Things to Do in Casablanca, Morocco

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Overview

Casablanca, Morocco, is an exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether looking for an adventurous escape, a relaxing holiday, or an exciting cultural tour, you’ll find it all in this vibrant city. Casablanca has something for everyone, from museums and palaces to nightlife and markets.

Read on to explore the many beautiful things to do in Casablanca:

Location

Casablanca, also known as the commercial capital of Morocco, is situated on the Atlantic coast in western Morocco. The city is steeped in history, with a diverse culture influenced by Arab and French populations. From the old Arab medina of Casablanca to its modern amenities and architectural marvels, the city has much to offer visitors.

With a variety of shopping centers, restaurants, cafes, and historical monuments such as Hassan II Mosque and Merdersa Moulay Youssef Mosque, there is something for every visitor in Casablanca. Besides sightseeing, one can enjoy beach activities or tour nearby attractions such as the Caves of Hercules or Bouznika Beach. So whether you want to shop or explore beautiful landscapes, Casablanca offers it all.

Weather

Casablanca, Morocco, has a beautiful climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for a warm climate. The temperatures range from 64 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 34 Celsius), with minimal rainfall.

April and May are charming for the weather because the days are pleasant, with mild evenings and mornings. However, June through August tend to be quite warm during the day, with temperatures ranging from 74°F (23°C) in June up to 93°F (34°C). Although temperatures can be quite high at this time of year, nights are still comfortable.

September through December offer mild daytime temperatures and cooler evenings with moderately low rainfall throughout October and November.

Attractions

Visiting Casablanca, Morocco, can be an exciting experience. From stunning mosques to lively markets, this beautiful city has plenty of attractions to explore. From the iconic Hassan II Mosque to the quaint Middle-Eastern market stalls, this city offers a variety of activities and sights to see. Keep reading to discover the many attractions Casablanca has to offer.

Hassan II Mosque

The Hassan II Mosque, also known as Grande Mosquée Hassan II or Grande Mosquée de Casablanca, is a landmark mosque in Casablanca’s Corniche district. This iconic mosque was completed in 1993 and is the largest religious building in Morocco and the seventh-largest mosque in the world. Stretching over 900 feet along the coastline, this stunning architectural marvel features traditional Islamic designs and modern elements like glass walls, intricate marblework, and stained-glass windows.

The main prayer hall of Hassan II Mosque contains seating for 25,000 worshippers, with additional areas to hold up to 40,000 more people on special occasions. The interior of this great site is decorated with intricate stucco carvings and mosaics made of Carrara marble by highly skilled craftsmen from Fez and Meknes. Other impressive features of the mosque include the following:

  • Lavish ceramic floors.
  • An impressive stainless steel door that can open automatically when prayers are announced from an adjacent minaret tower.
  • A sprawling courtyard surrounded by gardens and fountains.

Visitors to this historic site can explore its opulent interiors at their own pace during guided tours or by attending one of its nighttime light shows, which utilizes colorful lighting effects on its façade. In addition, taking a tour of the Hassan II Mosque is among the unique things to do while visiting Casablanca!

La Corniche

La Corniche is an iconic destination in Casablanca, Morocco, and a must-see. It is located at the ocean’s edge; this waterfront district has many outdoor cafes and restaurants overlooking the harbor, perfect for a relaxing meal or drink with friends.

The area also offers many excellent shopping opportunities, from traditional vendors to luxury stores. As well as leisure activities such as:

  • Boat rides around the bay
  • Walking or jogging along the shoreline
  • Taking photographs of the beautiful architecture, including Hassan II Mosque, located across from La Corniche.

It’s hard not to find something for everyone with its plethora of activities and attractions, making it a great place to visit!

Old Medina

The Old Medina is a must-see for anyone visiting Casablanca, Morocco. The medina (or old town) of Casablanca is a maze-like labyrinth of narrow lanes and winding alleyways lined with traditional Moroccan souks (Arabic for markets). Here you will find an enchanting mix of sights and sounds, from market vendors touting their wares to the smell of exotic spices and the colorful view of traditional craftsmen at work.

From the small community squares with their bubbling fountains to the grand monuments such as the 17th century Hassan II Mosque, there is much to explore in Casablanca’s Old Medina. So wander around and take in the beautiful sights and sounds that make this city unique – it’s not to be missed!

