Casablanca Attractions, Your Must-See List of Morocco Trip
A stopover in Casablanca is always inevitable when you are trying to kick-start a trip to Morocco. Whether it's the beautiful sea views or the characteristic local architecture, it will add a lot to your journey. Here are some Casablanca attractions you should not miss.
Hassan II Mosque
Casablanca's Hassan II Mosque is one of the few mosques in the world that is open to non-Muslims, standing above the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, mysterious and peaceful.
Titanium doors and fine crystal chandeliers show the delicacy and refinement of Moroccan craftsmanship. The temple has no chairs, just like a conventional mosque, so that you can kneel more reverently and converse more freely. The main hall's roof can open and close completely on its own, allowing you to feel an intimate connection with nature.
The visit lasts about 45 minutes, during which professional guides will provide explanations in French, English, German, and Spanish. It should be noted that you need to behave decently and cover your knees and upper arms when visiting the interior.
Hassan II Mosque
Old Medina of Casablanca
The Old Medina of Casablanca is an area full of ancient charm and modern vitality. It's important to observe that the old Medina in Casablanca has a maze of little towns and a relaxed walking area, even though it differs from the old Medina in Fez and Marrakech. The streets here are narrow and winding, and the white buildings and decorations add a bit of quiet beauty. You can stroll here and discover new sights as you turn the corner.
Today, a large portion of the old center serves as a city center and market for exotic goods. Leather items, shoes, spices, and rugs are all readily available from local artisans, and the majority of them are open to price negotiations. You can see a tree-lined square with lively local cafes where you can take a break and taste traditional Moroccan drinks such as mint tea.
In addition, Old Medina is a popular walking route between the center of Casablanca and the Hassan II Mosque. From the north side, you can enjoy the vast sea view, adding a leisurely atmosphere to your wandering.
Old Medina of Casablanca
Mohammed V Square
The Square of Mohammed V, where the city's courts, banks, and consulates are located, is Casablanca's main square and municipal hub. Its nickname is "Pigeon Square" due to being home to a large number of pigeons, you can photograph and feed them.
You can see numerous 1920s structures, all in the recognizable European Art Deco design. The neighboring structures include magnificent arcades and a white facade with five-colored stone ornamentation that is inspired by Sephardic Muslim architectural and decorative styles. In contrast to the palm trees and fountains in the background, its government buildings stand out. Furthermore, this square houses the Casablanca Theater. A building in the modern art style may be seen in the distance.
Mohammed V Square
Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral
The Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral (Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral) is a Catholic church full of tranquility and solemnity. When viewed from the exterior, it stands out sharply in contrast to the sights and buildings of old Casablanca, giving you a visual impact.
The outer "hood" of Notre Dame de Lourdes is huge, and a cross hangs from the top of the entryway. When you enter the church, the stained glass walls extend from floor to ceiling, dazzling light beams as they pass through them. You can quietly appreciate these works of art here, feel the interweaving of colors and light, and experience a kind of spiritual peace and immersion.
Occasionally, it hosts various concerts, bringing wonderful religious music or classic symphony performances. You can check the church's notice board to find out if there are any performances, which are part of your experience of Casablanca culture.
Museum of Moroccan Judaism
The Museum of Moroccan Judaism, the only one in the Arab world, is housed in a charming garden villa that once served as a Jewish orphanage. The museum's rich exhibitions cover the history of Judaism, Jewish life in Morocco, their traditions, and art. You can see a wide variety of Jewish artifacts, ancient manuscripts, exquisite religious items, and a series of historical photos that show the lifestyle of Moroccan Jews. In addition, you can stroll in this garden leisurely, enjoying the greenery in the garden and feeling the strong historical atmosphere. Since the museum may sometimes be closed for security reasons, it is very wise to call in advance to confirm the opening hours.
Royal Palace of Casablanca
Located in the Habous district, also known as the "New Medina", the Royal Palace of Casablanca is an important historical landmark. Although the palace itself is not open to the public, it is still one of the attractions that you cannot miss in Casablanca.
Its huge gate is majestic and beautifully decorated. The gardens around the palace and the courtyard are full of orange trees and palm trees, giving the place a feeling of tranquility and luxury. Sometimes, you can experience important official events and ceremonies hosted here. With guards on duty to ensure the safety of the surroundings, you can enjoy everything outside the palace with peace of mind.
Ain Diab
Ain Diab has long sandy beaches and clear waters, making it the perfect place to enjoy the sun, sea breeze, and water activities. From seaside taverns to upscale restaurants, you can taste fresh seafood and traditional Moroccan food. Strolling along the seaside promenade, the sea breeze blows on your face, which makes people feel happy. When night falls, fashionable nightclubs and bars start the rhythm of all-night revelry, and you can dance or enjoy a leisurely cocktail.
If you want a relaxing experience, you can enjoy high-end beach clubs, top-level services, sunbathe, and feel the vastness and tranquility of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Corniche
The Corniche in Casablanca is a five-mile seaside promenade that stretches from the Hassan II Mosque to the Ain Diab area. It is a fantastic position to photograph the Hassan II Mosque, which features majestic architecture and a vast sea view. While strolling along this charming coastline, you can explore excellent beaches and enjoy the Atlantic Ocean breeze.
In addition, you can choose to sit down in a seaside cafe or restaurant and taste Moroccan cuisine, or share a cup of mint tea with friends and enjoy a leisurely time. Its rich and inventive sea pools, which are constructed along the water's edge to avoid the discomfort of strong waves, are its special attraction. You can experience a variety of water sports options, such as surfing, water skiing, and beach football.
The Morocco Mall
The Morocco Mall, the biggest shopping mall in Africa, situated at the end of the Corniche and close to Ain Diab Beach, is a must-visit for anybody who enjoys shopping.
This is Morocco's retail hotspot due to the infrastructure and diversity of boutiques and brand stores. Along with its retail establishments, it is also cutting edge with a lovely musical fountain, aquarium, 3D theater, and even indoor ice skating and playground to meet various needs. There are indoor and outdoor markets to select from if you want to try the flavor of Morocco. Additionally, coffee shops are certainly essential. You can locate a seat when you're tired and sip on some great coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice.
Rick's Cafe
Rick's Cafe
If you've seen the legendary Humphrey Bogart movie Casablanca, you're probably familiar with this cafe. The same-named cafe, which debuted in 2004 and was modeled after a fictional establishment in the movie, is thought to be a tribute to it.
Its design and decoration carefully restore the classic scenes in the movie, striving to capture a nostalgic atmosphere. You can see an old piano that is more than 30 years old, as if it has witnessed countless past stories. The curved arches and second-floor balcony reveal a sense of the old times, making you feel like you have returned to that golden age.
Every Sunday, the cafe also hosts jam sessions that are well-liked by musicians. In addition to champagne, other drinks including whisky, handmade cocktails, and lemon soda are served. The theme song from the movie is occasionally played in the cafe with a sophisticated piano accompaniment. You can enjoy the food while feeling romance and parting in the movie.
Contact Odynovo to Start Your Morocco Tour
We hope that the fascinating aspects of this city have inspired you to visit Morocco. If you are unsure about the length of your stay in the city or have any other questions about planning your trip, please do not hesitate to contact us, Odynovo looks forward to traveling to Morocco with you! Please feel free to contact us or send an email to [email protected].
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