When most people think of Morocco, cities like Marrakech or Fes come to mind first. But Casablanca, the country's largest and most modern city, has a charm and energy that is entirely its own. Sitting proudly on the Atlantic coast, Casablanca is a fascinating mix of colonial French architecture, buzzing business districts, ancient Moroccan medinas, and world-class seafront dining.
Whether you are passing through for a day or planning a longer stay, there is no shortage of things to do in Casablanca. From iconic mosques to vibrant art galleries, scenic corniche walks to authentic food experiences, this city has something for every type of traveller. This guide walks you through the best things to do in Casablanca, complete with insider tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Casablanca is often underestimated as a travel destination. Many visitors treat it as little more than a transit hub, a city you pass through on your way to somewhere else. But that would be a real mistake. The best things to do in Casablanca range from breathtaking religious landmarks and beautifully preserved colonial-era architecture to lively night markets and cutting-edge contemporary art.
The city is also the economic heartbeat of Morocco, which means it boasts world-class infrastructure, excellent restaurants, modern shopping centres, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere you will not find anywhere else in the country. For British holidaymakers, it is also wonderfully accessible with direct flights available from several UK airports and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that makes settling in effortlessly easy.
No list of Casablanca sightseeing is complete without a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most stunning mosques in the entire world. Perched dramatically on a rocky promontory over the Atlantic Ocean, this architectural marvel was completed in 1993 and can accommodate up to 105,000 worshippers.
The mosque features a laser-guided minaret standing 210 metres tall, the highest religious structure in the world. Its floor is partially made of glass, allowing worshippers to pray over the ocean. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome on guided tours, making this one of the rare mosques in Morocco open to all.
Entry: Guided tours available daily except Fridays | Approx. 120–150 MAD
Pro Tip: Visit at sunset when the golden light reflects off the ocean, and the white marble is absolutely stunning.
Unlike the sprawling medinas of Marrakech or Fes, Casablanca's Old Medina is compact and relatively easy to navigate. It dates back to the 18th century and gives you a real feel for the city's historic roots before the French colonial era transformed much of it.
Inside the medina, you will find narrow alleys, colourful market stalls selling spices, textiles, and leather goods, as well as traditional cafes serving strong Moroccan mint tea. It is one of the most authentic Casablanca, Morocco attractions and a wonderful contrast to the modern city outside its walls.
Don't Miss: The Sqala, a historic sea bastion with a rooftop garden cafe and great views of the medina and port
One of the most unique things to do in Casablanca is simply walking through the city centre and admiring its extraordinary Art Deco architecture. Built during the French Protectorate era in the early 20th century, Casablanca has one of the finest collections of Art Deco buildings outside of Europe.
Key streets to explore include Boulevard Mohammed V and the area around Place des Nations Unies. Buildings like the Assayag building, the Rialto Cinema, and the Excelsior Hotel are all magnificent examples of this distinctive architectural style. Architecture enthusiasts consider this one of the best things to do in Casablanca, and it costs absolutely nothing.
Tip: Consider joining a guided architectural walking tour to get the full historical context. Several are available in English
One of the most unique things to do in Casablanca is a visit to the Museum of Moroccan Judaism, the only museum of its kind in the Arab and Muslim world. Located in the Oasis district, this fascinating museum tells the rich story of Jewish life and culture in Morocco over more than 2,000 years.
The museum displays religious artefacts, traditional costumes, documents, photographs, and reconstructed synagogue interiors. It is a moving and educational experience that reveals Morocco's extraordinary history of religious coexistence and tolerance.
Entry Fee: Approx. 30 MAD | Open Sunday to Friday
For art lovers, the Villa des Arts is an absolute must. Housed in a beautifully restored 1930s Art Deco villa, this contemporary art centre showcases modern and contemporary Moroccan art through rotating exhibitions.
