Let’s face it: when you think of this city, you almost definitely picture a certain classic movie; but there’s much more to this Moroccan mecca than Humphrey Bogart and piano melodies!

As the country’s biggest city – and one of its most significant cultural hubs -, it’s a powerhouse in every direction, filled with the rich traditions of North Africa, while still boasting plenty of international connections.

With so many things to do in Casablanca, you’ll want to keep your energy up and your eyes open!

1 – Admire Hassan II Mosque

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

It’s hard to miss this place – after all, the main minaret soars 200 meters (656 feet) above the city!

The attached building is pretty impressive in its own right; constructed in 1993, the Hassan II Mosque looms over the ocean like a powerful beacon; and as the biggest mosque in all of Africa, it serves as a celebration of faith for Muslims across the globe.

It even has a laser that points straight toward Mecca!

Be sure to step inside to look around the Hassan II Mosque Museum, which traces the evolution of this magnificent building over time.

Hassan II Mosque tickets & tours

2 – Wander through United Nations Square

United Nations Square, Casablanca

The name gives away some of its international prominence, but it’s not until you start exploring the square at length that you can see just how many different cultures are encompassed here.

It’s the focal point of the French colonial influence in the city, a long and winding saga of politics and resistance.

And it actually got its start as a bustling market, all the way back in 1920!

Over time, it grew into a major commuting hub, and a symbolic (and literal) nexus between the historic and newer parts of the city.

Don’t miss the nearby Coupole Zevaco, a stunning dome that anchors the space with its globe-like shape – a perfectly fitting design for this area!

Or just unwind on some walking tours, which will have you exploring the area in the traditional way: on foot!

walking tours in Casablanca

3 – Go camel riding

camel riding in Casablanca

It’s a classic part of visiting the desert, and nowadays, camel riding is a full experience in its own right!

Whether you’re venturing out into the canyons and palm groves near Marrakech (see #9) or exploring the winding rural paths of the Agafay Desert, this is one of the most unique ways to travel – after all, it’s not every day that your tour vehicle has a personality of its own!

And no matter what your riding experience is, you’ll quickly learn how to work in tandem with these delightful creatures as you enjoy the scenery.

camel riding in Casablanca

4 – Experience the authentic city firsthand as you explore Old Medina

Old Medina, Casablanca

Through all of the strife and changes that this city has faced, the Old Medina has remained largely undisturbed, and the result is a vibrant neighborhood that shows off the best parts of the country’s past – alive, thriving, and deeply interconnected with the town that has continued to grow here.

When you amble down these streets, you’ll be passing through a whole map’s worth of past influences – the French, the Portuguese, even the ancient Berber and Roman empires -, but with the strong Moroccan influences always shining through.

Try the traditional (and exciting!) art of haggling at the Medina Market, where every stall offers a new treat, clothing item, or knickknack.

Then spend some extra time enjoying the atmosphere as you wander from block to block, becoming part of one of the city’s longest-running stories!

Old Medina tours

5 – Take a look around Royal Palace

Royal Palace, Casablanca

While there have been plenty of monarchies and dynasties over the years, there are actually only four palaces remaining in the country… and one of them is right here in Casablanca!

Indeed, this city’s specimen is arguably the most prominent; not only is it one of the main homes of the King of Morocco, but it has also hosted numerous summits and important international visitors, including Pope John Paul II.

While the interior is closed to the public, you can still stroll around and enjoy the beautiful Arab-style designs along the outside – and feel the power of history!

6 – Delve into another side of the city at the Museum of Moroccan Judaism

Museum of Moroccan Judaism, Casablanca

Have you ever wanted to see the shine of jewels from hundreds of years ago? Or maybe you’d like to peek into the stories behind some amazing holidays? How about coming face to face with powerful religious documents?

Step into the Museum of Moroccan Judaism, and you’ll have all of this to see… and so much more!

Wander through the years and discover the rich history of the culture in this region, from religious rituals to artifacts from cultural celebrations.

