Steeped in a rich history and formerly known as the ancient settlement of Anfa, Casablanca stands proud as the largest city in the Kingdom of Morocco and the third-largest metropolis across the African continent.
Boasting a premier strategic location, this economic powerhouse overlooks the sun-drenched Atlantic coast from western Morocco, serving as the nation’s premier global gateway. Beyond its modern, bustling exterior, Casablanca hides an incredible treasure trove of historic monuments, vibrant traditional markets, and premium recreational facilities that captivate travelers from around the globe.
Because it is often treated as a commercial hub, many travelers overlook its charm and find themselves wondering what exactly there is to see. As your trusted, licensed Moroccan tour operator, Deep South Travel believes it is our mission to unveil the secrets of this mesmerizing coastal city. Whether you want to explore the urban center or venture beyond the city limits with our curated Casablanca Day Trips, we have compiled the ultimate bucket list for your journey.
Here are over 30 remarkable things to do and see in Casablanca!
1. Marvel at the Majestic Hassan II Mosque
Morocco is a deeply spiritual Islamic nation home to thousands of stunning places of worship. None, however, command attention quite like the Hassan II Mosque. Perched dramatically on the rocky edge of the Atlantic Ocean, this architectural masterpiece is the largest mosque in Morocco and ranks among the tallest in the world. Its breathtaking Andalusian-style minaret pierces the skyline at an astonishing height of 210 meters.
The sheer scale of this complex is difficult to imagine until you stand before it. The grand outdoor courtyard can accommodate over 70,000 worshippers, while the main prayer hall fits another 25,000. Completed in 1993 after years of meticulous craftsmanship, the project cost roughly 600 million euros. Fortunately, this is one of the few active mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors via guided interior tours, making it an absolute must-visit.
2. Stroll Down La Corniche
If you want to experience local life at a relaxed pace, head down to La Corniche. This scenic coastal boulevard is a favorite sanctuary for both locals and travelers looking to unwind by the sea. During the warm summer months, the sandy shores fill up with swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers. It is a fantastic, family-friendly destination lined with an array of premium hotels, beach clubs, and ocean-view restaurants perfect for dining out with loved ones.
3. Explore Mohammed V Square
Steeped in colonial history, Mohammed V Square was constructed in 1916 under the guidance of French General Louis Hubert Lyautey. To this day, a statue of the general remains a focal point of the plaza. Functioning as the true administrative heart of Casablanca, the grand square is flanked by some of the city’s most architecturally significant institutions, including the Palace of Justice, the French Consulate, the Moroccan Post Office, and the main state bank.
4. Relax in the Arab League Park
Directly south of the administrative center lies the sprawling Arab League Park (locally known as Parc de la Ligue Arabe). Serving as the largest open green space in Casablanca, this beautifully manicured park is the perfect venue for a peaceful afternoon stroll or outdoor relaxation. Shaded pathways are punctuated by charming little cafes where you can sit back, sip a traditional mint tea, and take in the natural beauty.
5. Admire the Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur
Built in the 1930s, the striking Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur (Church of the Sacred Heart) remains one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Designed by acclaimed French architect Paul Tournon, the cathedral features a fascinating design blend where traditional Muslim architectural influences meet bold Art Deco and Neo-Gothic styles.
Religious operations ceased following Morocco’s independence on March 2, 1956. Since then, the monumental structure has evolved into a vibrant cultural center, hosting prestigious art exhibitions and even dynamic electronic music festivals.
Insider Travel Tip: The historic Old Medina is just a short walk away from the cathedral grounds.
6. Transit Through Gare de Casa Port
Located right by the waterfront, Gare de Casa Port is one of the city’s primary and most modern railway hubs. The station is impeccably clean, and the staff are notably English-friendly. While it serves as a transit point, the striking modern design of the building is well worth admiring. Inside, you will find comfortable coffee shops, restaurants, currency exchange booths, and a variety of retail clothing stores to explore before your train departs.
7. Ride the Casa Tramway
The most efficient and scenic way to navigate this sprawling metropolis is via the Casa Tramway. Standing as the second modern tram network in the country after the Rabat-Salé system, it provides a highly comfortable transit experience. The fleet features heavily tinted windows, powerful air conditioning, and plush seating. Currently, two primary lines cut across the city: Line T1 (running from Sidi Moumen to Lissafa) and Line T2 (connecting Sidi Bernoussi to Ain Diab).
