What to See in Casablanca, Morocco
Tourist Attractions in Morocco's Largest City
Located on the northwest Atlantic coast of Morocco, Casablanca – or Dar el Beida as it is known in Arabic – is Morocco’s largest city, boasting a population of more than three million people. Casablanca is home to North Africa’s largest port and is the nation’s leading economic center.
Short History of Casablanca
Originally established as an independent kingdom by the Berbers in the 7th century, Casablanca fell under Arab, Almoravids, Merenids, Portuguese and Spanish rule. It was the Portuguese who gave the name Casabranca, or “white house,” to the city. The Spanish equivalent, Casablanca, was later used.
The town was destroyed by an earthquake in the mid-1700s, and was reconstructed by the grandson of Moulay Ismael, the second ruler in the Moroccan Alaouite dynasty.
The French gained control of Casablanca in 1907. Colonization continued until Morocco’s independence in 1956.
Highlights and Casablanca Tourist Attractions
Today Casablanca offers the tourist or business traveler an intriguing mix of modern urban life punctuated by rich cultural traditions. Men and women can be seen wearing both the latest Western fashions and conservative Islamic dress, especially the hooded Moroccan djellaba. Modern buildings stand in close proximity to stunning examples of Islamic architecture. Diners can select from restaurants with international cuisine or local cafés and sandwich shops.
The Hassan II Mosque
The landmark Hassan II Mosque, inaugurated in 1993, is the world’s second largest mosque. It sits on the edge of the Old Medina on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The Islamic architecture features exquisitely crafted wood, marble, granite and plaster accents. A glass floor reveals the ocean beneath.
La Corniche
Not far from the Hassan II Mosque is La Corniche, a winding beachfront area in Ain Diab that is popular with locals and tourists. Restaurants, pools and beaches – both public and private – are the main attractions. It’s a great place for a scenic stroll any time of the day or evening.
Place Mohammad V
The city’s town square with large fountain is a favorite gathering spot for locals. Surrounding the square are buildings notable primarily for their architecture: the historical Main Post Office, Palace of Justice, French Consulate, Prefecture and Banque of Morocco.
The Bazaar
The downtown Bazaar is a souk (market) which locals frequent for international money exchange, but tourists will be drawn to the wide array of souvenirs and functional pieces crafted from leather, wood, ceramics, metal and more. Traditional Moroccan clothing, jewelry, antiques and handmade carpets and rugs are also available.
Quartier des Habbous and the Palais Royal
Moroccans and foreigners alike can be seen shopping in the Habbous District, a large collection of souks situated behind the king’s palace. Literally everything can be found beneath the buildings’ beautiful arches -- from fresh vegetables, fruits, olives and pastries to house wares, clothing, fine gold jewelry and souvenirs.
The opulent Royal Palace is a short walk away, and is open to tourists.
Quartier Maarif – Boutique Shopping and the Twin Center
The city neighborhood of Maarif offers a taste of pedestrian shopping. Wander the side streets where tiny hanoots (general stores) and patisseries (bakeries) are interspersed with countless boutiques offering clothing, shoes, accessories, home décor, confections, household items and more. Venture onto the major streets for upscale shopping and a visit to the landmark Twin Center, two 28-floor skyscrapers.
Day Trips from Casablanca
Travelers might like to plan road trips to the nearby cities of Al Jadida and Rabat. Although further away, the Roman ruins at Volubilis and the Imperial Cities of Marrakech, Fez, and Meknes can also be managed in a day. Tourists in Marrakech might enjoy a visit to the Majorelle Garden and Islamic Art Museum.
