6 Things To Do In Chefchaouen, The Blue City Of Morocco
Wondering what to do in the blue city? Well, we have 6 things to do in Chefchaouen that are simple and unique experiences to have in Morocco. The key to this list is easy…take it slow and enjoy.
6 Things To Do in Chefchaouen
1) Devour Goat Cheese
First up on the our list of things to do in Chefchaouen is goat cheese. If you love goat cheese, well, the blue city is your place!
The name “Chefchaouen” actually refers to a nearby mountain that resembles a goat’s horn. Trust us, there is no shortage of goats here. From the goat horned mountain to the streets of Chefchaouen themselves, you’ll find plenty of goats.
Since there are so many goats, goat cheese is abundant and cheap! Without a doubt, some of the tastiest goat cheese we’ve ever had. Perfect for eating…at every meal 🙂
2) Get Your Shopping Fix On
Chefchaouen, like the rest of Morocco, has numerous leather, clothing and carpet shops for you to browse and buy from.
However, unlike the rest of Morocco, you’ll be able to find local handmade wool offerings here. Items like socks, hats and carpets are made from sheep’s wool from the area.
Wool workers die the wool an assortment of colors for you to choose from, making it the perfect souvenir for you to take home.
3) Roam The Blue Alleyways
Our third recommendation is simple, just walk. Seriously, just leave your accommodation and head out into the blue city of Morocco.
The entire freaking blue city is so beautiful! You’ll stumble through alleyways and past store fronts. You’ll see kids playing games and shop sellers going about their day.
In other words, we want you to explore and enjoy the life happening around you. We promise, so many hidden gems will show themselves to you.
TIP: Wake up early to beat the crowds. The streets become flooded with tourists and locals by mid morning. If you are wanting “people free” pictures, wake up early.
4) Listen To Live Music in The Main Square
Plaza Uta el-Hammam (aka the main square) is where you will find a small a small band playing. From the day and into the night, music echoes throughout the main square.
Take a seat at one of the café’s in the main square, order a beverage and let the day float by. After all, didn’t we tell you the key to this list was to “take it easy?”
5) Explore The Areas Around Chefchaouen
While we did not get a chance to do this, we’ve heard amazing things about the scenery and nature that surrounds the blue city.
There are several hiking trails surrounding Chefchaouen that allow you to get up close and personal with the Rif Mountains. Some of the trails for you to consider are…
- Talasemtane National Park
- God’s Bridge
- Akchour Waterfalls (Cascades d’Akchour)
6) Take In The Blue City Views
The views of Chefchaouen is something to see from above! Head to the nearest rooftop, like your Riad or Dar, and enjoy the sunset and sunrise. Or simply enjoy a meal or mint tea and take in those beautiful views.
Another option is the Spanish Mosque. Up on a hill outside the blue city, you’ll find the Spanish Mossque. A bit of a hike to get to, but the view of Chefchaouen below are worth it.
Why Is Chefchaouen Blue
Chefchaouen wasn’t always a blue city. It was until 1492 when the city received a mass influx of Jews looking to start a community here to escape the Spanish Inquisition.
The Sephardi Jews settled and so came with them the blue hue’s Chefchaouen has become known for. To keep with tradition, Sephardi Jews painted the houses blue because the color mirrors the sky and reminds them of their faith and God.
How To Get To Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is only accessible by car or bus, meaning there is no airport or train station in the blue city. From Fes, expect a 4-5 hour ride and from Tangier, expect a 2.5 hour ride.
For us, we left from Fes, Morocco. From Fes, you can catch a bus or hire a private driver (taxi) to take you to Chefchaouen.
Private Driver (Taxi):
If you hire a private driver, understand this is not the most budget friendly option. The cost for the taxi is around 900 dirham ($93 USD), but for us that was doable. We were traveling in a group of 4 so we paid about $23USD per person.
The ride takes about 4 hours and you can leave whenever you like. We booked the driver directly with our accommodation in Fes and we must say, we loved it!
We were able to stop where ever we wanted along the way. Additionally, our driver was our tour guide giving us a Morocco history lesson as we made our way to Chefchaouen from Fes.
Bus:
If you want the cheapest option, that option is the bus. The bus costs 75 dirham ($8USD) and takes a little longer that 4 hours. CTM is a reputable bus company in Morocco so you should consider booking with them.
Where to Stay in Chefchaouen
For The Budget Conscious: Hotel Souika is situated in the historical center of Chefchaouen. The beds are comfy, the staff is friendly and you’re sure to meet a lot of fellow travelers in the shared communal spaces.
For The Luxury Inclined: La Petite Chefchaouen is small and charming with a wonderful terrace overlooking Chefchaouen. The friendly staff is helpful and serves up delicious breakfast.
For Something In Between: Riad Gharnata is located right in the thick of the blue alleyways of Chefchaouen. A few minutes walk from the town square and restaurants, the location is cute and quite offering a wonderful terrace and clean rooms.
For more places to stay in Chefchaouen, you can check out the latest places and prices here.
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Happy Travels,
– Lauren & Jesse Stuart (The Stüs)
