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Africa Morocco Casablanca Do & See Marché Central

Overview

Marché Central

The guide was updated: 2024-02-09

Marché Central is an animated indoor market dating back to the early 20th century, and it's a must-visit spot in Casablanca. Even if you're not in the market for its extensive selection of fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood, the experience alone is rewarding. Stroll through the bustling aisles and consider stopping for a casual meal at one of the no-frills food stalls that offer a taste of local flavours.

Useful Information

Address: Boulevard Mohammed V, Casablanca
Phone: +212 674 473790

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Hassan II Mosque & Museum

Hassan II Mosque & Museum

The Hassan II Mosque commands a dramatic presence on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Capable of accommodating over 100,000 worshippers in its vast interior and courtyard, it is not just a religious monument but also an architectural marvel. The mosque's minaret soars to a height of 210 metres, making it among the tallest in the world. Adding to its distinctiveness, the mosque features a floor made entirely of glass, creating an awe-inspiring effect.

The Old Medina

The Old Medina

Casablanca's Old Medina, also known as Old Town or Ancienne Medina, is a maze-like quarter teeming with life and marked by buildings that harken back to the period before French rule, provides an authentic backdrop to the city. Vendors with carts offer a variety of fruits, vegetables, and spices, while quaint antiques shops and artisanal leather workshops line the constricted passageways. Amid the lively bargaining, outdoor cafes offer spaces for respite, serving both coffee and refreshing mint tea. The narrow lanes are hemmed in by tall, timeworn buildings, creating an evocative atmosphere. Here, locals go about their daily routines while visitors can shop for an array of traditional goods.

Cinéma Rialto

Cinéma Rialto

Cinéma Rialto dates all the way back to the 1929, making it one of the oldest cinemas in Morocco. The Art Deco-style is beautiful and the cinema seems to have been taken straight out of the movie Casablanca.

Casablanca Cathedral, or the Church of the Sacred Heart

Casablanca Cathedral, or the Church of the Sacred Heart

Featuring elaborate Moroccan and European architectural styles, Église du Sacré-Cœur de Casablanca is one of the landmark buildings in Casablanca. Once a Roman Catholic church, the glistening-white Art Deco cathedral has functioned both as a school and as a theatre.

Villa des Arts

Villa des Arts

Villa des Arts is a sprawling exhibition centre in a 1934 Art Deco villa that displays both contemporary pieces of art as well as traditional Moroccan artefacts. You can find this exhibition centre near Parc de la Ligue Arabe.

Muhammad V Square

Muhammad V Square

Place Mohammed V is a busy square situated at the core of Casablanca. Founded in 1916 during the onset of the French protectorate, this public expanse serves as a prime vantage point for observing the daily rhythms of Moroccan urban life. Take a seat at one of the charming outdoor cafés that line the square, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

Marché Central

Marché Central

Marché Central is an animated indoor market dating back to the early 20th century, and it's a must-visit spot in Casablanca. Even if you're not in the market for its extensive selection of fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood, the experience alone is rewarding. Stroll through the bustling aisles and consider stopping for a casual meal at one of the no-frills food stalls that offer a taste of local flavours.

Museum of Moroccan Judaism

Museum of Moroccan Judaism

The Museum of Moroccan Judaism in Casablanca, established in 1997, holds the unique distinction of being the only museum dedicated to Judaism in the Arab world. The museum offers an educational journey through Jewish history, showcasing a range of artefacts that shed light on the community's cultural heritage. While its somewhat hidden location off a main thoroughfare can make it a bit challenging to find, it's well worth the effort for those interested in delving into this aspect of Moroccan history.

