As well as being home to Morocco’s chief port, Casablanca is also the country’s largest city. The city itself is located towards the west of Morocco, and it has a number of excellent beaches offering golden sands and crystal clear waters.
Millions of tourists flock to Casablanca every year, however the city offers so much more than your typical European hotspot. Draped in History, the 3.5 million people living in Casablanca are surrounded by spectacular architecture, and thanks to ever-expanding tourism budgets, the city continues to build new and exciting accommodation, as well as entertainment facilities for the wealth of visitors that descend onto Morocco.
There are so many things to experience in Morocco that many tourists don’t know where to start. Getting a guided tour of the city is the usual reaction for visitors not knowing what direction to turn, however sometime just walking where the crowds take you allows you to see the alternative side to you holiday destination – and thankfully, there’s much more to see in Casablanca than the tourist hotspots! Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to make the most of your trip in this amazing city.
La Corniche
La Corniche is one of the most popular places to visit in Casablanca, and it’s easy to see why. This fantastic stretch of coast line offers a number of amazing beaches, as well as a selection of luxury and alternative places to dine. There’s nothing better than sipping a cold glass of wine whilst looking out on to the sea in La Corniche, and if you fancy a stroll, then there are some great caves and hidden lagoons further down the coast to explore!
The Hassan II Mosque and Local Markets
Another popular tourist attraction is the Hassan II Mosque, mainly because of the superb architecture it offers. Designed and built with incredible precision and detail, this mosque is a joy to behold, and with tours available every day for non-Muslims, this really is a must-see structure.
Then there’s the local market, and if you’re looking to experience some of the exciting Moroccan culture on your holiday then there’s no better place to be! From animals to spices, fabrics to food, there’s so much on offer at these historic markets, and if you believe the rumours, the sellers actually like it when you barter with them. Do be aware of fake goods however.
The Art Deco Buildings
Once you look past the dense traffic, market stalls and the odd camel walking in the street, then there are plenty of amazing architectural wonders to visit in Casablanca. Combining traditional Casablanca style with colonial French design, Mauresque architecture influences can be seen all over the city. The Art Deco movement of the 1930s helped to bring attention to these beautifully designed buildings, and although some of these monuments lie in irreparable condition, most have been spectacularly restored.
