The 41 Best Things to See and Do in Casablanca

Completed in 1993 and set on a platform overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the iconic Hassan II Mosque is the second-largest mosque in Africa, and one of few open to non-Muslims (through selected guided tours lasting around an hour each). It can accommodate up to 25,000 worshipers and offers Muslims the chance to pray on a glass floor, giving the unique feeling of praying directly over the sea. Everyone is welcome to admire the beautiful piece of architecture at any time from the spacious courtyard, which can accommodate a further 80,000 people.

If you’re looking for things to do in Casablanca, you have to include the famous Rick’s Café. Based on the fictional location in the classic Humphrey Bogart movie Casablanca, this piano bar was developed by American ex-diplomat Kathy Kriger and architect Bill Willis, and opened in 2004. With palm trees, brass chandeliers, table lamps, cocktails and a baby grand piano tucked into an archway, you can be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped into the 1942 flick on a visit to this bar. You may count yourself among the usual suspects… Book a spot on the Casablanca Private Tour, which includes a visit to Rick’s, as well as entry to Hassan II Mosque.

Located at the end of La Corniche area is Morocco Mall, the biggest shopping centre in Africa. A modern hub, Morocco Mall offers enough to entertain anyone, whether you’re with the whole family or travelling as a couple, for the whole day. On top of the extensive range of shops, offering anything from H&M to Dior, and a vast range of food options, Morocco Mall also hosts an indoor aquarium, complete with a small shark, a fountain display outside and even indoor ice skating and an indoor fairground. There really is something for everyone. For a taste of old Morocco, there’s even an indoor souk (market), but the Old Medina is the place to go in Casablanca for a more traditional experience.

The only Jewish museum in the Arab world, the Museum of Moroccan Judaism offers an insight into the history, religion, traditions and daily lives of Jews in Morocco. Its exhibition rooms contain paintinags, ornaments and clothing, as well as complete displays of Moroccan synagogues. It demonstrates not only the Jewish influence on Moroccan society, but highlights the history of interfaith coexistence in Moroccan civilisation. The Religious Casablanca tours ends with a visit here, admission included.

Another stop on the The Religious Casablanca tour is the tiny and beautiful Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum, found within a small building hidden in the middle of downtown Casablanca. Named after Abderrahman Slaoui, a Moroccan businessman and art collector, the museum is a showcase of his collection of decorative Moroccan art. With old posters, Moroccan jewellery, figurative paintings by Muhammad Ben Ali Rbati, landscape paintings by Jacques Majorelle and crystal objects, a morning spent in this gem will give you a new appreciation for the art of Morocco and beyond. New exhibitions are shown regularly, featuring contemporary Moroccan artists.

For a taste of luxury and unique beverages, head to the Sky 28. The bar offers guests the chance to sit in a tasteful atmosphere, overlooking the city and drinking a pricey yet worthy cocktail. If you’re wondering what to do in Casablanca at night, this is a good choice, as you can admire the illuminated city and escape the hustle and bustle of the Old Medina. Live music creates a chilled and comfortable atmosphere.

South of Place Mohammed V lies the Parc de la Ligue Arabe. Designed in 1918, this park, complete with a palm-tree-lined avenue, is Casablanca’s biggest open space. Perfect for games and walks, and offering a choice of small cafes, the Arab League Park gives you the chance to relax and admire the African flora, or venture to the Cathédrale de Sacré Coeur, the neglected place of worship on the edge of the park that hints at the art deco past of Casablanca. Book a private tour of the city to explore the park with an expert local guide.

A visit to the administrative hub of Casablanca, Place Mohammed V is a chance to experience first-hand the work of architect Henri Prost. Surrounded by public buildings which set the scene for further buildings throughout Morocco, including law courts, the square is also home to the statue of Marshal Lyautey, the first French Resident-General in Morocco from 1912 to 1925. In addition to this monumental statue, the square features a grand fountain dating back to 1976 where, at certain times of day, you can stop for a music-accompanied water show.

Part of the ONA Foundation, one of Morocco’s primary cultural foundations, the Villa des Arts is one of the largest museums in Casablanca and is near the Parc de la Ligue Arabe. It promotes the contemporary arts in a framework of Moroccan culture and heritage and features around 800 permanent artworks, as well as temporary expositions of international and contemporary artists. Here you’ll find a different perspective on Moroccan culture. The building itself is a beautiful piece of art deco architecture dating back to 1934. Hosting numerous cultural events, the Villa des Arts attracts locals and tourists all year round.

Near the New Medina you’ll find one of King Mohammed VI’s numerous palaces. The monarch has other palaces in Marrakech, Fes and Rabat, and the King’s Palace in Casablanca is just as grand as the rest of them, with its enormous open square at the front, a surplus of guards, and a grand exterior which anyone can enjoy. The palace is rarely open to anyone outside the king’s circle, but it’s worth a visit to see it from the outside.

