Shopping in the souks of Casablanca

Published on June 16, 2024 at 3:00 pm

In Morocco, souks are a must, and Casablanca has several of them. Derb Ghallef, for example, is the oldest. Known for its wide range of electronic and computer products, it also sells clothes and furniture. In the new town, head for the Habous district, a more modern souk where shops stretch out under arcades. A striking contrast with the old medina, but where the atmosphere of the souks remains intact from one district to another.

Summary

Visit Derb Ghallef, a bustling souk
A modern souk in the Habous district
Where to sleep near Casablanca?

Visit Derb Ghallef, a bustling souk

In the 1920s, the Derb Ghallef souk was called the Soukia, and covered just three alleyways. In 1959, a major fire ravaged the area, forcing traders to move to the old Bouskoura road. The number of shops grew steadily until 1982, when another fire reduced the market to ashes. A map was then drawn up to find a new location. The authorities chose Derb Gallef to house the souk.

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The Derb Ghallef souk is divided into very narrow alleys, sometimes crowded with people, where you'll find furniture shops where you can admire all the Moroccan cabinet-making expertise. But you'll also find ready-to-wear, second-hand goods and antique shops at very affordable prices. During the stroll, you can also grab a sandwich, enjoy a tajine or drink a juice at one of the stalls in the souk.

Souk de Derb Ghallef

A modern souk in the Habous district

If you'd like to continue your shopping in a more modern area, or if you'd like to buy some fine Moroccan handicrafts, we advise you to go to the Souk des Habous, also known as the "Marché de la Nouvelle Ville", on Boulevard Victor Hugo in Casablanca. Head east on Boulevard Victor Hugo past Mahkamat el-Pasha. Enter through the archway of the Café Impérial and you will come to the famous Habous souk.

All kinds of goods are sold in the New Town market. You'll find carpet auctions, craft shops, traditional clothing, shoes and handmade jewellery. There are also bookshops, open-air cafés, restaurants and bakeries.