Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Beyond the Blue: A Day Trip to Tetouan

Today, Liam and I, along with our friends, decided to venture beyond the familiar blue of Chefchaouen and immerse ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of Tetouan. After several days of soaking in the serene beauty of the Blue Pearl, we were eager to explore another facet of Moroccan culture and history. We knew Tetouan, a city with a rich Andalusian heritage, held a unique charm, and we were excited to uncover its secrets. Little did we know, this day trip would be a sensory feast, filled with bustling markets, aromatic cuisine, and architectural wonders.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Chourafa. The restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and authentic Moroccan dishes. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen (buttery flatbread), served with honey and a side of mint tea, while Liam chose the eggs. The msemen was flaky and delicious, and the mint tea was the perfect way to start our day.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Chourafa in Chefchaouen - a culinary haven amidst stunning blue-hued streets.

Fueled and ready, we hopped into our pre-booked taxi for the scenic drive to Tetouan. As we left Chefchaouen, the landscape transformed from rolling hills to a more rugged terrain, offering glimpses of rural Moroccan life. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads that provided panoramic views of the countryside.

Arriving in Tetouan, the first thing that struck me was the difference in atmosphere compared to Chefchaouen. While Chefchaouen exudes a tranquil, almost dreamlike quality, Tetouan felt more energetic and bustling. The city, a melting pot of cultures, has a palpable sense of history, bearing the marks of its Andalusian, Spanish, and Berber influences.

Our primary destination was Tetouan's old Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Before diving into the labyrinthine streets, we decided to get our bearings and learn more about the Medina's layout. We headed to the Tourist Information Center on Avenue Alger to pick up a map. The center was easy to find, and the staff were incredibly helpful, providing us with a detailed map and some insider tips on the must-see spots.


Discover Tetouan's Old Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with rich history, vibrant markets, and stunning architecture that embodies Moroccan culture.

Armed with our map, we stepped into the Medina, and it felt like entering another world. The narrow, winding streets were a stark contrast to the wider avenues of the new city. The air was thick with the scent of spices, leather, and freshly baked bread. The sounds of vendors hawking their wares, children playing, and the rhythmic clang of metal from a craftsman's workshop created a vibrant symphony. I was immediately captivated by the sheer energy of the place.

We wandered through the maze-like alleys, marveling at the architecture. The whitewashed buildings, adorned with intricate wooden doors and colorful tiles, reflected the city's Andalusian heritage. Unlike Chefchaouen's predominantly blue palette, Tetouan's Medina was a riot of colors, with splashes of green, yellow, and red adding to its vibrant character.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing them fully, immersing ourselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of a different culture.

One of our first stops was the Callejón de Sidi Bouchouka. This picturesque alleyway is famed for its colorful mosaic tiles and vibrant flower pots. It was easy to see why it’s such a popular photo spot. The vibrant colors and intricate designs were incredibly photogenic, and I couldn't resist snapping a few pictures. The alleyway exuded a sense of tranquility, a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling Medina.


Explore Callejón de Sidi Bouchouka, a stunning blue alley in Chefchaouen, where culture, art, and culinary delights blend perfectly.

As we navigated the Medina, we stumbled upon numerous artisan workshops. We watched craftsmen skillfully hammering copper into intricate designs, weavers creating beautiful textiles on traditional looms, and leatherworkers meticulously crafting bags and shoes. It was fascinating to witness these age-old traditions being kept alive. I couldn't resist purchasing a beautiful leather handbag as a souvenir, a tangible reminder of the skilled artisans of Tetouan.

Shopping in the Medina was an experience in itself. Unlike the more curated shops in Chefchaouen, the stalls in Tetouan's Medina were overflowing with goods. From spices and teas to clothing and jewelry, there was something for everyone. Haggling was expected, and I quickly learned the art of negotiating, much to the amusement of Liam and our friends. I managed to snag some beautiful spices and a traditional Berber teapot at a bargain price.

All that wandering made us hungry. For lunch, we decided to try RESTAURANT CASA ANDALUZ. This restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Liam and I shared a tagine, while our friends tried the couscous. The tagine was flavorful and delicious, and the couscous was equally impressive. It was the perfect place to rest and refuel.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Casa Andaluz in Chefchaouen - where flavor meets breathtaking views.

After lunch, we continued our exploration, venturing deeper into the heart of the Medina. We visited the Grand Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture, and explored the bustling souks, where vendors sold everything from fresh produce to traditional clothing. The energy of the souks was infectious, and I found myself caught up in the excitement of the bartering and haggling.

One of the highlights of our day was a visit to Bazar Sahara. This shop is a treasure trove of Moroccan crafts and souvenirs. As soon as we stepped inside, we were greeted by an array of colorful textiles, handwoven rugs, and intricately designed ceramics. I found a beautiful mosaic lamp that I knew would look perfect in our living room back in Kelowna. The shopkeepers were friendly and welcoming, and they shared stories about the items, making the experience even more meaningful.


Explore Bazar Sáhara in Chefchaouen for unique Moroccan gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of this magical blue city.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the Medina, we decided to find a rooftop café to enjoy a cup of mint tea and reflect on our day. We found a charming café with panoramic views of the city. Sipping our tea, we watched as the Medina transformed into a sea of twinkling lights. The call to prayer echoed through the streets, a melodic reminder of the city's deep-rooted Islamic traditions.

Before heading back to Chefchaouen, we decided to have dinner at Restaurant Hajji. The restaurant is known for its traditional Moroccan dishes and inviting atmosphere. Liam and I shared a couscous, while our friends tried the tagine. The couscous was flavorful and delicious, and the tagine was equally impressive. The staff were friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Hajji in Chefchaouen – where every dish tells a story of local tradition.

As we made our way back to Chefchaouen, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Tetouan. It was a day filled with sensory delights, cultural immersion, and unforgettable moments. Tetouan, with its vibrant Medina, rich history, and warm hospitality, had captured my heart.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore more of Chefchaouen itself, including the Hero Eagle and the Kasbah. I’m excited to see what other hidden gems this blue city holds.

This trip has reminded me of something important:

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

It’s a sentiment that perfectly captures the spirit of adventure that Liam and I try to embrace in our travels. Until tomorrow!