Take a look at circumcision chairs, traditional synagogue items, and the scrolls of the Torah, foundational Jewish scripture.

It’s a fantastic glimpse into a different – and vibrant – part of the country’s culture!

7 – Take some time to enjoy Mohammed V Square

Mohammed V Square, Casablanca

Named for the king that led the country to rebellion against its former colonial rulers, Mohammed V Square is something of a 1920s time capsule – but it’s also a hopping modern space!

Abundant Art Deco gems show off the designs that flourished after World War I, and they’re accompanied by various monuments from the long history of the city.

And keep an eye out for some feathered friends as you explore; the area is famed for its massive flocks of pigeons!

Mohammed V Square tours

8 – Catch a show at Sacred Heart Cathedral

Sacred Heart Cathedral, Casablanca

Though it only served as a religious institution for 26 years, this beautiful church has continued to serve the city… though its offerings are a little more lively now!

Built in 1930 and decommissioned in 1956, it quickly shifted from a Catholic stronghold to a cultural powerhouse, a place where unique programming always has a home.

From art exhibitions to electronic raves, you never know what will fill these halls!

9 – Sample the sights and sounds of Marrakech

Marrakech, Morocco

Just a short day trip away, the endless delights of Marrakech await you, accompanied by some truly dazzling backdrops!

Surrounded by the epic jags of the Atlas Mountains and the intriguing, seemingly endless sands of the Sahara Desert, the city has always cut a striking profile, and it gets even more compelling when you venture into its streets!

Markets, mosques, and palaces unveil their secrets as you explore a city long known for its beauty and power, a place where you can really soak up the traditions of Morocco.

Take a break from the coast and give this wonderland a whirl!

Marrakech tours from Casablanca

10 – Get some sunshine like a local at the best parks

best parks in Casablanca

The green spaces in town aren’t just for locals; they’re also great places to relax and enjoy a more authentic side of the city!

Enjoy the lush palm trees and sitting areas of Arab League Park, or the fun and innovative Anfa Park, a gorgeous swath of green in the heart of the city lined with cafes, walking paths, and even a skatepark.

Stroll through the spacious gardens of Parc Murdoch, or get even more rural with a trip to Bouskoura Forest, filled with hiking and biking paths that run through endless groves of trees.

Around here, a day in the park is a bonafide tourist activity!

11 – Go hiking through the stunning landscapes

hiking in Casablanca

That being said, you may be craving some more time in the great outdoors, and there’s certainly no shortage of great hiking around here!

Not only do the trails offer a nice mixture of challenges for every sort of adventurer, but they take you to some of the most amazing stretches of wilderness in the region – with lots of traditional towns thrown in!

Whether you’re scaling mighty Mount Toubkal or exploring the dunes of the Sahara, you’ll get some well-earned dirt on your shoes… not to mention some photo-worthy spots!

hiking in Casablanca

12 – See a livelier side of Judaism at Beth-El Temple

Beth-El Temple, Casablanca

For a more current model of the city’s Jewish heritage, you can swing by this magnificent synagogue, which has served the community since 1900.

Of course, that community is a little smaller these days; while the city once hosted the largest Jewish population in the region, there are only a few thousand still living in the area today.

But the beautiful Rococo-style temple has remained stalwart throughout, serving both as a visual gem and the main hub of Judaism in town.

And don’t miss the Jewish Heritage tours in Casablanca, which reveal the depth and nuisance of a culture that has flourished in this region for centuries.

Jewish Heritage tours in Casablanca

13 – Take a look around Rabat

Rabat, Morocco

The thriving seaside capital of the nation, Rabat is a place that will take you into the past… with gusto!

Because while it’s certainly a bustling town now, it’s also been a hub for hundreds of years, hosting powerful armies and fending off pirates.

Journey through the forts and old neighborhoods, and learn how this remarkable city gained strength and prominence over the years.

Then explore the more modern side of town, from the intellectual smorgasbord of Mohammed V University to the adrenaline-packed shopping experience of Souika Street.

This is one day trip that will keep you entertained at every turn!

