Welcome to Casablanca, Morocco’s vibrant economic capital, where tradition meets modernity. This comprehensive guide uncovers the top 20 must-visit attractions, from awe-inspiring religious sites and historic medinas to bustling markets and contemporary architectural marvels, ensuring you experience the best of this dynamic city.

1. Hassan II Mosque

Description: A majestic mosque on an promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, featuring a towering minaret and intricate Moroccan craftsmanship. It’s one of the largest mosques in the world and the only one in Morocco largely open to non-Muslims on guided tours.
History: Commissioned by King Hassan II, construction began in 1986 and was completed in 1993. It was designed by French architect Michel Pinseau and built by Moroccan artisans.
Google Maps: Hassan II Mosque Location
Official Website: Fondation de la Mosquée Hassan II
Tickets: Book Tickets – Guided tours require tickets; prices vary. Check schedule for non-Muslim visiting hours.
Opening Hours: Guided tour times vary; typically mornings and early afternoons, excluding prayer times. Check official website for current schedule.
Travel Options: Taxi is easiest; local buses stop nearby. It’s walkable from parts of the Corniche.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Rick’s Cafe: Iconic restaurant inspired by the movie ‘Casablanca’, offering international cuisine and live piano music.
– Le Cabestan Ocean View: Fine dining with stunning sea views, specializing in fresh seafood.
Tips: Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. Women should bring a headscarf. Photography is generally allowed.

2. Old Medina of Casablanca

Description: The historic heart of Casablanca, a labyrinthine district of narrow alleys, traditional souks, and residential areas, offering a glimpse into the city’s past and local life.
History: While much of Casablanca was rebuilt after the 1906 earthquake and French protectorate, the Old Medina predates this, representing the original urban core before significant expansion.
Google Maps: Old Medina of Casablanca Location
Tickets: Free entry – Free to enter and explore; be prepared for haggling if shopping.
Opening Hours: Generally open all day, with shops typically operating from morning until evening. Some stalls may close on Fridays.
Travel Options: Walkable from Place Mohammed V. Taxis can drop you at the main entrances.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Resto Zayna: Authentic Moroccan dishes like tagines and couscous in a traditional setting.
– Restaurant La Sqala: Located within a historic fort, known for traditional Moroccan breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a beautiful garden setting.
Tips: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Practice your bargaining skills when shopping for souvenirs.

3. Corniche Ain Diab

Description: A scenic coastal promenade stretching along the Atlantic, popular for walks, jogging, and enjoying sea views. It features beaches, cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs.
History: Developed primarily during the French protectorate and later, it has evolved into a major recreational area for locals and tourists, especially during summer.
Google Maps: Corniche Ain Diab Location
Tickets: Free entry – Free to walk and enjoy; specific establishments may charge for entry or services.
Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7; specific establishments have their own hours.
Travel Options: Taxis are convenient. Public buses also serve the area.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Le Lido: Oceanfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine with outdoor seating.
– Basmane: Upscale Moroccan restaurant known for its refined traditional dishes and elegant ambiance.
Tips: Visit in the late afternoon for a beautiful sunset. Be mindful of strong currents if swimming in the unguarded areas of the beach.

4. Cathedral of the Sacred Heart

Description: A striking former Roman Catholic cathedral, built in Art Deco and Neo-Gothic styles, now desacralized and used as a cultural center or exhibition space.
History: Built in 1930 during the French protectorate, it served Casablanca’s Catholic community until Morocco’s independence. It was later repurposed after becoming redundant as a place of worship.
Google Maps: Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Location
Tickets: Check ticket details – Entry is often free or a small fee if an exhibition is on. Check locally for current access.
Opening Hours: Hours vary depending on exhibitions or events. Generally open during the day; check locally for current access.
Travel Options: Easily walkable from Place Mohammed V. Taxis are readily available.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Brasserie La Tour: French-inspired brasserie offering classic dishes in a sophisticated setting near the city center.
– La Bodega de Casablanca: Lively Spanish tapas bar known for its vibrant atmosphere and Iberian small plates.
Tips: Appreciate the unique architectural blend. Check for any ongoing exhibitions or cultural events that might be hosted there.

5. Place Mohammed V

Description: The central administrative square of Casablanca, surrounded by impressive Art Deco and Neo-Moorish buildings, including the Prefecture, Palace of Justice, and the central post office. Features a large fountain.
History: Designed during the French protectorate, it was intended as the administrative and civic heart of the ‘new’ city of Casablanca, reflecting French colonial urban planning.
Google Maps: Place Mohammed V Location
Tickets: Free entry – Free to visit and enjoy the public space.
Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7.
Travel Options: A major tram hub (line T1 and T2). Walkable from many central areas. Taxis available.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Restaurant du Port de Pêche: Casual seafood restaurant offering fresh catch from the nearby port.
– Restaurant le Dauphin: Classic Casablanca institution known for its fresh seafood and traditional Moroccan hospitality.
Tips: Best visited during the day to appreciate the architecture. The fountain often features light shows in the evening.

