Immerse yourself in the enchanting hues of Chefchaouen, Morocco’s famed Blue City, where every corner is painted in mesmerizing shades of blue. This hidden gem invites you on a journey through its ancient medina, a dreamlike maze that feels like stepping into a living canvas. From exploring the old kasbah to soaking in the vibrant life of the main square, and catching the spellbinding sunset from a vantage point beside the medina, Chefchaouen offers a magical experience.
Dive into this blog to discover the best things to do in Chefchaouen, unravel the mysteries behind its iconic blue, and gather insider tips that will transform your visit into an unforgettable adventure.
How to get to Chefchaouen in Morocco?
Tucked away in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen finds its home in the northwest of Morocco. While slightly off the usual tourist path, its charm makes it a worthwhile detour.
The closest international airports are located in Fez and Tangier. The most common ways to reach Chefchaouen are by bus or taxi due to the lack of train connections.
Day excursions from Fez are an option given Chefchaouen’s compact size, though it involves a lot of bus time. Remember, Chefchaouen is at its most magical in the early morning and during sunset, which you might miss on a day trip.
For those coming by ferry from Spain to Ceuta and Tangier Med, Chefchaouen is a splendid first stop given its northern position.
What is Chefchaouen known for?
Known as the Blue City, Chefchaouen is among Morocco’s most picturesque spots, celebrated for its blue-painted walls and streets. From sky blue to deep indigo, these hues craft an ambiance that lures visitors worldwide.
The blue’s origin is debated; some say it was to keep homes cool or repel mosquitoes, while a spiritual view links it to the sky and spirituality, a tradition possibly started by Jewish refugees in the 20th century.
Regardless of its beginnings, the city’s blue charm continues to draw tourists, ensuring the tradition’s survival. Beyond its Instagram fame, Chefchaouen’s scenic alleys and blue maze offer a visual feast, making it a key stop on any Moroccan journey.
Where to stay in in Chefchaouen
An overnight stay in Chefchaouen lets you experience this picturesque Moroccan gem minus the daytime bustle. Enjoy the sunset from the Spanish mosque in the hills and the serene blue medina at dawn.
Chefchaouen’s medina houses dreamlike accommodations that embody traditional Moroccan charm. From authentic riads to those boasting pools, many offer stunning rooftop terraces with panoramic views of the blue city.
Here are the finest hotels in Chefchaouen for all budgets:
#1 Dar Jasmine stands out as the most exquisite place to stay in Chefchaouen.
This enchanting retreat wraps you in luxury and a romantic Arabian Nights ambiance. Dar Jasmine features an exceptionally beautiful interior with Arabesque motifs, elegant details, and rich colors, all thoughtfully curated. Noteworthy are the spacious rooms, Moroccan decor, idyllic views of the blue city, a lovely garden, terrace, and the inviting outdoor pool.
#2 Casa Amina garners endless accolades in its glowing guest reviews. This Chefchaouen jewel, centered around a vibrant blue courtyard, has guests enamored with its hidden charm, warm staff, delightful breakfast, cozy rooms, and inviting atmosphere. It ranks as Chefchaouen’s best for value.
#3 Riad Cherifa finds itself in the vibrant heart of Chefchaouen’s blue medina, a stone’s throw from the lively square. This charming hotel is praised for its stunning sun terrace and welcoming outdoor pool. A tranquil haven, it offers a peaceful respite to unwind after a day in the bustling medina.
#4 Dar Elrio presents a serene hotel experience with an ideal medina location. Celebrated for its peaceful vibe amidst the city’s hustle, the affectionate staff, generous rooms, and exquisite rooftop terrace make it a standout. The terrace is where mornings begin with a superb breakfast against the backdrop of the medina.
The 7 best things to do in Chefchaouen
#1 Wander through the enchanting Blue Medina
A stroll through the blue medina of Chefchaouen is a magical experience you don’t want to miss. While Morocco is dotted with ancient medinas full of charm, Chefchaouen’s medina is uniquely breathtaking.