Rabat tours from Casablanca

14 – Make some time to frolic on the best beaches

best beaches in Casablanca

With all of the fun going on in the streets, you might almost forget that this is technically a coastal town!

But of course, part of the city’s power lies in its proximity to water, and you can get a more relaxed version as you enjoy the best beaches in Casablanca!

Surfers will want to hit the waves at Ain Sebaa and Sodi Bernousi, while downtown dwellers can enjoy the charms of Lalla Maryem.

Hop into the saltwater pools at Ain Diab Beach, or head to Mriziga, right in the middle of town, for a bit of splashing in the waves.

The soothing powers of saltwater are definitely at play here; and whether you prefer your time at the shore to be wild or mild, you’ll certainly get your fix!

15 – Enjoy El Hank Lighthouse from every angle

El Hank Lighthouse, Casablanca

Of course, the ocean’s not just about fun and games; it’s also a major source of commerce.

And this powerful lighthouse – the tallest in Morocco! – has helped spearhead that process, keeping watch over the many ships that have frequented these harbors.

At 51 meters (167 feet) high, it’s also a fantastic viewpoint… if you’re willing to climb its 256 steps, that is.

But trust us, the sights at the top are well worth it!

16 – Take a cooking class

cooking classes in Casablanca

Massive multi-course meals, tantalizing treats, and vibrant flavors from every corner of the food pyramid… and best of all, you make the whole thing yourself!

If you love food at more than just a tasting level, then cooking classes are the way to go!

And they’re certainly some of the best things to do in Casablanca if you want to really get to know the area; after all, every part of the process involves engagement with the community’s most delicious products.

You’ll get to test out each ingredient, and learn how to bring them together to make some truly spectacular meals… talk about a great souvenir!

cooking classes in Casablanca

17 – Enjoy a stylish stroll along La Corniche

La Corniche, Casablanca

If you’d like to do more than just sunbathe, you can’t miss this stretch of sand; it offers some of the coolest activities in town!

This area has something for everyone, from serious surfers to hardcore partiers; but it’s the beach clubs that are truly phenomenal!

From the luxurious pools of Tahiti Beach Club to the family-friendly CCC Sun Beach, the upscale Crystal Beach Club, and the hip Mercat, there are endless places to kick back and spoil yourself… and maybe party a little along the way!

18 – Enjoy the endless diversions of Fez

Fez, Morocco

There’s more here than just hats!

In fact, Fez is often called the cultural capital of Morocco; and with its traditional souks, beautiful mosques, and busy public spaces, it’s continued to earn that title!

Pottery shops and tanneries commingle with lively museums and a humming handicraft scene, creating an environment that always offers something new and beautiful to enjoy.

And yes, you can buy some of the classic caps there as well!

Fez tours from Casablanca

19 – Enjoy the diverse delights of the Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum

Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum, Casablanca

Back in town, you can indulge your cultural side even more at the Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum, home to some of the country’s most remarkable artifacts… and a few surprises as well.

Along with items ranging from ceramics and textiles to some wonderfully funky offerings (don’t miss the metal fish!), the space holds plenty of workshops, so you can take a crack at your own masterpiece.

It’s definitely one of the more unique things to do in Casablanca!

20 – Conquer the rides at Parc Sindibad

Parc Sindibad, Casablanca

Time for a little bit of action… or a lot!

This is the kind of amusement park that draws you in on every level; while it’s aimed more towards youngsters, there are plenty of rides, live shows, and even a small zoo to keep supervising grownups happily entertained.

Treat the whole family to a hearty helping of fun!

21 – Bring your appetite along on a food tour

food tours in Casablanca

If you want to get to know the city through your plate, venture out on some food tours… and prepare to be amazed!

Because the only thing better than tasting amazing food is learning about it – and seeing how these dynamic dishes play into the larger story of the city.

Whether you’re popping from one street food stall to the next or trying some decadent seafood meals, these excursions will have you coming back for more!

food tours in Casablanca

22 – Pay a visit to Mahkama of Pacha and other architectural gems

Mahkama of Pacha, Casablanca

Sure, this may just be an ordinary courthouse and administrative building… but the design is among the city’s most beautiful!