The 19th-century medina of Casablanca is mainly a residential area today. Nonetheless, walking through the narrow streets and resting for a while in one of the many nice cafes and restaurants is a pleasant way to understand a bit more of what makes the city tick. Look for the street art that adorns some of the walls. Discover the medina with an expert guide on the Morning Casablanca tour. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

Bab Marrakech is one of the main gateways into the medina. Although the arched gap in the tall wall could hardly be called exceptional, the adjacent clock tower does add a certain charm to this section of the wall. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

A huge former Roman Catholic church, Sacre Coeur Cathedral was built in the 1930s. Painted in gleaming white, the front is flanked by two tall towers. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

The lively Central Market is one of the best places in Casablanca to see how locals shops and to pick up an array of traditional goods and souvenirs. Colourful babouches (traditional leather slippers) and clothes hang in front of stalls. Women shop for spices and fresh produce. Cookware and home items are abundant. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

Another of Casablanca’s architectural beauties to be admired from the outside, Mahkama du Pacha is a courthouse. Constructed from marble and wood, it was built in a Hispano-Moorish style. This is another stop along the Morning Casablanca tour. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

Casablanca’s Jewish Cemetery is another reminder of the city’s Jewish past. Still in use today, the somber place of rest is well kept, with headstones in Hebrew, French and Spanish. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

The two skyscrapers that form Casablanca’s Twin Centre soar 28 floors above the city. They contain a hotel, residential and office units, restaurants, bars, shops and other facilities. Ride the elevator to Bar 28, on the top floor of Tower B, for panoramic city views. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

Sindibad Park is the only amusement park in Morocco. After being closed for many years, it has now reopened, offering a great place to take kids for a few hours. There are rides for smaller children and a small zoo. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

The slides, chutes and pools of Tamaris Aquaparc make it a popular place for families and friends looking for somewhere to have fun and cool down on a hot summer’s day. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

Located in one of Casablanca’s suburbs, Bouskoura Merchich is one of the city’s green lungs. Wander through the greenery and escape city life for a few hours. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

The coastline in the suburb of Ain Diab, known for the cornice, has many high-end accommodations and restaurants. Stroll along the waterfront and relax on the public sandy beach. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

Plage de Ain Sebaa is another of Casablanca’s beaches. The strong waves and winds make it a popular place for surf enthusiasts. Alternatively, sit on the rocky shore and watch surfers trying to conquer the waves. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

Putting this neighbourhood on the map is the vast flea market – one of the biggest permanent second-hand markets in Morocco. If you enjoy rummaging through cluttered stalls packed full of antiques, books, garments and furniture, then you could spend days at Derb Ghallef Flea Market. However, it’s most famous for its electrical items, with many stalls selling phones, laptops and gadgets. The unpaved passageways can become sweltering in the hot summer months, while during rainy season water can cascade down the narrow walkways. The souk is also one of the best spots in Casablanca for sampling kebabs and tagines from one of the many street vendors and tiny, independent restaurants. Recommended by Amy Ockelford.

Just a 20-minute stroll east away from the mayhem of the Derb Ghallef souk, you’ll find an oasis of calm and tranquillity. The Horticulture Garden – or Jardin d’horticulture – is a quiet, peaceful open space offering locals and visitors a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The low-key garden boasts cactus gardens, lawns lined with mature palms and a pond. Recommended by Amy Ockelford.

In western Maârif, three kilometres (1.9mi) from the Derb Ghallef souk, is the Mohammed V Stadium, part of the Mohammed V Athletic Complex. The stadium, which was named after King Mohammed V of Morocco who ruled the country between 1957 and 1961, opened in 1955 and hosts club and international football games with a crowd capacity of 67,000. It hosts the home games of the Morocco national football team, also known as the Atlas Lions, and is home to football clubs Wydad Casablanca and Raja Casablanca. Recommended by Amy Ockelford.

Churches are a much less common sight in Morocco than mosques, so take the opportunity to admire this modern church on the edge of this French inspired district. One of the city’s most beautiful churches, and praised for its intricate stained glass window – a creation of the famous French artist Gabriel Loire – the Notre Dame de Lourdes church is one of only two Catholic churches in the city, and was built in the 1950s, making it a must see in this part of Casablanca – fortunately it features on most worthwhile tours of the city. Recommended by Rebecca Church.

Souvenir and clothes shopping are certainly recommended, however the Olive Souk is a also an unmissable and slightly more unique experience. The Habous Quarter boasts a charming souk market tucked into a small courtyard, complete with a wide collection of tempting and aromatic barrels of olives, as well as herbs, spices, and oils. The Olive Souk in the Habous Quarter is a fantastic place to buy traditional, locally sourced products, giving tourists a real taste of Moroccan culture. Recommended by Rebecca Church.

A modestly sized park which is hailed as one of the most pleasant locations in the whole city, largely due to its renovation in 2006, the Park ISESCO is well worth a visit, particularly during the cooler months. Very well maintained, this park boasts lush greenery, plants and flowers, as well as two cafes very nearby, including the famous and popular Venezia Ice chain. A fantastic and peaceful haven in the heart of a huge city, Park ISESCO is the Habous Quarter’s very own oasis, offering people an alternative to the bustling shopping scene. Recommended by Rebecca Church.

