Casablanca

Forget the movie — Casablanca is Morocco's largest city and commercial powerhouse, a sprawling metropolis of 5 million where business, fashion, and nightlife drive the rhythm. Its Art Deco architecture from the French protectorate period is remarkable. The Hassan II Mosque — built partly over the ocean — is one of the world's most magnificent religious buildings. It's not a typical tourist city, but that's exactly its appeal.

The Portuguese established a trading post called Casa Branca (White House) in the 16th century. The city remained a modest port until France transformed it into the economic capital of Morocco after 1912, constructing the Art Deco buildings of the Ville Nouvelle. The 1943 Casablanca Conference between Churchill, Roosevelt, and de Gaulle was held here. The Hassan II Mosque, completed in 1993, was built to celebrate King Hassan II's 60th birthday.

Casa Anfa district hosts Morocco's fashion industry. The city's creative scene — galleries, music venues, street art — is the most dynamic in the country. The Corniche oceanfront is the city's social heart on weekends. The medina, though not as dramatic as Fes or Marrakech, retains authentic neighborhood life.

• ✓Most tourists skip Casa — it rewards a 1-night stay for the mosque and Art Deco.
• ✓The mosque tour (in English) is one of the best in Morocco — book online.
• ✓Traffic is brutal — use Petit Taxis for short hops, the tram for longer distances.
• ✓The medina is small and friendly — nothing like Fes or Marrakech's intensity.

Mohammed V Airport (CMN) is Morocco's main hub with flights worldwide. TGV train to Marrakech (2h20), Rabat (1h), Tangier (2h10). Well-connected by train and bus to all cities.