I have wanted to go to Morocco for years, but it was not until I started seeing all this amazing places in Instagram when I decided to make it happen. Chefchaouen, The Blue Pearl, stole my heart even before I step a foot in this gorgeous city. You might not recognize the name of Chefchaouen, but the images of this iconic Moroccan town are unmistakable. Chefchaouen, Chaouen for short, is nestled among the Rif mountains in northern Morocco. It is an hour and a half outside of Tangier.
The city became well known for its brightly painted blue buildings of the old Medina. The traditional blue painting dates back to the Jewish community that settled there after the Spanish Inquisition and remains to this day.
➳ Find all: Hotels in Chefchaouen
Even though Chefchaouen is a popular day trip as you can see the whole city in a day, we recommend to stay at least 2 full days to walk around and find hidden spots that make this place so magical. Every corner is photogenic and if you like taking photos this place will be paradise for you.
➳ Tip: Scroll to the end to see all the tips to plan your visit to Chefcaouen.
There is only one way to explore the old city of Chefchaouen; it is to simply get lost. Around every corner you will find another hidden alleyway shining with many shades of blue. There is not one specific street you need to see, rather try to see them all!
Just remember you will not be the only one there enjoying the city of blue. In more photogenic areas tourists will wait in line, allowing everyone to get their own perfect photo clear of strangers. Be patient and enjoy the experience.
There are many colorful pigments for paint, but we are not sure where all the other colors are used! You will have them in pretty much any store around the old medina.
While the walls remain a calming blue, the markets are full of vibrant colors. The cities expert craftsmanship and artisans bring a rainbow of colors to the endless markets.
Our favorite view was from the Ras Elma, which is a viewpoint on the way to the Spanish Mosque. It is the best place to enjoy either sunrise or sunset. It is a 45 minute hike from the old town, but we promise it is totally worth it.
Do not forget to visit the Kasbah and go to the top of the tower. It is one of the best views of the whole city and the surrounding Rif Mountains.
We hope this glimpse into Chefchaouen will expire you to visit Morocco for yourself. We cannot wait to see your guys photographs of this beautiful blue pearl.
Tips to plan your visit to Chefchaouen
- How to get to Chefchaouen: We started our trip flying from Madrid to Tanger. We took an hour and a half bus ride from Tanger to Chefchaouen. If you are planning to come from Fez, you can also take a four hour bus ride here.
- Where to stay in Chefcaouen: There are many options ranging from very cheap to more expensive options. We recommend to stay at riads as it is the best way to experience a more authentic stay. Riads, are traditional Moroccan homes that have been turned into guesthouses. Many people recommend to stay at Casa Perleta, but we stayed at Hotel Casa Miguel and it was amazing. It is located right in the heart of Chefcaouen and breakfast was included.
- The best photo ops: Walk around the city. Get lost and bring your camera with you. Honestly there is not a place in the heart of Chefcaouen that is not worth a photo.
- The best views in Chefcaouen: Walk towards the Ras Elma, which is a viewpoint on the way to the Spanish Mosque. Enjoy a dinner with a view at the Aladdin’s restaurant and visit the Kasbah and go to the top of the tower.
- Things to Do in Chefcaouen: Walk, walk and get lost! Make sure to explore the Medina, do some shopping in the Souk, eat a traditional dish and try moroccan tea, hike to the Spanish Mosque and the Rif Mountains. In conclusion, get lost in the Blue City and take hundreds of photos.
- How long should I stay in Chefcaouen: Between one to two days is a good amount of time to spend in Chefchaouen.
- What languages do they speak in Chefchaouen: English, Arabic, French, and Spanish.
- Bring cash
- Females should dress conservatively
- Always bargain for prices when shopping
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Julie
Monday 12th of June 2017
I love Morocco! Great photos! By the way, the public displays of affection shown in several of the photos are considered offensive, even forbidden, and also very tacky in Morocco. Your models should know better.
Travel To Blank
Monday 12th of June 2017
Very interesting you say that as our Moroccan tour guides encouraged us to take the loving photos and then snapped the photos themselves.
Kaila Yu
Saturday 10th of June 2017
Wow such beautiful colors everywhere, its an Instagram spot everywhere you go!
Travel To Blank
Saturday 10th of June 2017
That is exactly how we felt!
Alexa Meisler
Saturday 10th of June 2017
The colors of the photos are amazing. It truly makes me want to book a ticket!
Brian
Friday 9th of June 2017
Wow, so blue. Although I've never been to Chefchaouen, it reminds me of pictures I've seen of Greek Islands.
Travel To Blank
Friday 9th of June 2017
Yes! It reminded us very much of Santorini, just a different color.
Elisa Swedlund
Friday 9th of June 2017
I love how colorful everything is!