Ideally located near the ISESCO park, Zayna Restaurant is known for its welcoming service, and authentic and traditional Moroccan cuisine. With a musical and enchanting atmosphere, guests are taken into a Moroccan oasis, where they can sample traditional tagines and fresh fruit juices. Hailed not only as one of the best traditional restaurants in the area, but in the whole of Casablanca, Zayna Restaurant has certainly earned a name for itself, making it one of the best dining experiences in the Habous Quarter. Recommended by Rebecca Church.

The only department store in Casablanca, Alpha 55 has seven spacious floors lined with a wide range of products at reasonable prices. Pick up cosmetics, luggage, toys and sporting goods, as well as a plethora of clothes and school supplies. On the top floor is a restaurant, open Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm and 9pm-midnight. Recommended by Emily Langan.

Within Quartier Habous is Patisserie Bennis Habous, a traditional sweet shop set in an old Moroccan house. It’s difficult to find, but worth the hunt. The most popular treats here are the sweet and savoury cookies. Queue up and you’ll be handed a free sample. Another delicacy is the mini pastilla filled with shredded fish, vermicelli and prawns. Recommended by Emily Langan.

Loft Art Gallery was opened in 2009 by two contemporary art professionals, Meriem and Yasmine Berrada. Their goal is to increase awareness of the importance of modern art in Arab countries. The gallery is funded by the Global Thinkers and Doers for the Arab World Association and supports the biggest names in local art (such as Farid Belkahia, Kim Bennani and Amina Rezkias) as well as up-and-coming talents. Recommended by Emily Langan.

Arguably the most famous ice cream shop in Casablanca, Oliveri is a top-quality joint with affordable prices and kind-hearted staff. The family-owned business was founded in 1950, and staff still use the same traditional techniques to make their creamy, mouth-watering flavours today. The gelato and sorbet varieties here are brilliant and are comparable to the lighter ice creams of Italy. The queues are longer in the evenings, but the wait is worth it. Recommended by Emily Langan.

Rabat is just 87 kilometres from Casablanca. The two cities are connected by a well-maintained highway, and the journey should take around an hour and ten minutes. Marvel at the exquisite details of the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, soldiers standing smartly to attention outside, and see the nearby Hassan Tower. Take a stroll through the atmospheric Kasbah of the Oudayas. Admire the pretty gardens and old architecture of Chellah. The beaches are ideal for relaxing, and some spots attract keen surf enthusiasts.

Meknes is almost 240 kilometres from Casablanca. The drive to the former imperial capital will take around two hours and forty minutes. Although Fes is generally a better base for exploring Meknes and surrounding areas, if time is short and you’re spending most of your time in Casablanca, a day trip is long enough to enjoy the highlights. Snap a photo of the beautiful gate of Bab el-Mansour. Wander through the old medina. Admire the details in the Museum of Moroccan Art, housed within Dar Jamai. Soak up the splendour of the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and Bou Inania Madrasa.

Marrakech is also located around 240 kilometres from Casablanca. The one-way trip takes approximately two hours and forty minutes. While Marrakech boasts numerous attractions that can keep visitors busy for a few days, day-trippers can still leave satisfied after just a day in the previous imperial city. The city is especially known for its sprawling medina and vibrant souks that sell a wide array of traditional items. There are several excellent museums and art galleries, and historic sites include Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, and two old palaces.

El Jadida is located 110 kilometres south of Casablanca along the Atlantic Coast. The drive takes around 40 minutes one way. Mazagan Fortress stands in elegant ruin overlooking the sea. Built by the Portuguese, it is today a UNESCO-listed site. Rusty cannons point out over the water and the high walls are a great vantage point for looking out over both the ocean and the surrounding streets. Descend underground into the old water cisterns and wander through the medina, with its European-like architecture. The sandy beaches are popular with locals during the summer months.

Azemmour also sits along the Atlantic coast, around 95 kilometres south of the country’s financial centre of Casablanca. Wandering through the town lets you experience local life, and the walls of the old medina are covered with interesting street art and graffiti. The medina’s Portuguese-era walls are attractive from the outside, belying the gracefully shabby streets inside.

Oualidia is 188 kilometres from Casablanca; the one-way journey takes around two and a half hours. Chill out on the golden beaches and soak up the pretty views of the arched lagoon. Colourful boats bob on the waves. The wetlands are a haven for bird life and if you visit in spring or autumn you can admire the flock of pink flamingoes that takes up residence there.

Sale sits next to Rabat, on the opposite side of the Bou Regreg River. Seeing few international visitors, Sale is a great place to absorb the local way of life. Unhurried and relaxed, children play in the streets, men chat over coffee in one of the chilled-out cafes, and fishing boats sail along the river. There are several interesting woodworking factories, and other highlights include the Great Mosque of Sale and the monumental gate of Bab el-Mrisa. The town is just over 90 kilometres from Casablanca; the journey takes around and hour and a quarter.

The UNESCO-listed Volubilis is widely believed to have once been the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Mauretania. The large site is famous for its Roman ruins, with mosaics, foundations, pillars, walls, carvings, arches, and more. It is a little over 260 kilometres from Casablanca. The drive takes around three hours, though the stunning site makes the long journey worthwhile.