Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Week in Chefchaouen

A Blue Beginning

Hello from Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl of Morocco! I'm absolutely thrilled to kick off this week-long adventure with my friends in a place that feels like stepping into a dream. The journey here was quite something, flying from Berlin to Tangier and then braving the bus ride, but the moment we arrived, the mesmerizing blue hues of this city washed away all the travel fatigue. I’m so excited to share every moment of this experience with you all!

Our first day was all about getting lost – intentionally, of course – in the enchanting Chefchaouen Medina. After checking into Hotel Barcelona and freshening up, we ventured out, cameras in hand, ready to capture the magic. I must admit, I temporarily misplaced my sunglasses in the rush to pack, a rookie mistake I’ll rectify tomorrow when I go shopping. Hans would have reminded me, if he was here. I miss him already, but I know he is holding down the fort in Berlin.


Discover the charm of Chefchaouen at Hotel Barcelona, a cozy 3-star retreat in the heart of the Blue City, perfect for adventurous travelers.

The Medina is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, each painted in a different shade of blue. It’s said that the tradition of painting the buildings blue began in the 1930s by Jewish refugees, who believed the color symbolized the sky and the presence of God. Whatever the reason, the effect is breathtaking. Every corner turned revealed a new photo opportunity, with vibrant potted plants and intricately carved doorways adding to the charm. I even found a cute little concept store called Blue. concept store, filled with unique Moroccan gifts and artisanal treasures. I picked up a few small trinkets, already thinking of gifts for my family back home.


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

Wandering through Chefchaouen is like stepping into a living postcard, where every corner turned reveals a new shade of blue and a fresh burst of Moroccan charm.

Our exploration led us to Plaza Uta el Hamman, the heart of Chefchaouen’s Medina. This bustling square is lined with cafes and restaurants, offering a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere. The square is also home to the Kasbah, a 15th-century fortress that now houses the Ethnographic Museum. We decided to explore the Kasbah, paying the 60 Dirhams entrance fee. Inside, we wandered through the Andalusian-style garden and climbed the tower for panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. The museum itself was fascinating, showcasing the region’s history and culture with exhibits ranging from ancient Berber life to the colonial past. It was a great way to get a sense of Chefchaouen’s rich heritage.


Experience the vibrant culture and stunning beauty of Chefchaouen at Plaza Uta el Hamman, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

For breakfast, we stopped at Cafe Clock, a place I had read about online. It’s known for its cross-cultural ambiance and delicious Moroccan food. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast with mint tea, which was the perfect way to start our day. The cafe also offers cooking classes, which I’m tempted to try later in the week! We returned to Cafe Clock later in the evening for drinks and to enjoy the lively atmosphere.


Discover the rich culinary heritage of Morocco at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen - where every meal tells a story.

Lunch was at Restaurant Bab Ssour, where we indulged in a tagine. I chose the Moroccan Chicken Tajin with lemon and olives, while my friends tried the Lamb Tajin. The flavors were incredible, and the tagine was served with warm, crusty bread – perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with friendly staff who made us feel right at home.


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

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to set, we found ourselves drawn back to Plaza Uta el Hamman. The square was even more vibrant than before, with locals and tourists mingling and enjoying the cool evening air. The aroma of spices and grilled meats filled the air, tempting us to try some street food. We sampled some delicious grilled kebabs and sweet pastries, savoring every bite.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Hamsa, drawn in by its Franco-Moroccan menu. The two sisters who run the place create a welcoming atmosphere, and the food was a delightful fusion of Moroccan and French flavors. I tried the Shakshuka, while my friends opted for the Kefta Tajine and Hummus. Everything was delicious, and we especially enjoyed the rooftop view of the city.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and delightful teas at Restaurant Hamsa in Chefchaouen's charming blue city.

As the day drew to a close, we strolled back to our hotel, the blue streets illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights. The city felt magical, peaceful, and utterly captivating. I couldn't help but reflect on how different this experience was from my usual trips with Hans. While I missed his company, exploring Chefchaouen with my girlfriends added a new dimension to my travels. We shared laughs, took countless photos, and created memories that I will cherish forever.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Ras El Ma, the local waterfall, and get a panoramic view of the city. We’re also hoping to visit the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen for a deeper dive into the local culture. And of course, more wandering through the blue streets is definitely on the agenda! I also need to find a shop to buy sunglasses and a power adapter, since I forgot to pack one.

Chefchaouen has already stolen a piece of my heart. The serene atmosphere, the stunning blue architecture, and the warm hospitality of the locals have made this first day unforgettable. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the week has in store!

Stay tuned for more updates from the Blue Pearl of Morocco!