Exploring the Blue Gem of Morocco: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Finding the Heart of the Blue Pearl

Today was all about soaking in the true essence of Chefchaouen, a city that has completely captivated me with its stunning blue hues and vibrant culture. It's amazing how a place can feel so familiar and yet so utterly unique at the same time. Today, I wanted to delve deeper, to experience Chefchaouen not just as a tourist, but as someone connecting with its soul.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Toda Creperie & Ice Cream. Maximilian, who has a sweet tooth that rivals Sofia's, was particularly excited about this stop. I opted for a simple crepe with local honey, while he went all-in with a Nutella and banana creation. Sofia, of course, chose ice cream, even though it was barely 10 in the morning! It was a delightful way to start the day, watching the town slowly wake up around us. The creperie, I learned, is women-owned, which I found particularly inspiring. It's wonderful to see local businesses thriving and adding to the community spirit.


Experience delightful crepes and artisanal ice cream at Toda Creperie & Ice Cream in Chefchaouen - where every bite is a taste of happiness.

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we decided to join a guided tour with Blue Medina Tours. I've always been a bit ambivalent about guided tours, preferring to wander and discover at my own pace. However, I must admit, this tour was exceptional. Our guide, whose name was Rashid, was a local with an encyclopedic knowledge of Chefchaouen's history and culture. He led us through the labyrinthine streets of the medina, sharing stories and anecdotes that brought the city to life. I was particularly fascinated by the origins of the blue color, apparently brought about in the 1930s. Rashid explained that it was initially introduced by Jewish refugees as a symbol of heaven and has since become an integral part of Chefchaouen's identity.


Explore Chefchaouen's vibrant blue streets and rich culture with Blue Medina Tours for an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its blue walls, but in the warmth and resilience of its people.

One of the highlights of the tour was visiting Plaza Mohammed V. This serene park, with its manicured lawns and colorful flowers, provided a welcome respite from the bustling medina. We sat for a while, simply watching the world go by. Children played, locals chatted, and tourists snapped photos. It was a perfect snapshot of daily life in Chefchaouen. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and contentment wash over me. It's moments like these, when you're truly present and connected to your surroundings, that make travel so rewarding.


Discover the tranquility of Plaza Mohammed V, a serene park in Chefchaouen surrounded by stunning blue buildings and vibrant local culture.

For lunch, we ventured to Restaurant Bar Chaouen. The restaurant had a lovely terrace overlooking the town, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. I decided to try a traditional Moroccan tagine, while Maximilian opted for some grilled seafood. Sofia, predictably, wanted fries! The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and convivial. We chatted with some fellow travelers, sharing stories and tips about our respective journeys. It's amazing how easily connections can be forged over a shared meal, regardless of language or background.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Morocco at Restaurant Bar Chaouen, where authentic cuisine meets a lively atmosphere in Chefchaouen.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of the medina, getting delightfully lost in its winding alleys. We stumbled upon hidden courtyards, vibrant artisan shops, and intricately decorated doorways. I purchased a beautiful hand-woven scarf from a local Berber woman, while Maximilian haggled for a set of colorful ceramic bowls. Sofia, meanwhile, was fascinated by a street performer playing traditional Moroccan music.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to The Magic Lamp House of Aladin for a pre-dinner drink. This bar, with its quirky decor and panoramic views, was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day. I sipped on a refreshing mint tea, while Maximilian enjoyed a local beer. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, with a mix of locals and tourists mingling and chatting. It felt like a true melting pot of cultures and experiences.


Experience the best of Moroccan cuisine with a sweet twist at The Magic Lamp House of Aladin in Targha, where flavors come to life in a cozy setting.

For dinner, we chose Chez Hicham, a restaurant recommended by several locals. The restaurant was cozy and intimate, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. I ordered a lemon chicken tagine, while Maximilian went for a grilled lamb dish. Sofia, surprisingly, opted for couscous! The food was absolutely divine, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The service was also impeccable, with the staff going out of their way to make us feel welcome and comfortable.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at Chez Hicham in Chefchaouen - your gateway to cultural immersion.

“To travel is to take a journey into yourself.”

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the medina, soaking in the magical atmosphere of Chefchaouen at night. The blue walls seemed to glow under the moonlight, creating an ethereal and otherworldly ambiance. The air was filled with the sounds of music, laughter, and conversation. It was a truly unforgettable experience.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from our cozy hotel room, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences of today. Hotel Barcelona has exceeded all my expectations, not just in its visual beauty, but also in its warmth, culture, and spirit. It's a place that has touched my heart and soul, and I know that I will carry its memories with me long after I leave.


Discover the charm of Chefchaouen at Hotel Barcelona, a cozy 3-star retreat in the heart of the Blue City, perfect for adventurous travelers.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Place El Haouta and Bab Chaouen [see tomorrow's itinerary]. I'm excited to see what other hidden gems this enchanting city has to offer. I'm also looking forward to visiting CHAOUEN GIFTS, a local shop, to pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back home [see tomorrow's itinerary]. Until then, good night from Chefchaouen, the blue pearl of Morocco. I feel so lucky to be sharing this adventure with Maximilian and Sofia. Their perspectives add so much richness to my own experience, and I cherish the memories we are creating together.