Morocco is a destination that always comes up when proposing a trip with friends. And one of the cities that arouses the most curiosity is Casablanca, above all, when it’s all about having fun. Although the whole country has numerous interesting attractions, the city of Casablanca offers a range of options that are not so common in other places. Some of its most modern options include its lively beach clubs, nightclubs and live music venues. Casablanca is a modern city, perhaps the most European city in the country, and this can be felt in its atmosphere, its long avenues, its modern buildings with large signs advertising international brands and its restaurants serving creative cuisine. Without a doubt, few Moroccan cities can be as proud as Casablanca of its international atmosphere and liberal touches. Moreover, its location and good connections make it a great place to stop off to discover other destinations such as Rabat and Marrakech. If you have three or four free days, don’t think twice about travelling to Casablanca with friends. You certainly will not regret it.
Below are a range of different options so that everyone in your group finds something of interest to them, from beaches, architecture, art, history, shopping… Let’s go.
- Touring the city’s main landmarks
- Wandering through the Old and New medinas
- Relaxing on the beach
- Discovering the city’s squares and parks
- Enjoying the gastronomy and night-life
Things to do with friends in Casablanca
Touring the city’s main landmarks
On a trip with friends to Casablanca be sure to set aside time to take in the city’s architecture. One of the most famous landmarks in the city is Hassan II mosque, a structure that never goes unnoticed. Its minaret stands at a height of 210 metres and up to 20,000 people can fit inside the mosque at the same time. The exterior esplanade also has room for up to 80,000 more worshippers. Situated next to the sea, the structure resembles a boat about to set sail… Its luxurious interior can be explored on a guided tour that reveals all the secrets behind the building (of which there are many, such as the fact that it has underfloor heating and that the roof of the prayer room can be opened).
It’s not the only building that can be visited, however. You can also pay a visit to the Royal Palace, although you cannot go inside, Notre-Dame de Lourdes church, the old Sacred Hearts Cathedral, the Moroccan Jewish Museum and the beautiful Mahkama du Pacha building (old Palace of Justice).
Wandering through the Old and New medinas
Visiting a Moroccan city and not wandering through its medinas, getting lost in its alleyways, visiting its small shops and haggling in its souks in inconceivable. And although you will soon see that Casablanca is a modern metropolis with large avenues, it has two areas that are perfect if you fancy strolling through some picturesque neighbourhoods. The Old Medina, dating from the nineteenth century, has that maze-like feel we have come to expect, where you will find bars and shops selling bric-a-brac. If you want something that is better quality, head to the New Medina or the Quartier Habous, which was built in the early twentieth century by the French. Although it is also a little chaotic, it is easy to find your way around and the shops sell nice crafts. Try to find its small souks, such as the one selling olives and pickles, which are presented beautifully. You won’t be able to leave empty-handed.
Relaxing on the beach
If you are the type who will never say no to a day out at the beach, in Casablanca visiting the beach in the Ain Diab neighbourhood, right on La Corniche, is a must. The beaches in this area are accessed via beach clubs, where you must pay a small fee allowing you to make the most of comprehensive facilities including changing rooms, swimming pools, cafeterias and restaurants. Once inside you can enjoy a dip in the sea, relax on a sun lounger or enjoy water sports such as surfing and windsurfing. You will also find beach areas accessible to all, although they are often busier (and sometimes with groups of young boys playing football) so you will have to try to distance yourself from the crowds.
Discovering the city’s squares and parks
This may seem like an unusual thing to do with friends in Casablanca, but we can assure you that exploring the city’s squares and parks is a more than interesting option. The main reason to head to squares such as Mohammed V or United Nations square is to soak up the atmosphere, watching the people go by, the kids playing… What’s more, they are lined with interesting buildings.
The Arab League Park is a place through which many people pass and a great place to relax in the shade amid leafy gardens on your way to the cathedral, for instance.
strong>Enjoying the gastronomy and night-life
On a trip with friends to Casablanca you cannot miss anything to do with the gastronomy or going out at night. For both things you will find a wide range of options. In terms of restaurants, a fantastic classic establishment is La Sqala, set in a courtyard in a historical site, where you can sample traditional cuisine. Alternatively, pay a visit to a modern restaurant serving Asian, Italian or French food, among others. And, of course, you must not forget to sample the night-life in Casablanca. There is no shortage of Moroccans who come to the city on weekends just to party. Times are quite similar to in Spain, with things starting to get going from midnight onwards until sunrise. So, is there anywhere to take note of? Maison B (nightclub and restaurant), Le Cabestan (club with DJs) and Black House Disco (on United Nations square), although there are many more.