6. Travel Tips:

Description: Essential advice for navigating and enjoying Casablanca, covering practicalities like currency, communication, and local customs.
History: General advice for visitors.
Google Maps: Travel Tips: Location
Tickets: Check ticket details
Opening Hours: Check official website for current hours
Travel Options:
Nearby Restaurants:

Tips: Learn a few basic Arabic or French phrases like ‘Salam’ (hello) and ‘Shukran’ (thank you). Always agree on taxi fares before starting your journey, or ensure the meter is used. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or traditional neighborhoods. Be mindful of local customs and traditions.

7. Royal Palace of Casablanca

Description: One of the official residences of the King of Morocco, an imposing and beautifully maintained palace. While not open to the public, its impressive exterior can be admired from a distance.
History: Moroccan royal palaces have a long history, serving as administrative centers and residences for sultans and kings. The Casablanca palace reflects the grandeur of the Moroccan monarchy.
Google Maps: Royal Palace of Casablanca Location
Tickets: Not accessible to public – The palace is a private residence and not open for public tours.
Opening Hours: Exterior viewable during daylight hours.
Travel Options: Taxi. It’s located within the Habous Quarter, making it convenient to combine with a visit there.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Patisserie Bennis Habous: A historic patisserie famous for traditional Moroccan pastries and sweets.
– Zayna Restaurant (Habous): Known for authentic Moroccan cuisine in the heart of the Habous Quarter, offering tagines and couscous.
Tips: Respect the privacy and security of the royal residence. Enjoy the surrounding architecture of the Habous Quarter.

8. Habous Quarter (New Medina)

Description: Also known as the New Medina, this charming district was built by the French in the 1930s, designed to evoke a traditional Moroccan souk but with cleaner lines and a more organized layout. It’s excellent for shopping for crafts, spices, and clothing.
History: Created during the French protectorate to manage urban expansion and provide a more controlled, modern version of a traditional Moroccan market, blending European town planning with local aesthetics.
Google Maps: Habous Quarter (New Medina) Location
Tickets: Free entry – Free to explore; prices apply for purchases.
Opening Hours: Shops typically open from morning until evening, generally closing for a lunch break and on Fridays for prayer.
Travel Options: Taxis are the easiest way to reach the Habous Quarter.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Restaurant Al Mounia: A classic Casablanca restaurant offering refined Moroccan cuisine in a traditional setting with beautiful decor.
– Pâtisserie Mrini: Renowned for its delicious and fresh Moroccan pastries and sweets, a local favorite.
Tips: It’s a great place to buy traditional Moroccan souvenirs without the intense haggling of older medinas. Look for leather goods, slippers, and caftans.

9. Parc de la Ligue Arabe (Arab League Park)

Description: Casablanca’s largest public park, featuring palm-lined avenues, lush green spaces, a historic cathedral (Cathedral of the Sacred Heart), and opportunities for relaxation.
History: Laid out during the French protectorate in the early 20th century, it was originally known as Parc Lyautey. It has long served as a vital green lung for the city.
Google Maps: Parc de la Ligue Arabe (Arab League Park) Location
Tickets: Free entry – Free to enter and enjoy the park.
Opening Hours: Generally open from early morning until late evening.
Travel Options: Walkable from Place Mohammed V. Served by tram lines and local buses.
Nearby Restaurants:
– L’Etoile Centrale: A popular local eatery known for its simple, traditional Moroccan dishes and excellent value.
– Le Riad Restaurant: Offers a taste of traditional Moroccan cuisine in an elegant and relaxing setting within walking distance of the park.
Tips: A pleasant escape from the city bustle. Ideal for a morning stroll or a relaxing afternoon break.

10. Villa des Arts

Description: A contemporary art museum housed in a beautiful Art Deco villa, showcasing modern and contemporary Moroccan art. It hosts rotating exhibitions and cultural events.
History: Originally built as a private residence, this elegant villa was later transformed into a prominent cultural institution by the ONA Foundation, dedicated to promoting Moroccan art and culture.
Google Maps: Villa des Arts Location
Official Website: Fondation ONA
Tickets: Check ticket details – Entry typically requires a small fee or is free for certain exhibitions. Check website for current information.
Opening Hours: Typically open Tuesday to Saturday, check official website for current hours and exhibition schedules.
Travel Options: Taxi is the most convenient. Located near Parc de la Ligue Arabe.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Organic Kitchen: Healthy and fresh organic meals, popular for vegetarian and vegan options.
– Chez Mounir: A local favorite for simple, delicious grilled meats and Moroccan salads.
Tips: Check the exhibition schedule in advance to see what’s on display. The villa itself is an architectural gem.

