Overview

Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and economic capital, offers a mix of tradition and modernity. While often seen as the commercial heart of the country, it also serves as its de facto cultural epicenter, where grand mosques, historic medinas, and contemporary architectural marvels coexist. Whether you're exploring its bustling souks, enjoying the Art Deco heritage, or strolling along the palm-lined boulevards, Casablanca provides visitors with a unique Moroccan experience that combines the old world with the new. Its coastal position along the Atlantic also makes it a gateway for trade, history, and, more recently, tourism.

Famed for its starring role in the classic 1942 film Casablanca (actually filmed on the Warner Bros. Studios soundstages in California), the city offers much more than a romanticized past. Visitors can explore its cultural landmarks, enjoy its lively café culture, or visit world-class museums, all while taking in the cosmopolitan atmosphere of this thriving metropolis.

History and Culture

Founded by Berbers and later settled by Phoenicians and Romans, Casablanca's roots trace back thousands of years. The modern city, however, developed largely under French colonial rule in the early 20th century, with its wide streets, Art Deco architecture, and urban planning reflecting European influences. Casablanca's history as a port city gave it a global dimension early on, with its medina and old port once serving as centers of trade for the Atlantic coast.

The city's culture today is a reflection of its diverse influences, as Arab, Berber, European, and Jewish communities have all left their mark. Casablanca's mix of heritage sites, modern neighborhoods, and lively souks offer visitors an opportunity to explore the many layers of its identity. From its celebrated Hassan II Mosque, which towers over the Atlantic Ocean, to the peaceful Habbous Quarter, a walk through Casablanca reveals the complexities and contrasts present in Morocco's most modern city.

Weather

Casablanca's climate is temperate Mediterranean, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Temperatures in summer typically range from the upper 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (and even warmer in recent years), while winter months are cooler, with highs in the 60s. Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting, with warm weather perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions, from its beaches to its bustling streets.

Must-See Sights in Casablanca

To help you make the most of your time in Casablanca, we've grouped key sights by location, ensuring a smooth experience across the city's many highlights. We recommend you begin in the Old Medina because it's the most historic part of the city:

The Old Medina and Port area

We hope you take our recommendation and begin your journey in the Old Medina, Casablanca's historic core. While less extensive than the medinas of other Moroccan cities, it offers a charming window into traditional Moroccan life. At the southern end, near Avenue des Forces Armées Royales, you'll find the Old Medina Clock Tower, a symbol of the city's colonial past. Wander through the narrow streets, filled with vendors selling spices, textiles, and crafts, until you reach the famous Rick's Café. This atmospheric spot, modeled after the iconic café from the 1942 film Casablanca, is a must-visit for film buffs and lovers of classic vibes and themed décor.

Just east of Rick's Café lies the bustling Port of Casablanca and the newly developed Casablanca Marina, where the city's modern skyline contrasts with its historical heart. From here, travel north up Boulevard Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah to the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Sitting dramatically at the edge of the Atlantic, the mosque is unique in that it is one of the few in Morocco open to non-Muslims for guided tours, allowing visitors to appreciate its stunning architecture and intricate craftsmanship.

La Corniche and El Hank

Head west from the Hassan II Mosque along the coastal boulevard to La Corniche, Casablanca's social hub. This beachfront promenade is lined with cafés, restaurants, and bars, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Further west, you'll reach the El Hank Peninsula, where you can explore the El Hank Lighthouse and enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic. This is the perfect place to watch the sunset before dining at one of the stylish eateries along La Corniche.

Habbous Quarter (New Medina) and surrounding landmarks

For a different experience, explore the peaceful and historic Habbous Quarter, also known as the New Medina. Developed by the French in the 1920s, the Habbous blends Moroccan and European architectural styles, making it a charming area to stroll through. Here, you can visit the Mahkama du Pacha, an ornate building that functions as a courthouse and government office. Though access to its grand marble interiors is limited, guided tours are occasionally available.

