A Blue-Hued Adventure in Chefchaouen

A Day of Discovery in Tetouan

Today, Daniel and I ventured beyond the blue walls of Chefchaouen for a day trip to Tetouan. I was excited to explore a new facet of Moroccan culture and history. Tetouan, with its UNESCO-listed Medina and blend of Andalusian and Moroccan influences, promised a different kind of beauty than our beloved Chefchaouen. I was particularly excited to immerse ourselves in the local art scene and explore the historical Medina.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Caféteria Lhawta. We enjoyed strong coffee and traditional Moroccan pastries, fueling up for a day of exploration. The cafe was bustling with locals, and it was a great spot to soak in the morning atmosphere of Tetouan. It reminded me of our favorite little coffee shop back in London, a place where you could always find a friendly face and a comforting cup of coffee.

With our appetites satisfied, we headed to the Tetuan Modern Art Center. Housed in a magnificent Spanish-castle-like building that was once the railway station to Ceuta, the building itself was a sight to behold. Inside, we were treated to a diverse collection of contemporary Moroccan art. The museum showcased paintings and sculptures by artists who studied at the School of Fine Arts, offering a glimpse into the country's artistic heritage. I was particularly drawn to the works of the first generation of artists, led by Mariano Bertucci, whose pieces beautifully captured the essence of Moroccan life. Daniel, with his engineering background, was fascinated by the architecture of the building, noting how the renovations had preserved its historical character while creating a modern space for art.

Explore contemporary creativity at the Tetuan Modern Art Center, a vibrant hub showcasing local and international artistic talent in Tetouan.

Exploring Tetouan was like stepping into a living canvas, where every corner revealed a new layer of history and artistic expression.

After immersing ourselves in the art world, we ventured into Tetouan's old Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Getting lost in its narrow, winding streets was an adventure in itself. The Medina is a mesmerizing labyrinth of alleys and vibrant souks that transport visitors back in time. The blend of Moorish and Andalusian architectural styles was evident in the intricate tile work, ornate doorways, and whitewashed buildings. We wandered through the bustling marketplace, where vendors sold everything from spices and fresh produce to traditional Moroccan clothing. The aroma of spices filled the air, and the sounds of bartering created a vibrant atmosphere.

Discover Tetouan's Old Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with rich history, vibrant markets, and stunning architecture that embodies Moroccan culture.

I was particularly interested in finding a detailed map of the Medina, so we made our way to the Tourist Information Center on Avenue Alger. There, we were able to get our hands on a map and some helpful tips for navigating the maze-like streets. The map helped us discover hidden gems and ensure we didn't miss any of the Medina's key landmarks.

For lunch, we decided to try Mounir Food, drawn in by the promise of tasty tacos and sandwiches. It was a small, local spot, and the food was simple but satisfying. Daniel opted for a classic Moroccan tagine, while I chose a flavorful chicken sandwich. It wasn't fancy, but it was authentic and delicious.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Mounir Food in Chefchaouen - a must-visit for food lovers seeking halal delights.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip lower in the sky, we found ourselves ready for dinner. We chose Restaurant Blue Dream, although it was technically located back in Chefchaouen, the overwhelmingly positive reviews drew us in. While not in Tetouan, the short drive was worth it. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with live music adding to the ambiance. We shared a vegetable tagine and some grilled meats, savoring the flavors of Moroccan cuisine. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end our day trip, with good food, good music, and good company.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Blue Dream in Chefchaouen's stunning blue streets.

As we drove back to our hotel in Chefchaouen, Daniel and I reflected on our day in Tetouan. It was a day filled with art, history, and cultural immersion. The Tetuan Modern Art Center offered a glimpse into Morocco's artistic soul, while the old Medina transported us back in time. While I am not sure if Mounir from Mounir Food is in any way related to Mounir from TikTok, they both seem to be revolutionizing their respective industries.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Feddan Park and Plaza Mohammed V, seeking out more of Tetouan's hidden gems. I am also hoping to find a nice spot to watch the sunset, perhaps at Sunset at sunset [PLAN FOR TOMORROW]. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I am content with the memories we made today.