What to Do in El Jadida: Portuguese City, Beach and Oualidia 2026

El Jadida (formerly Mazagan) is a UNESCO-listed weekend destination favored by Casablanca locals. The 16th-century Portuguese city and the long beach draw families, while the surroundings (Oualidia, Azemmour) offer fine day trips. 1 to 2 days are enough for the essentials.

1. The Portuguese city (UNESCO)

Portuguese cistern

El Jadida's jewel: a magnificent 16th-century underground reservoir supported by columns and vaults, where a thin film of water on the floor creates stunning reflections. Orson Welles filmed scenes of his Othello (1949) here, and Hitchcock drew inspiration from it. A must-see, very photogenic site. Modest entry.

Ramparts and bastions

A walk along the Portuguese citadel ramparts, with views of the ocean and the port. The bastions (Saint-Sébastien, de l'Ange, Saint-Antoine) bear witness to Portuguese military architecture.

Church of the Assumption

A 16th-century Catholic church at the heart of the city, a witness to the Portuguese presence. Notable architecture.

Synagogue and multicultural heritage

The Portuguese city also houses a synagogue and reflects a multicultural past (Portuguese, Jewish, Muslim) unique in Morocco.

Guided tour of the Portuguese city· Viator

El Jadida excursion from Casablanca· GetYourGuide

2. In town and by the sea

El Jadida beach

7 km of sandy beach, popular with Moroccan families, especially in summer. Swimming, walks, a lively local vibe on weekends.

Fish market

In the morning, the fish market near the port offers an authentic atmosphere: the fishermen's return, the auction, fresh fish. Pair it with a grilled-fish lunch.

Port and central market

The fishing port with its colorful boats, and the central market for local produce, round out exploring the town.

3. Day trips in the area

Oualidia

75 km south, Oualidia is Morocco's oyster capital. Its protected lagoon offers a calm beach ideal for families, bird watching, and of course fresh-oyster tasting in lagoon-side restaurants. An excellent day trip or stop.

Azemmour

17 km north, Azemmour is a white medina perched above the Oum Er-Rbia (Morocco's longest river). Painted alleys, Portuguese ramparts, a peaceful artistic atmosphere. Half a day.

Moulay Abdellah

Nearby, this village hosts a historic moussem (religious and equestrian festival, tbourida) in August, one of the biggest in Morocco.

Mazagan Beach Resort

Even without staying there, the Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort is worth a visit for its golf, casino and restaurants (7 km away).

Which program for your profile?

How much time to plan?

• 1 day: Portuguese city + beach (the essentials).
• 2 days: add Oualidia (oysters, lagoon) or Azemmour.

Indicative daily budget

• Portuguese cistern: modest entry (~20 MAD)
• Ramparts / beach: free
• Oualidia oyster tasting: €10-25
• Restaurants: €8-30
• Oualidia / Azemmour excursion: €20-50

Average activities budget: €25-60/day/person.

Practical tips

• ONCF train: the easiest option from Casablanca (1h15).
• Car: handy for Oualidia and Azemmour.
• Portuguese cistern: visit early in the morning for crowd-free reflections.
• Oualidia oysters: a not-to-miss specialty, freshness guaranteed lagoon-side.

Compare car rentals· Discover Cars

Mistakes to avoid

FAQ — What to do in El Jadida

In summary

El Jadida is one of the most accessible weekend destinations from Casablanca. The UNESCO Portuguese citadel and its cistern with magical reflections are unique in North Africa. Pair it with Oualidia (oysters, lagoon) for a complete experience blending heritage, beach and food.

My 3 key tips:

1. Visit the Portuguese cistern early in the morning for crowd-free reflections.
2. Push on to Oualidia to taste oysters lagoon-side.
3. Combine with Azemmour (white medina) to vary in half a day.