Private Casablanca City Tour with Hassan II Mosque & Medina

Summary

Explore Casablanca’s Landmarks: Medina, Markets & the Atlantic

If you want to really feel Casablanca—not just see it—this private tour takes you through its most iconic spots: grand mosques, lively markets, hidden bakeries, and breezy Atlantic views. You’ll get local stories and plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

What’s the experience like?

Right after we met our guide near the old medina walls, the salty Atlantic breeze hit me—fresh and a bit chilly for late morning. Our first stop was the Hassan II Mosque. It’s hard to describe just how massive it feels up close; you almost have to squint to see the top of the minaret against the sky. Inside, sunlight bounced off intricate zellij tiles—some patterns stretched higher than a city bus. Our guide explained that King Hassan II wanted this mosque to be Casablanca’s pride forever. I could hear faint echoes of prayers even though we visited outside prayer time.

The Habous quarter felt like stepping into another era. We wandered narrow lanes lined with bakeries selling warm khobz bread—one vendor handed us a piece straight from his oven. The mix of French balconies and Moorish arches is unique here; apparently, many shops are run by families from Fez who settled decades ago. I lost track of time browsing little bookstores and spice stalls—the air smelled like cumin and orange blossom.

At Marché Central, it was all noise and color: fishmongers calling out prices, stacks of fresh mint everywhere, and a guy selling horse meat (which surprised me). Our guide pointed out an old stall that still sells antique radios—easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. We grabbed some olives and watched locals haggle over sardines.

Place Mohammed V is where you really see Casablanca’s blend of styles—whitewashed buildings with art deco touches next to palm trees. There was a group of teenagers skateboarding around the fountain when we passed by. Not far from there, Église Notre Dame de Lourdes stood out with its modern stained glass windows glowing in the afternoon sun; inside, it was quiet except for someone lighting candles at Mary’s statue in a little side cave.

We finished along La Corniche as the wind picked up—locals jogging or sipping coffee at seaside cafés like Le Cabestan. The lighthouse looked battered but proud against the waves. Our driver offered us bottled water before heading back through traffic that somehow always seems to move faster than you’d expect here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Casablanca Highlights Tour

• Visit Hassan II Mosque
• Explore Quartier Habous (New Medina)
• Shop at Casablanca Central Market
• Stop at Rick's Café
• See Mohammed V Square
• Walk along the Corniche
• Visit Église Notre Dame de Lourdes

Top questions

Is entry to Hassan II Mosque included?

No, entry fees aren’t included but your guide will help arrange tickets if you’d like to go inside.

How long does the tour last?

The full experience usually takes about 5-6 hours depending on your pace and interests.

Is this tour suitable for kids or people with limited mobility?

Yes! The route is flexible and we can provide strollers or infant seats if needed.

Can we stop for food or coffee during the tour?

Absolutely—you’ll have chances to grab snacks or sit down at local cafés along the way.

What’s included

You’ll get private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water for everyone in your group, plus a friendly local guide who knows all the shortcuts and best photo spots around Casablanca.