Casablanca Highlights: Medina, Habous & Rick’s Café Photo Stop

Casablanca , Morocco

Casablanca Highlights: Medina, Habous & Rick’s Café Photo Stop

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About this experience

Dive into the daily life and habits of locals on this unique introductory tour of Casablanca! Experience the hustle and bustle of the medina as you browse everything it has to offer. Enjoy spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and sample some of our favourite pastries from a secret spot in an off-the-beaten track neighbourhood. You’ll be asking your tour guide to “play it again,” Humphrey Bogart-style, by the end of this fun, all-encompassing tour!

Available options

Small Group Tour

Private Tour

What's included

Travel comfortably by private transport between key sites

Explore Casablanca’s Habous District, Medina, and admire Hassan II Mosque views

Enjoy a small-group tour (max 12) for a personalized experience

Join a knowledgeable local guide for insider tips and stories

Taste warm Moroccan mint tea at a local café

Visit a historic bakery and sample Moroccan pastries and olives

Enjoy a guided walking tour through Casablanca’s medina and historic districts

Detailed itinerary

Start at Rick’s Café: View the exterior and hear about its Casablanca movie history.

Stop 2

We’ll take a taxi and walk to explore Casablanca’s architecture: stop at the neo-Gothic Sacred Heart Cathedral, snap photos at the modern Arab League Parc, and visit the French Colonial-style Mohammed V Plaza (Pigeon Square).

Stop 3

Next, we’ll head to the Habous Quarter, the 'new medina,' built by the French in the 1910s. Explore shops with Moroccan goods like clothing, leather, and jewellery, and enjoy the mix of French and Moroccan architecture, plus tasty local treats like marinated olives.

Visit Bennis Pastry House, a local favorite since 1938. Try traditional Moroccan pastries like gazelle horns (almond and orange water) and Fekkas (twice-baked cookies). Don’t miss the heavenly chicken pastilla!

After our sweet treat, we’ll head to the Al Aank Observation Deck. Enjoy stunning ocean views of the Hassan II Mosque and the city—perfect for relaxation and photos.

What's not included

Tips / gratuities for your guide,

The pastries and any additional food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

93 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

244 reviews

5★

218

4★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Be prepared! Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes — we’ll be exploring on foot and want you to enjoy every step.

Travelling with kids? This is a child-friendly tour! Children under 6 can join free of charge, making it a great option for families.

Have dietary needs? We’re happy to accommodate vegetarians and other dietary restrictions — just let us know in advance so we can prepare accordingly.

Don’t forget to bring your camera! Capture memorable photos at scenic stops like the Atlantic promenade and Hassan II Mosque — perfect for postcard-worthy shots.

Don’t forget to ask your guide! Get personalized recommendations for what to see, do, and eat after the tour — perfect for continuing your Casablanca adventure.

Rick’s Café opens at 12 PM, so we’ll pass by before opening hours for a photo stop and a short story about its cinematic legacy. While we won’t go inside during the tour, you’re welcome to return later for a drink if you’d like to experience it firsthand.

Meeting point

248 Boulevard Sour Jdid, Casablanca 20250 (in front of Rick's Cafe)

Important notes

Dietary Notes
We can accommodate vegetarians and other dietary restrictions. Please notify us in advance if you have any dietary requests. You can do so by emailing us at info@casablancaurbanadventures.com.

Child Policy
Please inform us if you’ll be bringing a child under the age of 6.

Additional Information
Rick’s café will be closed when we pass by because they open at 12 PM, we don’t intend to go inside we just want to go by and talk about it. Travellers can come back later for a drink if they fancy it.

Dress Code
Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.

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About Casablanca

Casablanca, Morocco's largest city, is a vibrant blend of modern and traditional. Known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Hassan II Mosque, it offers a unique mix of coastal charm, cultural richness, and economic dynamism. The city's Atlantic coastline provides beautiful beaches and a lively port atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Hassan II Mosque

The Hassan II Mosque is one of the most impressive mosques in the world and a symbol of Casablanca. It is the largest mosque in Morocco and the seventh-largest in the world. The mosque's minaret is the tallest in the world, standing at 210 meters.

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours for a guided tour Free for non-Muslims to enter the mosque, but guided tours may have a fee

Casablanca Cathedral

Also known as the Church of the Sacred Heart, this Catholic church is a unique blend of Art Deco and Moroccan architectural styles. It is one of the few churches in Morocco that is still in use.

Historical/Architecture 30-45 minutes Free

Mahmoud II Square

This bustling square is the heart of Casablanca's old medina. It is surrounded by traditional markets, cafes, and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the city's past.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore the square and markets

Casablanca Twin Center

This iconic skyscraper is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Casablanca. It consists of two identical towers and is a symbol of the city's modern architecture and economic growth.

Architecture/Cultural 30-45 minutes Free to admire from the outside, observation deck may have a fee

Corniche Aïn Diab

This vibrant seaside promenade is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean, beaches, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Beach/Entertainment 2-3 hours or more Free to explore, beach clubs and restaurants may have fees

Must-Try Local Dishes

Couscous

A traditional Moroccan dish made with steamed semolina grains, often served with vegetables, meat, and a flavorful broth.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, but often contains meat

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, named after the earthenware pot it is cooked in.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, but often contains meat

Harira

A hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and sometimes meat, often served during Ramadan.

Soup Vegetarian options available, but often contains meat

Pastilla

A savory-sweet pie made with layers of phyllo dough, filled with spiced meat (usually pigeon or chicken), and topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians

Popular Activities

Surfing at Aïn Diab Beach Hiking in the nearby countryside Relaxing at a hammam or spa Strolling along the Corniche Exploring historic landmarks and museums Shopping for traditional crafts and souvenirs Swimming and sunbathing at the beach Boat tours and water sports

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. These seasons are ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.

18-24°C 64-75°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic, Berber
Widely spoken: French, Spanish, English
English: Moderately spoken, especially in tourist areas and among younger people

Currency

Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Time Zone

GMT+1

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings

Casablanca is generally safe for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in isolated areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps, and agree on the fare before starting your journey
• Be cautious when approaching strangers or accepting help from locals, as scams and theft can occur

Getting there

By air

Mohammed V International Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Casablanca Voyageurs

By bus

Casablanca Oasis, Casablanca Trafic

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is modern, efficient, and connects key areas of the city. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Careem, Heetch

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Maarif Old Medina Habous Quartier des Hôpitaux

Day trips

Rabat

90 km from Casablanca • Full day recommended

Rabat is the capital of Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and beautiful beaches. It offers a mix of modern and traditional architecture, as well as a rich history and vibrant arts scene.

Marrakech

240 km from Casablanca • Overnight recommended

Marrakech is a vibrant and colorful city known for its bustling markets, historic landmarks, and lively atmosphere. It is a popular destination for travelers seeking a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation, with a variety of activities and attractions to explore.

El Jadida

90 km from Casablanca • Half day recommended

El Jadida is a coastal city known for its historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. It is a popular destination for travelers seeking a mix of history and relaxation, with a variety of activities and attractions to explore.

Festivals

Casablanca International Film Festival • November Casablanca International Book Fair • February

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to help you communicate with locals and show respect for the culture.
Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
Be cautious when using taxis, and agree on the fare before starting your journey. Consider using licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps for a more reliable and safe experience.
Explore the city's many neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions. From the bustling markets of the Old Medina to the upscale shopping and dining of Maarif, there is something for everyone in Casablanca.
Try local street food and snacks, such as msemen (Moroccan pancakes) and harira (hearty soup). Look for vendors with high turnover and good hygiene practices to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.