Loved the film? The real Casablanca is even better, offering a captivating blend of Moroccan tradition and cosmopolitan flair.
Affectionately nicknamed ‘Casa’ by locals, Casablanca is a heady seaside metropolis where palm trees and glass skyscrapers meet history, culture, mosques, and markets. As Morocco’s economic capital and largest city, it hums with energy. Here are some of our favourite things to see and do:
Architecture
Befitting its rich history, the streets of Morocco’s ‘white city’ boast an eclectic mix of architectural styles—from modern skyscrapers and traditional Moroccan design to French-colonial Mauresque (a French take on the traditional Moroccan style) and Art Deco. Some notable buildings include:
- Hassan II Mosque: The city’s most iconic landmark is set on a rocky outcrop at the edge of the ocean, giving the impression that it’s floating on water. The second largest mosque in Africa with the highest minaret in the world, it can hold more than 100 000 worshippers, with a retractable roof. Guided tours are available.
- Ciné-théâtre Lutetia: This independent cinema is a landmark of Moroccan Modernism.
- Cinema Rialto and La Poste Centrale (central post office): Art Deco fans shouldn’t miss a visit to these two prime Art Deco landmarks.
- Sacred Heart Cathedral (L’Eglise du Sacré-Cœur): A stunning blend of Gothic & Art Deco styles, now a cultural centre.
Neighbourhoods & shopping
- The Old Medina (Ancienne Médina): Casablanca’s historic heart, full of narrow winding alleys, bustling markets, whitewashed buildings, and painted doors. Visit the souks here to barter for crafts, textiles, and seafood.
- The New Medina (Quartier Habous): Built during French colonial rule to resemble an idealised version of a traditional Moroccan neighbourhood with wider streets, grand archways, tiled fountains, and a more relaxed pace. A French-Moroccan blend of souks, bookshops, and historic bakeries. Stock up on handcrafted souvenirs and local sweet treats, like traditional almond pastries at Pâtisserie Bennis Habous.
- Morocco Mall: Africa’s largest shopping centre, home to international brands, also has an ice rink, a musical fountain, a 6D movie theatre and an aquarium.
- Kuba Concept Store: Onomo Casablanca City Center’s resident boutique concept store is a treasure trove of bold Afropolitan fashion.
- Artsy Concept Store: A curated collection of fashion, jewellery, and homeware from local designers.
- Zyne: This luxury, artisan shoe brand reimagines the iconic Moroccan babouche for the 21st century.
- LNKO: Need new sunnies? Pop in for a browse at this fashion-forward Moroccan eyewear brand.
- Also worth a visit: We are Zaz, To Concept Store, Createurs Concept Store, and The Eight Concept.
Food
- Authentic Moroccan food: For a taste of traditional Moroccan cuisine, head to La Sqala, set within a historic fortress, or Dar Dada, tucked away among the alleyways of the Old Medina inside a charming ‘riad’ (traditional Moroccan house with a central courtyard).
- The Marché Centrale: Thanks to its coastal location, Casablanca’s menus often feature the catch of the day. This lively market is paradise for foodies, especially for fresh seafood, but also spices, olives, street food, flowers, and souvenirs—from antiques to old movie posters.
- Rick’s Café: Fans of the iconic 1942 movie, Casablanca, might be disappointed to hear that it wasn’t filmed in the city, but on a Hollywood set. Luckily, movie lovers can relive the romance at this faithful recreation. Opened in the early 2000s inside a restored mansion, this restaurant channels the film’s iconic gin joint with regular live piano music and jazz sessions.
- Azour Terrace & Lounge: Onomo Hotel Casablanca City Center’s resident eatery is a hip-and-happening spot with a sun-drenched terrace that dishes up African and Mediterranean tapas and signature cocktails.
- Sain Levant:. Located inside new 5-star stay, Le Square by Onomo Collection, Sain Levant’s menu draws inspiration from Levantine cuisine while incorporating local Moroccan flavours.
Sights
- Take a bath: Experience an authentic hammam (public bathhouse). Popular options include Hammam Ziani and the hammam at the Hassan II Mosque.
- Go back in time: Discover the city’s rich history at the new Casablanca Memory Museum, set inside a beautifully restored historic villa.
- Soak up the atmosphere: United Nations Square is a lively public square at the entrance to the Old Medina that’s always buzzing with energy.
- Get back to nature: Arab League Park (Parc de la Ligue Arabe) is a historic urban oasis offering a lush respite from the bustle of the city.
- Go for a stroll: Hugging the Atlantic coast, La Corniche is a kilometre-long seaside promenade that’s as great for the views as it is for people-watching.
- Work on your tan: Ain Diab is Casablanca’s most popular sandy beach. Lined with eateries, it comes alive in the evenings and on weekends.
Art
- Villa des Arts de Casablanca: A contemporary art museum housed in a grand Art Deco Villa, showcasing both local and international artists.
- AA Gallery: A gallery and artist’s residency dedicated to contemporary African art, supporting emerging artists and cross-cultural exchange.
- La Galerie 38: This gallery nurtures both emerging and established artists and forms part of the Studio des Arts Vivants cultural centre that also encompasses a theatre and art school.
- Alouane Bladi: This non-profit group takes visitors on immersive street art tours of the city.
Festivals
- The Jazzablanca Festival is a major annual festival of jazz and related genres like pop, soul, rock, funk and world music.
- The Onomo Summer Fest is an annual African music festival that celebrates the sounds of the continent, from afro-pop and hip-hop to amapiano.
Getting around
Casablanca’s modern tramway system is an efficient and convenient way to navigate the city.
Where to stay
- Onomo Hotel Casablanca City Center
📍 Address: 44 Bd d’Anfa, Casablanca - Onomo Hotel Casablanca Sidi Maarouf 📍Boulevard 60, Sidi Maârouf
- Onomo Hotel Casablanca Airport
📍 Address: H6, Nouacer ZF 6, lotissement du Parc Industriel Midparc Casablanca - Le Square by Onomo Collection
📍 Address: 31 Rue Moussa Ben Noussair, Casablanca
Did you know?
Casablanca wasn’t always known by its current name. Originally dubbed Anfa (‘hill’) in the 7th century BC by the Amazigh people, it later became a trading port under the Phoenicians before the Romans took over. In the 12th century, the town served as a pirate base. When the Portuguese occupied the city in the 15th century, they changed the name to Casa Branca (‘white house’ in Portuguese) after a prominent white landmark on the coast. In the 18th century, Moroccan Sultan, Mohammed ben Abdallah, reclaimed the city after an earthquake and renamed it Dar El Beïda (white house in Arabic). Eventually, Spanish merchants who settled in the city popularised the name Casablanca.
