Casablanca

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.