Enchanting Blue Streets of Chefchaouen: A Moroccan Adventure with Friends

Diving into the Blue Pearl

After a long journey from Bamberg, with a flight to Tangier and then a scenic drive to Chefchaouen, I finally arrived in the famed Blue Pearl of Morocco. The anticipation had been building for months, and I was eager to see if the reality matched the pictures I had seen online. Let me tell you, it exceeded every expectation! The moment I stepped into the medina, I felt like I had entered another world – a world painted in a thousand shades of blue.

My friends and I checked into Hotel Dar Mounir, a cozy and conveniently located spot right in the heart of Chefchaouen. After dropping off our bags, we were ready to dive headfirst into exploring. The first item on our itinerary: the Chefchaouen Medina.


Discover the enchanting Hotel Dar Mounir in Chefchaouen, where comfort meets culture, and unforgettable experiences await every traveler.

The Medina here is unlike any other I’ve experienced. Compared to the bustling medinas of Fez and Marrakech, Chefchaouen’s is a tranquil maze of narrow, winding alleyways, each turn revealing a new, picture-perfect scene. The buildings, all washed in various hues of blue, create an atmosphere of serene beauty. It’s easy to get lost, but that’s part of the charm. Every corner is a photo opportunity, and I found myself constantly stopping to capture the unique beauty of this place.

Wandering through Chefchaouen is like stepping into a dream, where every shade of blue tells a story of history, art, and tranquility.

We began our exploration at Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the heart of the medina. This square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, offering a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere. The vibrant energy of the square was immediately captivating. Locals and tourists mingled, creating a lively yet relaxed vibe. We decided to stop at Cafe Clock for breakfast. I had heard so much about their Moroccan pancakes and fresh juices, and they did not disappoint. Aisha would have loved their Kids Menu. Sipping on mint tea and savoring the delicious pancakes while watching the world go by was the perfect way to start our day. Cafe Clock had a cross cultural cafe chain based in Fez and Marrakech, and Chefchaouen. I have to remember to bring Hans and Aisha here next time!


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen, where every dish tells a story amidst vibrant culture.

After breakfast, we ventured deeper into the medina, exploring the countless shops and stalls. Chefchaouen is known for its handicrafts, and I was immediately drawn to the colorful displays of woven blankets, leather goods, and painted ceramics. Of course, haggling is part of the experience, and I enjoyed the friendly banter with the local shopkeepers. I picked up a beautiful handwoven rug and a few small souvenirs for my family back in Bamberg. I made sure to remember that haggling is part of the shopping experience in Chefchaouen and it is expected of you to negotiate the price.

Next on our list was the Kasbah, a historic fortress located in the heart of the medina. Built in the 15th century, the Kasbah once served as a residence for governors and a military stronghold. Today, it houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region. We spent a couple of hours exploring the museum, learning about the traditions and heritage of Chefchaouen. The Kasbah also offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding Rif Mountains. Climbing to the top of the tower provided a panoramic vista that was simply breathtaking. I could see the entire blue-washed medina spread out before me, a sea of azure rooftops and winding alleyways. The Kasbah presents a remarkable architectural testimony, representing an exceptional example of Moroccan defensive architecture.


Explore the historical Kasbah in Chefchaouen, a vibrant landmark rich in culture and stunning views of Morocco's scenic beauty.

By lunchtime, we were famished. We decided to try Chez Hicham, a restaurant known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine and rooftop terrace. The rooftop setting provided a lovely view of Place Utta Hammam. We started with Moroccan soup, a flavorful and hearty dish that warmed us from the inside out. For our main courses, we opted for chicken tagine with lemon and a fresh seafood platter cooked in olive oil. The tagine was tender and aromatic, while the seafood was succulent and bursting with flavor. For dessert, we indulged in crème brûlée, a sweet and creamy treat that was the perfect ending to our meal.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at Chez Hicham in Chefchaouen - your gateway to cultural immersion.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of the medina, discovering hidden corners and charming details. The vibrant colors of the buildings, combined with the intricate designs of the doors and windows, created a visual feast. We stumbled upon a small courtyard where a local artist was painting a traditional Moroccan scene. I was captivated by his skill and the way he brought the culture of Chefchaouen to life on canvas. I purchased one of his paintings as a reminder of my time here.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break and relax at Bar Oum Rabie. This charming grill and wine bar offered a cozy atmosphere and a chance to unwind after a day of exploring. We ordered some local wine and grilled lamb skewers, savoring the flavors of Morocco as we watched the sunset over the city. The strategic location of Bar Oum Rabie makes it easily accessible for tourists wandering through Chefchaouen's charming alleyways. It's more than just a place to eat; it's an experience that captures the essence of Moroccan culture and hospitality.


Experience the authentic flavors of Morocco at Bar Oum Rabie, a charming grill and wine bar in the heart of Chefchaouen.

For dinner, we chose Assaada, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Moroccan dishes and affordable prices. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes, including couscous, pastilla, and various tagines. Each dish was bursting with flavor and spices, providing a true taste of Moroccan cuisine. The pastilla and tangine chicken were highly recommended. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Chefchaouen.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Assaada in Chefchaouen, where every dish tells a story and every bite is a taste of tradition.

As the day came to a close, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible experiences I had. Chefchaouen is a place that truly captivates the senses, from the stunning blue-washed buildings to the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. It’s a town where you can lose yourself in the beauty of the surroundings and discover something new around every corner.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Chefchaouen, including the Blue Medina Tours and Ras El Ma. I’m also looking forward to doing some more shopping at Chefchaouen crafts. But for now, I’m content to relax and savor the memories of this magical first day. I am also excited for Tissemlal for breakfast, Le Coin for lunch, and Restaurant Morisco for dinner. I am also excited to see what local handicrafts I can find at Jabir shop chefchaouen.


Discover the charm of Chefchaouen Crafts, where every handmade gift reflects the artistic heritage of Morocco's blue city.

Chefchaouen has already stolen a piece of my heart, and I can’t wait to see what other wonders this enchanting blue city has in store.

I’m also realizing I forgot my travel adapter and sunglasses! I will need to pick those up tomorrow when I am out shopping.

Until tomorrow,
Maryam