Morocco's largest metropolis. Economic capital, cosmopolitan city, unique art deco architecture and the Hassan II Mosque — one of the largest in the world, built over the Atlantic Ocean.
See the 10 must-seesCasablanca surprises those who arrive with preconceptions. The city is modern, vibrant and full of contrasts. Its modernist architecture is unique in the Arab world, and its cuisine is among the best in Morocco.
Morocco's most impressive monument. Built over the Atlantic Ocean by order of Hassan II so that the Quranic words "The throne of God was upon the water" would become reality. Its 210m minaret is the tallest in the world. The interior is accessible to non-Muslims on a guided tour.
Absolutely unmissable · Guided tour availableCasablanca's seafront promenade along the Atlantic, lined with restaurants, beach bars and beaches. Especially lively at sunset and on weekends. The Ain Diab area has the best beach clubs and ocean views.
Best at sunsetBuilt in the 1930s by the French Protectorate as a modern medina, Habous combines Arab-Andalusian architecture with French urban efficiency. Its alleys have traditional patisseries, Arabic bookshops and craft shops that are far less aggressive than in other medinas.
Perfect for relaxed shoppingCasablanca has the largest concentration of art deco architecture on the African continent, a legacy of the 1920s–40s when the city was designed by the finest French architects. Boulevard Mohammed V and Place des Nations Unies are the best spots to admire it.
Recommended walking routeCasablanca's original medina is small compared with Fez or Marrakech, but authentic and free of mass tourism. Its alleys hide fondouks (ancient caravanserai), craftsmen and local restaurants serving excellent home cooking.
No mass tourismCasablanca's most famous bar-restaurant, inspired by the café in the 1942 film. Elegant ambience with live piano, Moroccan-American fusion cuisine and period décor. More of an experience than a tourist sight, but unmissable for film buffs.
Book in advanceThe former French cathedral, now transformed into a cultural centre, is a jewel of religious art deco. Its architecture blends modern Gothic style with Moroccan elements. It currently hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
Now a cultural centreCasablanca's most cosmopolitan district, packed with international restaurants, cafés and fashion boutiques. Maarif is where you best understand that Casablanca is simultaneously a European and Moroccan city.
Best food in the cityThe most important square in central Casablanca, surrounded by colonial buildings: the Court of First Instance, the Prefecture and the Post Office. A monumental square that showcases the grandeur of French urban planning.
Colonial architectureMorocco's capital is just 90 km from Casablanca. In one day you can visit the Hassan Tower, the Kasbah of the Udayas, the medina and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Morocco's most orderly and green city.
90 km · 1h by carYes, Casablanca is pleasantly surprising. It's not the typical Moroccan city of labyrinthine medinas, but a modern metropolis with the unmissable Hassan II Mosque, unique art deco architecture, excellent cuisine and Atlantic beaches.
One day covers the essentials (Hassan II Mosque, art deco centre, Corniche). With 2 days add Habous, Maarif and a trip to Rabat. Casablanca is often a transit stop on a wider circuit.
The distance is 240 km. Options include the Al Boraq high-speed train (2h15), private car (2h30) or CTM bus (3-4h). The train is very comfortable and punctual. With us you can travel the route by private transfer with a guide.
Casablanca with an English-speaking guide: Hassan II Mosque, art deco, Corniche and gastronomy. Private transport included.
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