Casablanca may no longer shine as brightly as the classic film made it, but this Moroccan coastal city thrives as the nation’s economic hub and the site of one of the world’s largest mosques. Whether you’re passing through between tourist-heavy Marrakech and the capital Rabat, or spending time with a partner where Western luxury meets North African tradition, Casablanca deserves more than a fleeting stop.
Discover layers of history beneath the city’s modern skyline. Sleek hotels and contemporary buildings rise beside the Old Medina, or Ancienne Medina, where visitors can wander a labyrinth of narrow alleys and traditional outdoor souks. Although younger than some of Morocco’s historic medinas, this 19th-century quarter offers a compact, authentic experience. Shoppers can haggle for carpets, pottery and handcrafted goods in the stalls, while much of the area remains residential, lending the neighborhood a lived-in atmosphere.
Perched on Morocco’s northern coast above the Atlantic, the serene grounds of the Hassan II Mosque are occasionally punctuated by the sound of waves crashing on the shore. Its minaret towers 690 feet, making it the tallest in the world and the largest mosque in Africa. The mosque’s striking scale and intricate craftsmanship draw both worshippers and visitors.
Hassan II Mosque © Karol Kozlowski | Dreamstime.com
In the mosque’s plaza, a multicultural crowd mingles and observes the architecture. Inside the grand doors, light plays across marble floors and ornate walls crafted from wood and plaster. Stone columns and rounded arches guide visitors through passageways to prayer halls that can hold more than 25,000 worshippers; with the exterior courtyards included, the mosque’s capacity extends to some 105,000 people.
South of the minaret, Casablanca spreads into a mix of architectural and natural attractions. Place Mohamed V is a lively square ideal for people-watching and feeding pigeons, though photographers should be aware that locals sometimes request a small fee for photos. From here, avenues branch out to parks, shops and cafés.
One such green space is Parc de la Ligue Arabe, where palm-lined walkways and manicured gardens offer shady spots to pause for a mint tea or an ice cream. The park includes Yasmina Amusement Park, a small area with rides for young children, and tree-lined tunnels that provide relief from the intense sun.
About a mile southeast lies Quartier Habous, often called the “new” part of town. The neighborhood reflects French colonial influences in its architecture and layout. The Nouvelle Medina here is smaller than the Ancienne Medina but rich in shopping opportunities. Colorful stalls sell rugs, ceramics and traditional toys—ideal places to test your bargaining skills. Nearby bakeries tempt visitors with almond cookies that make a delicious reward after a successful purchase.
When the weather warms, many head to Casablanca’s beaches for sun and seaside activities. The city’s coastal areas cater to families and groups with practical amenities and a range of options for recreation.
Ain Diab Anfa, reachable by a short tram ride from the city center, combines sandy beaches with playgrounds, sports courts and a strip of hotels and restaurants. Private beach clubs typically charge a small entrance fee, granting access to pools, bars and changing facilities.
On overcast days, Morocco Mall offers indoor entertainment and shopping. Inside Africa’s largest mall, visitors find a mix of international brands and pockets of traditional Moroccan crafts. Highlights include AquaDream, a two-level aquarium with a 360-degree viewing room showcasing dozens of marine species, and Adventureland Maroc, a family-friendly indoor theme park with rides, simulators and an ice rink. The mall also houses an IMAX cinema for immersive film screenings.
Sahara Desert © Aliaksei Putau | Dreamstime.com
The region beyond Casablanca is equally appealing. About an hour southwest, Mazagan Beach Resort sits along the Atlantic on more than 600 acres. The resort offers activities for all ages, from horseback rides on the shore to camel treks across nearby desert patches, jet skiing and quad biking. Families appreciate the dedicated childcare programs—The Baby Club, The Kidz Club and Club Rush for teenagers—so parents can enjoy a spa visit or a quiet dinner at one of the resort’s restaurants.
Mazagan’s coastline and pools provide ample opportunities for beach soccer, volleyball and surfing with trained instructors. The resort also organizes excursions to Casablanca, El Jadida and Marrakech, and runs interactive experiences like scavenger hunts that combine teamwork with local history lessons.
Although Casablanca might not top every travel list, the city and its surroundings offer engaging experiences for visitors of all ages—blending historical sites, modern attractions and seaside leisure in a distinctive Moroccan setting.
Casablanca Info to Go
Casablanca sits on the Atlantic coast and is a common stop for smaller cruise ships. International travelers typically arrive at Mohammed V International Airport. From the airport, taxis to the city center cost around $30; regional trains connect to Casa Voyageurs station (first-class and second-class options). The modern Casa Tramway makes getting around the city simple and affordable—trams run frequently and stop near many of Casablanca’s main sights.
Where to Stay in Casablanca
HÔTEL & SPA LE DOGE Experience a traditional hammam in an Art Deco–inspired setting at Le Doge. 9 Rue du Docteur Veyre $$$
MÖVENPICK HOTEL CASABLANCA Enjoy rooftop views and a pool from the 16th floor at this centrally located hotel near Parque de la Ligue Arabe. Rond Point Place Hassan II $$
NOVOTEL CASABLANCA CITY CENTER Family-friendly rooms and play areas make this hotel a practical choice close to the Old Medina and Hassan II Mosque. Corner of Blvd. Zaid Ouhmad and Rue Sidi Belyout $$
Restaurants in Casablanca
L’ÉTOILE DU PLAZZA High ceilings, colorful cushions and live music create a lively atmosphere for French-inspired and regional dishes. 74 Blvd. Abdellatif Ben Kaddour $$
RICK´S CAFÉ Step back to the 1940s with a menu of Moroccan favorites and live piano music in a nostalgic setting. 248 Blvd. Sour Jdid $$
ZAYNA A cozy spot serving generous portions of Moroccan classics like couscous and tagines near the Nouvelle Medina. 44 Rue Ibn Khaldoune $$