Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen

A Day of Artistic Exploration and Moroccan Flavors

Today was a delightful blend of art, culture, and culinary exploration here in Chefchaouen. It's amazing how this blue city continues to surprise me with its hidden gems and vibrant local life. It was a day filled with beauty and deliciousness, and I can't wait to share all the details.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Hamsa. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea, which is quickly becoming a morning ritual I adore. Liam went for a more familiar omelette, but he couldn't resist stealing a few sips of my tea. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in this enchanting city.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and delightful teas at Restaurant Hamsa in Chefchaouen's charming blue city.

Fueled up, we headed to the Sidi Bouchouka photo spot. I'd seen countless photos of this picturesque alleyway, but experiencing it in person was something else entirely. The vibrant blue walls, adorned with colorful mosaics and overflowing with potted plants, created a scene straight out of a dream. It was a photographer's paradise, and I spent a good hour snapping away, trying to capture the magic of the place. I even managed to get a few shots of Liam, who usually shies away from the camera, but the beauty of Sidi Bouchouka was simply irresistible.


Experience the breathtaking views and vibrant charm of Sidi Bouchouka in Chefchaouen, a must-visit photo spot in Morocco's picturesque Blue City.

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its striking blue hues, but in the vibrant culture and warm hospitality that permeates every corner.

Next on our itinerary was the Tetuan Modern Art Center. I was particularly excited about this, as I always enjoy discovering the local art scene wherever I travel. The center is housed in a beautifully renovated building that was once a railway station, adding to its charm. Inside, we were treated to a diverse collection of contemporary Moroccan art, showcasing the country's rich artistic heritage. I was particularly drawn to the works of the first generation of artists from the School of Fine Arts in Tetouan, their pieces reflecting a unique blend of Moroccan and Spanish influences. Liam, with his software developer's mind, was fascinated by the architectural design of the building itself, pointing out the intricate details and clever use of space.


Explore contemporary creativity at the Tetuan Modern Art Center, a vibrant hub showcasing local and international artistic talent in Tetouan.

After immersing ourselves in art, it was time for lunch. We decided to try Caféteria Lhawta, a local spot recommended by a friendly shopkeeper. It was a small, unassuming café, but it was packed with locals, which is always a good sign. We ordered a couple of sandwiches and some fresh orange juice, and sat outside, soaking in the lively atmosphere of the medina. It was a simple meal, but it was delicious and authentic, and exactly what we needed to recharge.


Discover Caféteria Lhawta in Chefchaouen: where aromatic coffees meet Moroccan charm amidst stunning blue streets.

With our energy levels replenished, we decided to explore the medina a bit more. We wandered through the narrow, winding streets, admiring the intricate architecture and browsing the colorful shops. I picked up a few souvenirs – a hand-painted ceramic bowl and a beautifully embroidered scarf – while Liam haggled for a leather wallet. It's moments like these, getting lost in the local culture, that make traveling so rewarding.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Cafe Clock. I had heard great things about this place, and it didn't disappoint. The café is housed in a traditional building with a rooftop terrace offering breathtaking views of the blue city. We ordered some mint tea and settled in to watch the sunset. The sky was ablaze with color, painting the blue walls in shades of orange and pink. It was a truly magical moment, and I felt incredibly grateful to be sharing it with Liam.


Explore authentic Moroccan flavors and vibrant culture at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen, where every meal is a journey through tradition.

We decided to stay for dinner at Cafe Clock, drawn in by the enticing aromas wafting from the kitchen. I opted for the vegetarian tagine, while Liam, ever the adventurous one, decided to try the famous camel burger. Both dishes were delicious, bursting with flavor and spices. The café also had live music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Our final stop of the night was Restaurant Jbaria for a late dinner. This restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We shared a tagine and some couscous, savoring the rich flavors and spices. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with culinary delights.


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

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of why I love traveling – the opportunity to discover new cultures, experience new things, and create lasting memories with the people I love. Chefchaouen has truly captured my heart, and I'm already looking forward to exploring more of its hidden corners tomorrow. Tomorrow we plan to see El Mellah and Boulevard Mohamed V, and I hope to find more treasures in this blue city. I think I'll bring my travel adapter as well, since I forgot it at home and I am already running low on battery on my camera!

I'm also excited to see what culinary adventures await us tomorrow. I've heard great things about Amigo for breakfast, Restaurant Ali Baba for lunch, and Restaurant Blue Dream for dinner, so I'm eager to try them all. And of course, I'm planning to do some shopping at Boutique EL-ASRI, in hopes of finding more unique souvenirs to take home.

Good night from Chefchaouen!

P.S. I'm still trying to convince Liam to try yoga with me. Maybe tomorrow will be the day!