From ancient ruins and lively markets to sunny coasts and desert treks, Morocco promises unforgettable adventures at every turn. But the most memorable may not be the romantic streets of Marrakech or the Mediterranean beaches of Tangier but a little blue city tucked away at the foot of the Rif Mountains. Chefchaouen is known as the Blue Pearl of Morocco, and one glimpse of the blue sea on land will quickly clue visitors in as to why. But just what makes Chefchaouen so special? Here’s everything you need to know about Morocco’s Blue City and why you should start planning your trip today.
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Table of Contents
- Why Is Chefchaouen All Blue?
- Planning Your Visit to the Blue City
- Is Blue City, Morocco Worth Visiting?
- Travel the Most Colorful Cities of the World with Next Vacay
Why Is Chefchaouen All Blue?
Many wonder how the beautiful Blue City of Morroco came to be—and the wondering might be half the magic because there seems to be no definitive answer. One of the simplest explanations is that it was painted blue to reflect the sea’s dazzling beauty. Other touted reasons are more practical—to help keep occupants cool under the hot sun or to ward off mosquitoes carrying malaria. But perhaps the most speculated reason is that the Jewish community that settled in North Africa painted the walls blue as a reminder of the sky and heavens above. Though there is no concrete answer to how Chefchaouen acquired its signature color, the mystery only adds to the allure of the Blue City.
Planning Your Visit to the Blue City
Ready to plan your enchanted getaway to this Blue City on land? Here’s everything you need to know about Chefchaouen, from getting there to what to do, though how to leave will be all up to you.
Where Is It Located?
Chefchaouen is located in the northwest region of Morocco, roughly two hours from Tangier. Perched beneath the looming Rif Mountains, it’s nestled away from any major cities in Morocco, making it the perfect little escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Thanks to its remote location, many travelers opt to stay for a few days to get the most out of their visit to the famous Blue City of Morocco.
How to Get There
The closest airport to Chefchaouen is an hour and a half away in Tangier. From Tangier, travelers have a few options for getting to Chefchaeouen. The cheapest option is to travel by bus, which costs roughly $6 and takes anywhere from 2-3 hours, so it’s not the quickest option.
For those in a hurry to reach the Blue City, traveling by car will be much faster. Taxis are the easiest option, typically costing around $40-50 (even less if you travel with a group). The most expensive option is booking a car. Car rentals can cost roughly $80/day before factoring in fuel. Travelers will also need an international driver’s license to drive. And keep in mind, once you arrive, you likely won’t need to drive much. Chefchaouen is fairly walkable, and with no driving in the medina, you won’t be using a vehicle to get around unless you decide to take some day trips out of the city.
If you’re traveling from another city—like Fes, Casablanca, or even Marrakech—your options are similar, just pricier. Most international travelers will fly into the Casablanca International Airport. From there, it’s a 6.5-hour bus ride ($20) or a 4-hour car ride ($80) to get to the Blue City. If you’re already in Marrakech and planning to travel to Chefchaouen, taking the train or flying into Fes first will be more convenient, and then you can make the journey to Chefchaouen from there.
What to Do in Chefchaouen, Blue City Morocco
While the obvious answer is exploring the beauty of the city’s blue buildings, Chefchaouen has much more to offer. Like its infinite shades of blue, the Blue City of Morocco has endless multitudes to explore, from scenic mountain climbs in nature to fantastic shopping in the heart of the medina.
Wander the Blue City
The mountainside city of Chefchaouen is quite hilly, meaning if you want to get anywhere, you’ll need to go on foot. So, slip on some comfortable walking shoes and get ready to discover all that the Blue Pearl has to offer. Roam the alleys and streets to find the best spots for iconic photos and get swept up in conversation about Morocco’s culture and the Blue City’s charms with the friendly locals. While wandering, you’ll almost certainly glimpse Chefchaeouen’s many cat residents strutting down the street or hiding in trees. Maybe they’ll even pose for a photo!
Visit Bouzafer Mosque
The Bouzafer Mosque is a Spanish mosque atop a hill overlooking the Blue City. Though it requires a 15-minute trek, the journey is well worth the reward. Standing on the steps of the mosque, visitors can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Blue City and the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset and see the golden glow over the blue buildings. After nightfall, many leave to head back to the city. But if you stick around a bit longer, you’ll get to see the Blue Pearl in a different light—literally—with the twinkling lights of the city glittering down below.
