Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen: A Moroccan Adventure

A Fond Farewell to Chefchaouen

As our Moroccan adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the unique charm and beauty of Chefchaouen. Today was our final day in this blue-washed city, and we made sure to soak in every last bit of its vibrant culture and serene atmosphere. It’s hard to believe our 9-day trip is already over; it feels like just yesterday we were landing in Tangier, eager to explore.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at FORNACCIO- Coffe & Kitchen. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of Moroccan pastries drew us in, and we weren't disappointed. Lena opted for a traditional Moroccan mint tea, while I enjoyed a strong espresso to kickstart the day. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it the perfect spot to plan our last day's adventures.


Discover the delightful flavors of Fornaccio in Chefchaouen, where organic cuisine meets the finest coffee in a vibrant atmosphere.

With our caffeine fix in hand, we set out to explore the Ensemble d'artisanat complexe. This artisan market was a treasure trove of local crafts, from handwoven textiles to intricate woodwork. Lena, ever the graphic designer, was particularly drawn to the vibrant colors and patterns of the Berber rugs. We spent a good hour browsing the stalls, chatting with the local artisans, and admiring their skill. I even managed to haggle for a small, hand-painted ceramic bowl, a perfect memento of our time here.


Explore the Ensemble d'artisanat complexe in Chefchaouen, where local craftsmanship meets vibrant culture in a stunning marketplace of handmade treasures.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in the connections we make with the people and cultures we encounter.

Next on our list was Plaza Mohammed V. This central square is a hub of activity, a place where locals and tourists alike gather to relax and soak in the atmosphere. The square was beautifully landscaped, with colorful flowers and shaded seating areas. We took a leisurely stroll, enjoying the cool September breeze and watching the world go by. It was a welcome respite from the bustling markets, a chance to simply be present and appreciate the beauty of Chefchaouen.


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 Casa Arina, a local restaurant known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. We shared a tagine, a slow-cooked stew of meat and vegetables, flavored with aromatic spices. The dish was rich and flavorful, a true taste of Morocco. Lena particularly enjoyed the couscous, light and fluffy, while I savored the tender lamb. The restaurant had a lovely terrace, offering panoramic views of the blue city. It was the perfect setting for a relaxed and delicious meal.


Discover Casa Arina in Chefchaouen: A delightful restaurant offering authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst stunning blue surroundings.

After lunch, we couldn't resist a bit more shopping, this time at Boutique EL-ASRI. This charming boutique was located in Callejon El Asri, one of the most photographed streets in Chefchaouen. The street itself was a sight to behold, with its blue-washed walls and colorful flower pots. The boutique offered a curated selection of local handicrafts, from leather goods to jewelry. Lena found a beautiful silver necklace, a perfect complement to her red hair, while I picked up a leather-bound journal to document our travels.


Explore the vibrant world of men's fashion at Boutique EL-ASRI in Chefchaouen, where style meets Moroccan culture.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restaurant Lalla Messaouda for our final Moroccan dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it didn't disappoint. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, fresh and flavorful, followed by a traditional pastilla, a sweet and savory pie filled with pigeon and almonds. The flavors were complex and intriguing, a testament to the skill of the Moroccan chefs. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly attentive. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey through Chefchaouen.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the heart of Chefchaouen at Restaurant Lalla Messaouda, where every dish tells a story.

Reflecting on our time in Chefchaouen, I’m struck by the unique blend of cultures and traditions that make this city so special. The blue-washed walls, originally introduced by Jewish refugees, create a serene and calming atmosphere. The bustling markets offer a glimpse into the vibrant local life, while the stunning natural surroundings provide ample opportunities for adventure.

Lena and I have made some wonderful memories here, from hiking in the Rif Mountains to sipping mint tea in the local cafes. We've learned about Moroccan culture, tasted delicious food, and met some incredibly kind and welcoming people. Chefchaouen has a way of getting under your skin, of capturing your heart with its simple beauty and authentic charm.

As a software developer, I often find myself caught up in the digital world, but trips like these remind me of the importance of disconnecting and experiencing the world firsthand. Photography has always been a passion of mine, and Chefchaouen provided endless opportunities to capture stunning images. Lena, with her graphic design background, has an eye for color and composition, and her photos perfectly complement my own.

Our trip to Chefchaouen has been a wonderful escape from our busy lives in Berlin. It's been a chance to reconnect with each other, to explore a new culture, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I know that a part of us will always remain in this blue-washed city.

While this leg of our journey ends, the memories and experiences will undoubtedly influence my perspective. As someone who values sustainable living, I was particularly impressed by the local artisans' commitment to traditional crafts and the use of natural materials. It's a reminder that we can all do our part to support local communities and preserve cultural heritage.

Tomorrow, we head back to Tangier to catch our flight to Berlin. While I'm looking forward to returning to the comforts of home, I'll miss the vibrant colors, the fragrant spices, and the warm hospitality of Chefchaouen. This Moroccan adventure has been an unforgettable experience, one that I'll cherish for years to come. Thank you, Chefchaouen, for the memories.

There is no specific itinerary planned for tomorrow, as we are heading back home, marking the end of our Moroccan adventure. This trip has been a delightful blend of cultural immersion and tranquil exploration, perfectly encapsulating the charm of Morocco.

As we bid farewell to Chefchaouen, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to have experienced this magical place with Lena. It's a reminder that the best adventures are those shared with loved ones. Until next time, Chefchaouen!