Family Adventure in the Blue City of Chefchaouen

A Friday in the Azure City

Today was all about diving deeper into the heart of Chefchaouen, beyond the picture-perfect blue walls that everyone sees on Instagram. It was a day of exploring hidden corners, learning about the town's history, and soaking in the local culture with Hans and Liesel. I was especially keen to discover the parts of the city that hold stories beyond the striking blue that initially captivated me.

Our day began, as it should, with breakfast at Café Clock. This place is buzzing with a vibrant atmosphere. Liesel was thrilled with her avocado toast, and Hans enjoyed a traditional Moroccan breakfast. I opted for the pastille, a savory-sweet pastry that was absolutely delicious. The café itself is a multilevel restaurant, so be prepared for stairs, but the climb is worth it, especially if you snag a spot on the rooftop with its lovely views.

Fueled up, we set off to explore El Mellah. This historic Jewish quarter offered a fascinating glimpse into Chefchaouen's diverse past. It’s a bit quieter than the main medina, which gave us a chance to wander at a leisurely pace. I learned that the Mellah, like those in other Moroccan cities, represents a unique way of life shaped by a blend of customs and traditions. The architecture here is slightly different, with some buildings featuring small balconies and windows that are less common in the Arab quarter. It was interesting to imagine how the Jewish community lived here, side by side with their Muslim neighbors, contributing to the city’s rich cultural tapestry.


Discover the magical blue city of Chefchaouen, where vibrant culture meets stunning landscapes in Morocco's enchanting Rif Mountains.

Travel isn't just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new perspectives and understanding different cultures.

Next on our list was Bab El Ain. This iconic southern gate of the medina, dating back to the reign of Muley Ali Ben Rached, leads directly to the new part of the city. As we approached, the architecture was stunning and reflected the traditional craftsmanship of the region. The gate itself is beautifully adorned, inviting us to step through and immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the medina. Liesel loved running through the archway, pretending to be a princess entering her castle. It’s moments like these that make traveling with family so special.


Experience the magic of Bab El Ain, a historical landmark in Chefchaouen, where vibrant culture and stunning architecture come together.

For lunch, we decided to try Traditional Kitchen. This restaurant was recommended to us by a local artisan we met in the Mellah. It’s a small, unassuming place, but the food was incredible. Hans and I shared a tagine, while Liesel enjoyed some perfectly grilled chicken. The flavors were authentic and comforting, a welcome change from some of the more touristy restaurants we had tried earlier in the week.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Traditional Kitchen in Chefchaouen – an unforgettable culinary experience awaits.

After lunch, it was time for a bit of shopping. We headed to B & H Art Shop, a charming clothing store that showcases the local craftsmanship and artistry. The shop is filled with unique clothing items, from traditional Moroccan attire to contemporary designs, all infused with local flair. I found a beautiful djellaba for myself, and Liesel picked out a colorful scarf. The staff were incredibly friendly and shared stories about the cultural significance behind the items, adding a personal touch to our shopping experience. B & H Art Shop is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, making it convenient for travelers to drop by.


Explore the vibrant B & H Art Shop in Chefchaouen, where Moroccan culture and fashion come together in stunning handmade garments.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restaurant Dar El Salam for dinner. This restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. We sat on the terrace, overlooking the bustling streets of Chefchaouen, and enjoyed a delicious meal of couscous and grilled meats. The sunset cast a magical glow over the blue walls of the city, making the dining experience even more special. I made sure to try their traditional tagine, one of their specialties. And, of course, we ended the meal with mint tea, a local tradition.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Dar El Salam in Chefchaouen's enchanting Blue City.

Today was a reminder that travel is about more than just ticking off famous landmarks. It’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, meeting the people, and discovering the hidden gems that make a place unique. Chefchaouen has so much to offer beyond its blue walls, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to explore it with my family.

Tomorrow, we're planning a day trip to the Akchour Waterfalls and the Talassemtane National Park [see Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I’ve heard the waterfalls are stunning, and I'm looking forward to escaping the city for a bit of nature. I've packed my comfortable walking shoes and Liesel's snacks, so we're all set for another day of adventure. I'm especially hoping to capture some landscape shots, and perhaps even try my hand at some nature photography. I really need to remember to buy a travel plug adapter when we get back to Germany, I keep forgetting to charge my camera!

I’m so glad we decided to extend our stay in Riad Zaitouna Chaouen. It’s a place that gets under your skin and stays with you long after you’ve left. As we walked back to Riad Zaitouna Chaouen, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. The air was cool and crisp, and the stars were beginning to twinkle in the night sky. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover the serene charm of Riad Zaitouna Chaouen, your perfect getaway in the heart of Chefchaouen, offering comfort, convenience, and cultural immersion.

And with that, it’s time to say goodnight from the Blue City. Until tomorrow!