✔ Trams

Best for cheap and reliable transport.

✔ Petit Taxis

Use the meter; cheap within the city.

✔ Train (ONCF)

Connects Casablanca with Marrakech, Rabat, and Tangier.

✔ Walk

Safe and easy in central areas.


Where to Stay in Casablanca

*Best Areas:

  • Corniche (Ain Diab): beaches + nightlife

  • Maarif: shopping + cafés

  • City Center: tram access + attractions

  • Anfa: upscale residential area


Best Time to Visit Casablanca

  • Spring (March/May): perfect weather

  • Autumn (September/November): cool and sunny

  • Summer: warm but breezy near the coast


Casablanca Travel FAQ

1. Is Casablanca worth visiting?

Yes  it offers modern attractions, culture, cuisine, and coastal scenery.

2. How many days do you need in Casablanca?

1-2 days are enough to see the main highlights.

3. Is Casablanca safe for tourists?

Yes. Stick to central areas and use taxis at night.

4. Are the beaches clean?

Ain Diab and private beach clubs offer the cleanest options.

5. Can you visit the Hassan II Mosque inside?

Yes through guided tours (multiple times per day).

*If you want to know more about Marrakech excursions, Learn this article "marrakech excursions"


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