Your Ultimate Guide to Casablanca Morocco’s Cosmopolitan Jewel

Welcome, fellow travelers! Let’s dig right into discovering Casablanca, Morocco’s modern heart and a city where history meets innovation. Often overlooked in favor of Fes or Marrakech, Casablanca offers a dynamic mix of Art Deco architecture, vibrant markets, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere that sets it apart from other Moroccan cities. It’s the perfect gateway to the country—blending tradition with a contemporary urban vibe.

Why Visit Casablanca?

Casablanca (or Dar El Beïda, as the locals call it) is Morocco’s largest city and economic hub, home to the country’s busiest port and its most modern skyline. But beyond its financial role, it holds cultural depth, rich history, and some of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks, including the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world.

Unlike Marrakech or Fes, Casablanca gives visitors a glimpse into contemporary Moroccan life—where old-world charm meets sleek skyscrapers, where street food stalls stand alongside elegant cafés, and where the sound of the Atlantic waves mixes with the bustling of city streets.

Best Time to Visit Casablanca

Traditionally in Morocco, timing is everything. Let me show you when to plan your visit:

• Spring (March-May): Ideal weather, perfect for seaside walks and outdoor dining.
• Fall (September-November): A great time for cultural festivals and mild temperatures.
• Winter (December-February): Cooler but still pleasant, with fewer crowds.
• Summer (June-August): Can be hot, but the ocean breeze keeps the city comfortable.

Where to Stay in Casablanca

Casablanca offers a mix of historic hotels, modern luxury, and charming riads. Here are a few top recommendations:

• Hotel Le Doge: A beautiful Art Deco hotel in the city center, offering old-world charm.
• Four Seasons Casablanca: An elegant seaside resort with breathtaking ocean views.
• Hyatt Regency Casablanca: Ideal for those wanting a mix of luxury and convenience near the medina.

Essential Experiences: Beyond the Tourist Trail

1. The Majestic Hassan II Mosque (مسجد الحسن الثاني)

A true masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, the Hassan II Mosque is Casablanca’s crown jewel. Built over the Atlantic Ocean, its intricate zellij tilework, towering minaret (the second tallest in the world), and breathtaking ocean views make it one of the most stunning mosques on the planet. Non-Muslims can visit during guided tours, offering a rare chance to step inside a functioning mosque in Morocco.

2. The Corniche: Oceanfront Strolls and Seaside Cafés

The Corniche is where the city meets the Atlantic. A long, scenic promenade lined with beach clubs, seafood restaurants, and cafés, it’s the perfect place to take a leisurely walk, enjoy a fresh seafood meal, or simply watch the waves crash against the shore. Aïn Diab Beach is a great spot to soak up the sun or try your hand at surfing.

3. The Old Medina: A Taste of Casablanca’s Past

Unlike the medieval medinas of Fes and Marrakech, Casablanca’s Old Medina is a blend of tradition and modernity. It may be smaller, but it offers authentic souks, spice vendors, and hidden alleyways that whisper tales of the city’s history.

4. Art Deco Wonders: A Walk Through Time

Casablanca’s colonial past left behind a stunning legacy of Art Deco and Neo-Moorish architecture. Take a walking tour through Boulevard Mohammed V, where you’ll find cinemas, cafés, and grand buildings that tell the story of Casablanca’s 20th-century transformation.

5. The Rick’s Café Experience

Inspired by the legendary film Casablanca, Rick’s Café is an atmospheric restaurant that recreates the charm of the classic Hollywood movie. It’s a must-visit spot for movie lovers and anyone looking to enjoy live jazz, a beautifully crafted cocktail, or a romantic dinner in an old-world setting.

6. Habbous Neighborhood: A Blend of Tradition and Elegance

A visit to Casablanca wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Habbous Neighborhood, a charming district built during the French colonial era that merges Moroccan architecture with European urban planning. Known for its picturesque alleyways, beautiful arches, and authentic handicraft shops, this area offers an ideal spot to experience traditional Moroccan culture away from the city’s modern rush. Don’t miss the Habbous Baladiya Market, famous for its grilled meats and barbecue, where you can enjoy freshly prepared Moroccan street food in a lively atmosphere.

A Culinary Journey Through Casablanca

Casablanca is a melting pot of flavors. Here’s what to eat while you’re in town:

• Grilled meats at Habbous Baladiya Market: A lively spot for enjoying charcoal-grilled kebabs and Moroccan-style barbecue.
• Fresh seafood at the Central Market (Marché Central): A must-visit for seafood lovers, where you can pick your catch and have it grilled on-site.
• Moroccan pastries and French-style bakeries: Casablanca is famous for its delicate pastries, from traditional honey-drenched chebakia to buttery croissants influenced by the city’s French heritage.

For a true taste of Casablanca, head to:

• La Sqala: A historic fortress-turned-restaurant, serving authentic Moroccan dishes in a charming garden setting.
• Basmane: A top spot for upscale Moroccan cuisine in a beautifully decorated setting.
• Cabestan: A chic seaside restaurant offering fresh seafood and spectacular ocean views.
• Port de Pêche: The best place to enjoy fresh seafood, straight from the Atlantic.

Practical Tips for Visiting Casablanca

• Getting Around: The city’s modern tram system is convenient, while petit taxis (red cabs) are the best way to get around the medina and downtown.
• Dress Code: While Casablanca is more cosmopolitan, modest attire is still appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Safety: Casablanca is generally safe, but always be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas like the medina and public markets.

Final Words: The Spirit of Casablanca

Unlike Marrakech’s buzzing souks or Fes’s medieval alleyways, Casablanca offers a unique blend of past and present. Whether you’re standing in awe of the Hassan II Mosque, enjoying a mint tea by the ocean, or exploring hidden Art Deco gems, this city has a charm all its own.

As we say in Morocco, Inshallah, your journey to Casablanca will be just the beginning of your Moroccan adventure!

Until our next culinary journey together…