Casablanca, Morocco Travel Guide

Discover Casablanca, where modernity meets tradition in Morocco's largest and most dynamic city, offering stunning coastal views, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife.

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Casablanca, Morocco's largest city, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends tradition with modernity. As the economic hub of the country, it offers a unique combination of historic charm and contemporary allure. The city's skyline is dotted with impressive skyscrapers, while its streets are lined with colonial architecture that tells the story of its rich history. One of Casablanca's most iconic landmarks is the Hassan II Mosque, which boasts the tallest minaret in the world. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this architectural marvel is a testament to Moroccan craftsmanship and is a must-visit for any traveler. The city's old medina offers a glimpse into the past with its narrow streets, traditional markets, and vibrant souks, where visitors can shop for local crafts and exotic spices. Casablanca is also known for its thriving art scene and lively nightlife. The city's numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues showcase the best of Moroccan culture, while its trendy bars and restaurants serve delicious cuisine that reflects the country's diverse culinary heritage. From fresh seafood to flavorful tagines, dining in Casablanca is a feast for the senses. With its stunning coastal views, rich cultural heritage, and modern amenities, Casablanca is a captivating destination that promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Casablanca.

Visit the Hassan II Mosque early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Explore the old medina with a local guide to uncover hidden gems and learn about its history.
Try the seafood at the port area for the freshest catch of the day.
Take a walk along the Corniche to admire the ocean views and relax at one of the seaside cafes.
Visit the Quartier Habous for a mix of traditional Moroccan and French colonial architecture.

Neighbourhoods in Casablanca

Ain Diab

Maarif

Old Medina

Racine

Anfa

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Casablanca

Explore Casablanca: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Casablanca

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Hassan II Mosque

Discover the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, a magnificent architectural gem and a vital piece of Moroccan culture, blending spirituality with stunning coastal views.

4.7

United Nations Square

Discover the vibrant pulse of Casablanca at United Nations Square, a cultural landmark blending history, modernity, and local life.

4.0

Mohammed V Square

Explore the vibrant Mohammed V Square in Casablanca, a historic landmark surrounded by stunning architecture and lively culture.

4.2

Arab League Park

Experience tranquility and natural beauty at Arab League Park, Casablanca's urban oasis featuring lush gardens and serene pathways.

4.4

Best landmarks in Casablanca

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Hassan II Mosque

Explore the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, a stunning architectural feat and a symbol of Morocco's rich cultural heritage, standing majestically by the Atlantic.

4.7

United Nations Square

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of United Nations Square in Casablanca, where culture, history, and modernity unite in a magnificent urban setting.

4.0

Mohammed V Square

Explore the vibrant Mohammed V Square in Casablanca, a historical landmark surrounded by stunning architecture and local culture.

4.2

Parc Sindibad

Experience the thrill of rides and the wonder of wildlife at Parc Sindibad, Casablanca's premier amusement and animal park.

3.7

Best restaurants in Casablanca

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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La Sqala

Discover the heart of Moroccan cuisine at La Sqala in Casablanca – where tradition meets flavor in a beautiful historical setting.

4.3

Rick's Café

Discover Rick's Café in Casablanca: A captivating blend of seafood delights and cinematic charm amidst vibrant Moroccan culture.

4.2

Le Cabestan

Discover Mediterranean elegance at Le Cabestan in Casablanca—where exceptional cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views.

4.1

Al-Mounia

Discover the heart of Moroccan cuisine at Al-Mounia in Casablanca – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.6

Best bars in Casablanca

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Best Bars

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The Irish Pub Casablanca

Discover the lively atmosphere and authentic Irish cuisine at The Irish Pub Casablanca, a must-visit destination for beer lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

4.0

Backstage Casablanca

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Casablanca at Backstage, a stylish lounge offering eclectic drinks, live music, and a lively atmosphere.

3.7

Le Jefferson

Le Jefferson offers an unforgettable cocktail and dining experience in the heart of Casablanca’s nightlife, perfect for tourists and locals alike.

4.0

Le Trica

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Le Trica, the cozy pub in Casablanca offering a diverse beverage selection and a touch of Moroccan hospitality.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Casablanca

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Best Nightclubs

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Yellow CLUB

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Yellow CLUB in Casablanca, where dancing and music come alive in a vibrant atmosphere.

3.7

Maison B

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Maison B, Casablanca's premier nightclub offering exquisite drinks, lively music, and unforgettable experiences.

3.5

DjaDja Afro Club

Discover the rhythms of Casablanca at DjaDja Afro Club, where vibrant music and lively dancing create unforgettable nightlife experiences.

3.9

Balcony 33 (Disco)

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Casablanca at Balcony 33, where music, dancing, and stunning ocean views come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.0

Best shops in Casablanca

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Best Shops

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Morocco Mall

Explore Morocco Mall in Casablanca, where luxury shopping meets Moroccan culture in a vibrant and modern setting.

4.2

Anfaplace Mall

Discover the best shopping, dining, and entertainment at Anfaplace Mall, Casablanca's coastal shopping oasis.