8. Shop at the Casablanca Twin Center
Dominating the modern skyline within the trendy Maarif Quarter, these two iconic skyscrapers pierce the clouds at over 370 feet high. Situated at the bustling intersection of Al Massira Al Khadra Street and Al Zarqatouni Street, they are split into the West Tower and the East Tower. The West Tower features premium office spaces and a multi-level shopping mall. The East Tower is home to the luxurious, five-star Kenzi Tower Hotel, which boasts over 200 rooms, 30 high-end suites, and the ultra-exclusive Casablanca Royal Suite.
9. View the Royal Palace of Casablanca
As you would expect from a monarch’s residence, the Royal Palace of Casablanca is an absolute masterpiece of Moorish architecture. Located within the New Medina, this majestic compound is enclosed by monumental defensive walls and heavily guarded by royal security. While the palace interior is closed to the general public, stopping by to admire the intricate, grand exterior gates is a highly popular activity for architecture enthusiasts.
10. Learn History at the Museum of Moroccan Judaism
Established in 1997 and beautifully restored in 2013, this landmark institution holds the proud title of being the only museum in the Arab world exclusively dedicated to Jewish heritage. The curated exhibition spaces trace centuries of Jewish history, religion, and artistic traditions within Moroccan civilization. Filled with antique clothing, intricate jewelry, and paintings, it stands as a powerful testament to the peaceful coexistence shared between Morocco’s diverse communities.
11. Unwind on the Beaches of Mohammedia
If you are looking to escape the urban rush, take a short 25-kilometer journey along the coast to the charming city of Mohammedia. Home to the second-largest commercial port in the country, it is best known for its pristine, relaxing beaches. During the peak summer weekends when Casablanca gets busy, locals and clued-in tourists flock here to enjoy the calm waters and seaside tranquility.
12. Step Inside Notre Dame de Lourdes
Constructed in the early 1950s by visionary architect Achille Dangles and engineer Gaston Zimmer, Notre Dame de Lourdes is a striking example of modern Catholic architecture. The true magic of this church reveals itself once you step inside. The soaring interior is bathed in vibrant red and blue hues filtering through world-renowned stained-glass windows. The floors are adorned with plush Moroccan carpets, and icons of the Virgin Mary are displayed throughout the sanctuary, which was originally built to serve a congregation of over 15,000 Catholics.
13. Wander Through the Old Medina
The historic heart of the city, known simply as the Old Medina, offers a fascinating contrast to the surrounding modern skyscrapers. While it may not possess the sprawling, ancient scale of the medinas in Fes or Marrakech, its maze of winding, narrow alleys holds an incredible, vibrant atmosphere. Wandering through the bustling souks allows you to browse countless authentic shops selling everything from traditional food and spices to hand-painted Moroccan pottery and garments.
14. Discover Contemporary Art at Villa des Arts
Art enthusiasts should make a direct path to the Villa des Arts, located a stone’s throw from the Arab League Park. As the largest contemporary art museum in Casablanca, this beautiful Art Deco villa proudly showcases over 1,000 masterworks created by both celebrated Moroccan and international artists. Operated by the ONA Cultural Foundation, it serves as an active creative hub for local talent. Best of all, admission to the galleries is entirely free.
15. Admire the Grandeur of Mahkamat al-Pasha
Inaugurated in 1930 by the Pasha of Casablanca, Mahkamat al-Pasha is a stunning representation of traditional Hispano-Moorish design. Crafted by master architects including France’s Auguste Cadet, the building served as an Islamic court of law and a reception hall for state celebrations. The structure features sixty intricately detailed rooms, a massive central courtyard, fragrant cedarwood floors, and green-tiled roofs enclosed by majestic carved walls.
16. Shop Till You Drop at the Morocco Mall
For a taste of ultimate modern luxury, head over to the Morocco Mall, proudly recognized as the largest shopping mall on the African continent. This massive entertainment destination truly offers something for everyone, ranging from traditional Moroccan souk-style markets to global luxury fashion houses like Gucci and Armani. Beyond the shopping, the complex features an expansive international food court, a massive indoor amusement park, and a towering cylindrical aquarium complete with live sharks and mesmerizing water shows every 30 minutes.
17. Discover Hidden Gems in the New Medina
Located in the historic Habous neighborhood roughly 6.5 kilometers southeast of the city center, the New Medina offers an incredibly unique shopping experience. Built by French architects in the 1920s to mimic traditional Moroccan styles, this area features a much more relaxed, laid-back atmosphere than the older parts of the city. The local shopkeepers here are notably less pushy, making it the absolute best neighborhood to hunt for high-quality souvenirs, traditional leatherwork, and slippers at competitive prices.
