Chefchaouen, Morocco’s blue city, offers stunning architectural beauty, exciting nature adventures, and rich local culture, making it the perfect destination for exploration and relaxation.
Chefchaouen, a city located at the foot of the Rif Mountains in Morocco, has long been known for its unique charm. The city is known for its iconic blue buildings and its incredibly calming atmosphere. In addition, Chefchaouen also offers a number of interesting activities that combine natural beauty with local history and culture. From challenging mountain trekking to enjoying Moroccan cuisine, here are the 10 best things to do in the blue city.
1. Explore the Beauty of the Blue City
One of the biggest attractions of Chefchaouen is the city that is completely covered in the striking color blue. As the blue city, almost every building in Chefchaouen is painted in various shades of blue.
This gives the city a very distinctive and calming feel that cannot be found anywhere else. Taking a walk around the city, visiting the narrow alleys decorated in bright blue, and taking pictures in some of the city’s best corners is highly recommended.
You can also visit the Medina, the oldest part of Chefchaouen, which is full of charming alleys ready to be explored.
2. Climb Rif Mountain and Enjoy the Amazing Natural Views
Chefchaouen is surrounded by incredible natural beauty. Situated at the foot of the Rif Mountains, the city offers numerous trekking trails that allow visitors to enjoy the stunning mountain views.
One of the most popular trekking trails is climbing Jebel el-Kelaa Mountain, which offers panoramic views of Chefchaouen and its surroundings from a height.
Alternatively, trekking to Akchour Waterfall, located about 30 km from Chefchaouen, provides an incredible natural experience, with the opportunity to swim in crystal clear natural pools.
3. Visit the Kasbah of Chefchaouen
Kasbah Chefchaouen is a historic fortress located in the center of the city. Built in the 15th century, the kasbah was once used as a defensive fortress and administrative center.
Today, it is one of the most important historical sites in Chefchaouen. You can visit the kasbah to explore the many historic buildings, as well as enjoy beautiful views of the city and the surrounding mountains from the inner courtyard of the kasbah.
The kasbah also has a beautiful garden and a small museum displaying historical artifacts from the city.
4. Enjoy Moroccan Cuisine
Chefchaouen is not only a paradise for photography enthusiasts, but also for culinary lovers. Moroccan cuisine is a must-try when visiting Chefchaouen.
Don’t miss out on trying tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew dish cooked with a variety of ingredients such as lamb, chicken or vegetables, all cooked in a typical clay pot.
Also, try couscous, a wheat-based dish that is a staple in Morocco. Complete your meal with a cup of Morocco’s famous mint tea, which is sweet and refreshing.
5. Shopping at Traditional Souks
Morocco’s souks, or traditional markets, are vibrant and colorful. In Chefchaouen, you ’ll find markets filled with Moroccan handicrafts, textiles, spices, and knickknacks.
They’re a great place to pick up souvenirs like leather bags, carpets, and silver jewelry. Don’t forget to haggle to get the best deal! They’re also a great place to get a feel for local life.
6. Visit the Bouzâan Mosque
The Bouzâan Mosque is the main mosque in Chefchaouen, located in the city center, close to the Kasbah. The mosque has beautiful architecture with distinctive geometric designs.
While not all mosques in Morocco are open to non-Muslim visitors, the Bouzâan Mosque allows you to enjoy the beauty of the exterior of the mosque and its surrounding gardens.
If you are interested in Islamic architecture, you will be impressed by the detailed ornaments and the very aesthetic design of this mosque.
7. Learn History at Chefchaouen Art Museum
Chefchaouen Museum of Art is a great place for those interested in the art and history of the city. The museum displays a wide collection of traditional and contemporary art depicting life in Chefchaouen as well as the history of local culture.
You can find paintings, sculptures and other works of art depicting the daily life of Moroccan people. The museum also displays Moroccan handicrafts, including the famous art of weaving and embroidery.
8. Visit Akchour Waterfall
Akchour Waterfall is one of the must-visit natural tourist destinations around Chefchaouen. Located about 30 km from the city, Akchour offers stunning natural scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
The trekking trail to the waterfall is very popular among tourists and provides a challenging experience. At the waterfall, you can soak in the clear natural pool or just sit back and relax while enjoying the enchanting natural beauty.
9. Relax at Plaza Uta el-Hammam
Plaza Uta el-Hammam is the main square in Chefchaouen, where locals and tourists gather. The square is surrounded by historical buildings and cafes that overlook the calming city views.
Here, you can enjoy a relaxing time with a cup of mint tea while enjoying the city atmosphere. The plaza is also often the venue for various cultural events and local festivals, so you can experience the warm social atmosphere of Chefchaouen.
10. Capture the Moment at the Blue Gate
The Blau Gate is one of the most iconic places in Chefchaouen. Known for its distinctive blue color, this gate is a very popular spot for taking photos.
Walking through the blue gates of the Medina is a very photogenic experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera and take some photos here to immortalize your memories of this beautiful blue city.
Chefchaouen is a stunning city, offering a unique charm of nature, culture and history. From the iconic blue buildings to the challenging nature treks, the city offers a variety of unforgettable experiences.
Whether you are interested in history, art, outdoor adventures or just want to enjoy the serenity of this blue city, Chefchaouen has something for everyone. So, if you are planning a trip to Giethoorn, make sure Chefchaouen is on your travel list.
