Old Medina, Casablanca Travel Guide

Discover the enchanting blend of history and culture in Casablanca's Old Medina, where ancient alleys and vibrant souks offer an unforgettable Moroccan experience.

Step into the Old Medina of Casablanca and be transported to a world where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. This ancient walled city, with its narrow alleys and bustling markets, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco. The labyrinthine streets are filled with the scent of spices, the sound of street vendors haggling, and the sight of traditional Moroccan architecture. The Old Medina is a treasure trove for those who love to explore. From the intricately designed doorways and mosaic-tiled walls to the vibrant souks selling everything from handmade crafts to aromatic spices, every corner is brimming with charm. Key landmarks such as the Chleuh Mosque and the historic Bab Marrakech gate provide fascinating insights into the area's past. While the Old Medina is a place steeped in history, it also features modern amenities that make it a comfortable destination for tourists. Numerous cafes and eateries offer delicious Moroccan cuisine, and there are plenty of shops where you can purchase unique souvenirs. The community is welcoming, and you'll often find locals willing to share stories and tips to enhance your visit.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes; the cobbled streets can be uneven and require lots of walking.
Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Carry some local currency (Dirhams) as many vendors do not accept credit cards.
Don't be afraid to haggle in the souks; it's a common practice and part of the shopping experience.
Be cautious with your belongings to avoid pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas.

Explore Old Medina: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in Old Medina

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Hassan II Mosque

Discover the majestic Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, a breathtaking architectural wonder and a spiritual beacon overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

4.7

United Nations Square

Discover the vibrant culture and history of Casablanca at United Nations Square, where tradition meets modernity in a lively urban setting.

4.0

Mohammed V Square

Explore the vibrant Mohammed V Square in Casablanca, a historical landmark filled with culture, stunning architecture, and local life.

4.2

Arab League Park

Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant atmosphere of Arab League Park, the perfect urban oasis in the heart of Casablanca.

4.4

Best landmarks in Old Medina

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United Nations Square

Explore the vibrant United Nations Square in Casablanca, where modernity meets tradition in a bustling urban hub filled with culture, cuisine, and community.

4.0

Mohammed V Square

Explore the historic charm of Mohammed V Square, a vibrant heart of Casablanca showcasing stunning architecture and rich culture.

4.2

Medina Market

Explore the vibrant Medina Market in Casablanca for a unique shopping and cultural experience filled with local flavors and handcrafted treasures.

4.1

Sacred Heart Cathedral

Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in Casablanca, blending European and Moroccan styles.

3.9

Best restaurants in Old Medina

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La Sqala

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at La Sqala in Casablanca – where tradition meets taste in an enchanting setting.

4.3

Rick's Café

Experience Casablanca's rich culinary scene at Rick's Café – where delicious seafood meets cinematic history in a captivating setting.

4.2

Al-Mounia

Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Al-Mounia in Casablanca—where tradition meets taste in an enchanting setting.

4.6

Dar Dada

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Dar Dada in Casablanca, where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.3

Best bars in Old Medina

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The Irish Pub Casablanca

Experience the vibrant blend of Irish culture and Moroccan hospitality at The Irish Pub Casablanca, your go-to destination for lively nights.

4.0

Le Jefferson

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Casablanca at Le Jefferson, a unique bar and lounge offering exquisite cocktails and delightful dining.

4.0

Amstrong Official

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Casablanca at Amstrong Official, where live music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable experiences.

3.9

Bar Atomic

Discover the lively atmosphere and unique drinks at Bar Atomic, the must-visit bar in the heart of Casablanca for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Old Medina

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Yellow CLUB

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Yellow CLUB, a premier disco venue in Casablanca, where music and dance come alive in an unforgettable atmosphere.

3.7

Maison B

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Casablanca at Maison B, where music, cocktails, and unforgettable moments await.

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

White dream

Discover the heartbeat of Casablanca's nightlife at White Dream, a premier disco club with vibrant music, delicious hookah, and unforgettable memories.

3.4

Best shops in Old Medina

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Morocco Mall

Explore Morocco Mall in Casablanca for a unique shopping experience blending luxury, culture, and entertainment in one stunning location.

4.2

Medina Market

Discover the vibrant Medina Market in Casablanca, where culture, cuisine, and crafts come alive in a lively, authentic Moroccan experience.

4.1

Marché du Sénégal

Explore the vibrant Marché du Sénégal, a cultural gem in Casablanca, offering handcrafted goods and delicious local cuisine in a lively market atmosphere.