Parc de la Ligue Arabe

Parc de la Ligue Arabe is a peaceful park in the Moroccan city of Casablanca. This picturesque park is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle and relax in a quiet oasis. Spacious lawns and trees create plenty of shady spots to sit while paths wind through the park with gentle streams flowing alongside. There is also a small lake in the center with several fish species inhabiting it.

The main feature of this park is its impressive collection of monuments, sculptures, and statues of various Arab leaders throughout history. There are also vivid mosaics depicting different things, such as the flag of Morocco, which adds a unique touch to the park’s atmosphere. Parc de la Ligue Arabe also hosts several events throughout the year, such as concerts and art exhibitions, making it an exciting spot for all ages seeking entertainment during their visit to Casablanca.

In addition, visitors can enjoy refreshments from food kiosks located strategically around the park or partake in one of many activities that can be enjoyed there, like paddle boating on the lake or sports in open spaces for children and adults alike. Public restrooms are available for anyone who needs them during their visit, and ample parking during peak times, if necessary, makes Parc de la Ligue Arabe a great place for all people looking to explore its wonders.

Shopping

Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, is an exciting and vibrant destination. Shopping is always a great way to get the feel of the local culture, and Casablanca has an eclectic array of shops. So whether you are looking for souvenirs or something more practical, there are plenty of choices in Casablanca.

An old medina district is a popular place for tourists to find bargains, handmade trinkets, and souvenirs, including jewelry, carpets, and leather goods. Many large shopping centers in the city also offer luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Hermes and local designer labels. For a more traditional shopping experience, the modern souks offer everything from dried spices to clothing.

For those wanting to explore further afield, there is Ain Diab – a bustling commercial area with restaurants and high-end stores such as Apple and Sephora. Nearby Ville Nouvelle offers everything from specialty stores like high-end indigenous fashion boutiques to outdoor markets selling fresh produce and handicrafts on weekends. Finally, one of Casablanca’s main tourist attractions – Central Market – is located in this area where you can find anything from lamps to carpets at very reasonable prices.

Whatever you might be looking for while in Casablanca, somewhere will undoubtedly be available that meets your needs or interests!

Dining

Casablanca, Morocco, is a bustling city full of life, history, and culture. Food is essential to Moroccan life, and there is no shortage of fantastic restaurants to explore in Casablanca. From traditional Moroccan specialties to international fare, there is something for everyone.

This heading will focus on the restaurants and cafes that the city has to offer:

Local Cuisine

Casablanca is home to various local cuisines that represent the cultural and historical influences of the region. Much of the food here is cooked with olive or palm oil, featuring saffron, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and pepper. Moroccan dishes range from simple stews to light seafood dishes served with couscous or rice.

Popular dishes include:

  • Couscous (a semolina-based grain dish)
  • Tagines (stews cooked in special clay vessels)
  • Kebabs made with beef or chicken
  • Shisk Kebab (minced meat mixed with spices)
  • Tajine bi Merguez (beef stewed with spiced sausage served over rice)
  • Berber Omelettes
  • Harira Soup
  • Sardines and anchovies (in coastal regions)

A glass of fresh orange juice typically accompanies every meal! Those with a sweet tooth should try local pastries like ghrieba (made from eggs, butter, and honey) or baklava, consisting of layers of paper-thin dough filled with nuts and sweet syrup.

Street Food

Casablanca, Morocco, offers many street food options outside traditional sit-down restaurants. Street vendors serve cheap, delicious eats in some of Morocco’s most famous markets and on busy streets. Popular dishes range from tagines and couscous to kebabs, pastries, fruits, and snacks. For a quick snack or to try something new without breaking the bank, sampling the street food in Casablanca is a must!

When exploring the markets of Casablanca, visitors can indulge in traditional Moroccan fares such as b’stilla (a flaky pastry stuffed with shredded chicken), m’charmal (flatbread cooked on coals with tomato sauce and spice), or m’hanncha (an almond-filled pastry shaped into a spiral). Vendors also sell local specialties like f’stikh (small dried figs cooked with honey), harrira soup (a hearty blend of tomato paste, chickpeas, and lentils), and zaouia chermoula (spicy shrimp).

