Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

A Day in the Azure City

Today was all about letting Chefchaouen's serene atmosphere wash over me. After four days of exploration, I decided to take a more relaxed approach, soaking in the local culture and enjoying the simple pleasures of this blue-washed haven. It's amazing how a change of pace can reveal a completely different side to a place, and today, Chefchaouen felt more like a comforting embrace than an exciting adventure.

Our day started with breakfast at Café & restaurant Meftah. Andreas and I shared a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea, fresh bread, and local honey. The café had a lovely view of the town waking up, and it was a perfect spot to plan our day. Sophie, ever the teenager, opted for a more modern pastry, but even she couldn't resist a sip of the mint tea. It's funny how even in a new country, some habits remain the same.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café & Restaurant Meftah in Chefchaouen - where culinary tradition meets breathtaking mountain views.

After breakfast, we strolled over to Plaza Mohammed V. The plaza was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the beautiful morning. The vibrant blue buildings surrounding the park created a stunning backdrop as children played and families gathered. I took some time to simply sit on a bench, sketch in my notebook, and watch the world go by. It's moments like these, away from the hustle and bustle, that I truly appreciate. Andreas, ever the history buff, read aloud from our guidebook about the plaza's significance, while Sophie chased pigeons, her laughter echoing through the square. The crisp November air was refreshing, and the sun cast a warm glow on everything it touched.


Discover the tranquility of Plaza Mohammed V, a serene park in Chefchaouen surrounded by stunning blue buildings and vibrant local culture.

Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences come from simply being present and absorbing the everyday moments.

Next on our list was the Chefchaouen Medina. This was my second time exploring it, but today, I wanted to focus on the details I had missed before. The narrow, winding streets were even more enchanting in the daylight, with the blue hues creating a calming effect. We wandered without a specific destination in mind, letting the Medina guide us. I found myself drawn to the intricate doorways and the vibrant colors of the shops. The Medina was bustling with activity, but it still felt peaceful and inviting.


Discover the beauty and tranquility of Chefchaouen Medina, Morocco's stunning blue city, where history and culture blend seamlessly amidst breathtaking landscapes.

We popped into CHAOUEN GIFTS, a local shop filled with handmade treasures. I picked up a few small souvenirs for friends back home, including some hand-painted pottery and a beautifully woven scarf. The shopkeeper was incredibly friendly, sharing stories about the artisans who created the items. It's these personal connections that make shopping in local markets so much more rewarding than buying mass-produced items.


Explore the heart of Moroccan craftsmanship at Chaouen Gifts, where every item is a unique reflection of Chefchaouen's rich culture and artistry.

For lunch, we decided on Restaurant Lalla Messaouda. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and was known for its traditional Moroccan dishes. I ordered a tagine with lamb and prunes, while Andreas opted for couscous with vegetables. Sophie, always a bit adventurous with food, tried the Moroccan salad. The tagine was flavorful and comforting, and the couscous was light and fluffy. It was the perfect midday meal to recharge us for more exploring.


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

After lunch, we continued our exploration of the Medina, discovering hidden courtyards and quiet alleyways. I was particularly captivated by the way the light played off the blue walls, creating a myriad of shades and shadows. I made sure to snap lots of photos, trying to capture the magic of the place. We stumbled upon a small art gallery showcasing local artists, and I was impressed by the talent and creativity on display. Andreas even considered buying a painting, but we decided to wait until later in the trip to make any major purchases.

As the afternoon wore on, we stopped at Cremeri Elmaataoui for a sweet treat. I had heard about their delicious pastries, and I was eager to try them. I chose a traditional Moroccan pastry filled with almonds and honey, while Andreas went for a scoop of ice cream. Sophie, of course, chose a chocolate éclair. The pastries were heavenly, and the ice cream was refreshing. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploring.


Discover sweet delights at Cremeri Elmaataoui in Chefchaouen, where authentic Moroccan pastries meet stunning views.

For dinner, we returned to Cremeri Elmaataoui, as it transforms into a restaurant in the evening. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the menu offered a variety of Moroccan dishes. I ordered a vegetarian tagine, while Andreas chose a grilled meat platter. Sophie, again, went for something different – a pasta dish. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was a wonderful way to end our day in Chefchaouen.

As we walked back to Hotel Casa Miguel, the city was bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. The air was cool and crisp, and the stars twinkled above. I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude for the experiences of the day. Chefchaouen had truly captured my heart, and I knew I would never forget its beauty and charm.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel Casa Miguel, your perfect base in the heart of Chefchaouen, complete with wellness services and local cuisine.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Ensemble d'artisanat complexe and Place El Haouta. I'm looking forward to seeing more of Chefchaouen's artistic side and exploring another of its charming squares. Perhaps we'll even stop by Cafe Clock for a drink. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of this peaceful Sunday in the Blue Pearl of Morocco.