Nearby, discover the Museum of Moroccan Judaism, the oldest museum dedicated to Jewish history in the Arab world. This small but significant museum offers insight into Morocco's long-standing Jewish community, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. As you continue, you'll reach the Église de Notre Dame de Lourdes, an imposing Catholic church with impressive stained-glass windows, located near the Place de l'Europe in the northwest part of the Habbous Quarter.

From here, follow Boulevard Mohammed VI to the Royal Palace, which, while not open to the public, can be admired from the outside. Just south of the palace grounds, the Moulay Youssef Mosque stands as another architectural gem, visible but not accessible to non-Muslims.

Activities (Parks and Leisure)

Casablanca's parks provide a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Start your morning with a stroll through Arab League Park, the largest green space in the city, located south of Mohammed V Square. This park offers plenty of shaded pathways, perfect for a peaceful walk or a morning picnic. Just north of the park lies Place des Nations Unies, one of the city's busiest squares, where you can enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by.

In the afternoon, head to Plage Ain Diab, Casablanca's most popular beach, located near La Corniche. Whether you're soaking up the sun or taking a dip in the Atlantic, Ain Diab offers a fun, relaxed atmosphere. If you're traveling with family, consider visiting Parc Sindibad, a nearby theme park offering rides, animal exhibits, and entertainment for all ages. Alternatively, spend some time at the sprawling Morocco Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in Africa, offering everything from high-end fashion to an impressive aquarium.

Shopping

Casablanca's shopping scene caters to both traditional and modern tastes, perfect for those looking to take home unique Moroccan items or contemporary finds. In the Old Medina, you'll find souks brimming with Moroccan handicrafts, spices, textiles, and leather goods. Wander through the alleys and you'll discover stalls filled with handmade rugs, colorful ceramics, and traditional clothing such as djellabas and kaftans, all of which showcase the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans. The medina is also a treasure trove for jewelry lovers, with vendors selling intricate Berber silver jewelry, hand-beaded necklaces, and beautifully crafted pieces.

For those interested in secondhand and vintage goods, the Derb Ghallef neighborhood is home to one of Casablanca's largest souks. This sprawling market offers a wide selection of vintage clothing, electronics, antique furniture, and rare finds. Derb Ghallef is well-known for its eclectic mix of products, ranging from retro gadgets and collectibles to "pre-loved" designer clothing. The souk has an energetic atmosphere, and bargaining is expected. We hope you find your undiscovered gem!

For a more upscale shopping experience, head to the Morocco Mall or the chic boutiques of La Corniche, where international brands meet Moroccan craftsmanship. The Central Market, located in the Derb Omar commercial zone, is another must-visit for food lovers. Here, you can buy fresh ingredients and have them cooked to order at nearby restaurants, which is a pretty fun and unique way to experience Casablanca's culinary offerings, don't you think?

Nightlife

Casablanca offers the most diverse nightlife scene in the Kingdom of Morocco, with a variety unmatched even by similarly cosmopolitan cities like Tangier. Since Casablanca has such a reputation, we have a lot of ground to cover.

Opening Hours: In the winter season, you'll see shorter operating hours than you would in the summer. Expect bars to open around 5 or 6 p.m. during the week and perhaps earlier (3 or 4 p.m.) on weekends to accommodate the pre-dinner drinks crowd. In the summer and shoulder seasons, opening times will stay the same or just a tad earlier, but the main difference is closing times. In the winter, the party is usually over by 1 a.m. in bars and 2 a.m. in nightclubs (with nightclubs sometimes only open on weekends in winter). By the shoulder and summer seasons, bars can close as late as 1:30 and nightclubs as late as 3 during the week, and on the weekends, bars' last call can be as late as 2 a.m., with nightclubs regularly obtaining permits to operate past their normal hours for specific parties or DJ arrivals, pushing the party in Casablanca to 4 or even 5 and 6 a.m., similar to Spain and other Mediterranean nightlife hotspots.

