Guided Casablanca City Tour | Casablanca Half-Day Highlights

📍 Location: Boulevard Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah

Begin your journey at the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque, one of the world's most magnificent religious sites and the largest mosque in Africa. Perched dramatically on a platform overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this architectural masterpiece features the tallest minaret in the world (210 meters), adorned with intricate zellij (mosaic tilework), hand-carved cedar ceilings, and a massive retractable roof that opens for special prayers. The mosque accommodates 25,000 worshippers inside and another 80,000 in its courtyard, making it a symbol of Morocco's spiritual and artistic heritage. Don’t miss the glass floor section that offers a surreal view of the crashing waves below—a unique engineering marvel. Whether you explore the interior (if time permits) or simply admire its grandeur from the esplanade, this stop provides unforgettable photo opportunities and a deep appreciation for Moroccan craftsmanship.

📍 Route: Mohammed V Avenue → United Nations Square

Step back in time as you wander through Casablanca’s Art Deco district, a legacy of the French colonial era (1912–1956). This area is a living museum of 20th-century architecture, where European Art Deco, Neo-Moorish, and Moroccan motifs blend seamlessly. Highlights include the Rialto Cinema, a 1930s gem with its curved facade and geometric reliefs, and the Immeuble Liberté, a striking example of "Mauresque" style with its ornate balconies and arched windows. Your guide will point out hidden details like stained glass, wrought-iron railings, and floral motifs that reflect Casablanca’s role as a "laboratory of architecture." The district’s bustling cafés and vintage signage add to its nostalgic charm, making it a favorite for photographers and history buffs alike.

📍 Heart of the city

Next, immerse yourself in the civic energy of Mohammed V Square, the administrative and symbolic center of Casablanca. Framed by palm trees and grand Neo-Moorish buildings, this square showcases Morocco’s post-independence identity. Admire the Palace of Justice, with its pink-hued arches and green-tiled roof, and the Bank Al-Maghrib, a majestic structure adorned with calligraphy and geometric patterns. At the square’s center, a fountain and clock tower serve as popular meeting points, while street performers and locals feeding pigeons add lively flair. This stop offers a glimpse into Casablanca’s modern urban life amid historical grandeur.

📍 New Medina

Escape the city’s hustle in the Habous Quarter, a picturesque "New Medina" built by the French in the 1930s to blend tradition with modern planning. Its peaceful alleys, whitewashed arches, and artisan workshops evoke the charm of old Moroccan cities. Visit the Mahkama du Pacha, a stunning courthouse with a hidden cedarwood courtyard and intricate stucco carvings. Then, explore the souk, where you’ll find everything from leather babouches (slippers) to hand-painted ceramics. Don’t leave without tasting Bennis Habous’ famous almond pastries—a local institution. This neighborhood perfectly balances authenticity and accessibility, unlike the more touristy medinas of other cities.

☕ Choose between two iconic spots:

1. Rick’s Café: Step into Hollywood history at this re-creation of the Casablanca film set, complete with a grand piano, arched doorways, and 1940s ambiance. Sip mint tea under palm fronds and pretend you’re in the classic movie.
2. Sky 28 Rooftop Bar: For modern flair, head to this 21st-floor lounge at the Kenzi Tower Hotel. Enjoy a cocktail with panoramic views of the mosque, port, and sprawling cityscape.