11. Mahkama du Pacha

Description: A stunning example of Hispano-Moorish architecture, originally a courthouse and reception hall, now an administrative building. It features intricate stucco work, carved wood, and zellige tiles.
History: Built in the 1940s during the French protectorate, it served as a judicial and administrative complex, showcasing the fusion of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship with colonial architectural grandeur.
Google Maps: Mahkama du Pacha Location
Tickets: Limited public access – Entry is generally not permitted without special permission due to its administrative function. Occasionally accessible for guided tours or special events.
Opening Hours: Not regularly open to the public; exterior viewable during daylight hours.
Travel Options: Taxi. It’s located within the Habous Quarter, making it a combined visit.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Patisserie Bennis Habous: A historic patisserie famous for traditional Moroccan pastries and sweets.
– Restaurant Al Mounia: A classic Casablanca restaurant offering refined Moroccan cuisine in a traditional setting with beautiful decor.
Tips: While interior access is difficult, the exterior and courtyards (if partly visible) are worth appreciating for their architectural detail, especially when visiting the Habous Quarter.

12. Travel Tips:

Description: Guidance on cultural nuances and etiquette in Casablanca, helping visitors navigate local interactions respectfully.
History: General advice for visitors.
Google Maps: Travel Tips: Location
Tickets: Check ticket details
Opening Hours: Check official website for current hours
Travel Options:
Nearby Restaurants:

Tips: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women. When invited for tea, it’s polite to accept. Use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean. Be prepared for prayer calls from mosques, especially during Ramadan, and dress respectfully during this period.

13. Twin Center Casablanca

Description: Two iconic twin skyscrapers dominating Casablanca’s skyline, comprising offices, a shopping center, and restaurants. They are symbols of modern Casablanca.
History: Completed in 1998, the Twin Center was a major architectural project representing Morocco’s economic modernization and its aspirations as a regional business hub.
Google Maps: Twin Center Casablanca Location
Tickets: Free entry (for shopping/dining areas) – Free to enter shopping and dining areas; observatory or specific venues may have charges.
Opening Hours: Shopping areas typically open daily from morning to late evening. Restaurants and cafes have their own hours.
Travel Options: Tram (stop is nearby), taxi, or walk from central areas.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Le Selys: Fine dining restaurant offering French-Moroccan fusion cuisine with panoramic city views from one of the towers.
– Sushi Club: Popular Japanese restaurant known for its fresh sushi and contemporary Asian dishes.
Tips: Take the elevator to the upper floors for excellent panoramic views of the city. Ideal for a modern shopping experience.

14. Anfa Place Shopping Center

Description: A modern, upscale shopping mall located on the Corniche, offering international and local brands, a variety of dining options, and ocean views.
History: Developed as part of the larger Anfa Place urban redevelopment project, it opened in the early 2010s, transforming a prime oceanfront location into a leisure and retail destination.
Google Maps: Anfa Place Shopping Center Location
Official Website: AnfaPlace Shopping Center
Tickets: Free entry (for shopping areas) – Free to enter and browse shops.
Opening Hours: Typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM; check official website for exact hours.
Travel Options: Taxi is the easiest. It’s located directly on the Corniche Ain Diab.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Paul: French bakery and cafe offering fresh bread, pastries, sandwiches, and light meals.
– Vapiano: Casual Italian restaurant known for fresh pasta, pizza, and salads made to order.
Tips: Enjoy the ocean views from the terrace dining areas. Good for a break from traditional sightseeing and for modern amenities.

15. Marche Central (Central Market)

Description: A bustling and vibrant market in the heart of Casablanca, where you can find everything from fresh produce, seafood, and spices to flowers, clothes, and traditional crafts.
History: A landmark institution of Casablanca, the Central Market has been serving the city’s residents for decades, evolving into a lively hub for daily commerce and social interaction.
Google Maps: Marche Central (Central Market) Location
Tickets: Free entry – Free to enter and explore; prices apply for purchases.
Opening Hours: Typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon, often closed on Sundays or partially on Fridays.
Travel Options: Walkable from Place Mohammed V. Served by tram lines and local buses.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Chez Madame Ali: A popular, no-frills seafood stall within the market, known for grilling fresh fish on the spot.
– Pâtisserie La Comète: A historic patisserie nearby, offering classic Moroccan and French pastries.
Tips: Arrive in the morning for the freshest produce and best atmosphere. Be prepared for crowds and a sensory experience.