La Corniche & Aïn Diab Beach

La Corniche & Aïn Diab Beach

La Corniche in the Ain Diab neighbourhood is Casablanca's hotspot for upscale Atlantic beach clubs, drawing a chic crowd looking to soak up the sun or catch a wave. As the sun sets, the atmosphere transitions seamlessly into a bustling nightlife, featuring an array of trendy nightclubs, sophisticated cocktail lounges, and terraced bars with ocean views. Along Boulevard de la Corniche, dining venues range from laid-back, counter-serve eateries to elegant French establishments. Ain Diab Beach is another crowd-pleaser, offering visitors a plethora of water activities and beach games like football. The area is dotted with beach clubs, restaurants, and bars, providing ample day-to-night entertainment options. Once the sun dips below the horizon, the beachfront comes alive with live music and various forms of entertainment, adding yet another layer to its vibrant atmosphere.

El Hank Lighthouse

El Hank Lighthouse

Located on Boulevard de la Corniche, the Phare d'el Hank is a striking, iconic lighthouse. Prepare to climb 256 steps to reach the top, but rest assured, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of both the city and the sea. It's a fantastic spot for photography or simply taking a moment to appreciate the expansive landscape below.

Aquaparc Tamaris

Aquaparc Tamaris

Situated just 5 kilometres from the heart of Casablanca, Aquaparc Tamaris offers a refreshing break from the city's hustle and heat. This expansive water park is a family-friendly haven, complete with water slides, a wave pool, and a variety of quick dining options. Whether you're looking to keep the kids entertained or simply cool off, it's an ideal day out for everyone.

Arab League Park

Arab League Park

Located next to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Parc de la Ligue Arabe offers a peaceful retreat amidst the city's lively atmosphere. Covering 30 acres and intersected by Moulay Youssef Boulevard, the park is a verdant oasis with palm-lined paths and abundant greenery. Ideal for either a relaxing stroll or an energising run, this space provides a welcome break from the urban hustle.

Hammam Ziani

Hammam Ziani

Situated in the heart of Casablanca, Hammam Ziani offers an authentic Moroccan hammam experience. From invigorating scrubs to soothing massages, this basic yet well-appointed spa provides a range of treatments that let you unwind in traditional style.

Club Le Barry

Club Le Barry

Located outside Casablanca, Club Le Barry provides various activities in a farm environment. If you come here as a group, you will be offered entertaining team-building activities. The club also offers pony rides, horse rides, paintball fights and quadricycle rides.

Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum

Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum

Located in Casablanca's historic district, the Abderrahman Slaoui Museum pays tribute to its namesake, a Moroccan businessman and avid art collector who passed away in 2001. The museum, established by the Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation, showcases a diverse array of art exhibitions and poster designs. It's a not-so-obvious must-see for art enthusiasts and those interested in Moroccan cultural history.

Royal Palace of Casablanca

Royal Palace of Casablanca

The Palais Royal in Casablanca, the main royal residence of the King of Morocco, is a significant landmark despite being off-limits to the public. Designed in the 1920s by the Pertuzio brothers and later refurbished under King Hassan II, it's located in the Hubous neighbourhood. Even though you can't go inside, it's worth taking a moment to capture some photos of this majestic site.

United Nations Square

United Nations Square

The United Nations Square serves as an urban epicentre where modernity meets tradition. Originally a marketplace, the square has evolved into a focal point connecting the European "ville nouvelle" and the historic Casablanca medina. Nowadays, you'll find a plethora of hotels, restaurants and shops around the square, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city.

Port of Casablanca

Port of Casablanca

Casablanca's port isn't just any harbour — it's the beating heart of Morocco's maritime trade and a significant global transit point. Conveniently located near the iconic Hassan II Mosque, the port is an engaging place for a stroll. As you wander, you'll see ships from every corner of the world arriving and departing, a testament to Casablanca's role as a major commercial hub.

Parc de Jeux Sindibad

Parc de Jeux Sindibad

A stone's throw away from Ain Diab beach and shaded by palm trees, Parc Sindibad offers an exciting blend of entertainment. Named after the legendary adventurer Sinbad, this theme park boasts a variety of rides and seasonal attractions. It even features a zoo, where you can encounter animals native to Africa and Asia. It's an excellent destination, particularly if you're visiting Casablanca with children.

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