Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen with Friends

A Day of Discovery in the Blue Pearl

Today was about immersing ourselves in the everyday life of Chefchaouen, venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist paths to discover the hidden gems that make this blue city so enchanting. With Lena and the others by my side, I was eager to explore, taste, and experience Chefchaouen as a local would. It's funny, back in Berlin, I spend my days coding, but here, I'm decoding the secrets of a centuries-old culture, one blue-washed alleyway at a time.

Our day started, as most good days do, with breakfast. We headed to Restaurant Al Wiam. The cozy atmosphere was a welcome change from the bustling main square. We settled in for a traditional Moroccan breakfast. The mint tea was particularly delightful, a fragrant and sweet start to the day. It was a far cry from my usual rushed breakfasts in Berlin, and I savored every moment.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Al Wiam in Chefchaouen – a true culinary delight amidst stunning scenery.
With our bellies full and spirits high, we set out to explore. Our first stop was Bab El Ain, the gateway that separates the colonial side of Chefchaouen from the old town. It felt like stepping through a portal into another world. The air was filled with the scent of spices and the sounds of vendors hawking their wares. Lena, with her architect's eye, was particularly fascinated by the intricate details of the gate itself. As we passed through, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead.


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

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its blue walls, but in the vibrant tapestry of life woven within them.

Next, we wandered towards Place El Haouta. This square is smaller than the more famous Plaza Uta el Hamman, but it had a charm all its own. A beautiful old fountain stood in the center, and the square was surrounded by shops and food stalls. We spent some time simply soaking in the atmosphere, watching locals and tourists alike go about their day. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this picturesque spot.


Discover the mesmerizing blue hues of Chefchaouen, Morocco's enchanting mountain town, where culture, beauty, and tranquility come together.
Of course, no visit to Chefchaouen would be complete without a bit of shopping. We ventured into Bazar Sáhara, a shop brimming with Moroccan crafts and souvenirs. The colors and textures were overwhelming in the best possible way. Lena, ever the stylish one, found a beautiful handwoven rug that she insisted we needed for our apartment in Berlin. I, on the other hand, was drawn to the intricately designed ceramics. We bartered good-naturedly with the shopkeeper, a skill I'm slowly but surely improving, thanks to Lena's expert guidance. I managed to snag a beautiful tagine pot, perfect for recreating the delicious meals we'd been enjoying here in Morocco.


Explore Bazar Sáhara in Chefchaouen for unique Moroccan gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of this magical blue city.
Lunch was at Restaurant Triana, recommended by a local we met earlier in the day. The restaurant was tucked away on a side street, away from the tourist crowds. The food was incredible. I opted for the lamb tagine, and the meat was so tender and flavorful that it practically melted in my mouth. Lena chose a vegetarian couscous dish, which she declared to be the best she'd ever had. The service was excellent, and the staff made us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Triana in Chefchaouen – where tradition meets flavor in a picturesque setting.
As the afternoon wore on, we continued to explore the winding streets of the medina. We stumbled upon hidden courtyards, each more beautiful than the last. We chatted with local artisans, learning about their crafts and their lives. It was these small, intimate moments that truly made the day special. I even managed to pick up a few new Arabic phrases, much to the amusement of the locals.

For dinner, we decided on Restaurant Hamsa. The restaurant had a lovely rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. The atmosphere was lively and festive, and the food was delicious. I tried the vegan falafel, which was surprisingly flavorful and satisfying. Lena opted for a traditional Moroccan salad, which was fresh and vibrant. We lingered over our meal, enjoying the cool evening air and the company of our friends.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and delightful teas at Restaurant Hamsa in Chefchaouen's charming blue city.
As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm struck by how much there is to discover beyond the surface of Chefchaouen. It's not just a pretty blue city; it's a place with a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a warm and welcoming people. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Hero Eagle and Lavadero de la ciudad. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of seeing the sunset from Sunset at sunset bar. It promises to be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. I'm also hoping I don't forget the power bank again!

What I've learned so far on this trip is that travel is so much more than just seeing famous landmarks. It's about connecting with people, experiencing new cultures, and pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. And as a software engineer from Berlin, I can confidently say that Chefchaouen has definitely pushed me outside of my comfort zone in the best possible way. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be here, to learn, to grow, and to share my experiences with all of you. I hope my stories inspire you to embark on your own adventures, to explore the world with an open mind and an open heart. After all, isn't that what life is all about?

Until tomorrow,
Joseph