In addition to helping the city run smoothly, its gorgeous wood carvings, marble columns, and mosaics make it an irresistible art piece for visitors to engage with.

And it’s just part of the rich architectural scene in town; with a unique blend of classic North African styles, European holdovers from the colonial eras, and ornate Art Deco buildings, you could easily spend a whole holiday just roaming between masterpieces!

23 – Get an amazing haul on a shopping tour through the local souks

shopping tours in Casablanca

Time for a bit of retail therapy… Moroccan style!

This is certainly a city with plenty to purchase, and the shopping tours in Casablanca are the perfect way to sample all of the different commercial areas without getting overwhelmed.

After all, the souks here are some of the finest in the region and a great way to experience the city’s vibrant commercial life – plus, they’re great places to score some souvenirs!

If you’re still feeling peckish after all of the food tours (see #21), you can stop by Marche des Boucheries for meats, Le Marche Solidaire for produce, or Habous Olive Market for, well, olives!

And if you’re looking for some cool items to bring home, don’t miss the bustling Central Market, or the secondhand treasures at Soco de Moina and Derb Ghallef Flea Market.

You can even pop over to the massive Morocco Mall, which has its very own souk tucked inside… complete with traditional artisans!

shopping tours in Casablanca

24 – Check out the stained glass at Eglise Notre Dame De Lourdes

Eglise Notre Dame De Lourdes, Casablanca

Another bit of religiously-inspired beauty, Eglise Notre Dame De Lourdes serves as both a house of worship and a dazzling work of art.

In fact, this Modernist spot feels almost more like a spaceship than a church, with its swooping entryway and sleek white exterior.

But the interior is much more like a traditional church… including some bona fide masterpieces!

It’s here that you will find some magnificent stained glass pieces, created by the brilliant Gabriel Loire.

Typical religious scenes of saints and miracles are depicted in remarkable braids of color, bringing the Bible to life in a style that’s utterly unforgettable!

25 – Live out your Hollywood dreams at Rick’s Café

Rick’s Café, Casablanca

Ok, you know that there had to be a movie reference in here somewhere!

After all, the 1942 movie Casablanca still remains a pop cultural powerhouse to this day; and while you’re in town, you can even enjoy a recreation of its famous setting!

The cinematic version of Rick’s Cafe was a stronghold for the community in a time of resistance, and since 2004, it’s also existed off the silver screen – right in the center of town, in fact!

From the historic 1930s building to the excellent food and, of course, live piano music, the whole space is designed to evoke feelings of nostalgia, while still providing a fabulous gathering place in its own right.

And if you don’t have time for a full meal, you can always stop by on one of the excellent city tours!

city tours in Casablanca

26 – Get soaked and psyched at Tamaris Aquaparc

Tamaris Aquaparc, Casablanca

With lazy rivers, color-coordinated slides, and splashy playgrounds, a day at Tamaris Aquaparc is always refreshing – and not just because of the cool waters!

Try the Red Glide, Green Glide, and Black Glide, which each offer their own fantastic twists and turns; drift along the gentle current of Amazonia; or grab some travel buddies and hop into one of the four slides of Scoubidou… then see who hits the pool first!

Bring out your inner child or just relax and cool off on the mellower rides… either way, you’re bound to have some fun in the sun!

27 – Celebrate the creative types at Villa of Arts

Villa of Arts, Casablanca

The pieces are cutting-edge, the ideas are thought-provoking, the surprises are consistent… and Villa of Arts is easily accessible to everyone!

The gallery may not be large, but its rotating collections really pack a punch, providing local and national creatives with a place to show off their work – and locals and visitors a place to enjoy it!

28 – Pick up your next favorite food (or anything else) at Central Market

Central Market, Casablanca

Among all of the other amazing shopping areas, Central Market stands out; not just for its size, but also for its abundance of offerings!

