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One thing we can say for sure about Chefchaouen is it is incredibly kind to tourists! While there are many things to do in the area, Chaouen’s laid-back vibe invites visitors to trade a lengthy to-do list for a leisurely stroll along its countless blue-washed streets or to unwind with a cup of mint tea and some yogurt with honey in one of its small and cozy squares, all without a trace of guilt.
The vibe of Chefchaouen is truly one-of-a-kind, standing out from other Moroccan destinations. While Marrakech sparkles with the hustle and bustle of millions of tourists, embracing a certain frivolity in attire and atmosphere, Essaouira exudes a laid-back coastal charm, enticing visitors to relax on rooftop terraces (among other great things to do), and bustling Fez beckons with its labyrinthine streets, inviting exploration and immersion in its rich history, the “blue gem” of Morocco offers authentic experiences that can sometimes be lost in larger cities turned tourist hubs.
Freshly painted walls of Shaven provide the perfect backdrop for countless snapshots, and souvenir shops dot the streets, yet there’s an unmistakable sense of locals safeguarding their way of life amidst the influx of travelers. The town manages to maintain a very residential feel to it. It’s this genuine atmosphere that compels us to share our Chefchaouen adventures in this blog post. How many days do you need in Chefchaouen? We would urge to include at least a day or two in this enchanting town in the Moroccan itinerary, and further down the page we are happy to share our favorite things to do in the blue city if you decide to visit Chefchaouen.
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Chefchaouen Travel Guide & Itinerary: Things To Know (Based on Our Personal Experience)
Arriving in Chefchaouen marked the end of our two-week road trip across Morocco, and despite having become accustomed to the country’s diverse landscapes, architecture, and people, “the blue gem” Chaouen had plenty of surprises in store for us.
In stark contrast to the bustling city of Fez, Chaouen exuded tranquility and a more subdued atmosphere. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, it also boasted cooler temperatures. Our experience navigating local traffic in Marrakech did little to prepare us for the challenge of Chaouen’s narrow, winding streets. Maneuvering past parked cars and negotiating hairpin turns tested both our driving skills and patience, revealing that parking in and around the blue town required a master’s degree in driving.
Practically speaking, several aspects set Chefchaouen apart from other towns and villages:
- Given its mountainous terrain, colder temperatures prevail, so packing accordingly depending on the season is crucial. During our autumn visit, our initial attire geared towards Marrakech’s warmth quickly gave way to sweaters, scarves, warm socks, and jeans upon reaching Chefchaouen.
- On a sensitive note, unlike some other Moroccan cities where alcohol is readily available in touristy areas, Chefchaouen is more conservative, with far fewer restaurants serving alcohol and no sales of alcohol in stores. So, if you plan to unwind in the evening with a glass of wine at your cozy AirBnB, it might be a good idea to buy alcohol in advance, outside of the Chaouen area.
- Parking poses a bit of a headache, and I’m not exaggerating. The entire town of Chefchaouen resembles one giant Medina, so it’s wise to discuss parking options with your hotel or BnB host. Private parking lots are available, too.
- Early October remains the peak tourist season, with crowds filling the streets and queues forming at popular photo spots. While locals generally tolerate visitors, even the most patient may become frustrated with long lines of people vying for photos near the blue doors and walls in residential areas. Look for designated photo areas around town to avoid inconveniencing residents.
- The town is relatively small but at the same time hilly. The best way to explore it is by walking. Get ready to regularly pass staircases, narrow streets, and crowded areas.
- A day in the city is more than enough to cover it by foot, taking a yearly supply of pictures against the blue walls, bargaining at the local souks, and enjoying the sunset from the town’s highest viewpoint. In two days, you might also add a relatively simple hike in the area near Chefchaouen and be back in town for a delicious dinner and some free time. We will cover some of the most popular things to do further down the page.
Getting Ready to Visit Chefchaouen: The Essentials
Here’s a useful list of resources to help you make the most of your journey to Chaouen:
- Booking Airplane Tickets: Get ready for your trip to Morocco in advance by booking the best airplane tickets. Compare prices here.
- Booking Accommodation: Find the perfect place to stay during your trip to Chefchaouen by browsing accommodation options.
- Renting a Car: Get to the blue city with ease by renting a car for your travels. Find the best deals and options for your trip.
- Booking Trips and Activities: Enhance your experience by booking tours, activities, and excursions in Chefchaouen in advance. Look for reputable tour operators and activity providers to ensure a memorable trip.
- Travel Insurance: Protect yourself and your belongings by purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Morocco. Explore different insurance options to find the coverage that suits your needs.
