Enriched by various influences over the centuries, Casablanca is a city that invites you to discover its unique culture, architecture and gastronomy. To make the experience even better, we suggest the Pestana Casablanca, a Portuguese hotel near the sea that offers all the creature comforts a traveller might wish for.
In recent years, Morocco has become increasingly popular as a holiday destination. The country possesses remarkable cities, such as Casablanca and Marrakech, not forgetting Rabat and Fez, each one with its own rich cultural and historical legacy, on show at every turn.
With direct flights from Lisbon to Mohammed V Airport, travelling to Casablanca is not only easy but also involves a thrilling cultural and sensory journey that promises both a fascinating and unforgettable experience.
The Pestana Casablanca is located by the ocean and boasts 79 suites, which makes this hotel in Casablanca ideal for those travelling as a couple, with family, friends or even for a business trip, combining comfort, convenience and an unforgettable city experience. Just 10 minutes from the downtown area and close to waterfront restaurants, clubs and shopping areas, the hotel is part of the modern and sophisticated Anfa Place Living Resort. This complex features a shopping centre, various restaurants and cafés, a business centre and a promenade with direct access to the beach. After getting settled in at the hotel, it’s time to explore everything Casablanca has to offer, from its historical and cultural attractions to its lively nightlife and intriguing local markets.
Pestana Casablanca Exterior Pool
Pestana Casablanca Suite Premium Superior View
Pestana Casablanca Lobby
Pestana Casablanca Family Premium Superior Suite
Casablanca is Morocco’s most cosmopolitan city, with architecture that contrasts modern elements with a strong French influence. Saying that, there’s much more to see…
Visiting the Hassan II Mosque
Casablanca’s calling card is the imposing Hassan II Mosque, the world’s third largest Muslim place of worship and one of the most impressive. An extraordinary example of Arab-Muslim architecture, the building possesses colourful mosaics and a 200-metre-high minaret with a 30-kilometre laser beamed towards Mecca.
The Medina
Moroccan cities are well-known for their medinas and Casablanca is no exception. Explore the souks (traditional markets), which are veritable mazes with multiple alleys, nooks and crannies, where the different bazaars sell handicrafts, antiques and spices. Another possibility is taking a walk around the perimeter of the city walls to see their impressive gates.
Strolling around the Quartier Art Deco and Quartier des Habous neighbourhoods
These are two of the city’s most famous neighbourhoods. The first showcases the famous art deco movement, which demonstrates the French colonial influence of the 1920s and 1930s, with elegant buildings, geometric lines and ornamental details. This is a great way for fans of this architectural style to spend a few hours.
The Quartier des Habous, also known as the New Medina, provides a different experience from the traditional medina. Although less touristy, this area also allows visitors to explore picturesque alleys, shops selling handicraft and local produce, as well as mosques and squares.
Trying Moroccan cuisine
A combination of Arab, Berber and Mediterranean influences, Moroccan gastronomy is a unique sensory experience that offers a rich diversity of flavours, aromas and culinary techniques reflected in both the country’s history and culture. The most iconic Moroccan dishes include tajine (a stew in an earthenware pot), pastilla (puff pastry with chicken or meat), couscous and traditional khobz bread, which are good examples of the variety and complexity of a cuisine that balances the sweet and savoury.
Going to the beach opposite the Pestana Casablanca
Overlooking Ain Diab beach, direct access invites guests to walk along Boulevard de la Corniche at any time of day. From this location, the sunset in Casablanca is a must-see before dinner.
Dining at a restaurant inspired by Casablanca
Contrary to popular opinion, Michael Curtiz’s 1942 film wasn’t filmed in Casablanca: it was shot entirely at Warner Brothers Studios in Burbank, Los Angeles, with the exception of one scene, which was filmed at Van Nuys Airport. Be that as it may, the city itself has tried to re-create the place where Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman reminisce. The restaurant is called Rick’s Café and it’s next to the old town and harbour. An experience that caters for both foodies and film buffs.
