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Discover magical Casablanca

Casablanca is the leading city hosting headquarters and main industrial facilities for the leading Moroccan and international companies based in Morocco. Casablanca retains its historic position as the main industrial zone of the country. The Port of Casablanca is one of the largest artificial ports in the world.

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» Ain Diab Corniche

With its scenic promenade bordering the western seafront of Casablanca and a cluster of stylish hotels and beach resorts, the Ain Diab Corniche is one of the city's most fashionable districts. The coastal suburb is traversed by the 3km-long Corniche Boulevard, which stretches from the magnificent Hassan II mosque in the east to the landmark El-Hank Lighthouse in the west, offering expansive views along the Atlantic …

» Hassan II Mosque

As one of the world's largest mosques, the magnificent Hassan II Mosque not only boasts a capacity for over 100,000 worshippers, but is also one of Casablanca's top tourist attractions. Built to commemorate the 60th birthday of former Moroccan King Hassan II, the elaborate mosque was the brainchild of French architect Michel Pinseau and opened its doors in 1993. From its regal cliff-top perch overlooking the ocean to its soaring 210-meter high minaret …

» Marche Central de Casablanca

A short stroll or tram ride from United Nations Place, in the heart of Casablanca city center, the Marche Central de Casablanca is the city's main market, located along the busy shopping street of Muhammad V Boulevard. Crammed with locals, the daily market is fascinating place for tourists to get a taste of local culture, as well as pick up bargains, with everything from food to fresh flowers and traditional clothing on sale. The vibrant stalls serve up a myriad of fresh produce …

» Mohammed V Square

Along with the neighboring United Nations Square to the north, the Mohammed V Square forms the central hub of Casablanca's new town and is home to some of the city's most striking architecture. Laid out in the early 20th century and named in honor of the former Sultan, the large square centers around a monumental fountain, dramatically lit up in the evening hours, and is buzzing with activity day and night. Many of Casablanca's most important administrative buildings …

» Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral

All too often overshadowed by the magnificence of the Hassan II Mosque, the Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral is an important center of worship for Morocco's Roman Catholic population and serves as a striking example of Casablanca's modern architecture. Built in 1954 by architect Achille Dangleterre, the cathedral's imposing white concrete facade looks more like a warehouse than a church and a simple white cross is the only hint to its purpose …

» Old Medina of Casablanca

Found in the north of the city between the port and the majestic seafront Hassan II Mosque, the Old Medina of Casablanca contains the last vestige of pre-20th century Casablanca. Up until the French took over in 1907, the coastal city was defined by this small area, encircled by defense walls and presided over by the Portuguese-built Borj Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah fort. Today, the modern city has grown out in all directions but the historic quarter remains, still surrounded by the remnants of its city walls and 18th century fort …

» Quartier Habous (Habous Quarter)

In the southeastern part of the city, Casablanca's New Medina or Habous Quarter (Quartier Habous) was laid out in the 1920s by the French and remains one of the most atmospheric districts. Characterized by its small tree-lined squares, neat alleyways and elegant arcades, strolling around the Habous unveils a curious mix of French colonial buildings and traditional Maghrebi architecture, dotted with small souks selling Moroccan handicrafts and leather goods …

» Rabat

The laid-back Moroccan capital of Rabat is all too often overlooked in favor of its more vibrant neighbors, but the coastal city is more than just a political and administrative center and makes a worthwhile day trip from nearby Casablanca or Fez. Without the frantic traffic jams and frenzied souks that characterize many of Morocco's big cities, Rabat feels more like a provincial town than a bustling city, but this polite and self-effacing nature is all part of its charm …

» Royal Palace of Casablanca

A masterpiece of Islamic architecture, surrounded by picturesque orange groves and elaborate water features, the Royal Palace of Casablanca is a suitably grand royal abode. Located in the Habous district of the city's New Medina, this is the King's principal Casablancan residence and host to a number of important events and royal receptions. The palace grounds, as with most Moroccan royal residences, are closed to the public …

» Volubilis

Stretching along the high Jebel Zerhoun plateau in northern Morocco and blooming with wildflowers throughout the summer months, the Roman ruins of Volubilis are a striking sight. Renowned as the best-preserved ruins in Northern Africa, the archaeological site offers a unique glimpse into ancient Morocco and makes a popular day trip from nearby Meknes or Fez. Initially founded as a Carthaginian settlement in the 3rd century B.C., Volubilis became an important Roman town from around 25 BC …

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