Go Shopping in the Medina
Whether you’re looking for cool souvenirs or you just love to shop no matter where you are in the world, the markets in the blue medina of Chefchaouen won’t disappoint. From its traditional souk to the little shops scattered all over, you’ll find Moroccan crafts to rival that of Fes, Casablanca, or even Marakkech: hand-painted ceramics, wood carvings, pretty textiles, and even some blue pottery to remind you of your travels to the Blue City of Morocco. While out exploring, don’t forget to grab a bite. Goat cheese is popular in Chefchaouen, so don’t be surprised if you stumble across a selection. However, this is one souvenir we’d recommend enjoying sooner rather than later.
Take in a Blue City Sunrise (or Sunset)
Sunrise in the Blue City of Morocco is a mesmerizing sight. Head to the rooftop of your riad and enjoy a relaxing moment watching the sun peeking out over the horns of the Rif Mountains. Or, crawl out of bed early and head up the mountains, a roughly 60-minute hike, to take in the stunning sunrise painting the city in shades of blue and gold. Of course, a sunset hike is just as breathtaking for the non-early birds, with the warm glow of lights flickering in the city below while the sky above is ablaze.
Cool Off by the Ras El Maa Waterfall
This little manmade waterfall is perfect for cooling off. In the summer, chairs and tables are set up nearby, and you’ll see locals kicked back with their feet in the water. Oftentimes, women will be crouched by the running water, washing their laundry in the stream. Vendors will set up shop selling fresh mint tea to enjoy by the water. If you’re looking for a relaxing respite during the hot summer days, the Ras El Maa Waterfall is the perfect spot to sit back and wait for dusk to fall.
Explore the Kasbah Museum
The Kasbah Museum is an ethnographic museum and an art gallery. Outside, Spanish-styled gardens dot the grounds around the museum, while the castle-like facade hides a stunning array of beautiful mosaics. Inside, the art gallery houses artwork and ancient texts. Though the descriptions for the art are in Arabic, it hardly matters as the artwork speaks for itself. The Kasbah Museum perfectly blends enchantment and history into one memorable experience. And don’t forget to check out the tower for gorgeous views of Chefchaouen!
Climb to the Top of Jeb Al Kalaa for a Bird’s-Eye View of the City
Hiking the Rif Mountain range can prove tricky, as there are no marked trails to help hikers find their way, and fog often sweeps through the valley to cover everything in mist. But for some, that likely only adds to the allure of this adventure in the Blue City of Morocco. Along the journey, hikers will pass wooded valleys, rustic houses, and maybe even encounter a goat or two. And once you’ve completed the tedious trek? You can sit back and soak in the sun and the views of the Blue City, shimmering just like the blue pearl it’s called. So, for those who enjoy a challenge, lace up your hiking boots and add trekking to the highest peak of the Rif Mountains to your itinerary.
Travel to Akchour to See Waterfalls and the Bridge of God
Ready to get out of the city? Head from Chefchaouen to Akchour for emerald green pools, cascading waterfalls, and the Bridge of God. The beauty of this spot seems endless, from the streaming rivers surrounded by lush greenery to the verdant trees bursting with pink blooms. Akchour is a treasure trove of natural wonders, including the astonishing God’s Bridge. This natural bridge towers over the emerald river below, presenting a truly breathtaking spectacle of nature and a must-see during your time in Chefchaouen!
Hike in Talassemtane National Park
Talassemtane National Park is another adventure outside the city and an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. A 45-minute drive from Chefchaouen, this park regularly delights travelers from the city, with jaw-dropping mountain views, trailing waterfalls, and turquoise pools. Explore caves and fir forests, snap pictures of the Barbary apes peeking out from the surrounding woodlands, and hike peaks for incredible views. The park goes on for miles, offering a seemingly endless supply of beauty and adventure.
Where to Stay in Chefchaouen
With so much to do and see in the Blue City of Morocco, you’ll need to find somewhere to sleep. Thankfully, though Chefchaouen is a small city, it has quite a few options when it comes to accommodations. Riads dot the city streets and mountain hills, offering guests luxurious experiences and a glimpse of Moroccan culture, while boutique hotels delight with simple yet stylish abodes.
