Exploring the Blue Jewel of Morocco: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Wandering Through the Blue City's Embrace

Today was a day of wandering, tasting, and soaking in the last moments of Chefchaouen’s unique atmosphere. With only one day left in our Moroccan adventure, Hans and I wanted to make the most of every corner of this blue-washed city. It’s hard to believe our trip is almost over; it feels like just yesterday we were landing in Tangier, ready to explore.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at MIDO'S. It’s a small place, but the reviews online raved about their falafel and pasta, a welcome change from the traditional Moroccan food we'd been enjoying. MIDO'S didn’t disappoint. The falafel was indeed fresh and flavorful, and Hans, surprisingly, devoured a plate of pasta, declaring it the best he’s had outside of Italy. It was a delightful start, setting the tone for a day of exploration and indulgence.


Discover Mido's in Chefchaouen – where fast food meets Moroccan flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we decided to visit Khandak Semmar. The walk there was a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views of Chefchaouen were absolutely worth it. From up there, the city looked like a patchwork quilt of blue hues, nestled against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains. I took dozens of photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in spotting the Bouzafer Mosque, which we plan to visit tomorrow before we head to the airport. He's already planning our next trip, I can tell.


Discover the serene beauty of Khandak Semmar Park in Chefchaouen, a perfect blend of nature and local culture.

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its blue walls, but in the warmth of its people and the richness of its culture.

Next on our list was Bab el Mahrouk, one of the city's historic gates. As we approached, I couldn't help but reflect on the history seeping from every stone. Bab el Mahrouk, which translates to the 'Gate of the Burnt,' has a rather grim history, once used to display the heads of executed rebels. Today, it stands as a testament to the city's resilience and transformation. The gate itself is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture, with intricate tile work and vibrant colors. It was fascinating to imagine all the stories this gate could tell.


Discover the historical beauty of Bab el Mahrouk in Chefchaouen, where rich culture meets stunning architecture in the heart of Morocco.

For lunch, we ventured to Restaurant Bab Kasaba, enticed by its rooftop dining area and promise of innovative Moroccan dishes. The restaurant is located near the Kasbah, offering lovely views. We shared a chicken lemon tagine and a Moroccan salad, both bursting with flavors. The presentation was stunning, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere of the city.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors in Chefchaouen at Restaurant Bab Kasaba - where culinary tradition meets breathtaking views.

As the afternoon waned, we strolled through the medina, getting lost in its labyrinthine alleyways. We stumbled upon artisan shops, vibrant markets, and hidden courtyards. I bought a beautiful hand-painted bowl as a souvenir, a reminder of our time in this enchanting city. Hans, meanwhile, haggled for a set of colorful spices, eager to recreate some of the Moroccan dishes we've enjoyed back home in Berlin.

For our final dinner in Chefchaouen, we chose Tissemlal, a restaurant recommended for its traditional Moroccan cuisine and cozy ambiance. The restaurant is part of Casa Hassan Hotel, known for its organic farm-to-table experience. We dined on the terrace, surrounded by lanterns and the soft murmur of conversation. The tagine was delicious, and the service was attentive and professional. It was the perfect way to savor our last evening in Chefchaouen.


Savor authentic Moroccan cuisine at Tissemlal in Chefchaouen - a culinary journey into the heart of Morocco's flavors.

To cap off the night, we decided to check out Mandala, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere and good music. We sipped on Moroccan mint tea, enjoying the cool evening air and reflecting on our adventures. It was a fitting end to a day filled with exploration, culinary delights, and the magic of Chefchaouen.


Experience the best pizza in Chefchaouen at Mandala, where local flavors meet Italian tradition in a cozy atmosphere.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Bouzafer Mosque and the Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen before heading to the airport. It's going to be a bittersweet day, saying goodbye to this beautiful city, but I know we'll carry the memories with us always. I am particularly interested to see the Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen, given I read it is the city's oldest and historically most important mosque, located at Place Outae Hammam. I will also try to find the Work shop Noureddine afia for some last minute shopping before heading to the airport. I am glad Hans is keen on coming back, as I think there is still so much to explore in Morocco. It feels like we have only scratched the surface of what this country has to offer.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Chefchaouen has captured my heart with its blue-washed streets, its warm and welcoming people, and its rich and vibrant culture. It’s a place I’ll never forget, and I can’t wait to share more stories and photos with you all.

Until tomorrow,
Ngoc