Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Journey Through Chefchaouen

Day 7: A Friday Stroll Through Chefchaouen's Heart

Discover the vibrant heart of Chefchaouen with a visit to Plaza Mohammed V, local shops, and delightful dining experiences. A day of Moroccan charm!

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A Day in the Heart of Chefchaouen


Today was all about soaking in the essence of Chefchaouen, a town that continues to enchant me with its blue-washed walls and vibrant atmosphere. It’s hard to believe we're already on day seven of our Moroccan adventure. The days are flying by, but I’m trying to savor every moment, especially with my friends here to share the experience. Berlin feels a world away, but I know Lena and Sophia would adore this place. I'm making mental notes of all the things Sophia would love to bring back for her. Today, we explored a central plaza, indulged in local flavors, and hunted for unique souvenirs.

Our day began with a leisurely breakfast at Nous Nous Cafe. The cafe was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with a taste of Moroccan hospitality. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast of eggs, bread, and olives, accompanied by a steaming glass of mint tea. The tea, sweet and fragrant, was the perfect pick-me-up to kick off our explorations. It's funny how something as simple as mint tea can become such an integral part of a travel experience. I remember Lena once tried to recreate Moroccan mint tea back in Berlin, but it never quite tasted the same. Maybe it's the atmosphere, or perhaps the Moroccan mint is just that much better.

Experience the essence of Moroccan coffee culture at Nous Nous Cafe, a charming coffee shop in the picturesque streets of Chefchaouen.
Experience the essence of Moroccan coffee culture at Nous Nous Cafe, a charming coffee shop in the picturesque streets of Chefchaouen.
The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing them fully, engaging with the local culture, and creating memories that last a lifetime.

Fueled and ready, we ventured out to Plaza Mohammed V. The plaza is a serene park that acts as a central hub for both locals and tourists. It was a welcome escape from the bustling streets of the town. The area was beautifully landscaped, featuring manicured lawns, colorful flowers, and shaded seating areas. We took some time to relax and soak in the atmosphere. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos of the vibrant surroundings. The blend of traditional Moroccan architecture and lively street vendors created a picturesque scene. It was the perfect spot to unwind and watch the world go by. The plaza was especially scenic, offering views of the Rif Mountains. The soft lights made it a romantic spot, and I made a mental note to bring Lena here someday.

Discover the tranquility of Plaza Mohammed V, a serene park in Chefchaouen surrounded by stunning blue buildings and vibrant local culture.
Discover the tranquility of Plaza Mohammed V, a serene park in Chefchaouen surrounded by stunning blue buildings and vibrant local culture.
For lunch, we headed to BILMOS, a café known for its delicious and authentic Moroccan cuisine. I decided to try the tagine, a classic Moroccan dish. The tagine was rich and flavorful, with tender meat and perfectly cooked vegetables. It was served in a traditional earthenware pot, adding to the authenticity of the experience. My friends and I shared stories and laughs over our meal, truly enjoying each other’s company. It's moments like these that make traveling with friends so special.

Discover delightful culinary experiences at Bilmos in Chefchaouen—where Moroccan flavors meet international cuisine amidst stunning surroundings.
Discover delightful culinary experiences at Bilmos in Chefchaouen—where Moroccan flavors meet international cuisine amidst stunning surroundings.
After lunch, we strolled through the winding streets of Chefchaouen, eventually stumbling upon Hibart Souvenirs Shop. The shop was a treasure trove of local craftsmanship, with a diverse selection of handmade goods. Traditional textiles, pottery, and unique trinkets filled the store, reflecting the artistic spirit of the region. I spent quite some time browsing the various items, admiring the intricate designs and vibrant colors. I was tempted to buy something for Sophia, perhaps a small piece of pottery or a colorful textile. I found a beautiful rug and decorative tile, perfect mementos to bring back home. The staff was friendly and shared stories behind their products. It was a great way to learn more about Moroccan heritage and find the perfect memento.

Discover the beauty of Moroccan craftsmanship at Hibart Souvenirs Shop in Chefchaouen, where unique handmade treasures await.
Discover the beauty of Moroccan craftsmanship at Hibart Souvenirs Shop in Chefchaouen, where unique handmade treasures await.
As the day wound down, we found ourselves at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli. This place offered a fantastic view of the town, and we settled in for a relaxing evening. For dinner, I opted for a hearty Moroccan stew, while my friends tried the grilled seafood. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively. The restaurant also featured live music, adding to the ambiance. As we savored our meals, we reminisced about our adventures thus far and made plans for the days ahead. I sipped on some more mint tea, enjoying the beautiful view and the company of my friends. I learned that the restaurant offers breakfast, has live music and offers a beautiful view. The restaurant has Moroccan cuisine and serves stew, tagine, fries, chicken, salads, couscous, mint tea, kefta, calamari, prawns, pancakes, tacos and pizza.

Experience the flavors of Morocco with stunning mountain views at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli in Chefchaouen.
Experience the flavors of Morocco with stunning mountain views at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli in Chefchaouen.
Before calling it a night, we decided to check out Restaurant Terrasse Djebli. We enjoyed the lively atmosphere. I savored the traditional Moroccan stew, while my friends enjoyed the grilled seafood. The terrace provided a perfect spot to reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy the cool evening breeze. The staff was friendly, and the service was excellent, making it a memorable end to our explorations. We stayed for a while, chatting and laughing, before finally heading back to our hotel.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the panoramic views from the beach and hike to the Jebel El-Kelaa Summit. I’m looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this beautiful country. I’m also hoping to pick up an umbrella, since I regrettably forgot to pack one.

Chefchaouen continues to surprise and delight me at every turn. It's a town that truly captures the essence of Moroccan culture and hospitality. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

I'm also discovering that September is a great time to visit Chefchaouen because the evenings are cooler and the souk hosts music sessions.
Go to day 6 A Day Immersed in Chefchaouen's Charm: Exploring Gates, Shops, and Cafés
Go to day 8 A Day of Heights and Hidden Gems in Chefchaouen
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Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Journey Through Chefchaouen

Join James and friends as they explore the enchanting blue streets and vibrant culture of Chefchaouen, Morocco, for an unforgettable adventure.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

James Smith
  • Occupation icon Occupation: English Language Content Editor at a Travel Tech Startup
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 38

Hey everyone, I'm James, a history buff, literature enthusiast, and content editor originally from Charlottesville, USA, now living in vibrant Berlin with my wife Lena and our daughter Sophia. My blog, Evendo, is where I share our family's travel adventures, focusing on authentic cultural experiences, historical insights, and sustainable travel tips. Join me as we explore Europe and beyond, seeking out destinations that offer a blend of education, adventure, and delicious local cuisine. I aim to provide practical advice and inspire you to create meaningful travel experiences of your own.

Interests:
  • History
  • Literature
  • Photography
  • Sustainable Living
  • European Culture
More about James Smith

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