Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Unexpected Detours: A Day Trip to Tetouan

As our Moroccan adventure nears its end, Klaus and I, along with our friends, decided to venture beyond the familiar blue walls of Chefchaouen for a day. Today's journey took us to Tetouan, a city with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. While I hadn't initially planned on visiting Tetouan, sometimes the most rewarding experiences are the ones you least expect. Nestled not far from Chefchaouen, Tetouan offered a fascinating glimpse into another facet of Moroccan culture, one marked by its Andalusian influences and a unique artistic spirit.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Jbaria. The restaurant was lovely, and I enjoyed the Moroccan tea. Chris, one of our group, complimented the couscous, saying it was the best he'd had so far. After breakfast, we piled into our rented car and set off towards Tetouan. The drive itself was quite scenic, with rolling hills and small villages dotting the landscape. I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement as we approached the city, eager to uncover its hidden treasures.


Discover the authentic taste of Morocco at Restaurant Jbaria in Chefchaouen—where every dish tells a story.

Exploring Tetouan's Old Medina

Our first stop was Tetouan's old Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As we stepped through the ancient gates, we were immediately transported to another world. Unlike the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen, Tetouan's Medina was a maze of white-washed buildings, reminiscent of Andalusian villages. It felt like stepping back in time, wandering through the narrow lanes, observing the local artisans at work, and soaking in the atmosphere of a place where history lived and breathed. The Medina felt more local than other Medinas I had visited in Morocco.


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

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing them in ways that resonate with your soul.

We spent a couple of hours exploring the Medina, getting delightfully lost in its labyrinthine streets. I found a helpful map, which allowed us to navigate. The architecture was fascinating, a blend of Moroccan and Spanish influences that spoke to the city's complex past. We stumbled upon hidden courtyards, bustling marketplaces, and quiet corners where time seemed to stand still. It was easy to see why this place was a UNESCO World Heritage site; it was a living testament to cultural exchange and historical preservation.

A Culinary Interlude at Café & restaurant Meftah

By lunchtime, we had worked up quite an appetite. We decided to try Café & restaurant Meftah in Chefchaouen, drawn in by its cozy atmosphere and the promise of traditional Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, and the aroma of spices filled the air. I ordered a tagine, while Klaus opted for the couscous. The food was delicious, and the service was warm and friendly. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel before continuing our exploration of Tetouan.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café & Restaurant Meftah in Chefchaouen's enchanting blue city.

Immersing Ourselves in Modern Art

After lunch, we made our way to the Tetouan Modern Art Center, housed in a magnificent Spanish-castle-like building that was once the railway station to Ceuta. As a librarian with a love for history and culture, I was particularly excited to see this museum, which boasts one of only two schools of fine arts in Morocco.


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

The museum itself was a work of art, with spacious galleries and ample light. The collection showcased contemporary Moroccan art, with a focus on the artistic experience that Tetouan has hosted throughout the history of Moroccan visual arts. I was impressed by the diversity of styles and the talent of the local artists. It was a refreshing change of pace from the historical sites we had been visiting, and it gave us a glimpse into the modern cultural landscape of Morocco. Klaus, with his background in archaeology, appreciated the historical significance of the building itself, noting the careful renovation that had preserved its architectural integrity.

Evening Reflections and a Nightcap

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Restaurant Bar Chaouen. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and we enjoyed a refreshing drink as we reflected on our day in Tetouan. We shared stories and laughed about our adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Morocco together. The restaurant seemed to cater to different tastes, offering Mediterranean, Moroccan, and Arabic cuisine.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at Restaurant Bar Chaouen, a lively dining experience in Chefchaouen's beautiful blue streets.

Before heading back to our hotel, we enjoyed dinner at Restaurant Bab Kasaba. The perfect end to the day. I am glad that we decided to have dinner here.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors in Chefchaouen at Restaurant Bab Kasaba - where culinary tradition meets breathtaking views.

Our day trip to Tetouan was a reminder that sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones that are unplanned. While Chefchaouen will always hold a special place in my heart, Tetouan offered a unique perspective on Moroccan culture and history. It was a day of unexpected discoveries, cultural immersion, and shared moments with friends. As we prepare to leave Morocco tomorrow, I know that the memories we have made here will stay with us for a lifetime. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve and El Mellah before our trip comes to an end. I am looking forward to one last adventure in this beautiful country.

And as I always say, until next time!