Since 1917, it’s been a hub for seafood, produce, flowers, and even antique photographs, a place where you can prepare your next meal or just pretty up your home.

And save some time to stop by one of the many excellent restaurants, where you can enjoy a nice meal and soak up the atmosphere of one of the city’s most important mercantile zones!

Central Market tours

29 – Chill out and enjoy the views at some rooftop bars

rooftop bars in Casablanca

Sea and scenic buildings, old and new, beauty and complexity… this is one city that’s well worth seeing from above!

And it’s even better with a nice cocktail in hand!

Unwind amongst the bamboo and palm trees at LE BIR, or enjoy the colorful jungle of The Jame’s Rooftop… complete with live DJs!

Enjoy even more live music and some excellent tapas at SKY 28, or cool off in the rooftop pool at 16ème Floor.

And at Sky Bar, you’ll get a mix of beach and party vibes, complete with amazing cocktails and some light bites!

30 – Ponder the unusual legacy of Al-Quds Mosque

Al-Quds Mosque, Casablanca

When you pass by this lively neighborhood spot, you might notice that it looks a bit different from many of the other mosques in town.

That’s because it actually started life in a very different form… as a church!

In 1920, the building was opened as the Church of Saint Margaret, and for over 60 years, its Neo-Gothic facade hosted a steady stream of parishioners.

The ideological makeover came in 1981, as the nation shifted away from European standards, and more towards traditional Moroccan policies and beliefs- including Islam.

The result is a deceptively simple structure that encompasses the city’s famous mixture of societies into its very blueprint… talk about a two-for-one attraction!

31 – Spoil yourself at some top-notch spas

spas in Casablanca

There are plenty of traditional things to try here, but these are certainly some of the most relaxing!

Step into the best hammams in Casablanca, and you’ll find endless opportunities to steam, soak, get massaged, and more.

Get a little romantic at Gaia Spa with couples packages, facials, and tea-based body scrubs.

Head to Hammam Ziani for more traditional treatments, plus some unique options like seaweed therapy.

Or indulge in a bit of everything at Hotel Casablanca Le Lido Thalasso and Spa, where you can detox, get massaged, swim, and relax in the gardens during a visit that will invigorate every part of your body and mind.

And with so many other spas in Casablanca, you’ll never run out of ways to kick back!

spas in Casablanca

32 – Dream World

Dream World, Casablanca

Whether you’re looking to beat the heat or just try out some awesome tech, the bright lights of Dream World will get you playing in no time, offering some of the coolest things to do in Casablanca for gamers of all stripes.

You’ll find classic arcade standards, racing options, and even some guest appearances from your favorite video game characters.

You can even enjoy a bit of bowling, or check out the VR machines to enter realms unlike any you’ve ever seen before.

This is one dream you won’t want to wake up from!

33 – Belly up to the best restaurants

best restaurants in Casablanca

Keep your energy or celebrate the end of another day of adventuring at the best restaurants in Casablanca, with dish after dish of delights!

At Restaurant El Gousto, you can tuck into some hearty Italian and Mediterranean, plus a nice bit of seafood.

And at NKOA, you can unwind in relaxed settings, and enjoy some awesome fusion meals along the way.

Restaurant Dar El Kaid is the place to go if you crave some traditional Moroccan meals, and La Pergola provides an endless array of French and international cuisine, all in a stylish but relaxed setting.

And at Le Jasmine, you can enjoy another spin on the authentic local experience, from tagine to couscous, and some gorgeous decor to match.

34 – Take a night tour

night tours in Casablanca

Towns have a different identity at every time of day, and things are particularly beautiful and exciting around here when the sun has set!

The night tours in Casablanca won’t just show you the beauty of monuments and neighborhoods illuminated by lights (though you’ll get to enjoy plenty of that, of course); you’ll also get to enjoy the bustling evening markets and neighborhoods filled with revelers.

