Morocco Blue City Chefchaouen

7 days tour from Tangier to Marrakech via Fes

A Complete Guide to Chefchaouen: Morocco’s Blue City

Discover the Magic of Chefchaouen, the Moroccan blue city

Located in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco, Chefchaouen, also known as the Blue City. Famous for its distinctive blue-painted buildings and tranquil atmosphere, Chefchaouen offers visitors a unique blend of Moroccan culture, history, and natural beauty. An amazing destination for photographers, a cultural experience, or simply to escape the crowd of the big cities, Chefchaouen promises to leave a lasting impression.

In this guide, we will explore Chefchaouen’s top attractions, the best time to visit, practical travel tips, and more to help you make the most of your trip to this beautiful blue town.

Why Is Chefchaouen Blue? A Brief History of the City’s Blue Color

The blue that coats the buildings of Chefchaouen is not just for aesthetic appeal, it holds deep historical significance. The tradition of painting buildings blue started with Jewish refugees in the 1930s, who believed the color symbolized the sky and heaven, offering spiritual and calming energy. Over the years, this practice became a central part of the city’s identity, making Chefchaouen one of the most photogenic cities in Morocco.

Best Things to Do in Chefchaouen: Must-See Attractions in the Blue city of Morocco

Chefchaouen or Chaouen is a small city, but it is packed with charm and things to do. Here are the top 5 attractions you should not miss in the Moroccan Blue City:

Explore the Blue Medina
The heart of Chefchaouen lies within its medina (old city), a maze of narrow streets and alleyways, all painted in varying shades of blue. It’s the perfect spot for leisurely walks, taking photographs, and shopping for traditional Moroccan handicrafts like handwoven blankets and ceramics mainly.
Hike to the Spanish Mosque to enjoy sunset
For a panoramic view of Chefchaouen and the surrounding Rif Mountains, take a short hike up to the Spanish Mosque. The mosque, which sits on a hill just outside the city, is a peaceful spot to relax and capture stunning photos of the city below especially during the sunset.
Visit Ras El Maa Waterfall
Just a short walk from the medina, Ras El Maa Waterfall is a tranquil escape where locals often come to relax. Enjoy the sound of the water, and if you’re visiting in the warmer months, you can even dip your feet in the cool water in one of the local cafes.
Wander Around Plaza Uta el-Hammam (main square)
This central square in the heart of the medina is a great place to sit and watch the world go by. Surrounded by cafes and restaurants, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a traditional Moroccan mint tea.
Shop at the Local Souks in the Medina
Chefchaouen’s souks (markets) offer a wide array of handmade products like: beautiful scarves, leather goods and spices. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and support local artisans.

How to Get to Chefchaouen Moroccan Blue Town?

Chefchaouen is located in the northern part of Morocco, making it easily accessible from several cities:

From Fes: The journey takes around 4 hours by bus or private car.
From Tangier: It’s a 2 hour drive, making it an easy stop if you’re traveling along the northern coast.
From Marrakech: The drive takes about 6-7 hours, so it’s best to take a bus or book a tour if you prefer not to drive.

If you’re traveling by bus, CTM and Supratours offer regular services to Chefchaouen from major cities in Morocco.

Chefchaouen Local Cuisine: What to Eat and drink

Chefchaouen, like the rest of Morocco, offers a variety of delicious local dishes. Make sure to try these:

Tagine: A slow-cooked stew made with meat (often chicken or lamb), vegetables, and spices.
Couscous: A traditional dish of steamed semolina served with vegetables and meat.
Bastilla: A savory pastry filled with pigeon, chicken, almonds, and spices.
Mint Tea: Morocco’s famous tea, usually served with plenty of sugar and fresh mint leaves.
Goat Cheese: It is a must try food while you are in Chefchaouen. Fresh and tasted really good.

Tips for Visiting Chefchaouen Morocco Blue city

Language: The primary language spoken is Moroccan Arabic, but most people also speak Berber and some Spanish with French. English is understood in tourist areas.
Currency: The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). You can find ATMs in Chefchaouen, but it’s a good idea to bring cash as some smaller shops may not accept credit cards.
Safety: Chefchaouen is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, it’s always good to stay alert, especially in crowded areas.

Chefchaouen Should Be on Your Morocco Itinerary

Chefchaouen is a beautiful city known for its blue-painted buildings and peaceful vibe. You can stroll through the charming streets of the medina, hike to the Spanish Mosque for amazing views, or enjoy delicious local food. Because of its location in northern Morocco, Chefchaouen is easy to visit from cities like Tangier and Fes. It’s a perfect addition to any Morocco tour, and you’ll have an unforgettable experience.