Casablanca

Casablanca, Morocco's largest city, serves as the country's economic center. The Hassan II Mosque stands out in the skyline, while Art Deco buildings remind visitors of the French colonial era. You can walk through the Old Medina, spend time at Ain Diab Beach, or buy fresh seafood at the Central Market. Casablanca gives you a look at modern Moroccan life, combining its business focus with traditional culture.

Hassan II Mosque

The Hassan II Mosque is Casablanca's main landmark. This large mosque sits partially over the Atlantic Ocean, with a 210-meter minaret visible from much of the city. The mosque's detailed tilework, wooden ceilings, and large chandeliers show off Moroccan craftsmanship. You can take guided tours of the interior, which has space for up to 25,000 worshippers. In the evenings, many locals gather on the mosque's esplanade, which looks out over the ocean.

Old Medina

Casablanca's Old Medina is smaller than those in Fez or Marrakech but still gives you a taste of traditional Moroccan life. Small shops line the narrow streets, selling spices, handmade crafts, and other goods. At the medina's entrance, you'll see the Clock Tower from the early 20th century. As you walk around, you might come across the Ettedgui Synagogue, which shows the history of Casablanca's Jewish community.

Art Deco Architecture in the City Center

Casablanca's city center has many Art Deco buildings from the French colonial period. You can see examples like the Cinema Rialto and Cathédrale du Sacré Cœur on Boulevard Mohammed V. The United Nations Square is surrounded by buildings that mix Moorish and Art Deco styles. If you want to learn more, you can join an architecture walking tour with a local guide.

The Corniche

The Corniche is Casablanca's waterfront area along the Atlantic coast. Here you'll find beach clubs, restaurants, and Ain Diab Beach. You can walk on the promenade, watch the sun go down over the ocean, or try water sports like jet-skiing and surfing. At night, the Corniche gets busy as people visit its cafes and nightclubs.

Casablanca's Food

Casablanca has a wide range of food options. The Central Market is a good place to start, with stalls selling fresh seafood, local produce, and Moroccan sweets. For sit-down meals, try the Gauthier neighborhood, which has both Moroccan and international restaurants. Local dishes to try include pastilla (a savory-sweet pastry) and grilled sardines, which are popular due to Casablanca's coastal location.

Getting Around Casablanca

Moving around Casablanca is generally easy. The city has a tram system that connects major areas, including the city center and the Ain Diab district. For short trips within the city, you can use petit taxis, which are common and affordable. For longer distances, you might want to use grand taxis or buses. If you're flying in, Mohammed V International Airport is about 30 kilometers south of the city, with train and taxi connections available.