Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

A Dream in Blue

Today marked the beginning of our Moroccan adventure, and what a start it has been! Arriving in Chefchaouen felt like stepping into a dream, a world painted in every shade of blue imaginable. The air is warm, the people are welcoming, and the scenery is simply breathtaking. I’m so excited to share my experiences as we explore this magical place with friends.

Our journey from Leipzig to Tangier was smooth, and the drive to Chefchaouen offered stunning views of the Moroccan countryside. Hans-Peter would have loved the drive; he always appreciates a good scenic route. Finding Hotel Casa Miguel nestled in the heart of the blue city was a delight. It’s cozy, charming, and perfectly located for our explorations.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel Casa Miguel, your perfect base in the heart of Chefchaouen, complete with wellness services and local cuisine.

Wandering the Azure Labyrinth: Chefchaouen Medina

The first item on our itinerary was the Chefchaouen Medina, and it certainly didn't disappoint. Stepping into the Medina felt like entering another world. The buildings are awash in shades of blue, from a soft, powdery sky blue to a deep, almost indigo hue. It's said that the tradition of painting the buildings blue began with Jewish refugees in the 1930s, who believed the color symbolized the sky and the presence of God. Whatever the reason, the effect is mesmerizing.


Discover the beauty and tranquility of Chefchaouen Medina, Morocco's stunning blue city, where history and culture blend seamlessly amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Sophia would have been captivated by the vibrant colors; she loves anything bright and cheerful. I found myself constantly reaching for my camera, trying to capture the essence of this unique place. Every corner turned revealed a new photo opportunity: a brightly painted doorway, intricate patterns on the walls, or a small shop overflowing with colorful wares.

The Medina itself is a maze of narrow alleyways, and it's easy to get lost in its winding paths. But that's part of the charm! We wandered aimlessly, soaking in the atmosphere and discovering hidden gems along the way. The shops are filled with local handicrafts, from woven blankets and carpets to leather goods and pottery. I picked up a beautiful hand-painted bowl, a perfect reminder of our time here.

To walk the streets of Chefchaouen is to immerse yourself in a living painting, where every corner turned reveals a new masterpiece of blue.

As we strolled, we came across Derb El Assri, also known as Callejon el Asri, a tiny alley that’s become quite famous on Instagram. The walls are painted a striking blue and adorned with colorful flower pots, creating a picture-perfect scene. It was indeed very beautiful, and I can understand why it attracts so many photographers.

The atmosphere in the Medina is much more relaxed compared to the bustling medinas in cities like Fes or Marrakech. The shopkeepers are friendly and not overly aggressive, making the experience of browsing and bargaining much more enjoyable. I managed to haggle for a beautiful Berber carpet, a skill I seem to have inherited from my Greek ancestors!

A Fortress of History: Kasbah

Next on our list was the Kasbah, a historic fortress located right next to the Grand Mosque. Built in the 15th century, the Kasbah once served as a residence for governors, a military arsenal, and even a prison. Today, it houses a museum and a lovely Andalusian-style garden.


Explore the historical Kasbah in Chefchaouen, a vibrant landmark rich in culture and stunning views of Morocco's scenic beauty.

The Kasbah itself is an impressive structure, with its sturdy walls and imposing towers. Inside, the Andalusian-style garden offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of the Medina. Fountains gurgle softly, and the air is filled with the scent of flowers. It was a welcome respite from the summer heat.

We visited the Kasbah Museum, also known as the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen, which tells the story of the region's history and culture through a collection of artifacts. From pottery and musical instruments to weapons and sculptures, the museum offered a glimpse into the rich heritage of this area. I found myself particularly drawn to the exhibits on Berber life, fascinated by their traditions and customs.

The highlight of our visit to the Kasbah was climbing the tower for panoramic views of the Medina and the surrounding countryside. From the top, we could see the entire blue city spread out before us, a breathtaking sight that I will never forget. The Rif Mountains loomed in the distance, adding to the dramatic scenery.

Refreshing Respite: Ras El Ma

Our final stop for the day was Ras El Ma, a natural spring located just outside the Medina. It's a gathering place for locals, who come to wash clothes and collect water. The spring feeds a small waterfall, creating a refreshing oasis.


Experience the natural beauty and cultural charm of Ras El Ma in Chefchaouen, a serene oasis perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst stunning landscapes.

Ras El Ma offers a glimpse into the daily life of the people of Chefchaouen. Women chatted as they washed clothes in the stream, while children played nearby. The sound of the water was soothing, and the air was fresh and clean. It was a peaceful spot, a world away from the tourist bustle of the Medina.

While Ras El Ma isn't the most spectacular waterfall I've ever seen, it has a certain charm. It's a place where you can relax, enjoy the scenery, and observe the local culture. We sat by the water, sipping mint tea and watching the world go by. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Chefchaouen.

A Culinary Journey

No trip is complete without experiencing the local cuisine, and today we savored some delightful meals. For breakfast, we started our day at Cafe Clock. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the menu offered a variety of options. I opted for the avocado toast, which was fresh and delicious. It’s a bit pricier than other places, but the quality makes it worth it.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen, where every dish tells a story amidst vibrant culture.

Lunch was at Chez Hicham, where we enjoyed traditional Moroccan chicken salads and flavorful chicken skewers. The outdoor seating provided a beautiful view, adding to the experience. It was a perfect spot to relax and refuel after our morning explorations.


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

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Morisco, known for its Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. I had the tagine, which was rich and flavorful. The atmosphere was comfortable, and the staff was very attentive. It was a wonderful way to end our day, savoring delicious food in a charming setting.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Morisco in Chefchaouen, where culinary tradition meets modern dining.

Shopping for Treasures

Of course, no visit to Chefchaouen would be complete without indulging in a bit of shopping. The Medina is filled with shops selling local crafts, and I couldn't resist picking up a few souvenirs. I found a beautiful hand-painted bowl and, of course, that Berber carpet I bargained for. The shop owners are friendly and not too pushy, making the experience enjoyable. I even found a small, ancient-looking coin that reminded me of my necklace from Greece.

Chefchaouen crafts offer a unique selection of handmade gifts that reflect the artistic heritage of Morocco's blue city.


Discover the charm of Chefchaouen Crafts, where every handmade gift reflects the artistic heritage of Morocco's blue city.

Looking Ahead

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Chefchaouen has already captured my heart with its beauty and charm. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Plaza Uta el Hamman and perhaps venture into Parc National de Talassemtane [the itinerary of tomorrow]. I’m particularly excited about the park; a bit of nature will be a welcome change of pace. I’m also looking forward to trying out Bar Oum Rabie in the evening; it will be nice to unwind with a drink after a day of exploring [the itinerary of tomorrow]. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable moments.

Until then, à bientôt from the Blue Pearl of Morocco! I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you.