Nestled within the bustling streets of Casablanca lies the Casablanca Souq – a vibrant marketplace steeped in history and culture. Visiting the souq is a must-do on your Morocco itinerary – even if you’re only in Casablanca for a day or two!
From its labyrinthine alleys filled with colorful stalls to its wide range of goods, this is the perfect place for visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic essence of Morocco.
The Casablanca souq is a great place to go if you’re after some souvenirs. You’ll find typical Moroccan souvenirs here such as leather bags, tagine pots, typical Moroccan slippers, beautiful paintings and the famous Moroccan argan oil.
Even if you don’t plan to buy any souvenirs, the Casablanca souq is a great place to wander around and soak up the atmosphere, plus the stalls make for fantastic photos!
Photography enthusiasts will find no shortage of scenes to capture within the Casablanca Souq, from the vibrant displays of spices and textiles to the ornate architecture and bustling crowds.
Why You Should Visit the Casablanca Souq
The Casablanca souq has a real sense of tradition and heritage, where age-old customs and craftsmanship are still celebrated.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, in the Casablanca souq visitors can witness the vibrant Moroccan culture, from the lively banter of merchants to the aromas of spices, herbs and oud.
Whether you’re in search of a specific item to purchase, you’re just browsing, or you simply wish to soak up the atmosphere, the Casablanca Souq is an exciting place to visit.
What Souvenirs To Buy At The Casablanca Souq
There are a wide range of lovely traditional Moroccan products at the Casablanca souq that you can buy if you’re after a memento of your time in Casablanca.
Whether you’re after textiles, woven carpets, handcrafted ceramics, paintings, handcarved woodwork, spices or the famous Moroccan argan oil, you’ll find it here.
A word of warning, and a tip many Moroccan friends told me – do not buy the argan oil here at the Casablanca souq as the quality is not good!
The argan oil sold here is very diluted, and you will need to go to the south of Morocco (Agadir in particular) to get the real stuff!
When you’re at the souq in Casablanca, remember to haggle for your products by at least half the price to get the best deal.
The market vendors will put the price up drastically for tourists, and they actually expect you to haggle – it’s part of their culture and common practice, so don’t feel bad.
Best Places for Food & Drinks In Casablanca Souq
When you’re at the souq, also make time to head to the bustling food market, full of fresh produce and street food. Enjoy some local Moroccan street food and delicacies such as tagine, couscous, kebabs and sweet pastries from the street vendors.
There are also some traditional tea houses here that provide a much needed calm oasis, where visitors can enjoy a refreshing glass of Moroccan mint tea – which is absolutely delicious by the way!
How To Get To The Casablanca Souq
Located in the heart of Casablanca, the souq is easily accessible. Here is the Google maps location.
If you don’t fancy walking to the souq, you can take a taxi. Make sure to get in one of the small red ‘petit taxi’ – these are the official taxis.
Do be prepared for the taxi drivers trying to rip you off . Always always agree a price before you get in the taxi. It also helps if you speak some French as Moroccans speak French fluently and are less likely to rip you off than if you just speak English.
While the Casablanca souq is big with a maze of stalls and shops, it is fairly compact and can be explored quite easily, unlike the sprawling souqs of Marrakech and Fes and even Khan El Khalili Market in Cairo.
Other Places To Visit Near The Casablanca Souq
After exploring the Casablanca Souq, visitors can continue their journey of discovery by exploring other attractions in the vicinity.
Whether you’re in search of exotic treasures, culinary delights, or simply wish to immerse yourself in the rhythm of daily life, the souq promises an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on your travels in Casablanca.
Old Town Medina
The old town (medina) is next to the souq, so make sure to spend some time wandering round the narrow streets and absorbing the local life here. The medina shows the real life in Casablanca in its maze-like alleyways.
Make sure though to only visit the medina during the day. Local friends advised me it’s really import to not visit this place after dark as it is not safe.
Hassan II Mosque
Built in 1993, the Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, and is a short distance from the souq.
It is an absolutely stunning building – the highlight of any trip to Casablanca and without a doubt the most Instagrammable photo spot in Casablanca.
Caterina McGrail is a Travel Writer and ex-Flight Attendant based in Australia. She has visited 85 countries and lived in several – including Italy, Australia, United Arab Emirates and England. Her work has been featured in a variety of popular travel publications including Fodors, Escape, Australian Traveller and Bear Grylls, as well as several international aviation and travel companies. She only writes about places she has personally visited, and aims to give real, honest advice to help her readers.