Casablanca is one of the most visited places in Morocco. It is the economic capital of the country and its most populous city with almost 5 million inhabitants. It is a modern city, although, like the big African cities, there is a lot of contrast between wealth and poverty. You will not be short of things to do in Casablanca: its visit is worth it just to see the spectacular Hassan II Mosque, although it also offers other attractions that deserve to be known. In this post, we tell you 25 things to do in Casablanca, the largest city in Morocco. In addition, it has a privileged climate that makes it ideal for the whole year. Explore Casablanca in 7 days desert tour from Casablanca.
What to visit in Casablanca
Hassan II Mosque
Apart from being the largest city in Morocco, Casablanca caught our attention for this incredible mosque. It is the second-largest in the world, after Mecca, and the tallest ever built. Its minaret measures no more and no less than 172 meters. It was opened in 1993 and has an exterior area of more than 30,000 square meters, with a capacity of more than 90,000 people. As a curiosity, a laser points to Mecca and can be seen from several kilometres away from the minaret. It is the only mosque in the country that can be visited, although guided. Of course, for a fee of 120 dirhams (approximately €12), per person. A fairly high price compared to most monuments in the country, but they have to somehow recover the more than 500 million euros invested in its construction. This is the best thing in what to visit in Casablanca.
2. Stroll along the Corniche
Just like Doha, Abu Dhabi and the big Arab cities that face the sea, Casablanca also has a Corniche. It would become our boardwalk. Strolling around while enjoying the sea breeze and the views of the beautiful Hassan II mosque is something highly recommended to do in Casablanca.
3. Go shopping at the Anfaplace Shopping Center
Casablanca has the most shopping malls of any city in North Africa. Casablanca is a modern city and if you feel like going shopping for clothes or disconnecting from so much tourism, you can do it in this shopping centre. It is located on the Corniche itself and has 3 floors and more than 80 shops where you can be entertained.
4. Being Humphrey Boghart at Rick’s Cafe
Something curious to see in Casablanca is the famous Rick’s Café, the place that appears in the movie Casablanca, starring Humphrey Boghart. However, this cafe never existed, since the entire movie was shot in Hollywood. Tourists visiting Casablanca could not find the coffee. Finally, after much disappointment and great anticipation, the city decided to build the cafe, which is decorated exactly as it appears in the film. If you are looking for something curious to do in Casablanca, go to Rick’s Café (although you already know that it is the fake one, or the real one, depending on how you look at it).
5. Discover the old Medina of Casablanca
Casablanca is the most modern city in Morocco, yes, but it also preserves its old medina, which contrasts sharply with the great avenues of the city. Compared to other medinas in other quite touristy destinations in Morocco, Casablanca’s medina is quite small and less authentic. It must be borne in mind that an earthquake in 1755 almost destroyed it and that in the last 100 years there have been many urban changes in the city, which have greatly affected the character of this historic place. Get lost in its labyrinthine streets and don’t get tired of haggling to get a product that catches your eye.
6. Photograph the Clock Tower
It is one of the emblems of Casablanca. This Clock Structure was constructed in 1911 by the French captain Dessigny to persuade the city’s residents of the importance of acclimating to the faster pace of life characterized by industrialized civilization. The one we see today, however, is a replica rather than the unique one. In 1948 it was demolished because it was in a precarious condition and it was not rebuilt until 1993. So take a good look at it
7. Get to know the United Nations Plaza
One of the ugliest squares we’ve ever seen is right next to the Clock Tower. Although it does not hurt to know it since it is one of the nerve centres of Casablanca. It is real chaos: cut off by the tram, full of people, tourists and without too many attractions other than shops and restaurants. We read several warnings about the presence of pickpockets in the area. Here we tell you our impressions about security in Morocco. If you have more days, check 8 days tour desert tour from Casablanca.
8. Get lost in the Central Market
This interesting market is surrounded by buildings from the French colonial era. It was created during that time to attend to the most select requests of the Europeans who lived in Casablanca. It is still the most important market in Casablanca today. There you can find everything: from fish and meat to a wide variety of spices. Without a doubt, even if you do not plan to buy anything, visiting it is something highly recommended to do in Casablanca.
9. Visit the Mohammed V Square, something very lively to do in Casablanca
In comparison to the United Nations, this is one of the city’s most gorgeous empty spaces. It is considered the heart of Casablanca and contains numerous architectural gems. Many of the surrounding buildings are in the Mudejar style (combining Moroccan and French influences). Among them, the Palace of Justice, the French Consulate, the National Bank or the Prefecture stand out. It is a peaceful setting where you can unwind and admire the beautiful architecture.
