Exploring the Blue Pearl: Chefchaouen with Friends

A Fond Farewell

As my ten-day journey in Chefchaouen draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences I’ve had in this blue-washed city. Today was a day of soaking in the last bits of culture and enjoying some final tastes of Moroccan cuisine before heading back to Germany. It’s funny how a place can feel so foreign and yet so familiar all at once. I'll miss the way the light hits the blue walls in the morning, and the friendly faces I've come to recognize around town.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at Toda Creperie & Ice Cream. Maximilian and I decided to start the day with something sweet. I had a Nutella crepe, while he enjoyed a savory crepe with cheese. Hanna, of course, opted for a scoop of strawberry ice cream, even though it was barely morning!. It’s become a tradition for her to have ice cream at least once a day during our travels. The staff were so friendly, making us feel right at home.


Experience delightful crepes and artisanal ice cream in Chefchaouen's charming ambiance.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen. Housed within the Kasbah, the museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Rif region. I was particularly intrigued by the displays of traditional clothing, pottery, and musical instruments. It was amazing to see the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into each piece. Maximilian was captivated by the exhibits showcasing the region's history, especially the artifacts from the time of the resistance against the Spaniards. Hanna, surprisingly, was quite interested in the displays of old weapons, asking lots of questions about how they were used.


Explore the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen, a captivating showcase of Morocco's vibrant culture, history, and local craftsmanship.

Wandering through the museum, I learned that it was inaugurated in 1985 to highlight the talent of local artisans. The museum is divided into several rooms, each dedicated to different aspects of Chefchaouen's cultural heritage. The first two rooms feature costumes and weaving, showcasing the intricate designs and vibrant colors of traditional Rif clothing. The patio displays dishes and polychrome chests, giving a glimpse into daily life in Chefchaouen. The last room is dedicated to weapons, some dating back to the resistance against the Spaniards.

After the museum, we decided to visit the Bouzafer Mosque, also known as the Spanish Mosque. Built by the Spanish in the 1920s, it sits atop a hill overlooking the city. The hike up was a bit strenuous, but the panoramic views of Chefchaouen were well worth the effort. The city looked even more magical from above, with its blue buildings cascading down the hillside. Although non-Muslims are not allowed inside, we were able to admire the architecture from the outside and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.


Explore the Bouzafer Mosque in Chefchaouen, where stunning architecture meets serene spirituality amidst the blue hues of the city.

The mosque has an interesting history. It was built during the Spanish colonial rule as a gesture to appease the local population. However, the residents of Chefchaouen boycotted it, considering it impure. As a result, it was never really used for its intended purpose and fell into disrepair after the Spaniards left. In recent years, it has been renovated and become a popular spot for tourists to enjoy the views.

For lunch, we headed to Restaurant populaire, a local favorite known for its traditional Moroccan dishes. I ordered a tagine with chicken and olives, while Maximilian opted for couscous with vegetables. Hanna, always a fan of simple flavors, chose grilled chicken. The food was delicious and comforting, a perfect representation of Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and we enjoyed watching the locals go about their day.


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, we decided to relax at Café Mundial, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. I ordered a Moroccan mint tea, while Maximilian enjoyed a coffee. Hanna, of course, had another ice cream. The café had a lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with some of the other travelers. Café Mundial is known for its cozy ambiance and friendly staff. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the local culture. In the evenings, it transforms into a sports bar, which I found quite amusing.


Experience the heart of Chefchaouen at Café Mundial, where Moroccan culture meets delightful café ambiance in a picturesque setting.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Restaurant Parador for our final dinner in Chefchaouen. We had heard great things about their traditional Moroccan cuisine, and we were not disappointed. I ordered a seafood tagine, while Maximilian chose a lamb dish. Hanna, again, went for grilled chicken. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. The restaurant had a lovely ambiance, and we enjoyed reminiscing about our adventures in Chefchaouen.


Discover culinary bliss at Restaurant Parador in Chefchaouen - where traditional Moroccan cuisine meets breathtaking views.

During dinner, I couldn’t help but think about how much I’ve grown to love this little blue city. It’s a place that has captured my heart with its unique charm and friendly people. I’ve learned so much about Moroccan culture and made memories that I will cherish forever. I even managed to pick up a few new phrases in Arabic, though my pronunciation still needs some work!

After dinner, we took one last stroll through the blue streets, soaking in the magical atmosphere. The city was quiet and peaceful, with the soft glow of lanterns illuminating the alleyways. It was the perfect way to end our trip.

As I prepare to leave Chefchaouen tomorrow, I feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences I’ve had here. This trip has been a reminder of the beauty and diversity of our world. It’s also reinforced the importance of stepping outside of my comfort zone and embracing new cultures. I’m excited to share my stories and photos with my readers, and I hope to inspire them to embark on their own adventures.

Tomorrow, we’ll be heading back to Tangier to catch our flight back to Germany. While I’m looking forward to seeing my home and sleeping in my own bed, I know that a part of me will always remain in Chefchaouen. Until next time, blue pearl of Morocco!

I'm already planning my next adventure, perhaps somewhere in Southeast Asia. But Chefchaouen will always hold a special place in my heart. It was a truly unforgettable experience, shared with my favorite travel companions. I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to explore this magical city and share my experiences with all of you. Thank you for joining me on this journey!