Exploring the Blue Jewel of Morocco: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Friday Adventures in Chefchaouen

Today was a day of wandering through the heart of Chefchaouen, a Friday filled with the echoes of prayers, the bustle of the market, and the simple joys of Moroccan hospitality. It's amazing how a place can seep into your soul, and Chefchaouen is definitely working its magic on me.

Our day started with the aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee at Restaurant Paloma. It's a cozy spot in the old part of town, and the portions were incredibly generous. I enjoyed a traditional Moroccan breakfast, which gave me the energy I needed for the day's explorations. The staff was friendly and the service was fast, which is always a plus when you're eager to get out and see the sights.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Paloma in Chefchaouen - where every meal tells a story amidst stunning views.

After breakfast, we made our way to Jamaa, or The White Mosque of the Souk. The mosque is a stunning testament to Islamic architecture and local culture. It's set against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains, which really makes the structure stand out. The White Mosque of the Souk is located a short distance from the market stalls. I took some time to explore the surrounding streets, where I found local artisan shops and tried some delicious street food.


Experience the charm of Chefchaouen, Morocco's blue city, where every corner reveals stunning views and rich cultural experiences.

From Jamaa, we strolled towards Bab El Hammar, one of the main gates of the city. The gate itself is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture, and it serves as a reminder of the city's rich history. Bab El Hammar, a historic brick gate, stands as a proud entrance to the blue city. Walking through it felt like stepping back in time, with the old traditional buildings surrounding us. The gate is more than just a physical structure; it's a gateway to the soul of Chefchaouen.


Explore the rich cultural heritage of Morocco at Bab El Hammar, a captivating museum in the stunning town of Chefchaouen.

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

For lunch, we ventured to Restaurant Jbaria, a place recommended by several locals. The restaurant captures the essence of Moroccan hospitality and culinary tradition. I opted for a vegetarian tagine, and it was absolutely divine. The vegetables were fresh and flavorful, and the spices were perfectly balanced. Hans, who is usually a dedicated meat eater, even admitted he was tempted to order a second one! The warm hospitality from the staff made the experience even more enjoyable.


Discover the authentic taste of Morocco at Restaurant Jbaria in Chefchaouen—where every dish tells a story.

After lunch, we decided to take a break from sightseeing and unwind at Galitos, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere. We sipped on some refreshing drinks and chatted with fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences. It was a great way to recharge before continuing our exploration of the city.


Experience the authentic taste of Moroccan cuisine at Galitos, a hidden gem in the heart of Chefchaouen, perfect for food lovers and travelers alike.

As evening approached, we made our way to Mounir Food for dinner. The restaurant showcases the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine with a Halal twist. I decided to try one of their omelets and pancakes. The friendly staff ensured a welcoming atmosphere, and it was clear that this spot is a favorite among locals.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Mounir Food in Chefchaouen - a must-visit for food lovers seeking halal delights.

Before heading back to Hotel Casa Miguel, we took one last stroll through the medina. The blue-washed streets were even more magical under the moonlight, and the sounds of the city were soothing and peaceful. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience.


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 explore El Mellah and Darb Limoun, venturing deeper into the heart of Chefchaouen's historic neighborhoods. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us, and I'm sure they will be just as captivating as today's experiences. We also plan to have breakfast at Restaurant populaire, lunch at BILMOS, and dinner at Restaurant blue dream.

As I reflect on today, I realize that Chefchaouen is more than just a pretty city; it's a place where you can truly connect with the local culture and experience the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. I'm so glad I decided to come here with my friends, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Even though I miss my pottery classes back in Berlin, I know that this trip is filling my soul in ways that I never expected. And, of course, I made sure to call Hans tonight. He was eager to hear all about my adventures, and I could tell he was a little jealous that he wasn't here with me.

I am excited about tomorrow's plans, especially visiting El Mellah and Darb Limoun. It will be another day of exploration and cultural immersion, and I can't wait to share it with you all. I am also looking forward to breakfast at Restaurant populaire, lunch at BILMOS, and dinner at Restaurant blue dream. Until then, goodnight from the Blue Pearl of Morocco!

In the meantime, I'm off to dream of blue streets and mint tea. Goodnight, everyone!

P.S. I really need to remember to buy sunglasses tomorrow. The Moroccan sun is stronger than I thought, and I'm starting to squint a lot in my photos! I also wish I had brought my notebook for journaling. There are so many details I want to remember, and my phone notes just aren't cutting it.