The Best Things to Do in Chefchaouen, Morocco
When reminiscing about the best places to visit in Chefchaouen, one particular scene comes to mind: a narrow, colorful street adorned with vibrant shop windows. Amidst them stands a modest garage with wide-open doors, its interior far from glossy, filled with old pots, ironware, and tools. Despite its unassuming appearance, this garage draws the largest queue in Chefchaouen.
Each person in line, albeit hiding impatience, eagerly watches as the owner emerges. A grim and silent old man, he sets up an old table, a big pot, a burner, bags of sugar, and peanuts on the street. Ignoring the queue, he focuses on boiling sugar syrup in the pot, the blackened vessel a testament to years of use. A paper bag of delicious, crispy, still warm peanuts costs a mere 5 dirhams, the caramelization process taking a good five minutes.
Snack enthusiasts gather on one side of the gas burner, forming a queue that promises hours of non-stop work for the old man. On the other side, onlookers and hesitant buyers contemplate whether the treat is worth the wait. Yet the old man, knowing his crowd, periodically scoops up a handful of caramelized peanuts and offers them to onlookers, who, after tasting, obediently join the queue. The treat, undoubtedly, is worth the wait.
We indulged in a couple of bags of peanuts that evening, savoring every bite. The next day, returning for a refill, we found the garage locked and the street empty—the old man had taken a well-deserved day off.
On that note, there are some other great activities not to miss in Chefchaouen. The Medina of this centuries-old town is, of course, the main attraction. Without stating the obvious, we would say that wandering its narrow, colorful streets is one of the top things to do in Chefchaouen, Morocco. And as you wander, you might also want to try:
1. Trekking to the Spanish Mosque of Chefchaouen
Embark on one of the best hikes in Chefchaouen, offering stunning city views. The short and easy trail starts from the Medina streets and leads to the Spanish mosque, a prominent landmark. Built during the Rif War, it provides breathtaking panoramas of the town below. The entire town with its beautiful blue hues lies below the hill, in the valley. On a clear sunny day, the clouds are the perfect frame for this colorful picture. This is also a great place to head to for lovely sunsets.
2. Finding Chefchaouen’s Ras El Maa Waterfall
Located within the Medina en route to the Spanish mosque, this waterfall is easily accessible. Depending on the season, you may encounter a gentle stream or a robust cascade. A favorite spot for tourists and locals alike, it retains its charm, with residents often seen doing laundry in its waters.
3. Bargaining in Chefchaouen’s Souks
Unlike the bustling markets of Fes and Marrakech, Chefchaouen offers a more relaxed shopping experience. Engage in lively haggling sessions with merchants, adding a fun twist to your souvenir hunting. With a diverse selection of goods, shopping here comes with less pressure, and facilitates a better communication with the locals.
4. Trying Local Food
While most of Morocco was under French influence, Chefchaouen was the Spanish colony, which makes the area’s food very different from something you’d try in other parts of the country. Add Berber and Arab culture to the mix and you will get a tapestry of tastes within the local cuisine. This especially applies to the local pastries. Also, there is nothing like a cold light yogurt with honey for breakfast in a cozy cafe on the main square of the blue city. For an immersive culinary experience, consider joining cooking classes offered by locals.
5. Relaxing in Chefchaouen’s SPA
Escape the busy streets and unwind in one of the town’s spas. The Medina map will guide you to various resorts within the old town, offering relaxation and rejuvenation — a nice bonus to the busy travel itinerary. Your traditional hamman experience can also be booked in advance.
6. Exploring the Kasbah
Dive into history with a visit to the 15th-century kasbah, located at the heart of the Medina. Wander through its 11 towers and immerse yourself in the town’s rich cultural heritage. Choose between self-guided tours or guided walks for an informative exploration.
7. Enjoying Night Views of Chefchaouen
One of the most popular things to do in Chefchaouen at night is drinking mint tea and savoring the travel experience. To be frank, sipping tea on the terrace of our riad and enjoying the views of the town at night was one of the biggest highlights of our 36 hours in Chefchaouen. It also felt like a well-deserved rest after two busy weeks in Morocco and kept me distracted from wondering how on earth I would fit a carpet I spontaneously bought in one of the souks into my tiny suitcase. For a more active night in town, you are welcome to enjoy an evening food tour guided by the locals.
8. Hiking to the Akchour Waterfall Near Chefchaouen
The beautiful cascades of Akchour are located outside of town, and you will either need to get there by car or book a guided tour. Additionally, if there’s only one day in Chefchaouen on your itinerary, and you still wish to visit all the must-see places, you will need to wake up early.