3.9

The Good Place Maroc

Explore The Good Place Maroc, a vibrant gift shop in Casablanca, offering unique souvenirs and tech accessories reflecting Moroccan culture.

4.5

Explore Old Medina on the Map

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

Old Medina Essentials

Old Medina is centrally located in Casablanca and can be easily accessed from other neighborhoods by various means of transport. From the Hassan II Mosque, you can walk to Old Medina in about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take tram line T1 towards the 'Casa Voyageurs' station and get off at the 'Place des Nations Unies' station, which is a short walk from the Medina. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed from the street or booked via ride-sharing apps.
The best way to explore Old Medina is on foot due to its narrow and winding alleys. Public transport options like trams and buses are available to reach the outskirts, but within the Medina, walking is the most enjoyable and practical method. Bicycle rentals are also available, but maneuvering through the crowded streets can be challenging.
Old Medina is generally safe, but tourists should remain vigilant. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas. It's advisable to avoid alleyways that are less frequented by tourists, particularly after dark. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious when approached by overly friendly strangers.
In case of an emergency, dial 19 for police assistance or 15 for ambulance services. The nearest hospital is the Hôpital 20 Août, located a short distance from the Medina. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; if entering a mosque, ensure to cover your head and shoulders. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a handshake; a light kiss on both cheeks is also common among acquaintances. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes, especially street food. Don't refuse food or drink offered to you, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Old Medina like a local, visit the souks early in the morning when they are less crowded. Engage with shopkeepers, who often welcome conversation and will share stories about their products. Be sure to try traditional Moroccan pastries at local bakeries and sip mint tea at cafes. Don't miss the chance to watch artisans at work, especially in areas known for leather goods and traditional crafts.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Old Medina

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 Old Medina. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloسلام
  [salaam]
- Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeaan]
- Yesنعم
  [naam]
- Noلا
  [laa]
- Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
- Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
- Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [azraan]
- How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
- Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa anta?]
- Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'injlizia?]
- I don't understandلا أفهم
  [laa afham]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uriidu an araa alqaimah, min fadlik]
- I don't eat meatأنا لا أكل اللحوم
  [ana la aakulu allahm]
- Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awadu an adfae, min fadlik]
- Help!مساعدة!
  [musaeadah!]
- Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
- Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisil bilshurtah!]
- Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [iatisil biltabib!]
- I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [liqad dalalt]
- I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]
- I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uriidu an ashtari...]
- I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
- How much is it?كم يكلف؟
  [kam yaklaf?]
- That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
- Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka takhfeed alsu'ar?]
- What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
- It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsa'ah alwahidah]
- Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [alnusf baed (10)]
- Morningالصباح
  [alsabah]
- Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [baed althuhr]
- Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
- Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
- Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
- Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
- 1واحد
  [wahid]
- 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
- 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
- 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
- 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
- 6ستة
  [sittah]
- 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
- 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
- 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
- 10عشرة
  [asharah]
- Where's a/the...?أين ...؟
  [ayn ...?]
- What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureeni (ala alkhariitah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?متى القادمة (الحافلة)؟
  [mata alqadimah (alhafilah)?]
- A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirah (ila ....)]

History of Old Medina

The Old Medina of Casablanca dates back to the late 18th century, specifically established in 1770 by Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah. It was designed as a fortified port and trading hub, reflecting the architectural and cultural influences of the time. The walls built around the Medina served both defensive and administrative purposes, marking the beginning of Casablanca's transformation into a significant urban center.
Throughout the 19th century, the Old Medina became a bustling marketplace, attracting traders from various regions, including Europe and sub-Saharan Africa. Goods such as textiles, spices, and crafts were exchanged, making the Medina a melting pot of cultures and contributing to the economic growth of Casablanca. This period laid the groundwork for Casablanca's future as a commercial powerhouse.
The arrival of the French protectorate in 1912 marked a pivotal change in the Old Medina's landscape. While the French aimed to modernize the city, they also preserved certain elements of the Medina's heritage. The contrast between the colonial architecture and the traditional structures within the Old Medina highlights the complex interplay between modernity and tradition during this period.
The Old Medina served as a center for resistance against colonial rule, particularly during the nationalist movements of the mid-20th century. It became a symbol of Moroccan identity, with local leaders and activists using its narrow streets to organize protests and rallies. This historical significance has solidified the Old Medina's role in the country's struggle for independence.
In recent decades, there has been a concerted effort to preserve and revitalize the Old Medina as a cultural heritage site. Restoration projects aim to maintain its historic architecture and promote local artisanship. The Medina now hosts cultural events and festivals that celebrate Moroccan traditions, drawing both locals and tourists to its vibrant atmosphere and rich history.