Casablanca is Morocco’s busy heart. The city mixes old history with modern towers. It has traditional markets and new glass buildings. Do you want a fancy designer purse? Or a silver teapot made by hand? You find both in Casablanca.
We help you shop smart. We show you the best places. You can visit the oldest trading spots. You can also go to the cool, air-conditioned beach malls.
Part 1: New and Fancy Shopping (Set Prices)
Want an easy, modern shopping experience with air-conditioning, credit card payments, and guaranteed quality? Head to Casablanca’s modern malls near the beach. Many of these spots sit right by the beautiful Casablanca beaches.
1. Morocco Mall
This is the biggest mall in Africa. It is a tourist attraction itself. The mall is huge and fancy. It sits right on the ocean. It’s perfect for relaxing after you lie on the Casablanca beach.
- What you find: They have almost every international brand you can name. Find luxury names like Gucci and Dior. Also see common brands like Zara and H&M. The mall offers many fun things. A giant aquarium sits inside. You eat at a big food court. A movie theater shows huge IMAX films.
- How much you pay: Prices are high—think luxury. Everything has one set price. You do not need to bargain. The costs are like big cities in Europe or the U.S. A simple shirt from a famous store might cost about $50. Very fancy things cost thousands.
- Where it is: It sits at the very end of the main road by the sea (the Corniche). You stay at a hotel near Casablanca Beach? Then it is very simple to reach.
2. Anfaplace Mall
This mall is smaller and more relaxed. It gives you a nice view of the Atlantic. It feels calm and open.
- What you find: Find international and local shops. Buy things for your home. You eat at casual restaurants with sea views. This spot is great for buying casual clothes or beach items.
- Price Range: Prices are medium. A new pair of shoes or a simple shirt will cost about $30 to $100.
- Beach Feel: Go outside to the outdoor area. You will feel the spray from the waves! This connects your trip with the Casablanca beach in Morocco.
3. Twin Center
These two tall, famous buildings stand in the middle of the modern business area, Maarif. The bottom floor holds very fancy shops. People who love fashion shop here often.
- What you find: Shoppers buy clothes from high-end local designers. Find famous international fashion brands. Small shops sell special jewelry and makeup.
- How much you pay: You pay high prices for luxury and special items. You spend a lot because you buy famous names and unique designs. Expect to spend big money!
Part 2: Old and Real Shopping (You Must Haggle)
Do you want souvenirs, spices, crafts, and real Moroccan culture? Then go to the traditional markets, called Souks. Remember: sellers rarely have set prices here. Be ready to bargain hard!
4. Quartier Habous (The New Medina)
The French built this area in the 1920s. It is a clean, organized, and charming traditional market. It is the best first stop if you are new to souks.
- What you find: Buy good Moroccan crafts. Look for:
- Leather Poufs: ($30 – $70, depends on size and how you bargain)
- Ceramics/Tagines: ($10 – $40 for a decorative dish)
- Slippers (Babouches): ($15 – $30 for a nice leather pair)
- Spices: Everything from saffron to Ras el Hanout mix.
- Shopping Tip: This market is “newer.” Vendors are usually less pushy than in the older markets. Bargaining feels more fun here.
5. Marché Central (The Central Market)
This market is right downtown. Locals buy their fresh food here. It is noisy, colorful, and full of life.
- What you find: Mostly food, but it is great to see. View big piles of fresh seafood, vegetables, flowers, and spices.
- Price Range: Very cheap. Locals set the prices. You should still know what things cost. It’s not the cheapest place, but you buy a great (and cheap) lunch here. Try fresh oysters or a seafood sandwich.
- The Vibe: Go for the experience, not just for souvenirs. It is a real cultural sight.
6. Ancienne Medina (Old Medina)
This is the oldest part of the city. It sits near the port. This market is messy, like a maze, and excitingly chaotic.
- What you find: Buy everyday items, simple crafts, clothes, and small, cheap trinkets. You also find stalls selling traditional clothing and local furniture.
- Price Range: Low prices. Prices are often lower than in Habous. But quality can change, and you must bargain very hard.
7. Derb Ghallef
This is Casablanca’s biggest “flea market.” It is an informal market. People know it more for electronics, used goods, and fake designer items than for nice crafts.
- What you find: Everything you can imagine. It often has a rough style. Wandering through is an adventure. Keep your wallet and phone safe.
- Price Range: Very Low. This is where local people go to find the biggest deals.
Quick Shopping Advice for Casablanca
- Bargaining: Start your offer in the Souks at about half the price the seller first says. Be nice, but stay firm. If you walk away, the seller might call you back with a better price!
- Want Set Prices? Does bargaining stress you? Look for the Exposition Nationale d’Artisanat (National Crafts Exhibition). The government runs this shop. They sell real crafts at fair, set prices.
- Beach Break Shopping: Remember that great shopping spots are by the water. You can spend a day enjoying the beaches in Casablanca. Eat lunch with an ocean view. Then, go to Morocco Mall for some big-brand shopping. After, check into your hotel near the Casablanca East West Palm Beach area (the main coast).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should I use cash or a credit card for most shopping?
Use a mix. You use cards easily at malls and big stores. You absolutely need Moroccan Dirhams (cash) for Souks, street vendors, and small shops.
Is it possible to claim a tax refund for large purchases?
Yes, non-residents claim a VAT (tax) refund. You must spend a minimum amount (over 2,000 MAD) at stores that participate in the ‘Morocco Tax Refund’ system.
What is the local currency, and where should I get it?
The local money is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Get it from ATMs in the city or from change bureaus. Avoid bad rates at the airport or hotels.
Do I need to tip shop owners or Souk vendors?
No, you do not usually tip a shop owner for a purchase. You can offer a small tip (5–10 MAD) if someone gives you special help or service.
What are the typical opening hours for traditional Souks?
Souks usually open from about 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. They may close for a few hours in the middle of the day.