Other different types of Moroccan dishes available from street vendors include:

  • Shish kebobs moistened with lemon juice and marinated in cumin;
  • Deep-fried eggs seasoned with cumin;
  • Somsas triangles filled with ground beef or scrambled egg;
  • Fish fritters drenched in harissa;
  • Couscous topped with orange slices;
  • Medfoun platelets piled high with beans topped off by a tasty garlic paste;
  • Magalou biscuit dipped in honey;
  • Ojja merdumma omelet combined with sauce and sweet peppers;
  • Keskous salad mainly comprises cracked wheat, often combined with carrot raisins, cedar almonds, and yogurt sauce.

There is no shortage of bakery delights for those looking to indulge their sweet tooth while touring Casablanca. Visitors can enjoy local favorites like shabbath pinwheel-filled doughnuts liberally sprinkled with sugar cinnamon or warm pieces of fresh fried s’men semolina cake smothered in rose water and sugar syrup milk labanki. In addition, there are countless varieties of sticky dates, fruits, jams, and cookies for dessert. Sweet treats sure satisfy anyone’s need sugar rush!

International Cuisine

Casablanca is Morocco’s business and cultural hub, offering up flavors worldwide. Whether traditional Moroccan dishes or international fusion cuisine, you can find it all in Casablanca. Typically open for lunch and dinner, restaurants offer excellent dishes that appeal to everyone’s taste, from Western-style steakhouses to sushi bars and Lebanese mezze platters. There are also plenty of places to enjoy steak tartare, rabbit, or regalab, a famous Moroccan soup.

Suppose you’re looking for authentic Moroccan food. In that case, the city is full of stalls offering mouth-watering harira (a tomato soup with lentils) as well as hearty tagines (slow-cooked braised stews) in plenty of casbahs (traditional communal squares). Casablanca also has some recently opened top-end eateries offering diners an international array of flavors with plenty of local touches – it’s worth researching before you go!

If, like most visitors’ sweet tooth rules, leave room for some unbelievably tempting and varied desserts, from couscous delights to baklava and konafa pastries.

Nightlife

Casablanca, Morocco, is known for its vibrant nightlife. However, the city offers something for everyone with its modern and traditional elements. From dance parties and lively bars to traditional Moroccan tea houses, there’s something for everyone in the bustling city.

Let’s take a look at the best places to go for a night out in Casablanca:

Bars

When night falls in Casablanca, the city comes alive with vibrant energy and bustling nightlife. There are a variety of bars to visit, suited for different tastes and preferences.

One popular bar restaurant in Casablanca is La Mamounia Bar. Housed in a building from the 1920s, it is an eclectic mix of modern style with traditional Andalusian features, including walls covered with exotic wood marquetry and colorful murals. The bar offers live music performances every weekend and excellent Moroccan meals daily, making it a great spot to drink and dine.

Le Baron Bar is a luxurious bar in the Sofitel Jardin des Roses Hotel, which features live DJ sessions, dance shows, and happy hour drinks specials all week long. It also has one of the most extensive terraces in Morocco, seating up to 200 people that overlooks lush gardens where you can relax after sundown with refreshments.

Habous Café is another popular haunt for tourists for its picturesque setting of potted plants and white tablecloths amongst soft lights from colored lanterns, making it ideal as a romantic destination after sunset. It offers all types of cocktails, sangrias, and international beers complemented by tasty Mediterranean tapas choices.

For something more relaxed or if you’re looking for an exciting spot to meet locals, try Billie’s Cookhouse & Pub located near Hassan II Mosque for some local food paired with live music entertainment throughout the week. Popular among tourists yet sparingly used by locals, it has excellent offerings such as burgers, spring rolls, and tacos that pair well with any beer on tap and occasional happy hour specials every evening before closing time at midnight!

Clubs

Casablanca is one of the most vibrant cities in Morocco, known for its nightclubs, bars, and other neon-lit entertainment places. Visitors seeking a night on the town have choices ranging from modern clubs to traditional restaurants, serving local entertainment such as belly dancing.

Some of the best clubs in Casablanca include:

  • Actu Lounge: Located within an industrial warehouse, Actu Lounge is one of the trendiest clubs in the city. Dance to all kinds of music while enjoying some drinks with friends.
  • Caramel: A famous club near downtown Casablanca that attracts locals and visitors alike. It has a great atmosphere and plenty of music to entertain everyone all night.
  • Shliki Lounge Bar & Grill: A more high-end experience than some other bars in the area – Shliki offers an excellent opportunity for visitors to enjoy drinks, food, and conversation at a nice spot with strange but interesting décor! The bar often features live music or DJs for entertainment.
  • La Rocca Imperiale: An imperialistic-themed bar that offers unique decor and an incredible view of Casablanca at night! Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine and your favorite drinks while grooving along to live music.

