Enchanting Blue Streets of Chefchaouen: A Moroccan Adventure with Friends

Hidden Corners and Culinary Delights in Chefchaouen

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of Chefchaouen, venturing beyond the well-trodden paths to uncover the city's hidden gems. With my friends by my side, I was eager to discover the unique charm of this blue-washed city, one corner and one delicious meal at a time. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Bar Chaouen. I had heard mixed reviews, but I was keen to experience it for myself. It turned out to be a delightful start to the day. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed a mix of Mediterranean and Moroccan dishes. Aisha would have loved this place, I can already imagine her dancing to the Arabic music. Fuelled up, we set off to explore Place El Haouta, a square I'd read so much about.


Explore the lively Place El Haouta in Chefchaouen, where culture, cuisine, and captivating blue architecture come together for an unforgettable experience.
Place El Haouta was everything I had imagined and more. The name 'Hawta,' meaning surrounded, perfectly describes this picturesque square. Adorned with blue-tiled buildings featuring classic arches and iron grills, the square exudes a unique and captivating ambiance. We spent a good hour simply soaking in the surroundings, capturing countless photographs of the beautifully patterned and cobbled floor, and the four-sided fountain at its heart. It’s a place where the essence of Chefchaouen truly comes alive. The square was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere that was hard to resist. It was easy to see why it is a must-visit location in Chefchaouen.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

Next on our list was Bab el Mahrouk, a historical landmark that serves as a gateway to the city.


Explore Chefchaouen effortlessly with Bab el Mahrouk, your convenient parking spot in the heart of Morocco's blue city.
As we approached, the intricate details of the architecture immediately caught our attention, reflecting a blend of Berber and Arabic influences. The views of the Rif Mountains from here were simply breathtaking. We wandered through the surrounding streets, lined with colorful handicrafts and textiles, and I couldn't resist picking up a few souvenirs. It's these little mementos that bring back the fondest memories when I am back home in Bamberg. Hans always teases me about my ever-growing collection, but he knows I can't help myself!

For lunch, we decided on Restaurant Jbaria, known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and cozy atmosphere.


Experience the best of Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Jbaria in Chefchaouen, where authentic cuisine meets a charming atmosphere.
The reviews I had read praised the tagines, and I was eager to try one. We were not disappointed. I opted for the goat tagine with dates and raisins, while my friends chose the couscous and lamb dishes. Each dish was bursting with flavor, and the service was impeccable. The restaurant's decor, with its beautiful ceramic tiles and intricate woodwork, added to the overall experience. It felt like dining in someone's home, a true taste of Moroccan hospitality.

In the late afternoon, we sought refuge from the heat at The Magic Lamp House of Aladin, a bar known for its magical ambiance.


Experience the best of Moroccan cuisine with a sweet twist at The Magic Lamp House of Aladin in Targha, where flavors come to life in a cozy setting.
The terrace offered stunning views of the city, and we sipped on refreshing mint tea as the sun began to set. The bar's decor was enchanting, with traditional Moroccan lamps casting a warm glow over everything. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I made a mental note to bring Hans here next time; he would appreciate the view with a glass of local beer in hand.

As evening approached, we made our way to Chez Hicham for dinner.


Discover the heart of Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at Chez Hicham in the enchanting Blue City of Chefchaouen.
This restaurant had been recommended to me for its Moroccan chicken salads and grilled meats. The outdoor seating offered a beautiful view, and we enjoyed a leisurely meal under the stars. I savored the lemon chicken, while my friends indulged in the lamb skewers. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting.

Today was a tapestry of experiences, each thread weaving together to create a vivid picture of Chefchaouen's unique charm. From the bustling squares to the hidden corners, from the flavorful tagines to the refreshing mint tea, every moment was a delight. I am so grateful to be sharing this adventure with my friends, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I am particularly looking forward to visiting Plaza Mohammed V and Bab El Hammar, and perhaps finding a special souvenir at La Botica De La Abuela De Aladdin. It's moments like these that make me realize how lucky I am to be able to explore the world and share my experiences with all of you.

For those planning to visit Chefchaouen, I highly recommend setting aside time to simply wander and get lost in the medina. Allow yourself to be drawn in by the sights, sounds, and smells, and don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path. You never know what hidden gems you might discover. And be sure to try the local cuisine – it's an essential part of the Chefchaouen experience.

I'm also happy to report that I managed to find a travel adapter today, after forgetting to pack one. It's the little things that make a big difference when you're traveling!

Tomorrow is sadly our last day in Chefchaouen, but I'm determined to make the most of it. Until then, I bid you goodnight from this enchanting blue city. Perhaps I will find something special to bring back to Aisha, so she can experience the magic of Chefchaouen with me.

I can’t wait to share more stories with you all soon!