Solo Exploration of Chefchaouen's Blue Streets

A Blue Awakening

The journey to Chefchaouen was smooth, thankfully, and the anticipation had been building ever since I boarded the plane in Dresden. The promise of wandering through a city painted in a thousand shades of blue was too alluring to resist. As a translator, I'm used to interpreting stories, but here, I was ready to step into one. Today was all about letting the city speak for itself, and I was all ears – and eyes!

Stepping off the bus, the air was crisp, carrying a hint of woodsmoke and something subtly sweet I couldn't quite place. November in Chefchaouen is mild, with the temperatures a comfortable contrast to the biting winds I’m used to in Dresden this time of year. The weather forecast predicted a mix of sunshine and clouds, which seemed fitting for a day of exploration. I quickly checked into Hotel Dar Mounir. It’s a charming place, perfectly located to start my adventure. Leaving my luggage, I ventured out, eager to immerse myself in the blue.


Discover the enchanting Hotel Dar Mounir in Chefchaouen, where comfort meets culture, and unforgettable experiences await every traveler.

My first stop was breakfast at Cafe Clock. I’d read about their modern take on Moroccan cuisine. It was a delightful experience, and I savored every bite while watching the town slowly wake up. The cafe was already buzzing with locals and tourists alike, a vibrant mix that set the tone for the day.

To wander through the Medina is to step into a dream, where every corner turned reveals a new shade of serenity.

The Chefchaouen Medina was next. I lost myself in the labyrinthine alleyways, each turn revealing a different hue of blue. From the palest sky blue to the deepest indigo, the city was a canvas painted by the heavens. The effect was calming, almost surreal. I paused frequently, camera in hand, trying to capture the magic of the moment. As a photographer, I was in paradise. The light played tricks on the walls, creating shadows and highlights that danced with the rhythm of the day.

The shops in the Medina were equally captivating. Unlike the aggressive vendors in some of the larger Moroccan cities, the shopkeepers here were laid-back and friendly. I stopped at Blue. concept store, a charming little shop filled with unique, handcrafted goods. I picked up a few small souvenirs, each one a reminder of this magical place.


Explore the vibrant culture of Chefchaouen at Blue. Concept Store, your go-to destination for unique Moroccan gifts and artisanal treasures.

Lunch was at Chez Aziz. I chose this restaurant because it had been recommended to me for its authentic Moroccan dishes. I tried the tagine, and it was exquisite. The flavors were complex and aromatic, a testament to the skill of the chef. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making me feel right at home.


Experience the fusion of traditional Moroccan cuisine and international flavors at Chez Aziz in Chefchaouen.

After lunch, I made my way to the Kasbah. This 15th-century fortress was built to protect the city from invaders. Today, it houses an ethnological museum, showcasing the rich history and culture of the region. I climbed to the top of the tower, where I was rewarded with panoramic views of Chefchaouen and the surrounding mountains. The view was breathtaking, a reminder of the beauty and resilience of this remarkable place.


Discover the captivating Kasbah of Chefchaouen, a historical landmark that showcases Morocco's rich heritage and stunning architectural beauty.

As the sun began to set, I found myself drawn to Restaurant Bab Ssour for dinner. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were warm and welcoming. I ordered the Friday veggie couscous, but they didn't have it. Instead, the server suggested a tasting platter, which was delicious and affordable. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Bab Ssour in Chefchaouen - where every bite tells a story.

Back at Hotel Dar Mounir, I sat on the rooftop terrace, sipping mint tea and reflecting on the day's adventures. The city was quiet now, the blue walls fading into the darkness. I thought of Maximilian and Clara back in Dresden. I missed them, of course, but I also felt a sense of gratitude for this solo journey. It was a chance to reconnect with myself, to explore a new culture, and to find inspiration in the beauty of the world.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Ras El Ma, the local waterfall, and the City View Point for another perspective on this enchanting town. But for tonight, I'm content to simply soak in the magic of Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl of Morocco. It's a world away from Dresden, but somehow, it feels like home.

I also realized I forgot my adapter and sunglasses! I'll need to find a shop that sells them tomorrow. I am glad I remembered my camera, travel journal and comfortable shoes, though!

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.