In this list of things to see in Casablanca, you will be able to plan your visit to Casablanca. Our Morocco travel guide will help explore the top Casablanca attractions and activities. Also, you will know things to know before travelling to Casablanca. Thus, Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco where there is the second-largest port in Africa. If you enjoy history or art, Casablanca has many things to offer more than the Hassan II Mosque. However, you can compare its history and tradition of cities, such as Marrakech or Fes. Architecture fans will certainly want to spend some time in Casablanca’s centre. Besides, it has many Moorish-style buildings. Here are things to see in Casablanca.
Top things to see and do in Casablanca
Hassan II Mosque
The second-largest mosque in the world and the biggest attraction in Casablanca is Hassan II Mosque. In the whole nation, it is the only one that welcomes non-Muslims. It was constructed next to the sea with Moroccan mosaics. Its minaret is over 210 meters tall and it hosts around 105,000 worshippers. As you are allowed to visit, you must not forget that it is a place of worship. Besides, it is essential to remember to dress appropriately. And you remove your shoes before entering this place. As the area is crowded, I advise you to visit the mosque early in the morning and start your day by spending two hours here.
The Old Medina
The old Medina is one of the famous things to see in Casablanca since it offers everything. The Casablanca Medina experienced several restorations. It was once in 1755 after the earthquake of 1755, and it was in 1907 when it was destroyed by the French. Compared to other Moroccan old Medinas, Casablanca Medina is small and less vibrant. Medina used to be the centre of the city’s activity. Even now, this is a fantastic location for shopping and for learning about local traditions. So, you can find almost everything from Moroccan spices, clothing, handicrafts, food household items and other things
Boulevard de la Corniche
It is the promenade that stretches along the Casablanca coastline. On sunny days, it is one of the most relaxing places in the city. From Hassan II Mosque, You can continue your way along the coast until you reach Boulevard de la Corniche. I suggest that you take pictures of the mosque as you move along the Atlantic Ocean. Besides, Corniche, you can find luxury hotels and restaurants that occupy a large portion of the coast of Ain Diab. Although the beach is not particularly clean overall, there are many exclusive beach clubs with umbrellas and swimming pools. Moroccan families go there during the warm weekends to spend the day together and go on a picnic.
Museum of Moroccan Judaism
If you are a Jewish traveller, it is important to include this museum in things to visit in Casablanca. Thus, this Jewish museum represents the history of the Moroccan Jewish community. It includes pictures, artefacts, and event components from various synagogues. Here, Moroccan Jewish history is traced through displays of traditional clothing, religious artefacts and others. The emphasis is on the Jewish population in Casablanca. Each Wednesday, visitors can visit this museum for free. There are also many Jewish attractions in Morocco. On these Morocco Jewish tours, you can visit Jewish Heritage sites in Morocco.
Sacred Heart Cathedral
Casablanca Cathedral or Sacred Heart Cathedral built by the French in 193. The architect Paul Tornon designed this brilliant structure with a clear traditional Moroccan design effect. The cathedral served as a significant religious site during the period of French Catholic control in the country. However, once Morocco obtained independence in 1956, its religious purpose was stopped. The cathedral still stands today and it serves as a cultural hub for events like exhibits. Notre Dame de Lourdes Church is another church you can visit in the centre of Casablanca. It dates back to the 1950s. The glasswork of world-renowned stained glass artist Gabriel Loire is the main attraction of this Church.
Mohammed V Square
Mohammed V Square is another famous thing to see in Casablanca. It serves as the administrative centre of Casablanca. It is a prime example of 1920s architecture combining history and innovation. The French architect, Joseph Marast, created it during French protection. The square is a gathering point where people walk around there, or spend the day in nearby restaurants and cafés. So, you can spend your day here walking around and enjoying the surrounding landscape.
Things to know before visiting Morocco
Arabic and Tamazight or Berber are the two Moroccan official languages. Many Moroccans try to speak with tourists in French because of the significant French influence. Also, English-speaking locals can be found in more tourist destinations. The Moroccan dirham is the official currency. However, the dollar and the euro are also frequently accepted. It is better to have enough cash because many stores and shops don’t use cards.
Morocco is a Muslim and conservative nation. Therefore, you should try to cover yourself, especially when visiting local attractions or places of worship. For ladies, they can wear a long dress and skirt and they can cover their shoulders. For men, there are many places where they should not wear shorts.
I strongly recommend getting the Lifestraw water filter bottle. And you try to drink mineral water than tap water. Although Casablanca’s tap water is not dangerous, it may contain many new bacteria that your body is not used to. Any soil, bacteria or parasites are stuck in their filter, while clean water passes.
Is Casablanca Safe?
It is safe to travel to Casablanca. It has a larger police and security presence than any other Moroccan city since it is a large, modern city with many business headquarters. In Casablanca, crime is not a major problem, but it happens happen sometimes. So, it is important to be aware at all times and monitor your property. You should not carry too much money and do not wear expensive jewellery.
How to travel from Casablanca airport to the City centre?
If you book your Morocco tour with a local travel agency, they will offer you pick-up and drop-off services. However, if you travel on your own, here is what you should do.
The busiest airport in the nation is Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca. Many visitors use this airport to start their Morocco tours from Casablanca. Casablanca Airport is located far from the city centre and you can find it difficult to go to the centre. Here, I will describe to you how to get from the airport in Casablanca to the city centre. You can take a bus, train, or shared taxi from the airport to the city centre.
Bus transportation is the most practical way to go from the airport to the city centre. You can use the CTM bus that departs almost every hour. It takes 45 minutes to reach the city centre from the airport. The bus departs the airport from Terminal 1.
The Trains depart from the airport every hour. It takes them about 45 minutes to arrive at the city centre. They are at work every day from 6 am to 10 pm. They depart from the airport’s Terminal 1, charging around 42 MAD. So, you can book your ticket directly from the airport terminal.
Taxis are always at the main terminals of the airport. They usually charge between 250 and 300 MAD to bring you downtown. They also charge the same fee to bring you from downtown to the airport.
where to stay in Casablanca
In Casablanca accommodations, there are many hotels and options where to stay in Casablanca. Check booking.com to view different accommodations that suit your budget and needs.
If you are planning a private tour in Morocco, feel free to contact us. We offer various desert tours in Morocco. Leave a comment below if you have any additional questions or comments regarding this article.
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