Exploring the Blue Jewel of Morocco: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Sunday Adventures in the Blue City

The gentle Moroccan sun streamed through my window this morning, beckoning me to start the day with renewed energy. After four days in this captivating blue city, Chefchaouen, I felt like I was finally finding my rhythm, my own little way of navigating its winding alleys and soaking in its unique charm. Today promised a blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and, of course, some delicious culinary experiences. With Hans back in Berlin, I embraced the day with my friends, ready to uncover more of what Chefchaouen had to offer.

Our day began with a hearty Moroccan breakfast at Restaurant Lalla Messaouda. We chose it based on a recommendation from a local we met the day before. Nestled in a cozy corner, the restaurant exuded warmth. The aroma of freshly baked bread and mint tea filled the air. We settled in, eager to taste what the morning had in store.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Lalla Messaouda in Chefchaouen – where every meal tells a story.
The table was soon laden with an array of delights: warm, crusty bread, an assortment of flavorful jams, creamy yogurt, and, of course, the ubiquitous mint tea. I savored each bite, appreciating the simple yet satisfying flavors. It was the perfect fuel for our morning adventure.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to explore Bab El Ain. As we approached, the gate stood majestically, a clear divider between the colonial side of Chefchaouen and the old town. The name Bab El Ain translates to “The Gate of the Spring”. It truly felt like stepping into another world, a world painted in a thousand shades of blue.


Experience the magic of Bab El Ain, a historical landmark in Chefchaouen, where vibrant culture and stunning architecture come together.
Just beyond the gate, local vendors were setting up their stalls, offering everything from fresh cactus fruit to hot chickpea cakes. The energy was palpable, a vibrant hum of daily life that drew us further into the medina. My friends and I paused to take in the scene, snapping photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

We wandered through the labyrinthine streets, each turn revealing a new visual treat. The blue-washed walls created a calming, almost surreal ambiance. Sunlight filtered through the narrow alleyways, casting intriguing shadows and highlighting the intricate details of the architecture. I couldn't resist stopping every few steps to capture the beauty with my camera. It's moments like these that I truly cherish, the feeling of being completely immersed in a place so different from my everyday life in Berlin.

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

Next on our itinerary was the Hero Eagle, a landmark offering panoramic views of Chefchaouen and the surrounding Rif Mountains. It was a bit of a walk uphill, but the promise of breathtaking scenery kept us motivated. As we ascended, we passed by more of the charming blue buildings and local shops. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of mountain herbs and distant wood fires.


Discover the breathtaking views from Hero Eagle, a must-see viewpoint in the stunning blue town of Chefchaouen, Morocco, where nature meets culture.
Reaching the Hero Eagle, we were rewarded with a vista that stretched as far as the eye could see. The sprawling blue city unfolded beneath us, a sea of indigo and azure nestled against the rugged backdrop of the mountains. It was truly a sight to behold. We spent a good while simply taking it all in, pointing out landmarks and marveling at the sheer beauty of the landscape.

After the Hero Eagle, it was time for a bit of shopping. We headed to Jabir shop chefchaouen, a place recommended by several locals. The shop was a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, from colorful textiles to intricate woodwork. The owner, Jabir, was incredibly welcoming and shared stories about the origins and craftsmanship of each item. It was refreshing to find a shopkeeper who wasn't pushy but genuinely passionate about his products.


Explore Jabir Shop in Chefchaouen for unique Moroccan gifts and souvenirs that embody the spirit of the blue city.
I picked up a few small souvenirs for Hans and my family back in Vietnam. A hand-painted ceramic bowl, a set of fragrant spices, and a beautifully woven scarf – little reminders of this magical place. My friends also found some unique pieces to take home, each a memento of our time in Chefchaouen.

Lunchtime found us at Chez Aziz, a restaurant known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We started with a selection of traditional salads, bursting with fresh herbs and vibrant flavors. For the main course, I opted for the tagine, a slow-cooked stew of tender meat and vegetables simmered in aromatic spices. It was simply divine, a symphony of tastes that danced on my palate.


Experience the fusion of traditional Moroccan cuisine and international flavors at Chez Aziz in Chefchaouen.
My friends chose the couscous, another Moroccan staple, fluffy grains served with a medley of vegetables and flavorful broth. We savored each bite, accompanied by more glasses of refreshing mint tea. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, a perfect setting to unwind and reflect on our day's adventures.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the city, we made our way to The Magic Lamp House of Aladin for dinner. The restaurant's name alone conjured images of Arabian nights and fantastical tales. The decor was equally enchanting, with colorful lanterns, plush cushions, and intricate tapestries adorning the walls.


Experience the magic of Moroccan cuisine blended with delightful chocolate creations at The Magic Lamp House of Aladin in Targha.
We settled onto the terrace, which offered stunning views of the illuminated medina. The air was filled with the sounds of traditional music and the tantalizing aromas of Moroccan spices. I ordered the orange chicken, a dish recommended by our waiter. It was a delightful blend of sweet and savory, the tender chicken glazed with a tangy citrus sauce.

My friends opted for the tajine and the laing, both equally delicious. We shared bites and stories, laughing and reminiscing about our experiences in Chefchaouen. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day, a celebration of friendship, culture, and culinary delights.

As I walked back to Hotel Casa Miguel, the cool night air nipped at my cheeks. The stars twinkled above, casting a soft glow over the blue-washed streets. I felt a sense of contentment wash over me, a feeling of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a unique and beautiful place.


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 Tuiles colorées and Bab Chaouen, with stops at Chez Foad for breakfast, Restaurant populaire for lunch, and Restaurant Bar Chaouen for dinner, and ending the day at Café Mundial. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us in the morning. For now, though, I'll drift off to sleep, dreaming of blue streets, fragrant spices, and the warm hospitality of the Moroccan people. Good night from Chefchaouen!