Casablanca Neighborhood Guide

From the ramshackle souks that sprawl through Old Medina to the array of mauresque- and art deco-style buildings constructed under French rule, Casablanca is full of dramatic contrasts. Here’s what you need to know about the best neighborhoods in Morocco’s largest city.

Old Medina

Located between downtown and Hassan II Mosque, this 19th-century maze of shops, squares, and cafes is well worth a stroll. Visitors can bargain for leather goods, jewelry, food, and spices, or sip mint tea on a shaded rooftop terrace.

Habous Quarter (Quartier Habous)

This neighborhood, nicknamed “New Medina,” is known for its French colonial buildings and collection of small craft-focused souks. A walking tour through the atmospheric area often includes visits to landmarks such as Royal Palace of Casablanca, Mohammed V Mosque, and Mahakma of the Pasha. 

Ain Diab

This neighborhood stretching along the beach is sometimes referred to as Casablanca’s Corniche. It’s one of the trendiest areas in the city, complete with beach clubs, restaurants, and upscale resorts. Walk along the waterside promenade, and you pass the Sidi Abderrahman mausoleum and shrine, as well as El Hank Lighthouse. 

Anfa

Anfa might be one of Casablanca’s oldest neighborhoods, but it’s also among the most modern. The affluent residential district attracts visitors with high-end shopping, upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and golf courses.

Sour Jdid

One of Casablanca’s most prominent landmarks—Hassan II Mosque—sits within the Sour Jdid neighborhood. Just about every sightseeing tour of Casablanca passes through the area for a stop at the famous mosque.

Derb Ghallef

This sprawling neighborhood is home to Morocco’s largest permanent flea market, where budget-minded travelers can shop for clothes, second-hand electronics, books, and souvenirs. It’s also a great place to treat your tastebuds to some Moroccan street food.