Things to do in Casablanca
Casablanca may not be as attractive to tourists as the charismatic Marrakech or the capital, Rabat, but there are still sightseeing opportunities for travellers passing through, meaning a day or two in the city won't go unrewarded. It's also possible to do a day-trip to Casablanca from a number of Morocco's more prominent tourist destinations, thanks to the country's modern rail network.
The main landmark is the enormous King Hassan II Mosque, perched over the ocean. This is one of the largest mosques in the world and, unusually, is open to non-Muslims. The Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman, built on a rock out at sea and only accessible at low tide, is also a fascinating site, but regrettably non-Muslims cannot enter. However, it's still worth exploring the little village that has grown around the shrine.
Although not quite as majestic as the medinas of Fez or Marrakech, the ancient walled part of Casablanca is still definitely worth a visit. This part of town predates the French protectorate and has undergone work to restore the bastion and clock tower to their former glory.
For a taste of modern Morocco, visitors can enjoy the restaurants, shops, and views of the Casablanca Twin Centre, the tallest buildings in the country. Good museums in Casablanca include the Musee Abderrahman Slaoui, which has a wonderful art collection, and the Museum of Moroccan Judaism, which offers some useful insight into Jewish history in North Africa.
The King Hassan II Mosque
Designed by French architect, Michel Pinseau, the King Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and the largest in Morocco. It is affectionately nicknamed the 'C…
The Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman
Located past the ocean-side neighbourhood of the Corniche, the Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman is built on a rock out at sea and is only accessible at low tide. Non-Muslims are not allo…
Casablanca Twin Centre
Designed by a Spanish architect, Ricardo Bofill, the Casablanca Twin Centre features two skyscrapers that are 28-storeys tall and tower above the city at 377 feet (115m). Known as …
