Welcome to Chefchaouen – the magical blue city located in the Rif Mountains of north Morocco. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of charm and tranquility. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals, and vibrant markets, Chefchaouen is the perfect blend of culture and charm.
Discover hidden gems, delicious local cuisine, bustling of the local plaza and take in the rustic mountain views from the blue hues of the old medina.
This destination is great for:
👨👩👧👦 Families
👩❤️👨 Couples
🥾 Solo travelers
🎒Backpackers
🧳First time travelers
🪵Nature lovers
🧿 Culture travelers
🥙 Foodies
📸 Instagrammers
Languages
Arabic, French & English
Currency
MAD Moroccan Dirhams
Things to do and see
These are some the must things to do and see in Chefchaouen that can be discovered within a day. Of course if you planned to stay the night, you can really spend more time sightseeing and living the local life. Click to see my personal ✨Savvy Tip✨
Chefchaouen Medina
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Explore the charming, blue-painted old town, wandering through its narrow streets and alleys. The blue color creates a unique and picturesque atmosphere. You can spend few hours just walking around & admiring the blue painted surroundings.
✨Savvy Tip: The higher you go into the medina, the more peaceful and serene it gets. You really get to experience the local friendly vibes. Also, almost no crowds for those perfect shots!
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Place Outa El Hamam
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The main square is a vibrant hub of activity. Relax in a cafe, shop for local crafts, or just people-watch in this lively area. It can get touristy, however it offer a contrast to the peaceful alleyways of the medina.
✨Savvy Tip: Don't get pressured by restaurant vendors at the square. Take your time and decide - most of these are decent & some even have rooftops!
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Kasbah
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Enter the Kasbah to explore its history and culture. The museum provides insights into Chefchaouen's past, and from the tower, you get panoramic views of the town. Inside you can also find a charming Moroccan garden and chill under the palm trees.
✨Savvy Tip: (60 Dirhams entry - Approx $6) If you simply short on time, I would suggest to admire the Kasbah from the outside. It's as majestic. Save more time to wonder the blue neighborhoods.
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Ras El Ma
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Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the river at Ras El Ma. It's a tranquil spot where you can relax and take in the natural beauty. Once a popular spot for local women to wash their clothers by the river, now filled with terraces of cafes.
✨Savvy Tip: Do save some time to stop at one of the cafes to enjoy a cup of Moroccan tea whilst listening to the wound of the river. It can get crowded, however it's worth the visit.
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Bouzafer mosque
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Hike up to the Spanish Mosque for stunning panoramic views of Chefchaouen and the surrounding mountains. A historical and charming spot.
✨Savvy Tip: Sunset is a particularly magical time to visit. If time allows, definitely recommended to visit.
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Sidi Bouchouka photo spot
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You can't miss the famous instagrammable spot at Sidi Bouchouka. Located at one of the main street in high medina, it isn't too difficult to locate it using Google Maps. However, do pay attention to the street signs - and the crowds!
✨Savvy Tip: Despite it being the most famous spots, there are plenty more corner that are as aesthetic. Just have the courage (and time) to explore the medina.
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Place El Haouta
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A quaint little plaza in the heart of Medina with a traditional water fountain in the middle. Stripped with local cafes and ice cream shop. A perfect rest stop.
✨Savvy Tip: This square is much quieter for a relaxing pitstop at one of the terraces. This is where you feel like you're in a small charming town. Every corner is picture worthy.
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Orange Shop - Said Juice Seller
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Did you even visit Chefchaouen if you hadn't gone pass the Orange Juice man? Cute little corner to get your vitamin C in whilst taking a super instagram photo. It's a must!
✨Savvy Trip: Small cup 15 MAD. Big cup 20 MAD.
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Where to eat
Loads of restaurants to choose from, however these are my personal recommendations. If you're an adventurous eater, you can't be dissapointed. Be sure to try lamb tagine and the traditional sweet & salty pastilla.
Assaada
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A hidden restaurant in the middle of the medina - yet quiet, tranquil and friendly. Offering a wide range of variety of Moroccan dishes from tagine, stews, roasts and wraps. Prices are incredibly affordable (ranging from 30 - 80 MAD per dish) and ample of seatings indoor, outdoor and on their rooftop. You must try their natural fruit juices as well.
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Restaurant Bab Ssour
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Offers a big traditional dining rooms with beautiful aesthetic. Very friendly services and a wide variety of dishes. A must try for an authentic Moroccan dining experience.
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Cafe Clock
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Probably the most searched restaurant in town. With their high rooftop, you can see the old medina and its blue hues while sipping a cup of mint tea under the sun. Offering their unique camel burger, meat pastilla and other specialties. It's a must stop.
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Sofia
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Located just off the main bustle of the plaza, enter a smaller quiet corner in which you can find some souvernir shops and a big terrace of Sofia's restaurant. Serving traditional dishes with fresh ingredients and a home cooked feel.
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Cafe Sindibad
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It's all about the rooftops! Another local restaurant just off the main plaza - away from touristic restaurants and touts. Cafe Sindibad offers a local take on international cuisine with great prices.
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How to get there
Unfortunately, Chefchaouen has not got an international airpot nearby. This is what makes it truly a hidden secret. So the key in visiting this blue gem is through other bigger cities in Morocco. You can take tours, one way/return transfers or rent your own car for a more flexible way of travel.
Driving distance (approx.)
From Tangier - 2.2 hours
From Fez - 3.5 hours
From Rabat - 4 hours
From Casablanca - 5 hours
From Marrakech - 7 hours
Tours
From Fez
From Tangier
From Cassablanca
Savvy Tips when visiting
🔍 If you are going to Chefchaouen with a tour, be mindful of time. These tours usually give your more or less 4 - 5 hours to spend exploring the town.
🔍 There are one-way transfers available from major cities in Morocco for those of you who'd like to spend the night.
🔍Or rent your own car if you love road trips. It will give you way more flexibility! However, be mindful of roads and speeds checks. Police tend to stop you just because you're a foreigner - just prepare the Dirhams and small talks.
🔍 Don't be afraid to venture deep and high up into the medina. It isn't too big to get lost in. Google maps seems to work well and street signs are somewhat prominent.
🔍 Restaurants are cheaper than in other parts of Morocco, so do indulge. Try something different and definitely get those fresh juices in!
🔍 Take a photo with friendly and colorful parrots at the main square for 10 MAD.
🔍 Souvenir shopping is also much more affordable than other cities in Morocco. So if you have lists of things to get - get them here!
Remember to take your time and savor the unique vibes that Chefchaouen has to offer. Whether you're exploring its historic sites, enjoying the stunning landscapes, or simply getting lost in the blue-hued streets, Chefchaouen is for sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. And lots of aesthetic photos. Happy Travels!
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