Casablanca is the main home of the international airport in Morocco and is the main gateway to the country for many visitors and is often their first destination when visiting Morocco. This city represents the main force of industry and business in the country and has a unique charm and beauty that is unmatched by that of Marrakesh and Fez. Where you find there is a European touch in its architecture and the city has many delights and beautiful places that you do not find in other parts of the country.
Although the sights and attractions in Casablanca may not be as obvious as in other places, you will find many of them if you search a little. The city area It is a charming area and much smaller (and easier to navigate) than those in other places. The Hassan II Mosque Mega is high on the list in most tourist reference lists.
List of the best tourist attractions in Casablanca
- Hassan II Mosque
The Hassan II Mosque is located on the beach behind the northern end of Casablanca (the old city) and dominates the entire city. Completed in 1993, it is the second largest mosque in the world and covers an area of two hectares (acres) with the world's tallest minaret reaching 200 meters in height. The prayer hall can accommodate 25,000 worshippers, while the courtyard, which features a retractable roof, can accommodate 80,000 worshippers. The mosque decor has an amazing design that covers every centimeter in it. The location is right on the tip of the rocky bay above the ocean which is a very interesting sight. Non-Muslims can visit the mosque on guided tours that start at the western entrance to the mosque several times a day.
Address: Sidi Mohamed bin Abdullah Street
- City
Although Casablanca's old medina may not have as exciting a vibe as Fez and Marrakesh, its maze-like alleys hide a lot to discover. The merchants sell their wares to shoppers, including the butcher, the baker, and the candle maker. It is an old neighborhood that you enjoy walking its alleys and streets with an authentic feel and a great place to experience the pulse of Casablanca life. There are also some interesting Almoravid clergy in the southern part of the city.
Location: The main entrance from the Place des Nations Unies
- Mohammed V Square
Mohammed V Square is the central square in Casablanca. It is home to many of the city's important official buildings including the main post office, the Palace of Justice, the Prefecture, the French Consulate, and the main Banque du Maghreb. The all-sports-facing building in the neo-Moorish style that British Resident General Lyautey planned for the city as he headed toward the modernization of Casablanca in the early 20th century. The square has a central fountain and gorgeous gardens. It's a great place for a walk in the evening.
Address: Hassan II Street
- Corniche
The Casablanca Corniche (the beach front neighborhood) in the suburb of Ain Diab is the beating heart of the city for those who want to see and enjoy it. Much of the coastline is now home to luxury hotels and restaurants. During the day, the many beach clubs are filled with visitors who love to watch the sunrise and the reflection of its golden rays on the sea and the club's swimming pools. Then you'll find the public beach which is a great place to watch families on sunny weekends enjoying the water and sand as many local families head to the beach for a picnic.
Address: Corniche Street, Ain Diab suburb
- Basilica de Sacre Coeur
This magnificent cathedral was built in the 1930s and its architecture is a harmonious blend of European and Moorish styles. Unfortunately, it was not taken care of in the past few decades and now it needs restoration and renovation. But even in its current dilapidated state the structure is still beautiful. If you are lucky the guards will let you in where you can get a feel of the past glory of this building. Nearby is the Notre Dame de Lourdes Basilica, a lit church with wide glass windows covering more than 800 square metres.
Address: Rashid Street
- Central Market
Casablanca's bustling Central Market is an essential destination for tourists who want to throw themselves in the midst of the busy city life. Right in the middle of the city you find the market is where the locals come to buy and sell, whether they are housewives or merchants calling for their wares. It's a great opportunity for photographers and fun for everyone. You'll find everything here from plastic bowls to the famous Moroccan slippers. And you might be able to get some bargains there yourself while visiting the market.
Address: Allal Bin Abdullah Street
- Muhammadiyah
This quiet coastal city has some beaches Beautiful and comfortable alternative to accommodation in Casablanca. Although it is home to the second largest port in Morocco, Mohammedia and its quiet charm have not been affected by this industry. The small town offers a great deal of enjoyment for wanderers while the area the new city Attractively decorated with palm tree lined streets. And on the coast there are many cafés and restaurants bustling with activity on summer weekends when half of Casablanca's population escapes to the sands of Mohammedia.
the site : 28 km north of Casablanca
- I'm sorry
Safi has been an important port since Roman times, but it was the Almohad rulers who surrounded the city with fences large and made it an intellectual and spiritual center. The Portuguese occupied the city in 1508 and added to the architecture by building Dar Al Bahr Castle The stately shoreline is now the city's most famous monument. Safi is the most famous center of ceramics in Morocco and is a great place to spend an afternoon at the pottery market and the National Ceramic Museum, which are the main highlights of the old city.