16. Mohammed V International Airport Mosque

Description: A modern and architecturally interesting mosque located within Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), providing a convenient place for prayer for travelers.
History: Constructed as part of the airport’s infrastructure, it serves the spiritual needs of passengers and staff, embodying Moroccan Islamic architectural principles in a contemporary setting.
Google Maps: Mohammed V International Airport Mosque Location
Official Website: Mohammed V International Airport
Tickets: Free entry – Free for travelers and airport staff.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7 for prayer.
Travel Options: Located within Mohammed V International Airport (CMN). Accessible by walking from terminals.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Café Restaurant La Place (CMN): Standard airport cafe offering light meals, coffee, and snacks.
– Restaurant Le Casablanca (CMN): Airport restaurant offering a mix of international and Moroccan dishes.
Tips: A tranquil space for reflection and prayer before or after a flight. Respect mosque etiquette if entering.

17. Sidi Abderrahman Shrine

Description: A revered shrine and mausoleum built on a rock offshore, accessible by a causeway only at low tide. It is dedicated to a local saint and is a significant pilgrimage site.
History: The shrine honors Sidi Abderrahman, a Muslim saint. Its unique location and spiritual significance have made it a site of pilgrimage and veneration for centuries.
Google Maps: Sidi Abderrahman Shrine Location
Tickets: Free entry (respect local customs) – Free to visit the exterior; limited access to the interior. Respect local customs and traditions.
Opening Hours: Accessible primarily at low tide during daylight hours. Check local tide schedules.
Travel Options: Taxi is the best option. It’s located along the Corniche, south of Ain Diab.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Restaurant Ostrea: Well-regarded seafood restaurant nearby, offering fresh oysters and grilled fish.
– Fisherman’s Village: Casual eatery with a focus on fresh, local seafood, popular among locals.
Tips: Check tide times before visiting, as access is limited to low tide. This is a religious site; dress modestly and be respectful of pilgrims. Photography may be sensitive.

18. Travel Tips:

Description: Practical advice on safety, transport, and general logistics for a smooth visit to Casablanca.
History: General advice for visitors.
Google Maps: Travel Tips: Location
Tickets: Check ticket details
Opening Hours: Check official website for current hours
Travel Options:
Nearby Restaurants:

Tips: Keep your valuables secure and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas like markets. Use licensed taxis (petit taxis for within the city, grand taxis for inter-city or specific routes) and confirm the fare beforehand. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for easy navigation and communication. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. In case of emergency, the local emergency number is 19 (police).

19. Casablanca Marina

Description: A modern waterfront development featuring yacht berths, luxury apartments, shops, and a growing selection of cafes and restaurants, offering views of the Hassan II Mosque.
History: Part of a large-scale urban development project to revitalize Casablanca’s coastline, the marina was completed in recent years, aiming to create a new leisure and residential hub.
Google Maps: Casablanca Marina Location
Official Website: Port de Casablanca
Tickets: Free entry – Free to walk around and enjoy the promenade.
Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7; establishments have their own hours.
Travel Options: Walkable from the Hassan II Mosque. Taxis are readily available.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Lily’s: Trendy restaurant offering international cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and marina views.
– Marina Seafood Restaurant: Specializes in fresh seafood with panoramic views of the port and Hassan II Mosque.
Tips: Ideal for an evening stroll, enjoying the modern ambiance and views of the mosque lit up at night. Plenty of options for coffee or a meal.

20. Morocco Mall

Description: Africa’s second-largest shopping mall, a massive complex featuring international luxury brands, a large hypermarket, a diverse food court, an indoor aquarium, and an outdoor musical fountain.
History: Opened in 2011, Morocco Mall was a significant investment in retail and entertainment infrastructure, aiming to be a premier shopping destination in Africa.
Google Maps: Morocco Mall Location
Official Website: Morocco Mall
Tickets: Free entry (for shopping areas) – Free to enter and browse shops. Separate tickets required for the Aquadream aquarium and other attractions.
Opening Hours: Typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM; check official website for exact hours.
Travel Options: Free shuttle buses from certain points in the city; taxis are common. Located south of the Corniche.
Nearby Restaurants:
– PAUL (Morocco Mall): French bakery and cafe offering fresh pastries, sandwiches, and coffee.
– La Croisière (Morocco Mall): Seafood restaurant with ocean views.
Tips: Don’t miss the outdoor musical fountain show, which is particularly impressive in the evening. The Aquadream aquarium is worth visiting, especially with children.