Visit Casablanca: what are the best things to do and see in the most populous city of Morocco and the Maghreb?
Land of the main international airport Morocco , Casablanca is the main gateway in the country for many visitors. Industrial and economic locomotive of the country, it does not rival the exotic charms of Marrakech and Fez. There is a European touch to much of its architecture, and the city has a modern look that is not seen in other parts of the country. However, you will find some pearls to visit in Casablanca. The Medina quarter is charming and much smaller, and easier to discover than elsewhere. And the colossal Hassan II It's impossible.
To help you organize your stay more simply, here is a list of essential things to do in Casablanca!
1. The Hassan II Mosque
Flickr – laura0509
On the shore, just beyond the northern tip of the medina Casablanca (old city), Hassan II dominates the whole city. Completed in 1993, it is the fourth largest mosque in the world, covering 9 hectares with the highest minaret in the world (201 m high). The prayer room can accommodate 25,000 faithful while the court (which has a retractable roof) can contain 80,000 others. Its decoration from the surprisingly complex Moroccan craftsmanship covers every centimetre of its surface. Located by the sea, its location is quite spectacular. Non-Muslims can visit the mosque during guided tours that begin at the western entrance of the mosque several times a day.
2. The old medina
Wikimedia – Adam Jones, Ph.D.
Although the old city of Casablanca does not have as much atmosphere and exoticism as the Medina of Fez or Marrakesh, this maze of alleys still hides many things to discover. We'll find some of them. typical traders who sell their goods. It’s a decayed and dazzled neighborhood with a authentic residential atmosphere , and an ideal place to take the pulse of life in Casablanca. There are also Koubba (sanctuary) interesting to see south of the Medina. It was completely destroyed during the Lisbon earthquake in 1755 and rebuilt in 1770. You can admire around the old medina ramparts .
3. Mohammed V Square
Flickr – cliff williams
Main square of the city, the Place Mohammed V has a large fountain (with colored lights at night) and is surrounded by beautiful examples of French colonial architecture. The place is not beautiful as such, but if you fall on it, you will enjoy a moment to rest and watch the active life around you. The main post office is located here, as well as the Palais de Justice, the French consulate and several large banks.
4. The Corniche
Flickr – Othmanlah
The Corniche of Casablanca (front of the sea) is an excellent place for stroll around the water . A large part of the coast now houses luxury hotels and restaurants. This is where the premises go to relax and have fun. A little away from the city center, you can swim in the pools of beach clubs and take a transat, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. In the evening, Nightlife It's lively.
5. The Church of the Sacred Heart
Flickr – Mac-Jordan Degadjor
This elegant church was built in the 1930s and its architecture is a harmonious mix of gothic and art-deco. Unfortunately, it has been left without restoration in recent decades, but even in its current state of decay, the structure is still as beautiful. Not far, you can see Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes Cathedral, built 24 years later. Do not hesitate to visit the vast garden and public park Arab League .
6. Art-deco buildings
Flickr – Sandra Cohen-Rose and Colin Rose
At some point in history, Morocco (or almost all) was a French colony. Therefore, Casablanca preserved an architectural heritage of the colonial era of the 1930s. Art Deco buildings dominate the center of the city and a walk is recommended to appreciate the beauty of some buildings. Start at United Nations Place and walk towards Mohammed V Boulevard.
7. The Habous district (new medina)
Flickr – Luc Legay
Here is another facet of the white city to discover. It is a neighbourhood built by the French between 1918 and 1955 to create a new Medina. It looks like traditional old Moroccan cities with a few more things: larger streets and modern facilities. In addition, it houses different traditional markets as well as the Royal Palace which is worth seeing while walking.
8. Visit a hammam
Credit – Hammam Ziani
You have to try a steam bath and scrub in a traditional hammam when you visit Morocco, so why not in Casablanca? Try that of Féminine Solidarity or Les Bains Ziani.
9. Central Market
Panoramio – DERB OMAR
The lively central market in Casablanca is essential if you want to interfere in the heart of the city's life. In the city centre, this is where the inhabitants come to buy and sell everything, including Moroccan babouches. This is a great opportunity for photographers and very fun for everyone.
10. Outside Casa: Mohammedia
Flickr – mustapha ennaimi
This sleeping seaside town offers some beautiful beaches, and is a relaxing alternative to a stay in Casablanca. Although sheltering the second largest port of Morocco, Mohammédia and its quiet charms were not affected by the industry. The little Medina is a delight where to stroll, while the New City is beautifully arranged with large boulevards lined with palm trees. On the beaches, cafes and restaurants activate on the summer weekends, when the inhabitants of Casablanca seem to come escape from Mohammédia.
Casablanca : go, stay
Casablanca enjoys a mild climate, winters are not too cold, but can be rainy. Summers are hot, but the fresh Atlantic breeze makes it more bearable than Marrakech for example. Cheap and direct flights are readily available from many French cities. Find the best prices on Ulysses . You can also reach Casablanca from Marrakech by train or by bus.
Unlike Marrakech, Fez or Essaouira, there are not many beautiful charming hotels or Riads tastefully decorated in Casablanca. As with many cities in the world, the choice of area where to stay Do a lot. However, you will always find a cheap hotel on our Compare hotels .
Have you visited Casablanca?
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