18. Visit the Abderrahman Slaoui Museum
Tucked away in a beautiful historic building, the Abderrahman Slaoui Museum is a curated gallery space that celebrates artistic refinement. The permanent collection showcases an extraordinary array of antique Moroccan gold jewelry, historic travel posters, and fine crystal objects. It also proudly puts on display the timeless masterworks of Mohamed Ben Ali R’bati, who is widely celebrated as the founding father of contemporary Moroccan painting.
19. Dive Into the Central Market (Marché Central)
To witness authentic local culture in action, step through the monumental, arched stone gates of the Central Market. Situated right in the beating heart of downtown, this bustling market is world-famous for its incredible, fresh selection of Atlantic seafood and premium meats. The local vendors are exceptionally warm and helpful, offering a wonderful opportunity to interact, snap photos, and observe daily life. It is a true one-stop-shop where you can find anything from fresh produce to traditional Moroccan slippers.
20. Experience the Nightlife on the Ain Diab Coast
Situated right on the edge of the downtown area, the vibrant Ain Diab Coast is the undisputed capital of entertainment in Casablanca. By day, visitors flock to the sandy beaches to relax, sunbathe, or indulge in a fresh seafood lunch at luxury hotels. Beachside football matches and horseback riding are incredibly popular pastimes here. However, the real excitement ignites after dark, when the coastline transforms as premier clubs, bars, and discos open their doors for the night.
21. Grab a Drink at Rick’s Café
No trip to this city is complete without stopping by the world-famous Rick’s Café. Opened in 2004, this beautifully designed restaurant and lounge was meticulously built to bring the fictional bar from the legendary 1942 film Casablanca to life. Stepping inside feels like stepping back in time, thanks to the nostalgic architectural details and intimate lighting. While the menu features premium steaks, fresh salads, and indulgent cheesecakes, seafood remains the absolute star of the show.
22. Take in the Views from SKY 28
If you want to escape the energetic street hustle and enjoy a sophisticated evening, make your way to SKY 28. Located at the top of the Twin Center towers, this ultra-chic lounge serves up some of the finest handcrafted cocktails in the city alongside a delicious menu of traditional and contemporary Moroccan tapas. Open from 3:00 PM until 2:00 AM, the ideal time to visit is right after dusk, when you can listen to live music while peering out over the glittering cityscape below.
23. Appreciate the Grandeur of Temple Beth-El
While Casablanca is home to more than 30 distinct Jewish places of worship, Temple Beth-El stands out as the historic and cultural heart of the local Jewish community. Completely redesigned into a stunning work of art in 1997, the temple attracts visitors from all over the world. The true highlight of the building is its magnificent, intricate stained-glass work, which casts a dazzling rainbow of colors across the sanctuary when touched by natural sunlight.
24. Climb the El Hank Lighthouse
For an unparalleled 360-degree view of the coast, challenge yourself to climb the historic El Hank Lighthouse. Standing 160 feet tall and constructed in 1916, this building is a brilliant showcase of historic Muslim engineering. An internal spiral staircase consisting of 255 steps leads you straight to the observation deck. From the top, you are rewarded with a sweeping, panoramic view of the vast Atlantic Ocean, the Old Medina, and a perfect angle for photographing the nearby Hassan II Mosque.
Incredible Destinations Just Outside Casablanca
If you have a few days in town, Casablanca serves as the perfect base camp to explore the historic cities dotting the coastline. At Deep South Travel, we specialize in crafting custom itineraries, ranging from quick coastal escapes to a comprehensive Imperial Cities Tour from Casablanca or an immersive Private desert tour from Casablanca. Here are the top nearby gems you can visit:
25. Safi: The Pottery Capital
Located roughly 235 kilometers down the coast, the historic city of Safi is globally renowned for its ancient monuments and cultural heritage. It is home to a world-famous pottery market where you can purchase authentic, intricately hand-painted Moroccan ceramics straight from the artisans. Don’t leave without stopping by a seaside restaurant to sample the famous, fresh daily catch brought in from the local beaches.
26. Oualidia: The Seafood Haven
Nestled quietly along a dramatic coastal lagoon between Safi and El Jadida, about 185 kilometers south of Casablanca, lies the beautiful town of Oualidia. This tranquil destination is widely celebrated for having some of the most gorgeous beaches and finest seafood in the country. If you love fresh oysters, grilled fish, and calm lagoon waters, this hidden gem is an absolute paradise.