Weave through souks and medinas thrumming with energy, watch the glistening of the waves on the beach, and enjoy the unique rhythms of the streets; it’s one prolonged, citywide party!

night tours in Casablanca

35 – Slam some caffeine and sample the best nightlife

best bars and clubs in Casablanca

And speaking of parties…

No matter what level of nightlife you enjoy, you’ll find your scene at the best bars and clubs in Casablanca, where the only problem is deciding which spot to scope out next!

Take a detour to the Emerald Isle at The Irish Pub, or enjoy the eclectic tunes at Cabaret Don Quichotte.

Get your live music fix at Amstrong Official, or enjoy some great snacks to go with your beverage at La Bodega.

And if you’d really like to get into the swing of things, La Maison B has the DJs, the dance floor, and the lively crowds to keep you boogying until dawn!

How to get to Casablanca?

From the sky or the sea, you’ll have some excellent ways to visit this dynamite town!

If you’re flying, you can book airport transfers to whisk you straight from your flight to your hotel (and back again) – no need to struggle with transit or taxis!

And if you’re cruising around the region as a whole, there are also some awesome shore excursions in Casablanca.

Sample all of the wonders of the city over the course of a day, then mosey back to your ship – it’s the best of both worlds!

Where to stay in Casablanca?

Right in the midst of town, Radisson Blu Hotel Casablanca City has a gym and restaurant to keep you entertained – when you’re not visiting the Central Market and nearby attractions, that is!

And ODYSSEE Boutique Hotel Casablanca has a bar and lounge for you to kick back, and a bike rental service when you want to get a little more adventurous!

Idou Anfa Hotel & Spa really lays on the rejuvenating treatments, with a spa, hammam, and plentiful ocean views.

And ONOMO Airport Casablanca makes it easier than ever to transition from your flight to your fun, with a free shuttle to get you there, and a nice garden and lovely gym to enjoy once you’ve arrived.

Meanwhile, Hotel De Paris provides a glamorous setting and some gorgeous glimpses of the city outside, plus some lovely social settings where you can relax and meet other travelers.

best hotels in Casablanca

Visiting Casablanca on a budget?

The free walking tours in Casablanca will make you feel like a local… especially because you’ll have actual townspeople guiding you!

Sure, you’ll be able to see all of the big and exciting attractions, but you’ll also get to explore the more hidden sides of the city, and learn about its complicated legacies and amazing offerings in equal measure.

Bring cash to tip your guide, some good shoes for walking, and a readiness to learn!

Where to go next?

If you want to keep a nice home base, set out on some of the multi-day trips from Casablanca, where you can enjoy the sparkling blue buildings of Chefchaouen, take in the vastness of the Sahara Desert, or delve into the hidden wonders and epic glories of the Imperial Cities: Fez, Rabat, Marrakesh, and Meknes.

And speaking of those iconic spots, two of them are easy to pop over to for an extended adventure!

There are some truly remarkable things to do in Marrakesh, a mountain-ringed town that offers up everything from belly-dancing to ancient streets and wild markets.

And it’s also another great portal to outdoor adventures; be sure to check out some of the best Marrakech desert tours when you’re ready to see more of those unforgettable landscapes!

You can also keep busy with all of the things to do in Fez, a bustling town with a character based on culture and molded by time.

And there are also some excellent gems along the coast – they may be smaller, but they’re still pretty powerful!

If you want to get sporty and artsy all in one go, you’ll find endless things to do in Essaouira, where galleries and windsurfing are all on the docket.

And if you’ve ever dreamed of surfing in the morning and visiting beautiful monuments in the afternoon, you’ll feel spoiled for choice by all of the things to do in Agadir, a thriving beach town with wonderful traditional architecture and charm to spare.

Final thoughts

Sure, this city still has the romance, dynamic culture, and powerful presence that made it such a cinematic star; but it’s also a place that’s always changing and growing, making it the ultimate place for a rewarding holiday.

So when you’re ready to fall in love with the modern, the ancient, the intellectual, and the exciting, dive into the amazing things to do in Casablanca… and be the star of your own adventure worthy of any movie!

Table of contents:

35 Fun Things to Do in Casablanca, Morocco