Salam, friends! I'm excited to share my first family trip to discover Casablanca with kids. As someone who has explored many corners of Morocco, I was surprised that I hadn't yet visited Casa—as locals affectionately call it—with my family. This bustling coastal city offers so much more than what you might have seen in old Hollywood films!
Our journey began with a scenic drive toward Casablanca. I remember telling my children to look out the window as we approached the city. "Watch for the entrance to Casa," I said, and their eyes widened as we drove past the beautiful city entrance with its modern architecture and greenery. It was the perfect introduction to Morocco's economic capital.
If you're planning to discover Casablanca with kids, I'm sharing our authentic experience—where we stayed, what we ate, and the family-friendly spots we enjoyed. Let's dive into this family adventure in Morocco's largest city!
Where to Stay: Finding Family-Friendly Accommodation
For our Casablanca adventure, we chose an apartment in the Anfa neighborhood. I highly recommend this area for families visiting Casa for several reasons:
- It's conveniently located near the ocean, perfect for evening strolls
- The Hassan II Mosque is within walking distance
- There are plenty of restaurants nearby
- The neighborhood feels safe and comfortable for families
Our apartment even had a small balcony where we could enjoy the fresh ocean breeze. For families, having a kitchen and extra space makes all the difference after a long day of sightseeing.
Tip from Hassan: When booking accommodation in Casablanca with kids, prioritize neighborhoods like Anfa or Ain Diab that offer proximity to attractions and the oceanfront promenade. These areas provide the perfect balance of convenience and comfort for families.
Must-Visit Attractions When You Discover Casablanca with Kids
Hassan II Mosque: A Magnificent Marvel
No visit to discover Casablanca with kids would be complete without seeing the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque. We decided to walk there from our apartment, and I'm so glad we did! The journey along the coastline was almost as impressive as the destination itself.
As we walked, we could hear the powerful waves crashing against the rocks. My children were thrilled by the sight of water splashing high into the air. In the distance, the mosque's minaret shone brilliantly in the sun.
When we finally arrived, we stood in awe of this architectural wonder. The Hassan II Mosque is truly magical—with its towering minaret, intricate details, and impressive location right by the ocean. It's one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors (during specific visiting hours), making it a perfect cultural experience for families.
Tip from Hassan: Visit the mosque in the late afternoon when the golden light makes the building shine even more beautifully. The large plaza surrounding the mosque is perfect for children to run around after being on their best behavior during the visit.
The Habous Quarter: Traditional Shopping Experience
After exploring the mosque, we made our way to the Habous Quarter (or New Medina). This charming area is filled with small shops selling traditional Moroccan crafts, spices, and souvenirs. Although some shops were closed during our visit, the narrow streets and beautiful architecture made for a pleasant stroll.
The Habous Quarter is much less overwhelming than the medinas in Fez or Marrakech, making it a good introduction to traditional Moroccan shopping for children. My kids were fascinated by the colorful displays of Moroccan slippers, ceramics, and sweets.
Tip from Hassan: Visit Habous in the morning when shops are open and it's less crowded. Negotiate prices with a smile, and remember that a friendly "La, shukran" (No, thank you) works well if you're not interested.
Morocco Mall: Modern Entertainment for Families
For a change of pace, we visited Morocco Mall—one of Africa's largest shopping centers. Located right by the ocean, this massive mall offers much more than just shopping. My children were immediately drawn to the huge shark-shaped aquarium at the center of the mall!
Inside Morocco Mall, you'll find luxury brands like Givenchy, Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Montblanc. But what really makes it special for families are the entertainment options. The gigantic aquarium is a highlight—my kids could have watched the fish swimming around for hours.
Tip from Hassan: Even if shopping isn't on your agenda, Morocco Mall is worth a visit for the aquarium alone. There's also a food court with options for picky eaters, making it a good stop if you need a break from Moroccan cuisine.
Arab League Park (Parc de la Ligue Arabe): Green Space for Playing
One of our favorite discoveries was the beautiful Arab League Park. After a morning of sightseeing, we were looking for a place where our kids could run free, and this park was perfect. The moment we entered, we were struck by the beautiful trees and wide-open spaces.
The park has well-designed playgrounds that my children absolutely loved. "Maman, this is so much fun!" my little one exclaimed as they explored the different play equipment. The park also has a tram station nearby, making it easily accessible from different parts of the city.
Tip from Hassan: Visit the park in the late afternoon when local families come out to enjoy the cooler temperatures. It's a great place to see everyday Casablanca life and let your children make new friends.
Culinary Adventures: Where to Eat in Casablanca with Kids
Traditional Friday Couscous: A Moroccan Must
If you happen to be in Casablanca on a Friday, you're in for a treat! Friday is couscous day in Morocco, and we made sure to enjoy this traditional meal. "Let's go!" I told my family as lunchtime approached, and we found a local restaurant serving this Moroccan specialty.
The fluffy semolina topped with tender vegetables and meat was a hit even with my children. It's a filling meal that will keep you energized for an afternoon of exploration.
Tip from Hassan: Most restaurants serve couscous only on Fridays, so plan accordingly if you want to try this traditional dish. If your children are picky eaters, you can usually ask for a simpler version with just chicken and carrots.
A Sweet Break: Moroccan Pastries and Café Culture
After shopping and sightseeing, we stopped for a sweet treat. Moroccan pastries are delicious and varied, perfect for an afternoon goûter (snack). I enjoyed my usual coffee on a beautiful terrace while the children sampled some sweet delights.
The next morning, we continued our culinary exploration with breakfast at a café near our apartment. Moroccan breakfasts typically include bread, olive oil, honey, and fresh orange juice—a healthy start to an active day of exploration.