27. Azemmour: The Photographer’s Secret
Situated 77 kilometers southwest of the metropolis, Azemmour is a charming historic town perched majestically on a cliffside directly above the scenic Oum Er-Rabia River. Because it sits off the main tourist track, its gorgeous Atlantic beach and ancient white-washed walls remain peaceful and uncrowded, offering an idyllic backdrop for travel photography.
28. El Jadida: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Founded by Portuguese explorers in 1506 as the fortified settlement of Mazagan, the picturesque coastal city of El Jadida is a historical marvel. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, its unique architecture beautifully blends European fortification designs with traditional Moroccan cultural elements.
The city features a wonderfully mild climate, soaring stone battlements, and beautiful sandy beaches that come alive with travelers during the summer months. Walking through the fortified historic center takes only a few minutes, allowing you to safely explore its towering walls before indulging in fresh seafood at a local café.
Unique Cultural Activities & Family Fun
29. Catch a Classic Film at Cinema Rialto
Step back into the golden age of cinema by visiting the historic Cinema Rialto. Built in 1929, this legendary theater features an exquisite Art Deco facade and classic red velvet seating. They still screen a rotating selection of classic old movies. Even if you don’t stay for a full screening, the incredibly friendly theater staff will often welcome you inside to admire the vintage architecture and snap photos from the upper balconies.
30. Attend the L’Boulevard Cultural Festival
If your travel dates line up, attending the annual L’Boulevard Festival is hands-down one of the most exciting cultural things to do in Casablanca. This massive 10-day music and arts festival serves as Morocco’s premier launching pad for underground creative talent. Here, innovative local bands perform on stage alongside famous international acts, offering an eclectic mix of rock, pop, hip-hop, electronic, and traditional Moroccan fusion music.
31. Walk Through the Bab Marrakech (Gate of Medina)
Constructed in 1770 under the orders of Sultan Muhammad bin Abdullah (the grandson of Moulay Ismail), the fortifications enclosing the Medina of Casablanca are steeped in history. To protect the coastal town from foreign invaders, the Sultan erected a series of grand arched portals, with the majestic Bab Marrakech serving as the primary historic entrance. The timeless beauty of this stone gateway is further enhanced by a soaring, historic clock tower built right beside it.
32. Catch the Waves at Ain Sebaa Beach
For outdoor adventure enthusiasts, Ain Sebaa Beach stands out as one of the busiest and most popular surfing hotspots in the area. If you aren’t ready to brave the strong waves yourself, it is equally entertaining to relax on the shore and watch the local surfers perform tricks. Arrive early in the morning for a peaceful walk to collect seashells, and follow it up with a hearty, affordable Moroccan meal at one of the rustic seafood stalls lining the sand.
33. Escape to the Forest of Bouskoura Merchich
Located in the serene southern suburbs of the city, the Forest of Bouskoura Merchich is a massive 3,000-acre green lung made up primarily of towering eucalyptus trees. It is the ultimate recreational escape for local families looking to spend a day outdoors engaging in sports like running, cycling, and football. The vast green clearings are idyllic for a relaxed family picnic under the shade.
34. Splash Around at Tamaris Aquaparc
When families ask us what to do with children in the city, our number one recommendation is always Tamaris Aquaparc. This expansive, world-class water park features an impressive selection of thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and dedicated splash pools for all age groups.
Money-Saving Travel Hack: If you happen to visit Morocco during the holy month of Ramadan, admission prices are slashed in half! While park hours are slightly shorter and the internal cafes close during daylight fasting hours, you get the immense benefit of avoiding all lines, meaning more time on the rides with your family.
35. Meet the Animals at Parc Sindibad
For a full day of smiles and entertainment, head over to Parc Sindibad, proudly operating as Morocco’s premier modern amusement center. This beautifully designed park offers a wonderful double-feature: a wide array of thrilling theme park rides alongside a beautifully maintained zoo filled with exotic African and Asian animals. While the dining options inside the park carry premium pricing, the excellent quality and safety standards make it well worth it. General entry tickets start at an incredibly reasonable 20 Dirhams (approx. $2 USD) per person.
From coastal wonders to sweeping desert vistas, the team at Deep South Travel is here to turn your Moroccan dream vacation into reality. Contact us today to customize your itinerary
