Blue Dreams: Discover Chefchaouen in Just 24 Hours

Discover Chefchaouen in 24 Hours

☼ Nestled in the Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco lies Chefchaouen, an enchanting city that has been nicknamed the “Blue Pearl”. Its centuries-old medina is awash in mesmerising shades of blue that give the city an almost fairytale-like beauty. Wandering through the winding cobblestone alleys feels like stepping into another world where every corner reveals a new photo opportunity.

 ☼ Chefchaouen is a magical destination that can easily be visited as a day trip from Tangier, Tetouan or Fes. If time allows, spend a night here to experience its cerulean beauty without the crowds. 

 ☼ Morning: Explore Chefchaouen’s medina

Spend the morning wandering Chefchaouen's medina, a labyrinthine marketplace with an abundance of treasures to discover. While smaller than Fes or Marrakech, its compact size makes it easy to explore in a couple of hours. Meander through the azure lanes and discover local artisans' creations - handcrafted leather goods, traditional wool garments and fragrant soaps. Stop to chat with the friendly bakers and vendors selling fruits piled high or pop into one of the hole-in-the-wall workshops hidden within the stepped streets.

 At the heart of the medina lies Plaza Uta el-Hammam, a cobblestoned square fusing Arabian and Spanish influences and the main social hub in Chefchaouen. Overlooking the plaza stands the Grand Mosque with its intricately decorated, octagonal minaret. While only Muslims may enter this 15th-century landmark, its beauty is clear from the outside. Listening to the call to prayer ring out as you sip on a mint tea in one of the surrounding cafes is an experience in itself. 

 ☼ Lunch Options: Dine at Restaurant Chourafa

 While not the easiest to find, Restaurant Chourafa is a hidden gem (just ask a local for directions) with a spectacular terrace overlooking the city. Seafood is the specialty here, with shrimp, clams and sea bass all cooked to perfection with aromatic Moroccan spices. Vegetarians are also well catered for with a delicious bissara soup made from fava beans. Be sure to leave room for dessert, whether it’s decadent creme caramel or fresh yoghurt with dates and seasonal fruit. Cooking classes are also available for those wanting to discover the secrets of Moroccan cuisine. 

 ☼ Afternoon: Discover the Kasbah + Ras el-Maa

 After lunch, stroll the winding paths of the Andalusian Gardens, which provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the medina. Within the gardens lies a hidden gem - the Chefchaouen Ethnographic Museum, also known as the Kasbah Museum. It occupies the city’s clay-brown fortification, which has watched over the city since the 15th century. 

 Step inside to discover a one-of-a-kind collection that illuminates the region's rich cultural heritage. Showcased artefacts range from intricately decorated ceramics to traditional musical instruments and locally made artworks. After browsing the exhibitions, climb the winding staircase that leads up the Portuguese Tower, with plaques detailing the cultural heritage of the Riffian people. From the top, there are impressive views across the medina sprawling below. 

 End the afternoon at Ras el-Maa, a picturesque cascade near Chefchaouen’s northeastern gate. Local women have long come here to wash their clothes and trade news, alongside vendors selling freshly squeezed orange juice.  

☼ Evening: Sunset at the Spanish Mosque + Dinner at Bilmos

 As sunset approaches, climb to the Spanish Mosque, a 1920s house of worship that offers unparalleled views across the “Blue Pearl”. While the mosque is no longer active, the panoramas are worth the short hike, with a sea of vivid blue and white buildings blanketing the hills. Framed by the rugged Rif Mountains, it’s particularly majestic in the late afternoon light, making this an essential pilgrimage for any visitor to Chefchaouen.

 Return to Plaza Uta el-Hammam for dinner at Bilmos, a one-of-a-kind restaurant that expertly fuses the spices and aromas of Moroccan cuisine with the simple techniques of Italian cooking. Highlights of the menu include slow-cooked tagines served over pasta and herb-infused couscous, as well as delicious pastille pastries. Aside from the intimate and inviting atmosphere, the menu caters well to vegans and vegetarians. 

 After dinner, stay in Plaza Uta el-Hamman to enjoy the convivial atmosphere over a steaming glass of mint tea. For a sweet treat, visit Gelato Mounir, which offers a diverse range of enticing flavours. Few (if any) places in Chefchaouen serve alcohol, so check with the staff at your hotel to see if anywhere is currently licensed.

 ☼ Off the Beaten Path: Cascades d’Akchour

 If time allows, jump in a taxi for the 30-minute ride to the Cascades d’Akchour, a series of atmospheric waterfalls that cascade between inviting swimming holes. During the summer months, you can refresh with a dip or enjoy a leisurely hike to the natural rock arch known as the Bridge of God. 

 ☼ Best Souvenir: Handwoven throws

 While you’ll find no shortage of artisan goods in Chefchaouen’s souks, a handwoven throw is a quintessential souvenir that’s light and packs down nicely for transport home. Handspun in a range of colours, they not only reflect the mastery of their creators but also the cultural artistry of the Riffian people. 

 ☼ Where to Stay: Overnight in a riad

 Dotted throughout Chefchaouen’s medina are traditional riads and dars - historic homes that have been lovingly converted into atmospheric stays. Behind their intricately decorated doors, you’ll discover cosy rooms adorned with traditional decor and interior courtyards overflowing with plants. Casa Blue Pearl and Dar Antonio both offer affordable stays while the Lina Ryad & Spa is a little more indulgent.

☼ Chefchaouen awaits

 Once an off-the-beaten-path destination, Chefchaouen has well and truly stepped into the limelight, largely due to the allure of its blue-hued cityscape. But it remains an enchanting place to visit, not only for photographers but also travellers interested in the cultural traditions and history of the Rif Mountains. 

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As we wrap up this week's journey through words and wonders, we bid you a fond farewell. But remember, the adventure doesn't end here! If Chefchaouen’s hidden alleys have whispered secrets to you, we're all ears. Share your discoveries on our blog and let's keep the treasure map of travel tips growing. Until next week, keep wandering, keep wondering. Safe travels and see you on the flip side!