Things to Do at Central Market

Complete Guide to Central Market in Casablanca

About Central Market

The Art Deco market hall opens at dawn and the smells hit you at the entrance: fresh mint in bundles, cumin in open sacks, the salt-and-sea scent of the fish counter where whole sardines are piled on ice by the kilo. Casablanca's Marche Central was built during the French Protectorate in the 1920s, and it still operates as a working neighborhood market where housewives negotiate the price of olives (20-40 MAD per kg) and butchers trim lamb cuts to order. The seafood section is the highlight - Casablanca is a port city and the fish arrives daily. Shrimp, sole, sea bream, and squid are sold by weight and the adjacent restaurants will grill your purchase for an additional fee (typically 20-30 MAD). The spice stalls sell ras el hanout (the Moroccan spice blend, 30-50 MAD per 100g), saffron, and preserved lemons packed in salt. The produce section has seasonal fruits and vegetables at prices that make European supermarkets look criminal. Browsing is free and the vendors, while eager, are less aggressive than in the medinas of Marrakech or Fez.

What to See & Do

Spice Stalls

Colorful pyramids of cumin, paprika, ras el hanout, and other Moroccan spices - the aromas alone are worth the visit

Fresh Produce Section

Local fruits and vegetables including dates, figs, and seasonal specialties that give you a sense of Morocco's agricultural diversity

Olive Vendors

An impressive variety of olives in different marinades and preparations, plus preserved lemons and other pickled goods

Traditional Crafts Area

Local artisans selling pottery, textiles, and small handicrafts - less overwhelming than the larger souks

Flower Market

Particularly lovely in the mornings, with fresh cut flowers and potted plants that locals buy for their homes

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though individual vendors might close earlier on Fridays and some may have reduced hours during Ramadan

Tickets & Pricing

Free entry - you only pay for what you buy from individual vendors

Best Time to Visit

Morning hours (9:00-11:00 AM) when the produce is freshest and the atmosphere is most lively

Suggested Duration

1-2 hours for a leisurely browse, though you could easily spend longer if you're seriously shopping

Getting There

You can walk to Central Market from most downtown hotels. The market sits near Mohammed V Square in the main commercial district-easy to find if you're staying in the city center. Taxi drivers know "Marché Central" if you need to show them the address. The Casa Tramway stops nearby. But taxis are your best bet. They're everywhere and won't cost much for short rides around downtown.

Things to Do Nearby

Mohammed V Square
The main central square with impressive colonial architecture and government buildings

Habous Quarter
A planned traditional neighborhood with authentic souks and the Royal Palace nearby

Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral
A striking modern Catholic cathedral with beautiful stained glass windows

Arab League Park
The city's largest green space, perfect for a stroll after market shopping

Villa des Arts
Contemporary art gallery showcasing Moroccan and international artists

Tips & Advice

Bring cash in small denominations - most vendors don't accept cards and having exact change makes transactions smoother

If you're buying spices, ask vendors to grind them fresh if possible - the flavor difference is genuinely noticeable

Don't be afraid to sample olives or dried fruits before buying - vendors typically expect this and it's part of the shopping culture

Consider bringing a small bag or backpack since plastic bags aren't always available and you might end up buying more than planned