Tip from Hassan: Most cafés in Casablanca have terraces where you can enjoy people-watching while having a snack. This is a perfect rest stop when discovering Casablanca with kids who need a break from walking.
International Flavors: Korean Restaurant Experience
One evening, we decided to try something completely different. After researching online, we found a highly-rated Korean restaurant about 10 minutes' walk from the park. The beautiful decorations immediately caught our attention.
The interactive cooking experience was a hit with my children. We selected ingredients and cooked them right at our table on a hot plate. It was not only delicious but also an entertaining dining experience for the whole family.
Tip from Hassan: Don't be afraid to try international cuisine in Casablanca. The city is cosmopolitan, with restaurants representing cuisines from around the world. This can be a welcome break if your children are getting tired of Moroccan food.
Day Trips from Casablanca: Exploring Beyond the City
Between Casablanca and Bouskoura: A Delicious Detour
During our stay, we took a short trip to a location between Casablanca and Bouskoura, about 30 minutes from the city. We had arranged to meet someone who recommended a wonderful restaurant in the area.
The restaurant exceeded our expectations with delicious food. After our meal, we enjoyed some relaxation time with a good briwat (a traditional Moroccan pastry) to help with digestion. The area was spacious and offered a nice break from the city's hustle and bustle.
Tip from Hassan: If you have a rental car, consider these short trips outside Casablanca. The surrounding areas offer more relaxed dining experiences and often lower prices than in the city center.
Service Stations: More Than Just Fuel Stops
One thing that surprised me about traveling in Morocco with children is how family-friendly the service stations are. During our drive, we stopped at a station that had beautiful green spaces and even a playground for children.
These stations are perfect for breaks during long drives, offering clean facilities, good food, and space for children to stretch their legs. I highly recommend the station between Bouskoura and Casablanca—it's much more than just a place to fill up your tank!
Tip from Hassan: Moroccan service stations along major highways are often more like small shopping centers with restaurants, prayer rooms, and sometimes even playgrounds. They're great places to take a break during longer journeys.
Practical Tips for Families Discovering Casablanca
Getting Around: Transportation Options with Kids
Casablanca is a large city, and while walking is pleasant in certain areas, you'll likely need other transportation options:
- Rental Car: We chose this option for flexibility, especially for our day trips outside the city. Parking near the Hassan II Mosque was convenient and quick.
- Tram: Casablanca has a modern tram system that connects many tourist areas. We spotted the tram near the Arab League Park and found it to be a clean and efficient way to travel.
- Taxis: Small red taxis are abundant in Casablanca and can be a good option for shorter trips. For families, you might need to take two taxis as they typically don't allow more than three passengers.
Tip from Hassan: If you're comfortable driving in new places, a rental car offers the most flexibility for families. Otherwise, the tram is an excellent option for moving between major attractions in the city center.
Weather and What to Pack
During our visit, the weather was surprisingly pleasant. I didn't even need a coat while walking along the corniche near the mosque. Casablanca has a mild climate compared to interior cities like Marrakech or Fez.
Nevertheless, if you're visiting in winter, layers are recommended as evenings can get cool, especially near the ocean. In summer, light clothing and sun protection are essential, as the sun can be intense.
Tip from Hassan: Always carry water bottles and snacks for children, especially during sightseeing days. While there are plenty of shops and cafés in tourist areas, having supplies on hand prevents hunger-induced meltdowns!
Family-Friendly Activities Near the Hassan II Mosque
The area around the Hassan II Mosque offers more than just architectural admiration. We watched skilled skateboarders performing tricks in the gigantic plaza surrounding the mosque. My children were fascinated and even wanted to try it themselves!
The wide-open spaces are perfect for children to run around and burn off energy. The combination of cultural experience and physical activity makes this area a win-win for families.
Tip from Hassan: Visit the mosque area in the late afternoon when local families and skateboarders come out. The atmosphere is lively and fun, and the photos you'll take with the mosque in the golden hour light will be stunning.
Conclusion: Making Memories in Casablanca with Kids
Our family adventure to discover Casablanca with kids was filled with wonderful moments—from standing in awe before the magnificent Hassan II Mosque to enjoying simple pleasures like watching skateboarders in the plaza or playing in the Arab League Park.
Casablanca offers a different Moroccan experience than the more tourist-oriented cities like Marrakech or Fez. It's a working city where you can experience modern Moroccan life alongside historical and cultural attractions. This blend of old and new, traditional and contemporary makes it an interesting destination for families looking to understand the many faces of Morocco.
Have you visited Casablanca with your family? What were your favorite spots? I'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments below! If you're planning a trip and have questions about discovering Casablanca with kids, feel free to ask—I'm happy to help fellow travelers make the most of their Moroccan adventures.
Inshallah, I'll see you on the road!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Casablanca is surprisingly family-friendly! With spacious areas like the plaza around Hassan II Mosque, the Arab League Park with its playgrounds, and modern amenities like Morocco Mall, there's plenty to keep children entertained. The city is less overwhelming than Marrakech or Fez, making it a good introduction to Morocco for families.
Two to three days is ideal for exploring Casablanca with kids. This gives you enough time to visit the main attractions like Hassan II Mosque, enjoy the parks and beaches, experience Morocco Mall, and take in the city atmosphere without rushing or overwhelming young travelers.
The Anfa neighborhood is excellent for families visiting Casablanca. It's close to the ocean and the Hassan II Mosque, with plenty of restaurants nearby. Ain Diab is another good option, especially if you want beach access. Both areas are relatively safe and offer convenient access to major attractions.