4.2

Marina Shopping

Discover Marina Shopping in Casablanca: A vibrant shopping mall offering a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

4.2

Medina Market

Experience the vibrant charm of the Medina Market in Casablanca, where culture, commerce, and culinary delights come together in a stunning setting.

4.1

Explore Casablanca on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Casablanca, mapped for you.

Casablanca Essentials

Casablanca is served by Mohammed V International Airport, located about 30 kilometers south of the city center. The airport is well-connected to major cities around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi, a train, or a shuttle bus to reach the city center. The train service is frequent and takes around 45 minutes to reach the Casa Voyageurs station in central Casablanca.
Public transportation in Casablanca includes trams, buses, and taxis. The tram system is modern and covers most of the city. Buses are also available, but they can be crowded and less reliable. Petit taxis (small red taxis) are a convenient way to get around the city for short distances, while grand taxis (larger white taxis) can be used for longer trips. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are also available.
The official currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful in Casablanca, and you can withdraw cash using international debit or credit cards. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and exchange bureaus.
Casablanca is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less crowded areas. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in busy areas such as the Old Medina, the Central Market, and around major tourist attractions. Stay vigilant and keep your belongings secure. It is advisable to avoid the Derb Sultan and Sbata neighborhoods, which have higher crime rates.
In case of emergency, dial 19 for police, 15 for medical emergencies, and 15 for fire services. Major hospitals like Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Ibn Rochd provide emergency medical care. Pharmacies are abundant and can provide over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The local police station can assist with any security issues.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Casablanca like a local, visit the Marché Central where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Moroccan goods. Enjoy a stroll along the Corniche for scenic ocean views, and visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the city's culture and history. Don't miss the opportunity to try authentic Moroccan cuisine at local eateries.

When is the best time to visit Casablanca?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Casablanca

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Casablanca. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloسلام
  [salam]
- Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaea]
- Yesنعم
  [naam]
- Noلا
  [la]
- Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
- Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
- Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhara]
- How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halik?]
- Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bkheir. wa ant?]
- Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
- I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
- I don't eat meatلا آكل اللحم
  [la aakol allahm]
- Cheers!صحتين!
  [sahatayn]
- I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfae, min fadlik]
- Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
- Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
- Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [aitisal bialshurtah!]
- Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [aitisal bialtabib!]
- I'm lostضاعت الطريق
  [daeat altariq]
- I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]
- I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
- I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarg]
- How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam hu thamanuh?]
- That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
- Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfiz alsaeir?]
- What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaaah?]
- It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaaah alwahidah]
- Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashirah walnisf]
- Morningصباح
  [sabah]
- Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [baed aldhuhur]
- Eveningمساء
  [masa]
- Yesterdayالبارحة
  [albarihah]
- Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
- Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
- 1واحد
  [wahid]
- 2اثنين
  [ithnan]
- 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
- 4أربعة
  [arbaah]
- 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
- 6ستة
  [sittah]
- 7سبعة
  [sabah]
- 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
- 9تسعة
  [tisah]
- 10عشرة
  [asharah]
- Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn hu/hi...?]
- What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu alaunwan?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala alkhareeta)?]
- When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata alhafilat altaliat?]
- A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirah (ila ....)]

History of Casablanca

The area around Casablanca has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era. Archaeological findings suggest that early humans settled here due to its strategic coastal location. Over the centuries, the region was influenced by various cultures, including the Phoenicians, who established trading posts along the Moroccan coastline.
During the early medieval period, the area that is now Casablanca was part of the Berber Kingdoms. The Berbers, indigenous people of North Africa, established a series of small, fortified settlements. These settlements served as important centers for trade and cultural exchange.
By the 10th century, the city of Anfa had emerged as a significant port town. Anfa was known for its prosperity and was a center for pirates who plagued European shipping routes. In the 15th century, the Portuguese destroyed Anfa due to its pirate activities, but they later rebuilt it and named it Casa Branca, meaning 'White House'.
The Portuguese occupied the rebuilt Casa Branca from 1515 to 1755. During this period, the city served as a key Portuguese trading port. However, frequent conflicts with the local Berber population and natural disasters, such as the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, led to the Portuguese abandoning the city. The Spanish briefly took over before it fell under the control of the Alaouite dynasty of Morocco.
In 1907, French forces occupied Casablanca, marking the beginning of a significant transformation. Under French colonial rule, Casablanca grew rapidly into a major port and economic hub. The French introduced modern infrastructure, including wide boulevards, public buildings, and residential neighborhoods, which laid the foundation for the city's contemporary urban landscape.
Casablanca played a crucial role during World War II. In 1942, the city was the site of the Casablanca Conference, where Allied leaders, including Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, planned the next phase of the war. The city's port and strategic location made it an essential base for Allied operations in North Africa.
Following Morocco's independence from France in 1956, Casablanca continued to thrive as the country's economic heart. The city experienced rapid urbanization and industrial growth, attracting people from across Morocco and beyond. It became a melting pot of cultures, blending traditional Moroccan elements with modern influences.
Casablanca is home to some of Morocco's most iconic landmarks. The Hassan II Mosque, completed in 1993, stands as one of the largest mosques in the world and showcases exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship. The city's Art Deco architecture, a remnant of the French colonial era, and the bustling medinas offer a unique glimpse into its diverse cultural heritage.