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We did not fall in love with Casablanca at first sight. And even after spending a day in the capital and largest city of Morocco, we must say that we never really warmed to Casablanca. Casablanca is the Moroccan city we liked the least out of all the ones we visited.
However, we must admit that Casablanca is home to one of Morocco‘s most beautiful structures, the Hassan II Mosque, whose size is simply astounding. Because Casablanca is home to the most significant airport in the nation, many tourists utilize it as the beginning or end of their trip through Morocco.
So, if you’re thinking about visiting Casablanca and wondering what to expect, we’ll cover everything in this blog post. If you’re only visiting Casablanca for a day, you may also find our recommendations for things to see and do there.
1. Casablanca: Expectations vs Reality
Really, our opinions about Casablanca were poles apart. We were somewhat duped by its romantic-sounding name. We anticipated classy coffee shops, genuine eateries, charming lanes, and an oriental feel. Unfortunately, the reality completely differed from what we had anticipated.
The fact that Casablanca is a financial hub is the most crucial information. The main major economic hub of Morocco is Casablanca. The population of Casablanca is 3 million. Gray skyscrapers, rather than lovely historic structures, dominate Casablanca’s cityscape.
Unfortunately, that also means that the genuine oriental flair is missing. There is a medina, but it is nothing like the ones in Fez or Marrakesh.
On the plus side, Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque is a spectacular sight that awaits you. We would say that seeing this enormous structure alone makes a trip in Casablanca worthwhile. We were not really impressed with the rest of Casablanca.
We are, however, as always, speaking from personal experience. Just because we weren’t excessively excited by Casablanca doesn’t mean that everyone would feel the same way. Making up your own mind is ultimately the wisest course of action.
Travel Guide: The Best Sights and Tips for a Day in Casablanca
Hassan II Mosque: The Largest Mosque in Africa
The Hassan II Mosque should be your single must-see destination in Casablanca if you only have time for one. It is completely unfathomable how big this mosque is, especially considering that it is right on the ocean.
In addition to being one of the biggest mosques in the world, this mosque has the second-tallest minaret. You can hardly trust your eyes when you first stand in front of this edifice since it appears to be so enormous. Only two mosques in Morocco, including the Hassan II Mosque, are open to non-Muslim visitors.
Unfortunately, only guided tours are available to view the mosque’s interior. Every day at specific times, guided tours are offered in a variety of languages. The bad news is that the groups are enormous. Our group size, which was around 50 individuals, undoubtedly had an impact on how we felt about the whole thing.
Habous District: the New Medina
The Quartier Habous is Casablanca’s most picturesque neighborhood. The New Medina is another name for this neighborhood, which was established in the 1920s when France was still a colony.
The Quartier Habous has a quaint market-like feel that is reminiscent of a souk. There are numerous shops where you may buy spices, trinkets, and handmade goods. Don’t forget to barter if you want to purchase something! In Morocco, it’s typical to reduce the final settlement price to under 50% of the dealer’s opening offer!
Our advice: The Patisserie Bennis Habous, the top Patisserie Casablanca, is also located in this area. You have to dislike marzipan or practice discipline if you come here. If not, you might leave the store with a giant box packed with almond and marzipan cookies, just like we did. Very excellent!
Mahkama du Pacha, an oriental palace, is also worthwhile visiting. You’ve come to the correct location if you’re seeking for oriental flair in Casablanca. You may find lovely mosaics and carvings throughout this city palace, which also provides a fantastic photo opportunity. There appears to be some confusion regarding entrance, though, as several people claim that a guide is required to view the palace. However, if you give the security officer a small tip, he or she could agree to let you in so you can take a few quiet pictures.
Morocco Mall
One of those locations you wouldn’t anticipate in a country like Morocco is the contemporary mall, appropriately titled Morocco Mall. There seems to be a clash between these two realms. Casablanca’s winding, occasionally filthy streets seem far away from the Morocco Mall.
The shopping mall might as well be in any other city. However, you can tell that you are still in Morocco based on the clothing of those around you.
3. Modern Hotel stay in Casablanca
The hotel selection in Casablanca is more targeted toward business guests than it is in other regions of Morocco. As a result, Casablanca is likely to have an exorbitant number of big, impersonal hotels and very few truly private rooms.
However, we can recommend the Hotel Barcelo Anfa Casablanca. Highly endorsed is this contemporary city hotel. The rooms are big and inviting because they are cozy and well furnished. Also quite pleasant are the beds.
The breakfast buffet is excellent, and there is a lovely pool area. Conclusion: If you want to stay in Casablanca, this is a fantastic value for the money.
