Things to Do in Casablanca- 9 Reasons Not to Miss Morocco's Coastal City

Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and economic hub, is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern energy. It's known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, breathtaking architecture, and coastal allure.

When planning your Morocco trip, we highly recommend you include Casablanca in the itinerary. Whether you're a fan of history, and architecture, or simply immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture, There is an abundance of things to do in Casablanca.

In this article, we will look at the top 9 attractions and activities that make Casablanca worth Exploring. Get ready to make some additions to your travel itinerary!

The most iconic landmark in Casablanca is the Hassan II Mosque. This masterpiece of Islamic architecture took seven years to build between (1986-1993). It was commissioned by King Hassan II to commemorate the 60th birthday of the former king.

The Mosque boasts the world's tallest minaret (210m/ 689 ft) and is overall the 7th biggest Mosque in the world. The prayer hall, capable of accommodating up to 25,000 worshippers, is adorned with exquisite marble floors and columns, intricate woodwork, and beautiful chandeliers.

Don't miss the opportunity to witness the exquisite craftsmanship. Guided tours are available for visitors, allowing them to explore the mosque's stunning architecture and learn about Moroccan Islamic culture and history. Tours run between 9-10 &11-12 am and in the afternoon between 3-4 pm

Take a leisurely walk along La Corniche, Casablanca's picturesque coastal promenade. The Corniche stretches along the western part of the city's shoreline and provides scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

This promenade is a hub of activity. You can find numerous restaurants and cafes. Stop to relax and savour delicious Moroccan cuisine or enjoy a cup of mint tea while admiring the view. At night, the promenade comes alive as locals and tourists seek out the trendy clubs and bars in this beachside area.

The Old Medina of Casablanca, also known as the "Ancienne Medina," is a historic district located in the heart of the city. It is a vibrant and bustling area that dates back to the 19th century and is relatively smaller compared to the medinas found in other Moroccan cities like Marrakech or Fes.

Casablanca's Medina was originally a walled city built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, but most of the original structures were destroyed in an earthquake in 1755. If you wander the narrow winding streets today, you'll find, whitewashed buildings with ornate doors and traditional courtyards (riads).

The Medina is famous for its traditional souks and markets, where you can haggle for spices, leather goods, handicrafts, jewellery, and traditional Moroccan clothing.

Casablanca offers several beautiful beaches along its coastline where you can soak up the sun, and even engage in watersports. Here are three of the most popular:

Ain Diab is the most famous and popular beach in Casablanca. It features a long stretch of sandy shoreline and offers a lively atmosphere with numerous beach clubs, cafes, and restaurants where you can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas. This beach can get very crowded over the summer.

La Corniche is another popular beach located near the Corniche promenade. This beach is known for its gentle waves, making it a good spot for swimming.

Tamaris Beach is situated slightly outside the city centre, offering a quieter and more secluded atmosphere. It is known for its rocky cliffs and scenic views. Tamaris Beach is ideal for leisurely walks and picnics

For movie enthusiasts and fans of the classic film "Casablanca," a visit to Rick's Café is a must. Inspired by the iconic movie, this beautifully recreated establishment captures the nostalgic ambience of the film.

The restaurant serves a mix of Moroccan and international cuisine including seafood dishes and tagines. There are regular performances by local musicians including Moroccan Jazz bands which add to the charm of this establishment. Due to its popularity, it is recommended to make a reservation.

Casablanca boasts one of the largest collections of Art Deco architecture in the world, thanks to its rapid urban development during the early to mid-20th century. Take a stroll through the Anfa and Maarif districts to admire the city's eclectic blend of architectural styles.

The Art Deco buildings in Casablanca are characterized by their geometric shapes, streamlined forms, bold colours, and decorative motifs. Many of these structures feature intricate wrought ironwork, decorative balconies, geometric patterns, and ornamental reliefs.

Boulevard Mohammed V is the main thoroughfare that cuts through the heart of the Art Deco District. It showcases some of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in Casablanca. Visitors to Casablanca can take guided tours specifically focused on the Art Deco architecture of the city.

Named after the former Sultan and first King of Morocco after independence. The square is surrounded by remarkable architectural structures, including the Casablanca Cathedral, the Palace of Justice, and the Wilaya of Casablanca.

Here you will find activity, day and night. It is the perfect place to 'people watch'. At its centre, there's a large fountain adorned with decorative tilework and surrounded by well-maintained gardens. The fountain is particularly pretty at night when it is lit up.

Throughout the year, you may come across concerts, art exhibitions, street performances, and traditional Moroccan festivities taking place in and around the square.

The Port of Casablanca is the most important port in Morocco. These days the focus is on shipping rather than fishing but you will still find that Casablanca has a strong fishing industry.

If you want to get a taste of the true Casablanca, take a walk to the port (close to the Hassan II Mosque and Corniche promenade) and chat with a local fisherman on the rocks. These locals are usually more than happy to talk to tourists. It's easy to pass the time here watching the comings and goings of cargo ships and fishing boats.

The city has a vibrant cultural scene with several theatres where you can enjoy a variety of shows, including plays, musicals, concerts, and dance performances.

Théâtre Mohammed VI is Located in the city centre (the Belvedere area of the city). This is a historic theatre that hosts a diverse range of performances, including plays, concerts, and cultural events. The beautiful architecture is worth a visit, even if there are no shows scheduled

If you'd rather catch a movie, you can do so in style in Cinema Rialt, established in 1930. The cinema has witnessed the evolution of the film industry and has played a significant role in the cultural fabric of the city. Cinema Rialto continues to screen a wide range of films, including both international and Moroccan productions.