Luxury Stays
Hidden within the charming blue sea of Chefchaouen is a slew of luxury stays fit for royalty. Riads and dars burst with traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, elegant rooms, and serene spas to help you unwind as you take a break in the Blue City, Morocco.
Lina Ryad & Spa
The Lina Ryad & Spa is a luxury getaway nestled in the heart of the Blue City. Perched atop a hill, the riad’s lavish suites offer stunning views of the mountains. Meanwhile, its relaxing hammam combines traditional Moroccan therapies and modern wellness to provide a peaceful respite from everyday travel stresses. And while the medina sits waiting right outside the hotel’s doorstep, the terraced rooftop overlooks it all from above, with a first-class view of the Blue City and its bustling blue streets. If you’re looking for luxury and a wonderful glimpse of Morocco, look no further than Lina Ryad & Spa.
Dar Echchaouen
Dar Echchaouen is a hidden gem tucked away in Chefchaouen. With the Rif mountains as a backdrop and outdoor spaces decorated with lush greenery and vibrant blooms, the riad is its own little oasis. Inside, the rooms feature a mix of modern and traditional Moroccan elements. Throughout the halls and communal spaces, ornate pieces are mixed with simpler details to give the riad a luxurious but welcoming feel. Riad Dar Echchaouen is perfect for those looking for a little slice of paradise within the Blue Pearl.
Hotel Riad Cherifa
A medina within a medina, the Hotel Riad Cherifa is a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else in Morroco. The entire riad was created to look like the medina. Every area was crafted to take guests through a sensory journey. The rooms are beautifully decorated, so much so that they become a work of art themselves, from rooms with vivid splashes of color to others heavy with deep wood accents, and finally, those rooms that feel as light and airy as a spring breeze. Hotel Riad Cherifa is a must-stay riad for those hoping to have a memorable experience.
Boutique Hotels
Boutique hotels offer travelers a cozier and more personalized touch. While the amenities are scaled back, the stays are often beautiful gems, offering stylish designs and fabulous accommodations, all with a more intimate experience.
Dar Jasmine
For quiet luxury, the Dar Jasmine Hotel delivers. Tastefully decorated rooms offering a mix of soft colors and moody elegance invite guests to stay awhile. Outside, a beautiful pool overlooking the city promises the perfect place to cool off and soak in the sun and the city. And chairs sprinkled across the terrace provide a quaint spot to relax, sip on mint tea, and watch the sunset over the Blue Pearl. Tucked into the foothills of the Rif Mountains, Dar Jasmin promises guests a serene escape.
La Petite Chefchaouen
If you’re looking for a modern stay, check out La Petite Chefchaouen. The boutique hotel’s design and decor is classic and clean. Authentic Moroccan cuisine takes center stage at dinner, with ingredients sourced directly from the region. And come evening, the rooftop captivates guests with wonderful views of the glittering city below. When it comes to comfort, La Petite Chefchaouen is anything but little.
Casa Perleta
The soft blue exterior of Casa Perleta welcomes guests upon arrival, while the charming atmosphere of the boutique hotel wraps them up in tranquility. The accommodations are simple yet elegant, and the private terraces allow guests to have the Blue City view all to themselves. With its painted blue walls, Casa Perleta is a Blue Pearl all in itself, and visitors will love the remarkable stay within the hotel.
Is Blue City, Morocco Worth Visiting?
The Blue Pearl is absolutely worth visiting, whether for a day or a prolonged stay. Despite the tourist craze with people clamoring to see the sparkling blue city, Chefchaouen retains its relaxed feel thanks to its laidback locals and charming settings. The blue-washed buildings are a mesmerizing sight, and the lovely accommodations are welcoming. Even outside the limits of the city, beauty abounds between stunning valleys and towering mountains. The Blue City of Morocco is a fairytale waiting for you to turn the page.
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From the pastels of Jaipur and Procida to the kaleidoscopes of Guanajuato and Copenhagen and the striking blues of Júzcar and Chefchaouen, escape to a colorful getaway today. Next Vacay can find deals to places around the globe and cut down on your travel costs with a few clicks of a button. Add a bit more color to your life and more exciting trips to your year with Next Vacay.
