Casablanca - Morocco's Modern Metropolis
Morocco

Casablanca - Morocco's Modern Metropolis

Experience Morocco's largest city, where French colonial architecture meets Moorish tradition, and modern business mingles with historic charm.

Casablanca: Morocco's Modern Metropolis

Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and economic heart, offers a unique blend of modern sophistication and traditional Moroccan culture. While it may lack the medieval charm of Fes or Marrakech, Casa (as locals call it) compensates with Art Deco architecture, world-class dining, vibrant nightlife, and the stunning Hassan II Mosque.

Overview

Founded as a Berber settlement, Casablanca grew into a major Atlantic port under French colonial rule. Today, it's Morocco's economic powerhouse, home to over 3.7 million people, serving as the country's financial center and largest business hub.

Top Attractions

Hassan II Mosque - One of the world's largest mosques, this architectural marvel sits partially over the Atlantic Ocean. Its 210-meter minaret is the tallest in the world. Non-Muslims can visit on guided tours.

Old Medina - While smaller than other Moroccan medinas, Casa's old quarter offers authentic local life, traditional markets, and the Scala fortress with ocean views.

Corniche - This beachfront promenade stretches for miles, lined with beach clubs, restaurants, and cafes. Perfect for sunset strolls and people-watching.

Quartier Habous (New Medina) - Built by the French in the 1930s, this charming district combines traditional Moroccan architecture with French urban planning.

Morocco Mall - Africa's largest shopping center offers luxury brands, an aquarium, and a musical fountain show.

Rick's Café - Recreated from the classic film "Casablanca," this elegant restaurant-bar captures Hollywood's romantic vision of Morocco.

Art Deco Architecture - Downtown Casa boasts hundreds of Art Deco buildings from the 1920s-30s, making it a paradise for architecture enthusiasts.

Food & Restaurants

Casablanca offers Morocco's most diverse dining scene:

Traditional Moroccan:

  • La Sqala - Authentic tagines in a historic fortress setting
  • Dar Beida - Classic Moroccan cuisine in an elegant riad
  • Chez Slaoui - Family recipes in a historic mansion

International Cuisine:

  • Le Cabestan - Fine dining with ocean views
  • La Bodega - Spanish tapas and seafood
  • Bento Asian Kitchen - Modern Asian fusion

Street Food:

  • Marché Central - Fresh seafood grilled to order
  • Derb Ghallef - Local snacks and Moroccan pastries
  • Boulevard Mohammed V - Late-night shawarma and sandwiches

Best Areas to Stay

  • City Center - Best for business travelers, near offices and transit
  • Corniche - Beach access, nightlife, and ocean views
  • Maarif - Upscale residential area with cafes and shopping
  • Anfa - Luxury hotels and embassies
  • Old Medina - Budget-friendly, authentic local experience

Prices & Budget

  • Budget hotels: $25-50/night
  • Mid-range: $60-120/night
  • Luxury: $150-400/night
  • Meals: $5-25 depending on restaurant
  • Taxis: $2-10 for most trips
  • Hassan II Mosque tour: $13

Getting Around

Grand Taxis - Shared white taxis for longer distances Petit Taxis - Red city taxis, must use meter Tramway - Modern tram system connecting major areas Buses - Extensive but crowded Rental Cars - Available but traffic can be challenging Apps - Careem and Uber-like services available

Day Trips from Casablanca

Rabat (1 hour) - Morocco's capital with royal palaces El Jadida (1.5 hours) - Portuguese fortified city Azemmour (1.5 hours) - Artistic coastal town Mohammedia (30 min) - Beach resort town

Mini Itinerary (2 Days)

Day 1:

  • Morning: Hassan II Mosque tour
  • Lunch: Fresh seafood at Marché Central
  • Afternoon: Art Deco architecture walk
  • Sunset: Corniche promenade
  • Dinner: Rick's Café experience

Day 2:

  • Morning: Old Medina exploration
  • Lunch: Quartier Habous
  • Afternoon: Morocco Mall or beach clubs
  • Evening: Moroccan dinner and nightlife

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds Fall (September-November): Warm weather, ideal for city exploration Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, but beach weather Winter (December-February): Mild but can be rainy

FAQs

Q: Is Casablanca worth visiting? A: Yes! While different from traditional Moroccan cities, Casa offers modern amenities, excellent food, nightlife, and the magnificent Hassan II Mosque.

Q: How many days do I need? A: 1-2 days is sufficient for main sights. Add more for business or beach time.

Q: Is it safe? A: Generally safe for tourists. Use normal urban precautions, especially at night.

Q: Can I drink alcohol? A: Yes, Casablanca is more liberal. Many restaurants and hotels serve alcohol.

Q: What should I wear? A: Casablanca is cosmopolitan. Modest but stylish clothing is fine. No need for conservative dress except in mosques.

Q: Do people speak English? A: In tourist areas and hotels, yes. French is more widely spoken than in other Moroccan cities.

Insider Tips

  • Visit Hassan II Mosque at sunset for stunning photos
  • Take the Art Deco architecture walking tour (available via tourist office)
  • Try the seafood at the port - incredibly fresh and cheap
  • The Corniche is best visited Friday-Sunday for lively atmosphere
  • Bargaining is less common in Casa than other Moroccan cities
  • Download the Casa Tramway app for easy public transport
  • Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner (3-7pm)