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Casablanca is the economic and industrial centerpiece for Morocco. Its glamorous cosmopolitan interior lets it compete with other top cities of the world, while the rest of the country is pretty indigenous still. It is no wonder that Casablanca is the largest and most populated city. At first glance, it may not seem to live up to its reputation, but that’s just the exterior. Once you get inside of it to the core of this city you will begin to appreciate it for what it is. Casablanca is a good place for a day trip. If you are study abroad nearby or decide to take a spring break trip here, Casablanca will have a bunch of fun things to fill your time. Occupied by France until the early 1990’s, there is a lot of diversity that makes this city unusually interesting past, on top of its wonderful African culture. What’s left behind is a mix of Moroccan and French language, cuisine, and architecture. Casablanca is truly unique and a lot of fun.

Casablanca Pictures

Things to do in Casablanca

The Hassan II mosque is the most notable sight and famous building. It is one of the largest mosques in the world and the largest in Morocco. Visitors will be happy to know that this is one of only two mosques open to non-Muslims, so you can see the interior. Beautiful tile mosaics, wall murals, a ceiling that opens up to the sky, and waterworks throughout the building make this building seem majestic. Old Medina is a small walled town just north of Casablanca and is worth a walk up to. The Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman is built on a rock off shore and you can only go to it at low tide. The actual shrine offers no access to non-Muslims, but you can walk around the premises and in the town next to it. Many people who opt to visit Casablanca will take day-trips out of the city to surrounding places for a different experience.

Nightlife in Casablanca

The beer and alcohol variety here is somewhat limited, since the Muslim community doesn’t drink alcohol. Supermarkets and small shops will sell a limited supply of wine and liquor for travelers or locals who are not of the Muslim faith. The European style restaurants have better selections of wine and beer. Hotel bars are a good idea for a safe and relaxing night out with some friends. Overall Casablanca isn’t a huge party city, though it’s a lovely place to spend a low-key night. If you want an exciting night out, there are many places that the train will take you to for the evening. StudentUniverse.com offers some great deals on train tickets.

Dining in Casablanca

Moroccan food is very delicious. If you are into ethnic spices and dishes, you will love it. Like other Mediterranean countries, restaurants in Morocco don’t open until at least 7 at night, and don’t even start to get busy until around 8. For college students on a budget, look to La Cigale. It is a bar type restaurant that serves the basic local foods like kebabs, sandwiches, and salads. Alcohol is served here at the bar as well. Places like La Corrida and Taverne du Dauphin serve tapas and sangria and other ethnic food favorites. Taverne du Dauphin has a good seafood selection, and also has the most extensive beer selection in the country. La Sqala is a locals favorite with local music nightly and traditional foods. Try out some of the dishes that use the traditional spices in Moroccan food. Couscous, vegetables, chickpeas, and lamb are served everywhere. Mint tea is always a nice accompaniment to any meal as well. Ginger, cumin, and peppers are used in just about everything.

Shopping in Casablanca

Shopping is not exactly Casablanca’s strong point, though if you look you can find plenty. Tagines, pottery, leather goods, and hookahs can be found anywhere in the city. However if you are looking for something more authentic Moroccan, you might want to venture outside of Casablanca. In Maarif designer shops can be found like Zara and Dolce and Gabana. Bargain stores that claim to sell authentic merchandise are scattered around the city also. Just check to make sure you’re not getting ripped off.

Casablanca travel tips

• While in Casablanca be sure to visit the Hassan II Mosque–it’s a beautiful representation of Moroccan architecture at it’s finest.
• In Casablanca, there is a lot of copycat merchandise, so be conscious when you’re shopping.
• Be aware of the layout of the city, to know where it’s safest to stay.