the site : 237 km south of Casablanca
- neonatal
This charming seaside village has the perfect vibe after getting tired of visiting Moroccan cities. Prepare the beach The beautiful and the Saadian tomb in the city bronchus Reason enough to make a trip here but for many others it neonatal Oysters represent them. Oualidia is famous for its oyster farms. The menu of a local restaurant here is not without oysters and plenty of other fresh seafood, making the city a special place for foodies.
the site : 182 km south of Casablanca
- azmore
When the tourist boards started promoting Morocco's Atlantic coast, they didn't come to the village of Azemmour. Although this village has a history stretching back to Punic times, there are an impressive handful of sites that bear the mark of that long period. The most attractive is the strong wall that surrounds the medina and connects to the 16th century Kasbah.
longer the beach It is also one of the best places along the Atlantic coast and holds many secrets. In fact, the charm of the village of Azemmour lies in its tranquility and ancient historical monuments.
the site: 88 km south of Casablanca
- new
For a small town, El Jadida is full of interesting things to do which is surrounded by beautiful attractive sand which makes it perfect for walking on it. in the area the castle Built by the Portuguese, you can climb up the walls for stunning sea views and then visit the old prison that also served as a synagogue (synagogue) in the city. Also in the castle area you can see cisterns It dates back to the 16th century and was used as a filming location in the famous film Othello directed by Orson Welles.
the site : 102 km south of Casablanca
History of Casablanca
The origins of Casablanca can be traced back to the medieval city of Anfa, which is now one of the city's suburbs. Anfa became the capital of the Berber principality following the Arab invasions in the seventh and eighth centuries. The Berbers converted to Islam, but they quickly succumbed to the heretical beliefs (disbelief) and adopted a prophet from them and a Qur'an for them in the Berber language.
The emirate was known as Barghawata and its tribal inhabitants joined the Khariji rebellion against the Arab ruler of Tangiers. In the eleventh century, the Almoravids waged a holy war against these heretics who were defeated by the Almohad sultan Abd al-Mumin. The city came under the influence of the Merenids during the 13th century but eventually became independent as the dynasty weakened. The town was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1468 in retaliation against the pirates. Portugal sent a fleet of 50 ships and 10,000 soldiers to occupy the town, which was removed and then abandoned. But soon piracy revived again and the Portuguese returned in 1515 and destroyed the city again.
In 1575 the Portuguese rebuilt and fortified the city and changed its name to Casa Branca in an attempt to gain control of the area. However, the Portuguese rulers came under constant attack by the surrounding Muslim tribes and were finally forced to leave the town following a terrible earthquake in 1755. Under the rule of Sidi Mohamed bin Abd Allah (1757-1790) the city was rebuilt and a mosque, a school, a bath and a castle were built and it was called “Casablanca” (The White House), which the Spaniards eventually translated into Casablanca.
Where to stay in Casablanca for sightseeing
To enjoy the atmosphere of modern Casablanca and its historical attractions, the best place to stay is in the city center near the old medina, which is about a five-minute drive from the Hassan II Mosque. Another popular place to stay is on the oceanfront, especially in the upscale Anfa neighborhood near the Corniche, which is less than a 10-minute drive to the city centre. Here are some highly rated hotels in these locations:
- luxury hotels: Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche is located about 2 km from the Hassan II Mosque and a short walk from the old city. It is famous for its spa, heated indoor pool, friendly staff and elegant jeweled guest rooms. The rental cost includes breakfast. Hotel & Spa Le Doge is just steps away from Place Mohammed V, with charming rooms, great food and excellent service. If you prefer staying in an oceanfront resort, the Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca embodies contemporary Moroccan elegance. Facilities include a day spa, outdoor pool and whirlpool with private rooms.
- Average hotels: The oceanfront Pestana Casablanca is right next door to the Four Seasons and is a great choice for families or an extended stay with apartment-style accommodation. The Kenzi Tower is a pet-friendly hotel located in the city centre, a short drive from the old city and less than three kilometers from the Hassan II Mosque. It boasts great city views from its top floor rooms. The hotel offers free parking, a swimming pool and a fitness centre. The Kenzi Basma is very popular among the mid-range hotels and is within walking distance of the Old Town.
- Budget hotels: The Ibis Casablanca City Center offers simple, modern rooms opposite the Casa-Port Railway Station, making it easy for visitors to reach the Old Town. Al Walid is located across from the Casa Voyageurs Railway Station and about 2 km from the Central Market and has clean, modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, while the nearby Ibis Casa Voyageurs is another affordable option near public transportation in the city center .
Where to rent a car in Casablanca?
- Joseph's office: It is considered Youssef Office The leader in car rental offices at Casablanca Airport, as well as Mohammed V Airport in Casablanca and throughout the Kingdom of Morocco, including Marrakesh Airport and Agadir Airport.
