Casablanca -- Morocco's Economic Powerhouse and Art Deco Marvel

The crown jewel of modern Morocco and the world's third-largest mosque. Completed in 1993 on a promontory extending over the Atlantic Ocean, its 210-metre minaret is the tallest religious structure on Earth. The interior accommodates 25,000 worshippers beneath a retractable roof that opens to the sky, while the courtyard holds 80,000 more. Waves crash visibly through a glass-panelled floor. Guided tours for non-Muslims run at scheduled times and reveal the extraordinary craftsmanship -- hand-carved plaster, painted cedarwood, and 53 marble fountains.

Casablanca holds one of the world's densest concentrations of Art Deco, Streamline Moderne, and Neo-Moorish architecture -- a legacy of the French Protectorate's ambitious urban planning. Start at Gare Casa Port and walk along Boulevard Mohammed V past the Hotel Guynemer, Cinema Rialto, and the ornate Wilaya Prefecture. The Sacre-Coeur Cathedral, now a cultural centre, blends Gothic and Art Deco in striking fashion. Guided walks (2-3 hours) are available from local architectural associations.

Built by the French in the 1930s as a cleaner, more orderly alternative to the old medina, the Habous quarter combines traditional Moroccan arches, fountains, and covered passages with European-style street planning. Browse the pastry shops (the mahalabia at Patisserie Bennis is legendary), olive sellers, and fabric merchants. The Royal Palace is adjacent, though closed to visitors.

Casablanca's oceanfront promenade stretches along the Atlantic, lined with beach clubs, restaurants, cafes, and the Morocco Mall. In summer, Casaouis flock to the private beach clubs for swimming, cocktails, and sunset views. The corniche comes alive in the evening -- a perfect venue for a post-dinner stroll with the ocean breeze.

Smaller and grittier than its imperial-city counterparts, Casablanca's old medina retains an authentic, un-touristy atmosphere. The narrow lanes around Rue Chakib Arsalane hold fabric shops, spice dealers, and local eateries. The Sqala -- an 18th-century fortification -- houses a charming garden restaurant within its rampart walls.

An Art Deco-era covered market that is Casablanca's gourmet heart. Fresh Atlantic seafood dominates the stalls -- enormous prawns, whole swordfish, oysters, and sea urchins -- alongside flowers, olives, spices, and charcuterie. Several small restaurants inside the market serve the catch of the day grilled to order.

A loving recreation of the 1942 film's nightclub, set in a restored riad near the old medina. Curved archways, potted palms, a tinkling pianist, and ceiling fans transport guests to a cinematic fantasy. The Moroccan-French menu is solid, the cocktail list extensive, and the atmosphere irresistible for film enthusiasts. No connection to the actual film, which was shot in Hollywood -- but who cares?

Africa's largest shopping centre at the time of opening, the Morocco Mall features an aquarium, ice rink, IMAX cinema, and international luxury brands alongside Moroccan designers. The food court offers a culinary world tour, and the ocean-facing terrace cafes are unexpectedly pleasant.

This striking 1930s cathedral, blending neo-Gothic structure with Art Deco ornament, was deconsecrated after independence and now serves as a cultural venue. The twin towers and dramatic interior arches make it one of the city's most photogenic buildings.

Casablanca is Morocco's nightlife capital. La Bodega serves tapas with live Latin music, Sky Bar at the Four Seasons offers rooftop cocktails with mosque views, and the Anfa district harbours sophisticated lounge bars. Rick's Cafe features nightly piano performances. The scene is cosmopolitan and welcoming.