Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen with Friends

Saturday's Serene Discoveries in Chefchaouen

Today, Chefchaouen revealed more of its enchanting character. It was a day of gentle exploration, a relaxed pace that allowed me to absorb the essence of this blue-washed city. With my friends, I wandered through historical lanes, tasted local delicacies, and simply let the day unfold, creating memories that I know will stay with me long after I've left this magical place.

The day began with a delightful breakfast at Hôtel restaurant La fuente. The warm morning air, coupled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, made for a perfect start. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with msemen, honey, and a pot of mint tea. It's these simple pleasures that truly connect you to a place, and I savored every bite while chatting with my friends about our plans for the day.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the heart of Chefchaouen at Hôtel Restaurant La Fuente.

Our first destination was El Mellah, the old Jewish quarter. As we walked through its narrow streets, I couldn't help but reflect on the history that permeated the very air around us. The architecture here is distinct, with subtle differences that set it apart from the rest of the Medina. The buildings seemed to whisper stories of a community that had once thrived here, adding another layer to Chefchaouen’s rich tapestry. Though much of the Jewish population left in the mid-20th century, their legacy remains etched in the walls and the memories of those who still call this place home.


Discover the magical blue city of Chefchaouen, where vibrant culture meets stunning landscapes in Morocco's enchanting Rif Mountains.

Wandering through Chefchaouen is like stepping into a living painting, where every corner reveals a new shade of blue and a story waiting to be told.

Next on our itinerary was Rue Ibn Asskar, a vibrant thoroughfare known for its bustling atmosphere and local shops. Here, the energy of Chefchaouen was palpable. The street was alive with vendors selling everything from colorful textiles to aromatic spices. I enjoyed haggling for a few souvenirs, practicing my limited Arabic with the friendly merchants. My friend found a beautiful hand-woven rug, while I picked up a few small trinkets to bring back to Greta and Lila.


Discover the beauty of Chefchaouen, Morocco's blue city, with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant local markets.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant populaire, a local favorite known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. I decided to try the tagine with lamb and apricots, a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The lamb was tender and succulent, and the apricots added a delightful sweetness that made the dish truly memorable. My friends opted for the couscous, which they declared was the best they had tasted so far on our trip.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Populaire in Chefchaouen, where every dish is a celebration of local flavors and culinary traditions.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip lower in the sky, we found ourselves at Café Mundial. This café is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and it’s easy to see why. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the views from the terrace are simply stunning. Sipping on a refreshing mint tea, I watched as the last rays of sunlight painted the blue buildings in hues of gold and orange. It was a moment of pure bliss, a perfect way to end a day of exploration.


Experience the essence of Chefchaouen at Café Mundial, where delightful coffee meets a vibrant social scene in the heart of the blue city.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Morisco, enticed by its reputation for serving delicious Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes. The restaurant is located in the heart of the Medina, and its cozy ambiance made for a perfect setting. I opted for the seafood paella, while my friends tried the traditional Moroccan tagine. As we ate, we shared stories and laughter, reminiscing about our adventures in Chefchaouen.


Discover flavorful Moroccan and Italian dishes at Restaurant Morisco in Chefchaouen - where culinary traditions meet affordability.

As the evening drew to a close, we decided to take a final stroll through the Medina. The streets were quieter now, and the blue buildings seemed to glow under the soft light of the streetlamps. The air was cool and crisp, and the sounds of the city had mellowed into a gentle hum. It was a peaceful and serene end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

Tomorrow marks the end of our stay in Chefchaouen. Before we leave, we plan to visit Dar Antonio Chefchaouen and Boulevard Mohamed V, hoping to soak in a little more of the city's charm before heading back to Berlin. I'm already anticipating the flavors of Mounir Food for breakfast, a delightful start to our final day. We'll also be sure to grab lunch at Restaurant Ali Baba and a farewell dinner at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli, savoring every last taste of Moroccan cuisine. Before our departure, we intend to stop by Jabir shop chefchaouen to pick up a few last-minute souvenirs, ensuring we have tangible reminders of our time in this magical place.

Chefchaouen has captured my heart with its beauty, its history, and its warm and welcoming people. It's a place that I know I will never forget, and I'm already looking forward to the day when I can return. Perhaps I'll bring Greta and Lila next time, so they too can experience the magic of this blue pearl.