This heart of the city is celebrated for its intricate maze of streets, each bathed in shades of blue. The medina unfolds like a vibrant tapestry of narrow alleys, staircases, hidden nooks, quaint souvenir shops, and the occasional doorway of a tranquil mosque, almost all adorned in serene blues, including doors, window frames, and whimsically painted plant pots.
Navigating the medina’s labyrinth might seem daunting, yet it’s more manageable than it appears. Its compact size and hillside location aid in orientation. Descending paths will always lead to the central square or a main road.
At the upper reaches of the medina, a lengthy street stretches from one end to the other, lined with charming souvenir shops and picture-perfect corners, made even more captivating by the locals. Some spots have been specially curated for photography, inviting a small fee for those perfect, share-worthy snaps.
#2 Step into the historical Kasbah
Dominating Chefchaouen’s central square is the Kasbah, a fortress that resembles a majestic sandcastle. This monumental structure, erected in the 15th century, once served as the home for the emir, his family, and their soldiers.
Today, this fortress, with its robust defensive walls, residential palace, and barracks, has been transformed into a museum. Within its embrace, you’ll find a tranquil garden, a tower offering sweeping views over Chefchaouen, and an ethnographic museum nestled within the former palace, all inviting you to step back in time.
#3 Experience the vibrancy of Plaza Uta el-Hammam
The heartbeat of Chefchaouen, Plaza Uta el-Hammam, lies at the medina’s core, where the labyrinth of blue alleyways opens into a spacious square. This lively plaza is home to the imposing Kasbah and the majestic Grande Mosquée, shaded by an ancient tree that stands sentinel at the square’s center.
The plaza buzzes with life, thanks to its assortment of restaurants and terraces. Dining here is surprisingly affordable, offering a taste of local cuisine without stretching your budget.
#4 Savor a budget-friendly breakfast
If your hotel stay doesn’t include breakfast, the terraces of Plaza Uta el-Hammam beckon with their inviting breakfast menus. Offering a variety of options, these morning feasts come highly recommended.
For a modest sum of 40-50 dirhams (about 4-5 euros), indulge in a hearty breakfast. Choices range from traditional Moroccan fare to egg-based dishes, all accompanied by coffee or tea and fresh juice, making for an unbeatable start to your day. It’s not just about the meal; it’s an opportunity to soak in the plaza’s tranquil morning ambiance before the day’s hustle begins.
#5 Catch the sunset from the Spanish Mosque
Witnessing the sunset from the Spanish Mosque, perched on a hill outside the city, is an essential Chefchaouen experience. This vantage point offers stunning views of the blue city against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
As sunset approaches, the spot becomes a hive of activity, a testament to its perfect positioning for watching the day end. The mosque, a relic from the 1920s that was never consecrated, might not be the main attraction, but the panoramic views and vibrant sunset atmosphere more than compensate for a visit.
#6 Delve into the stunning mountain landscapes
Beyond its blue medina, Chefchaouen is enveloped by the breathtaking natural beauty of the Rif Mountains. A variety of hiking trails cater to both casual walkers and seasoned hikers, guiding you through lush valleys, alongside sparkling mountain streams, and to scenic overlooks.
Whether you’re setting off directly from Chefchaouen or venturing out on a day trip, the natural beauty is compelling. The Akchour area, with its dramatic waterfalls and the iconic ‘God’s Bridge’, is a highlight. Utilize the offline hiking apps Maps.me – or the lesser-known Mapy.cz – to effortlessly navigate the trails.
#7 Book a unique place to stay
No visit to Chefchaouen is complete without spending a night in one of its traditional riads or guesthouses. These accommodations, often set in beautifully restored buildings, offer an intimate glimpse into the region’s architectural heritage and hospitality. Many boast rooftop terraces with breathtaking views, perfect for enjoying a traditional Moroccan breakfast or unwinding under the stars.
Some top picks include Dar Jasmine for its luxurious pool, Casa Amina, a hidden gem with an incredible rooftop terrace, Riad Cherifa with its inviting sun terrace and pool, and Dar Elrio, celebrated for its high ratings and stunning rooftop views.