Casablanca also has a wide selection of shisha bars (hookah) where you can find people from all walks of life sharing stories over flavorful tobacco concoctions – including fine wines, Turkish teas with honey or mint infusions, lemonade martinis, and alcoholic beverages. So go out dancing or lounge around at one of the many fabulous spots in this beautiful city; you won’t be disappointed!

Live Music Venues

Casablanca is home to a vibrant music scene, and there are plenty of live music venues to enjoy. The bars and clubs of Ain Diab and the city are known for hosting some of the best North African beats, rock, pop, rap, and more.

Here are a few of the best live-music venues that Casablanca has to offer:

  • La Rock West Club: This energetic nightclub in the Ain Diab district is popular with locals and tourists alike. La Rock West Club is renowned for its eclectic mix of genres and ample dance floor space. Regular live events such as concerts and jam sessions guarantee an exciting night out.
  • Harmonie Music Club: Located in Casa’s Upper Town district, this lively hotspot features regular concerts from local bands playing jazzy tunes that appeal to all ages. Harmonie Music Club also hosts talented DJs playing until late into the night.
  • Dhow Disco: Set overlooking both the harbor and Anfaplace Shopping Center’s lights, Dhow Disco offers patrons a great night out with some fantastic views! Modern pop classics dominate the airways here from internationally renowned artists and some homegrown Moroccan musicians.

Accommodation

Casablanca, Morocco, is a bustling city that offers travelers plenty of places to stay. From high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, there is something suitable for every traveler’s needs. So whether you prefer to stay in a hotel on the beach or a cozy Airbnb in the city center, Casablanca has accommodations to fit your budget and style.

Let’s take a look at the various accommodations available in Casablanca:

Hotels

Hotels are a popular choice for accommodation in Casablanca, Morocco. Whether you’re looking for luxurious 5-star accommodation or more affordable 2-3 star options, you’ll find a hotel to fit your budget and preferences. In addition, hotels are generally the preferred choice for business travelers requiring Wi-Fi, room service, gym facilities, and conference rooms.

Hotels range from high-end chains like the Hyatt Regency Casablanca or the Golden Tulip Farah Casablanca to more value-orientated options like Ibis Casablanca City Center or Hotel Atlas Asnières. For individual travelers looking to explore some of the city’s attractions, there are also many reasonably priced boutique hotels in the Medina area.

Hostels

Casablanca, Morocco, is a popular tourist destination, and the city has much to offer regarding accommodation. For budget travelers, one of the most popular options is to stay in hostels. Although hostels are usually seen as somewhat basic accommodation options, some can offer more than this.

In Casablanca, there are many different hostel options to choose from, but all offer a good night’s sleep and clean and comfortable beds. Many also come with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and sometimes even an evening meal in the form of a buffet. Hostels also have communal areas where you can socialize with other guests if you wish, and some have bars or cafes on site, too, where you can purchase drinks and snacks.

Another great advantage of staying in hostels is that they’re usually situated close to all of the famous sights in Casablanca, so you don’t need a car or public transport to explore the city. Many also offer parking facilities for those traveling by car or truck, so you don’t have to worry about parking your vehicle away from your accommodation. As such, when looking for an enjoyable stay at an affordable cost, hostels are certainly the way to go for many visitors traveling to Casablanca.

Airbnb

Airbnb is a popular accommodation choice in Casablanca, Morocco. You can find an eclectic selection of homes, apartments, and other unique stays, ranging from traditional Moroccan-style dwellings to modern apartments. Airbnb listings in Casablanca are located throughout the city and provide a great option to fit any budget. In addition, many Airbnb dwellings feature Wi-Fi, housekeeping services, grocery delivery, and fully equipped kitchens.

Experiences with Airbnb can range from staying in a riad (a traditional Moroccan home typically constructed within a courtyard) to staying at trendy loft apartments in the city center. For those looking for more cultural experiences while in Casablanca, many riads are available hard-to-come-by cooking classes or one-to-one Arabic language lessons from local experts.

Before booking your stay on Airbnb in Casablanca and Morocco, you must read up on local laws regarding rental agreements for citizens and visitors alike. It will give you an overview of your rights as an independent traveler renting someone’s property for a short period. Additionally, it’s worth researching how reliable the host is before settling on your stay – reviews are always helpful here!