Casablanca: Best Things to Do
The Hassan II Mosque
The Hassan II Mosque is Casablanca's crowning landmark and one of the largest mosques in the world, with a minaret soaring over 200 meters, making it among the tallest religious structures globally. Built partly over the Atlantic, it features intricate craftsmanship, a retractable roof and space for tens of thousands of worshippers.
It is one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors, who can join guided tours outside prayer times. The seafront setting, marble work and detailed zellige and carving make it an unmissable highlight of any Casablanca visit.
The Corniche and Coast
The Ain Diab Corniche is Casablanca's lively seaside promenade, lined with restaurants, cafes, beach clubs and hotels facing the Atlantic. It's a favorite spot for an evening stroll, a meal with ocean views, or simply watching the surf.
Just along the coast sits the shrine of Sidi Abderrahmane on a small tidal island, and the beaches of Ain Diab. The Corniche showcases Casablanca's modern, leisure-oriented side, a contrast to the historic medinas elsewhere in the country.
Old Medina and Art Deco Heritage
Casablanca's Old Medina is smaller and less touristy than those of Fes or Marrakech, offering a more local, everyday glimpse of market life. Nearby, the Habous quarter (New Medina) blends Moroccan and French design with orderly arcades and craft shops.
Downtown Casablanca is rich in Art Deco and Mauresque architecture from the French colonial era, especially around Mohammed V Square and the United Nations Square. Walking tours reveal grand facades, cinemas and the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, a striking deconsecrated landmark.
Dining, Culture and Tips
Casablanca has Morocco's most cosmopolitan dining scene, from fresh seafood to international restaurants. The famous Rick's Cafe, inspired by the classic film, recreates 1940s ambiance and is a popular, atmospheric dinner spot, though the movie itself was not filmed in the city.
Casablanca is well connected, with Mohammed V International Airport serving as Morocco's main gateway and fast trains linking to Rabat, Marrakech and Fes. A day or two is enough for most travelers, often as a start or end point to a wider Morocco trip.
| Attraction | Type | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Hassan II Mosque | Religious landmark | Open to non-Muslim guided tours |
| Ain Diab Corniche | Seaside promenade | Dining & nightlife |
| Old Medina | Historic market | Local, less touristy |
| Mohammed V Square | Art Deco district | Walking-tour highlight |
Casablanca highlights
FAQ
Can non-Muslims visit the Hassan II Mosque?
Yes. The Hassan II Mosque is one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims, who can explore the interior on guided tours scheduled outside prayer times.
Is Casablanca worth visiting?
Casablanca is worth a day or two for the spectacular Hassan II Mosque, the seaside Corniche and its Art Deco architecture. As a modern, cosmopolitan city, it offers a different experience from the imperial cities and is a convenient travel hub.
How many days do you need in Casablanca?
One to two days is usually enough to see the main sights, including the mosque, the Corniche, the Old Medina and the downtown Art Deco quarter. Many travelers use it as an arrival or departure point.
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