The villa itself is a work of art with its grand staircase, original tilework, and lush garden, making it one of the most rewarding Casablanca sightseeing experiences. Entry is free or low-cost, and the exhibitions are genuinely world-class.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
The Marche Central, or Central Market, is a covered market in the heart of the city where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, meat, spices, olives, and flowers. It is a lively, colourful, and delightfully sensory experience.
Surrounding the market are several excellent fish restaurants where you can pick your fresh catch from the market stalls and have it cooked to order right next door. This is genuinely one of the best things to do in Casablanca for food lovers and anyone wanting to experience everyday local life.
Best Visit Time: Mornings on weekdays when the market is at its most lively and fresh stock is at its best
Located along the Corniche, Ain Diab is Casablanca's most popular beach area. While the beaches themselves are not the most pristine in Morocco, the beach clubs, pools, restaurants, and bars that line the seafront make it a great place to spend a lazy afternoon.
Many of the beach clubs offer day passes that include access to pools and sun loungers. This makes Ain Diab one of the most relaxing Casablanca things to do, especially during the warmer months when the Atlantic breeze keeps temperatures comfortable.
The Sacred Heart Cathedral (Cathedrale du Sacre Coeur) is one of Casablanca's most striking landmarks. Built by the French in 1930 in a blend of Gothic and Moorish architectural styles, this impressive cathedral no longer functions as a place of worship but has been converted into a cultural and exhibition space.
Its soaring white towers, stained glass windows, and ornate detailing make it one of the most photographed casablanca morocco attractions. The surrounding park is a peaceful spot to sit and take in the architecture
The Twin Centre two towering skyscrapers connected by a sky bridge is one of the most recognisable features of modern Casablanca's skyline. Located in the Maarif district, the towers house offices, a luxury hotel, and one of the city's best shopping malls.
The area around the Twin Centre is excellent for shopping, dining, and people-watching. It is a great symbol of how Casablanca balances its traditional Moroccan identity with its role as a modern commercial capital, making it one of the more contemporary Casablanca sightseeing experiences.
The Habous Quarter, also called the New Medina, was built by the French in the 1930s as a planned neighbourhood that blended Moroccan traditional architecture with French urban planning. It is cleaner, quieter, and more organised than the Old Medina, making it a pleasant area to explore.
You will find excellent patisseries selling traditional Moroccan pastries, bookshops, antique shops, and a lively fruit and vegetable market. The quarter also contains the Royal Palace of Casablanca (exterior viewing only), a beautiful mosque, and several inviting cafe terraces. This is one of the most charming Casablanca things to do for a slow, relaxed exploration.
Don't Miss: Buying fresh msemen flatbreads, almond-stuffed briouats, and a box of traditional Moroccan sweets.
Casablanca is a wonderful starting point for exploring everything Morocco has to offer. If you are planning a wider adventure across the country, explore our complete guide on Things to Do in Morocco, where we cover the imperial city of Fes, the dramatic blue streets of Chefchaouen, the ancient wonders of Marrakech, and the unforgettable golden dunes of the Sahara Desert.
For those with a broader sense of adventure, our guide to Things to Do in Africa takes you across an entire continent from the wildlife-rich plains of the Serengeti to the ancient pyramids of Egypt and the breathtaking coastline of Cape Town.
At Crystal Travel, we are passionate about helping UK travellers discover the world's most extraordinary destinations. Get in touch with our expert team today to start planning your Casablanca or Morocco holiday.
Let Crystal Travel help you plan a Casablanca holiday that does this remarkable city full justice.
Casablanca is a city that surprises, impresses, and stays with you long after you return home. Between its spectacular Atlantic coastline, its monumental mosque, its charming historic quarters, and its vibrant food and arts scene, the things to do in Casablanca are rich, varied, and deeply rewarding.
From the grandeur of Casablanca Morocco attractions like the Hassan II Mosque, to the quiet pleasure of a rooftop mint tea overlooking the Atlantic at sunset, every experience here feels genuine and memorable. The best things to do in Casablanca are waiting; all you need is an open mind, a sense of curiosity, and a willingness to look beyond what you already know about Morocco.
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