Chefchaouen Blue City:

Alright, let’s talk about one of the coolest, most mind-blowingly beautiful places you’ll ever visit: Chefchaouen, Morocco. You’ve probably seen it on Instagram – it’s that city where literally everything is painted a gorgeous shade of blue. They call it the “Blue Pearl,” and trust me, it lives up to the hype. Tucked away in the Rif Mountains, this place is a total dream, and your phone is about to have a full-blown photoshoot meltdown (in the best way).

While the whole town is stunning, the real heart and soul is the Chefchaouen medina. It’s the old, walled part of the city, and it’s a crazy maze of the most charming blue alleyways, little shops, and hidden corners. It’s where you’ll get the full, magical blue experience. So, put on your comfiest shoes, and let’s get lost in this blue wonderland!

Let’s Get Lost: Finding Your Way Around the Chefchaouen Medina

Honestly, the best way to see the Chefchaouen medina is to just wander around and get intentionally lost. Every corner you turn, every cute little doorway, and every random staircase is a new photo op waiting to happen. But if you want a little bit of a game plan, here are the spots you absolutely can’t miss.

Plaza Uta el-Hammam: The City’s Living Room

Think of Plaza Uta el-Hammam as ground zero for your Chefchaouen adventure. You can’t miss this big, bustling square—it’s the perfect place to start. It’s surrounded by cute little cafes and restaurants, with the Grand Mosque right in the middle. My advice? Grab a mint tea, find a good seat, and just watch the world go by.

Pro-tip: Go before 10 AM. It’s way quieter, the morning light is chef’s kiss, and you can get those perfect, crowd-free photos without having to politely elbow anyone out of your shot.

What to do here:

• Sip on some Moroccan mint tea (it’s basically mandatory).
• Grab a tagine for lunch. You’re in Morocco, after all!
• Just chill and people-watch. It’s the best.
• Admire the Grand Mosque and the big, fortress-looking building next to it… which brings us to:

The Kasbah Museum: A Quick History Lesson with Killer Views

Right there in the main square, you’ll see the Kasbah. It’s this awesome old fortress that gives you a peek into Chefchaouen’s past. The museum inside is pretty small but cool, with old photos and traditional clothes. But the real reason you go in? The tower.

Seriously, you HAVE to climb the tower. The panoramic view of the blue medina from the top is absolutely insane. It’s that photo you’ve seen online. Worth every single step of the climb, I promise.

Let’s Go Shopping: The Souks in the Chefchaouen Medina

You can’t visit the Chefchaouen medina without getting a little lost in its souks (the markets). This is where you’ll find all sorts of amazing treasures, from handmade leather bags and wool blankets to beautiful pottery and spices.

The best part? The vendors here are way more chill than in bigger cities like Marrakech. You can browse without feeling pressured. Haggling is totally part of the fun, just remember to smile and be cool about it!

Souk Shopping Tips:

• Look for real leather goods. The bags and slippers are amazing.
• The wool products are super cozy and make great gifts.
• Don’t be shy about haggling, but always be friendly!
• Support the local artists. Their stuff is one-of-a-kind.

Ras el-Maa Waterfall: A Little Slice of Nature

Need a break from all the blue? Take a short walk to the edge of the medina to find Ras el-Maa. It’s a small, pretty waterfall where the city gets its water. You’ll see local women doing laundry and kids playing—it’s a super peaceful spot to just hang out for a bit and listen to the sound of the water. Grab a fresh-squeezed orange juice from a stand nearby and just relax.

Beyond the “Must-Sees”: The Real Magic of the Chefchaouen Blue City

Doorways, Alleys, and Random Blue Stairs

Okay, hot take: the real magic of the Chefchaouen blue city isn’t a landmark. It’s the joy of just walking around. The most beautiful photos you’ll take will be of some random, perfectly painted blue alley you stumble upon. So let yourself wander off the main path. Finding those iconic steps with the colorful flower pots is like a city-wide scavenger hunt.

The Cats of Chefchaouen

Let’s be real, the true rulers of Chefchaouen are the cats. They are EVERYWHERE. If you’re a cat person, you’re basically going to be in heaven.

Seriously, Just Go to Chefchaouen, Morocco!

Whether you’re climbing the Kasbah for epic views, hunting for treasures in the souks, or just taking a million photos of blue walls, the Chefchaouen medina is an unforgettable trip. It’s more than just a pretty place; it’s a whole vibe. So pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with the blue city. You won’t regret it!

Quick Q&A 

How long should I stay in Chefchaouen?

Two full days (so, three nights) is pretty much perfect. It gives you enough time to see everything, wander around, and just soak it all in without feeling rushed.

Is it safe to walk around the Chefchaouen medina alone?

Totally. Chefchaouen is known for being one of the safest and most relaxed cities in Morocco. The medina is super welcoming. Obviously, always be smart and aware of your surroundings, but I felt completely safe exploring by myself.

When’s the best time to visit?

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are your best bets. The weather is amazing—sunny but not crazy hot—and it’s less crowded than the middle of summer. Perfect for photos!

What should I wear?

Chefchaouen is pretty chill, but it’s still a traditional town. It’s a good idea to dress a little modestly out of respect. Think comfy, breathable clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. You’ll be doing a LOT of walking, so comfortable shoes are non-negotiable