What to Expect: La Corniche is the epicenter of Casablanca's nightlife scene. This beachfront district is lined with stylish oceanfront lounges, bars, and nightclubs that cater to a range of tastes. For those seeking a chic evening with stunning views of the Atlantic, head to one of the many upscale cocktail bars and rooftop terraces that line the boulevard. These spots offer a more laid-back feeling, perfect for sipping on a drink while enjoying the ocean breeze and watching the sunset. Venues such as Sky 28, located atop the Kenzi Tower Hotel, provide panoramic views of the city's skyline and coast.

If you're in the mood to dance, La Corniche is also home to some of Casablanca's most renowned nightclubs, where you can enjoy everything from international DJs spinning house music to more intimate venues with live Moroccan performances. Le Cabestan, one of the city's legendary spots, offers a mix of sophisticated dining, drinks, and music in a sleek, contemporary setting. For a more upbeat experience, Le Petit Rocher is a popular nightclub (restaurant during the day) where guests can dance the night away while overlooking the sea. The area is also known for its live music venues, where local and international bands perform a variety of genres, from jazz to pop to Moroccan fusion.

For those who prefer a more relaxed or culturally-infused evening, Casablanca also offers plenty of quieter options. Explore the cafés and restaurants around Boulevard de la Corniche or Place des Nations Unies. These areas are perfect for those who wish to enjoy a leisurely dinner while soaking up the atmosphere of the city. Many of the restaurants along La Corniche offer a mix of Moroccan and international cuisine, allowing you to indulge in fresh seafood, classic Moroccan dishes, or European-inspired fare. After dinner, relax with a cup of traditional Moroccan mint tea at one of the city's many cafés, or choose a more intimate bar for a quiet drink.

For those who want to experience Casablanca's nightlife in a more local setting, Gauthier is a great alternative to La Corniche. Known as a trendy neighborhood with a more bohemian vibe, Gauthier offers a mix of casual bars, lounges, and clubs that draw a younger crowd. This area is known for its vibrant café culture, making it a popular spot to grab a drink or coffee with friends before transitioning to one of the nearby bars or clubs. For something different, the Twin Center in the heart of Casablanca also features some noteworthy bars and lounges, such as Le Bar by Le Casablanca, offering a refined atmosphere with expertly crafted cocktails.

Casablanca's nightlife isn't complete without mentioning its reputation for live entertainment. Many hotels and high-end venues host live shows, ranging from traditional Moroccan music and belly dancing performances to international music acts. If you're looking for a more cultural experience, seek out venues that offer music and performances descended from Andalucia, or Gnawa traditions, as they're sure to provide an authentic Moroccan twist to your evening.

Food & Drink

As Morocco's most cosmopolitan city, Casablanca is home to a wide range of dining options, from local eateries serving authentic Moroccan dishes to chic restaurants offering European, Mediterranean, and even Asian fare.

For an authentic experience, start in the medina, where you can savor classic Moroccan dishes like tagine (a slow-cooked stew of meat, vegetables, and spices) or pastilla (a sweet and savory pie traditionally made with pigeon, almonds, and cinnamon). Fresh seafood is also a highlight of the city's cuisine, and there's no better place to enjoy it than at the Marché Central de Poissons, where stalls brim with freshly caught fish and shellfish that can be prepared to order at nearby restaurants.

Street food lovers will find plenty to sample as they explore Casablanca's streets and alleys. Popular choices include b'ssara (a hearty fava bean soup), sfenj (Moroccan doughnuts), and maakouda (fried potato cakes). These treats can be found in stalls throughout the city, particularly in the medina and around busy squares.

A visit to Casablanca wouldn't be complete without trying the city's iconic mint tea, often enjoyed with a selection of Moroccan pastries like chebakia (sesame cookies) or m'hanncha (a sweet almond pastry). The city is also known for its vibrant café culture. Whether you're relaxing at a traditional café in the medina or Gauthier, or people-watching from a trendy spot along La Corniche, Casablanca's cafés are perfect for enjoying a leisurely coffee or tea while soaking up the local atmosphere.