The destination is a bit tricky because there are a few artificial waterfalls not far from the parking that can be mistaken for the main hiking destination. However, those of you who dare to embark on a slightly demanding hike will be rewarded with scenic views and the breathtaking natural falls. Furthermore, if you arrive early enough, you might have the opportunity to hike to the God’s Bridge, a unique rock formation located in the area.
The hike to Akchour is approximately 45 minutes to reach the lower waterfalls, while reaching the Grand Cascade will take about two hours.
Can Chefchaouen Be a Day Trip from Fez, Casablanca, or Marrakech?
If you’re on a tight schedule and seeking the optimal Morocco travel itinerary, Chefchaouen can indeed be visited as a day trip from Fez via the Rif mountains, or from Casablanca. However, it’s not as feasible from Marrakech, as the drive to Chefchaouen alone takes about seven hours. Additionally, there are no local airports around Chaouen, so land-based transportation is the only option.
These day trips can be self-guided, with renting a car being the optimal choice, although public transportation is also available. Alternatively, guided tours, whether individual or with groups, can be the best option if you’re in a hurry. Local guides have all the logistics figured out and polished, ensuring you make the most of your brief visit to the blue city. Depending on where you’d like to travel from, here are some of the most popular options:
- A day trip to Chefchaouen from Fez
- A day trip from Casablanca to Chefchaouen
- A 10-hour tour from Tangier to Chaouen
Chefchaouen Trip: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chefchaouen worth visiting?
Compared to Marrakech or Fes, Chefchaouen has fewer attractions to offer. Some travelers even opt for a brief visit, turning it into a day trip from Fes or Casablanca. However, if you have the luxury of time, do set aside some time to visit this stunning blue city and uncover a unique side of Morocco.
Is a day trip from Casablanca to Chefchaouen a good idea?
Given the close proximity of the two cities, it’s certainly feasible to make the journey either by car or on a guided tour, allowing for quick access to the renowned blue city. However, if you opt for public transportation, be prepared for a journey of over seven hours. Alternatively, extending your trip to a two-day excursion from Casablanca to Chefchaouen could offer a more immersive experience. This allows you to explore the town by night, enjoying mint tea on one of its picturesque terraces and staying in an authentic riad.
What’s the best way to get to Chefchaouen?
Getting there by car is generally the most convenient option. If you’re planning a day trip from Fes to Chefchaouen, you might want to look into guided tours or catching one of the public buses from the main station. CTM runs about five to six buses daily, though it’s wise to note that during busy periods, they could fill up quickly. Additionally, there are other transport companies offering services, with a bus ride typically lasting around four and a half to five hours.
Where’s the best place to stay in Chefchaouen?
Choosing to stay within the Medina is highly recommended, as this area boasts a wide array of vibrant, traditional riad-style apartments that can be found on platforms like Airbnb. If you have the opportunity, aim for a riad with a terrace – it’s a must. One of the highlights of visiting Chefchaouen in the evening is unwinding on these terraces, enjoying tea, listening to the call to prayer, and immersing yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.
What activities are available in Chefchaouen at night?
Even though the town tends to wind down early, a handful of cafes in the main square remain open late, drawing in numerous visitors looking for a glass of wine and an evening view. While access to alcohol in Chaouen is confined to a select few establishments serving drinks, purchasing alcohol for takeaway is not allowed.
What is there to see in Chefchaouen in winter?
Even in winter, Chefchaouen’s key attractions remain largely unchanged. However, visitors from December to February should anticipate colder temperatures. Despite the cold, daytime weather tends to be mild, providing a serene experience with fewer tourists and quieter hiking trails.
What’s the most effective parking strategy for Chefchaouen?
Finding parking within the Medina of Chefchaouen can be quite challenging. Plus, there is this very local problem: imagine finally finding a parking spot in Chefchaouen at night, only to wake up to find your car sandwiched between others. Slowly and painstakingly, you have to wiggle your way out, which can be super stressful if you’re running late. Therefore, it’s advisable to arrange parking ahead of time by coordinating with your hotel or Airbnb host. Alternatively, you can opt for local private parking lots, which typically offer reasonable rates.
Written by Inessa Rezanova
I’m a travel writer, keen to see the world and share its stories. I’m Ukrainian, and I continue to explore my country even in times of full-scale invasion. Not just because I love it, but because I believe in showing the world the beauty, strength, and humanity that exists here, even now.
Images by Natalie Rezanova
I’m a photographer based in Kyiv, Ukraine. Photography is an endless source of inspiration for me, and I’m happy to share it on the Through a Travel Lens blog. Along with stories and travel guides, you can also explore my collection of travel posters — a series of my favorite photographs turned into wall art.
