While Marrakech and Fes often steal the spotlight, tourism in Casablanca offers a unique blend of modern sophistication and deep-rooted tradition that you cannot find anywhere else in North Africa. Known affectionately as “Casa” by locals, Morocco’s economic capital is a bustling metropolis where Art Deco architecture meets the roaring Atlantic Ocean.

Whether you are on a layover or planning a dedicated trip, this guide covers the top attractions, hidden gems, and culinary delights that make visiting Casablanca a must-do experience.

Why Visit Casablanca?

Casablanca is not just a transit hub; it is the cosmopolitan heart of Morocco. It offers a grittier, more authentic urban experience compared to the tourist-centric cities of the south. Here, business mixes with pleasure, and the city’s colonial French legacy provides a stunning architectural backdrop to a modern African city.

Top 5 Things to Do in Casablanca

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Casablanca, ensure these landmarks are at the top of your itinerary.

1. The Hassan II Mosque

No guide to Casablanca tourism is complete without the Hassan II Mosque. It is one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims. Perched dramatically over the Atlantic Ocean, it features the second-tallest minaret in the world.

2. The Quartier Habous (New Medina)

While the Old Medina has its charm, the Quartier Habous is the true gem for shoppers and architecture lovers. Built by the French in the 1930s to solve housing shortages, it blends traditional Moroccan style with French city planning. It is the perfect place to buy authentic rugs, leather goods, and olive oil without the aggressive sales tactics found in other cities.

3. The Art Deco District

Walking through downtown Casablanca feels like stepping onto a movie set. The city has one of the world’s most impressive collections of Art Deco architecture. Start at Place des Nations Unies and walk down Boulevard Mohammed V to see the stunning facades of the 1920s and 30s, including the Wilaya and the Sacred Heart Cathedral.

4. The Corniche (Ain Diab)

For those seeking nightlife and ocean breezes, The Corniche is the place to be. This waterfront promenade is lined with luxury beach clubs, restaurants, and swimming pools. It is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the Atlantic while enjoying a mint tea or a cocktail.

5. Rick’s Café

Yes, it is a tourist trap, but it is a delightful one. Recreated to match the bar from the legendary 1942 movie Casablanca, Rick’s Café offers a nostalgic atmosphere, live jazz piano, and excellent continental cuisine. Reservations are highly recommended.

A Taste of Casa: Where to Eat

Casablanca restaurants are incredibly diverse. Being a port city, the seafood is legendary.

• Marché Central: For an authentic lunch, buy fresh fish at the market stalls and have the nearby restaurants grill it for you instantly.
• La Sqala: Located in an 18th-century fortified bastion, this is a top spot for traditional Moroccan breakfast and tagines.

Practical Travel Tips for Casablanca

• Getting Around: The Casablanca Tramway is clean, safe, and cheap. For door-to-door service, use the small red taxis (Petit Taxis). Always ensure the meter is turned on.
• Best Time to Visit: The weather is mild year-round, but spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant temperatures for walking tours.
• Language: Moroccan Arabic (Darija) and French are widely spoken. English is becoming more common in tourist areas.

Conclusion

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