Central Market
A historic indoor souk renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptionally fresh, affordable seafood.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest seafood, fewer crowds
Central Market
Best Time
Freshest seafood, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic indoor souk renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptionally fresh, affordable seafood.
"The best place to eat seafood in Casablanca with affordable prices and amazing freshness."
Confirm Prices First
Always clarify prices and what's included before ordering to avoid scams.
Fresh Oysters Galore
Don't miss the incredibly fresh oysters, often priced around 8-10 MAD.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Central Fish Market
Ground floor
Dive into the freshest seafood imaginable, from live oysters to grilled sardines, at unbeatable prices.
No-Frills Food Stalls
Various sections
Experience authentic local flavors at simple, bustling food stalls offering traditional dishes.
Local Produce & Goods
Throughout the market
Wander through vibrant displays of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and traditional Moroccan clothing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bustle
Seafood Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Prices First
Always clarify prices and what's included before ordering to avoid scams.
Fresh Oysters Galore
Don't miss the incredibly fresh oysters, often priced around 8-10 MAD.
Try the Sardines
Affordable and delicious, sardines served with sides are a must-try.
Bargain Hunt
Great place to find local produce, flowers, and traditional clothing at good prices.
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Prices First
Always clarify prices and what's included before ordering to avoid scams.
Fresh Oysters Galore
Don't miss the incredibly fresh oysters, often priced around 8-10 MAD.
Try the Sardines
Affordable and delicious, sardines served with sides are a must-try.
Bargain Hunt
Great place to find local produce, flowers, and traditional clothing at good prices.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Central Market's incredible value, especially for fresh seafood like oysters and grilled fish, often at bargain prices. The vibrant atmosphere and authentic local culture are major draws. However, some caution is advised regarding potential scams where tourists might be steered towards overpriced restaurants.
"The best place for seafood at an amazing price. It's so fresh you can even eat oysters alive.
Just be aware of scammers: they often lead you to random restaurants and serve starters you didn’t order, without any explanation. In the end, you may end up paying more for those than for your main dish."
Jordy B
"The Central Market one of the most famous urban markets in Morocco with historical and cultural significance. It is located on Muhammad V Boulevard, among the colonial architecture of the 20th century. Crammed with locals, the daily market is a fascinating place for tourists to get a taste of local culture, while picking up bargains on everything from food to flowers and traditional clothing."
Silver Decor
"This is somewhat like a bit of the medina souk, enclosed in its own walls, offering well liked fish grill restaurants, fruit and vegetables as well as flowers and other such market goods. Nothing is priced?. The cafes were busy and the fish market had some high end fish and shellfish, much sought after."
Kevin Costello
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Central Market is centrally located on Muhammad V Boulevard. It's easily accessible by taxi or local bus. If you're in downtown Casablanca, it's within walking distance.
Parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's often best to use public transport or a taxi. If driving, look for paid parking lots nearby.
From Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), you can take a taxi directly to the Central Market. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are generally available in Casablanca and can be a convenient way to reach the Central Market.
The market can be crowded and has uneven surfaces in some areas. While some parts are accessible, navigating the entire market with mobility issues might be challenging.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Central Market is generally free. You only pay for the food and goods you purchase inside.
The market typically opens around 10 AM and closes around 8 PM (20:00). However, hours can vary slightly, especially for specific stalls.
Yes, the Central Market is usually open on weekends, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Mornings, especially right after opening, tend to be less crowded than midday. Late afternoons can also offer a more relaxed experience.
While there aren't official ticketed tours, many local guides offer market tours as part of a broader city exploration. You can also explore independently.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The absolute must-try is the fresh seafood, especially grilled fish and oysters. Don't miss out on local produce and traditional Moroccan dishes from the food stalls.
Yes, you can find plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and some stalls offer vegetarian tagines or couscous. Lentil porridge is also a common side.
Seafood is very affordable. Fresh oysters can be around 8-10 MAD, and a plate of sardines is about 30 MAD (around 3 USD).
Yes, the seafood is incredibly fresh, and you can enjoy live oysters.
Be cautious of unsolicited recommendations from strangers, as they might lead you to overpriced or less authentic spots. Stick to stalls with clear menus and prices.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, always be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their goods.
The vibrant displays of fresh seafood, colorful produce, and the bustling atmosphere of the food stalls offer great photo opportunities. The colonial architecture surrounding the market is also picturesque.
Mornings offer good natural light and fewer crowds, making it easier to capture clear shots. The lively atmosphere in the afternoon can also yield dynamic photos.
While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography. Be mindful of vendors' privacy and busy pathways. Tripods might be cumbersome in crowded areas.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful. A wider lens can capture the market's scale, while a prime lens can be good for low-light food shots. A smartphone is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Arrive earlier in the day to avoid the biggest crowds and make navigating easier. Focus on the produce and flower sections for visual appeal. For food, consider simpler dishes like grilled fish or fruit salads. Be mindful of the bustling environment and keep a close eye on children, especially in crowded areas.
💰 Budget Travelers
Key budget tips: Stick to the food stalls and the fish market for meals. Confirm prices before ordering to avoid being overcharged. Look for set meals or platters that offer good value. Purchasing fresh produce or snacks from the market stalls is also a very economical way to eat.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Casablanca's Commerce
Navigating the market is an experience in itself. You'll find distinct sections dedicated to different goods. The Central Fish Market is arguably the most famous, drawing crowds with its dazzling array of seafood. Beyond fish, explore stalls overflowing with vibrant fruits, aromatic spices, colorful flowers, and local textiles. It’s a sensory overload in the best possible way, offering a genuine glimpse into daily Moroccan life.
While the market is a treasure trove for authentic experiences and delicious food, visitors should be aware of potential tourist traps. Some reviews mention scammers who might guide you to overpriced restaurants. The key is to stay informed, confirm prices, and stick to well-regarded, busy stalls for the best value and most authentic culinary adventure.
A Seafood Lover's Paradise
The variety is impressive, ranging from common catches like sardines and sea bream to more premium options like lobster and various shellfish. The prices are remarkably affordable, making it a fantastic place to indulge. For instance, a plate of freshly grilled sardines can cost around 30 MAD (approximately 3 USD), and live oysters are often available for 8-10 MAD each.
When dining, look for stalls that are clean, busy, and have clear menus. While the experience is generally positive, it's always wise to confirm prices and what accompaniments are included before ordering to ensure a smooth and enjoyable meal. The freshness and quality at these prices make it a standout culinary experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit