12 Fabulously Blue Things To Do In Chefchaouen.

Chefchaouen is a small city has become a global bucket-list icon for one simple reason: it is painted entirely in shades of blue. There are lots of reasons to visit and many things to do in Chefchaouen. But the best of reasons is to see all the BLUE! 

The walls, doors, and even the steps of the old Medina are blue. It is like a mirage against the earthy mountain backdrop.

Whether you have just one day or a full week, Chefchaouen offers a slower pace than the frantic energy of Marrakech or Fes. 

Here are the added (blue) reasons to visit and the top Things To Do in Chefchaouen, Morocco—covering everything from the best photo spots to motorhome logistics and genuine travel tips.

• About Chefchaouen 
• Getting There 
• Getting Around 
• How Long Do You Need?
• Things To Do in Chefchaouen 
• Things To Do Near Chefchaouen 
• Things To Do in Chefchaouen With Kids
• Places To Eat
• Places To Stay 
• Motorhome Parking in Chefchaouen 

Part 1: About Chefchaouen 

The whole town is breathtaking and a photographic paradise for visitors. 

Its narrow, winding alleys and vibrant facades make it one of the most aesthetically captivating destinations in the world.

Where is Chefchaouen?

Located in the heart of northwest Morocco, this small city is perched in the foothills of the Rif Mountains, sitting at an elevation of 600 meters above sea level. 

Around Chefchaouen, the landscape is dominated by the towering peak of Jebel el-Kelaa (1616m) directly behind the city, with Jebel Tisouka (2118m) looming nearby.

If you are planning your route, Chefchaouen is highly accessible by vehicle (car or motorhome). Or there are frequent buses from Fes, Casablanca and Tetouan.

• From the Port of Tangier to Chefchaouen: A scenic 2.5-hour drive.
• From Fes to Chefchaouen: Approximately a 3.5-hour journey through the mountains.

A Brief History of Chefchaouen 

The city’s roots date back to 1471, when it was founded as a strategic fortress for the Riffian Amazigh (*Berber) tribes to launch attacks against the Portuguese in Ceuta. Throughout the Middle Ages, it became a sanctuary for Moors and Jews fleeing the Spanish Reconquista.

More recently, in 1920, the city fell under Spanish rule as part of Spanish Morocco.

While Chefchaouen was once a hidden gem known only to intrepid travellers, the rise of Instagram and Pinterest has transformed it into a global tourism hotspot! 

Its proximity to Tangier and the Spanish enclave of Ceuta ensures a steady stream of visitors eager to see the Blue City for themselves.

• Note: The Amazigh (often referred to as Berber) are the indigenous ethnic group of North Africa, primarily residing in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya.

Why is Chefchaouen Blue?

There is no single, definitive answer to why the city is so blue. But much like Jodhpur in India, the hue has turned Chefchaouen into a tourist Mecca.

Several theories exist:

• Religious Significance: Evidence suggests the city was originally ochre-coloured. Jewish residents may have begun painting the buildings blue—a colour symbolizing divinity in Judaism—to distinguish the Mellah (Jewish quarter) from Islamic neighbourhoods.
• Practicality: Many locals believe the blue paint acts as a natural deterrent for mosquitoes.
• Superstition: Some say the colour offers protection against the ‘Evil Eye’.

Regardless of its origins, the result is a magnificently charming city that offers a sensory experience unlike anywhere else in Morocco – and it is popular in its BLUE! 

Part 2: The Essentials – Visas, Safety, and Logistics

Here are a few tips to plan your visit and things to do in Chefchaouen, Morocco. 

Visa for Morocco

Before you start dreaming of blue alleyways, check your entry requirements.

• Visa-Free: Citizens of the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most EU countries can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days.
• e-Visa: If you are from a country that requires a visa (such as India or several African nations), you can now apply via the official Moroccan e-Visa portal.
• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry.

Getting There and Around

Chefchaouen is famously disconnected from the rail network, which has helped preserve its mountain charm.

• By Bus: The CTM bus is the gold standard for travellers. There are direct routes from Fes (4.5 hours), Tangier (2.5 hours), and Casablanca (7 hours). Book a day in advance in high season!
• By Grand Taxi: You can hire a Grand Taxi (usually a large Mercedes or Dacia) from Tangier or Fes. You can pay for a single seat or book the whole car for a faster, private trip.
• Getting Around: Once you arrive, the Medina is entirely pedestrian. Your own two feet are the only way to navigate the stairs. For trips to the Spanish Mosque or the waterfall, small blue(!) Petit Taxis are cheap and plentiful.

Safety in Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is widely considered one of the safest cities in Morocco. 

However, the Rif region is famous for its ‘kif’ (cannabis) production. You will be offered drugs by street touts. A polite but firm “Non, merci” or “La, shukran” is all you need.

Don’t engage in long conversations if you aren’t interested, and you’ll be left alone.

How Many Days in Chefchaouen? 

How Long is Enough? The 1-Day Chefchaouen Itinerary.

A common question for travellers is whether a single day is enough to do the Blue Pearl of Morocco justice. 

The short answer? Yes. If you have just one day in Chefchaouen, it is plenty of time to hit all the major highlights and fully immerse yourself in those iconic blue vibes. 

Because the Medina is relatively compact, all the top things to do in Chefchaouen (which we’ve listed below) can be easily tackled as a self-guided walking tour. You can wander the blue alleys, browse the artisan shops, and enjoy a rooftop mint tea all within a single day’s sun.

However, if you can stretch your stay to two days in Chefchaouen, we highly recommend it. 

Having that extra time allows you to venture out of the city for a day trip to the stunning Akchour Cascades. It’s the perfect way to balance the vibrant energy of the town with the natural beauty of the Rif Mountains.

Part 3: 10 Best Things to Do in Chefchaouen

This 1-Day Chefchaouen Itinerary is designed as a logical walking tour through the heart of the Medina. Because the old city is so compact and pedestrian-friendly, it is the ideal destination to explore on foot at your own pace.

Our suggested route begins at the iconic Bab El Ain gate and winds through the cobalt blue alleys, ensuring you hit all the best things to do in Chefchaouen – and the hidden corners – in a single, unforgettable day.

1. Lose Yourself in the Blue Medina

The #1 of things to do in Chefchaouen is … Nothing! Put away the map and just walk. 

The Medina is a labyrinth of blue-washed bliss. (Quite literally!) Every turn reveals a new shade of blue or a perfectly placed cat napping on a cobalt staircase.

It makes the most sense (before getting lost) to start your Chefchaouen itinerary entering through one of the main gates to the medina. 

This gate is called Bab El Ain. The word ‘Bab’ means gate and the name Bab El Ein means the ‘Eye Gate’. This double-storied structure gets its name from where the guards used to watch over the Medina.

• Tip: Start early (around 8:00 AM) if you want photos without crowds. By 11:00 AM, the day-trippers from Tangier arrive.

2. Hike to the Spanish Mosque (Jemaa Bouzafar)

For the most iconic view of the city, take the path that leads out of the eastern gate (Bab El Onsar). It’s a gentle 20-minute uphill hike to this abandoned white mosque.

• Tip: You can save this and go for sunset. Watching the city transition from bright blue to a glowing orange under the Rif peaks is magical.

3. Visit the Kasbah Museum

Located in the heart of the main square (Place Uta el-Hammam), this 15th-century fortress is surprisingly peaceful. 

For a small fee, you can explore the gardens, climb the tower for a view of the square, and see the old prison cells.

4. Relax in Place Uta el-Hammam

This is the heartbeat of the city. Lined with cafes and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to sit with a mint tea and people-watch. 

The massive Great Mosque (with its unique octagonal minaret) looms over the square.

5. Ras El Maa Waterfall

Just outside the Medina walls, this is where the fresh mountain spring water gushes into the city. You’ll see local women washing rugs and clothes here. 

It’s a great place to cool off and see real, daily life in Chefchaouen.

6. Shop for Unique Rif Handicrafts

Unlike the souks of Fes, shopping here is low-pressure. Look for the woollen blankets and garments with distinctive red-and-white stripes—these are traditional to the Rif mountain tribes. 

Plus, of course, there are all kinds of Insta-blue shopping and trinkets. Essential as far as things to do in Chefchaouen! 

7. Find the Insta-Famous Spots in Chefchaouen

While we encourage exploring the quiet corners, some spots are famous for a reason. Look for ‘Callejon El Asri’ (the street with flower pots on blue stairs) and the Blue Street of Sidi Bouchuka.

• Tip: Many of these spots are in front of people’s homes. Be quiet, don’t block doorways, and if there is a small fee (some locals charge 5 dirhams to maintain the flower displays), just pay it with a smile.

8. Place El Haouta

Inside the Medina, climb slightly uphill toward Place El Haouta. 

While this square is smaller in scale than the bustling Uta El Hammam, it makes up for its size with an incredibly quaint and tranquil atmosphere. It is one of those corners of the Medina where you can truly feel the historic charm of the city without the heavy crowds.

The centrepiece of the square is a stunning, century-old ornate water fountain, a perfect example of the intricate craftsmanship found throughout the Rif region.

• Tip: If you’re feeling peckish, the square is home to several small juice shops and a creperie. We highly recommend stopping at Snack Fatima for a decadent, sticky Nutella crepe! 

9. The Cobblestone Staircase of Bab El Onsar

This gate marks the entrance to the oldest part of the city. The cobblestones are slick from centuries of use, and the archways here are some of the most photographed in the country.

10. Bab Souk – The Market Gate

Find Avenue Hassan I, passing through Bab Souk (the Market Gate). As one of the main northwest entrances to the old city, this gate marks a distinct transition in the local atmosphere.

Just outside the medina walls here, the Chefchaouen Souk spills out into the streets. Unlike the more polished shops inside the walls, this is a target market for locals. 

After you’ve soaked in the local buzz, head back inside the medina along Avenue Hassan I. You’ll notice the transition immediately as the stalls shift back toward the beautiful, artisan-focused goods – curated for travellers. 🙂

11. Horno El-Haouta – The Al Haouta Oven

Just a short walk from Bab El Ain (the Medina Gate) you’ll find Horno El-Haouta. This traditional communal bakery was constructed between 1540 and 1560, around the same time as the Medina’s main gate, and it remains fully operational to this day.

In Moroccan culture, the communal oven is a cornerstone of the neighbourhood. Even now, you’ll see locals bringing their prepared bread dough or bastilla (delicious savoury-sweet pies) to be baked in the shared heat. 

It is easily one of the most authentic sights to witness on your walking exploration of things to do in Chefchaouen.

• Tip: If you have trouble finding it, just follow your nose—the unmistakable, comforting scent of the wood-fired oven drifting through the blue alleys will lead you straight there!

12. Visit a Traditional Moroccan Hammam

For an authentic experience, skip the luxury tourist spas and head to the local public hammam near the main square. This was hands down our new found and favourite thing to do in our travels in Morocco! 

It’s a hot, steamy, communal experience that will leave you cleaner than you’ve ever been.

• Read How To Visit Traditional Moroccan Hammam in Morocco. 

Part 4: More Things To Do in Chefchaouen

Obviously, the more time you have the more things to do in Chefchaouen that are worth adding to your itinerary! 

There are many more stops on your walking route around the Medina that have small wall plaques with information about the other historic sites of the old city. 

1. The Mosaic Map: Near the Kasbah, look for the beautiful tile map of the Medina—it helps you visualise and make a bit more sense of the bones of the city.
2. The Jewish Quarter (Mellah): While less blue than the rest of the city, the architecture here is distinct and offers a glimpse into the city’s diverse history.
3. Lina Art Gallery: A small, vibrant space showcasing local Rif artists.
4. The Old Tannery: Much smaller and less smelly than the ones in Fes, but still a fascinating look at traditional leatherwork.
5. Dolls Museum: A quirky little spot featuring traditional Moroccan costumes in miniature.
6. The Small and Secret Garden Cafes: Many Riads have hidden interior gardens that are open for non-guests to have a quiet tea away from the square. These are the perfect stops to enjoy a mint tea and make the next blue plan…

Part 5: Things to Do Near Chefchaouen

If you would like to explore some beautiful places in the nearby Rif Mountains, foresee at least a couple of days in the region.

• Akchour Waterfalls: A 45-minute grand taxi ride away. This is a spectacular day of hiking through a river canyon to reach the ‘God’s Bridge’ (a natural stone arch) and several turquoise waterfalls.
• Talassemtane National Park: For serious hikers, this park offers multi-day treks through fir forests and rugged peaks.
• Tetouan: A UNESCO-listed city about 1.5 hours away. It has a very different, Spanish-influenced White City vibe.

Part 6: Things To Do in Chefchaouen With Kids

Chefchaouen is a dream for kids. (And for parents with the cute blue photos!).

• The BLUE Factor: Telling kids they are visiting a ‘Blue Village’ makes the walking much easier!
• No Cars: Since the Medina is pedestrian-only, parents can relax a bit more about traffic (though watch out for the occasional donkey!).
• The Cats: The city is famous for its friendly, well-fed street cats. Our kids spent hours befriending every kitten in the Medina in Essaouira, and here in Chefchaouen there are even more. (Oscar was rapt!). 
• Walk to the Spanish Mosque: It’s an easy 30-minute walk uphill from the town’s centre to the historic mosque with views that are worth the hike. 

Safety Note: There are a lot of stairs and some short but steep drops around the Medina. If you are traveling with toddlers, skip the stroller and bring a high-quality carrier.

Part 7: Food to Try in Chefchaouen

There are some unique dishes to try in the Rif Mountains region of Morocco. 

Here is the best food in Chefchaouen that we recommend to try (along with Chebakiya and Sfenj (donuts) of course!).

• Baissara: A thick, creamy fava bean soup topped with olive oil and cumin. It is the breakfast of champions in the Rif!
• Rif Tagine: Unlike the sweet-and-savoury tagines of the south, the ones here are often more savoury, featuring goat meat, peas, and wild artichokes. It is definitely worth a try to compare. 
• Mint Tea: Known as Moroccan Whiskey(!), it’s served everywhere. But in the north, they often add a sprig of ‘sheeba’ (wormwood) in winter for extra bitterness and warmth. 
• Pastilla: A filo-pastry pie filled with spiced chicken (or pigeon) and almonds, dusted with cinnamon and sugar.

We really enjoyed dinner (more than once!) at the Clock Café. The menu features a delightful variety of dishes, from tagines and couscous. But most famous is their signature camel burger and Moroccan mint tea served on the rooftop terrace.  

Part 8: Where to Stay in Chefchaouen

There is a good choice and range of accommodation in Chefchaouen from backpacking hostels to affordable traditional Riads and a few luxury hotels. 

Budget

• Hotel Souika 
  A low-cost budget hostel with private rooms plus a fantastic rooftop terrace with views of the city. 
• Aparthotel Dar Nowara Chaouen
  Immaculate cleanliness and conveniently located opposite the mosque in the centre of the town. 

Mid-Range

• La Petite Chefchaouen
  A cute boutique guesthouse with accommodation options for both single visitors and families with kids.
• Casa Blue Star
  A distinctly blue-themed riad capturing the essence of Chefchaouen. 
• Casa Perleta
  An authentic riad with traditional Moroccan interior design tucked in a small alley just a few minutes from the Bab Souk gate.

Luxury 

• Lina Ryad & Spa
  Treat yourself with a luxurious place to stay in Chefchaouen complete with an on-site spa and indoor pool! 

For Cars, Motorhomes & Overlanders

Chefchaouen is a popular stop for those driving through Morocco.

Car Parking in Chefchaouen

There are several options to park your car in Chefchaouen if your accommodation doesn’t have parking included. 

• Parking Bab el Mahrouk: A small guarded parking at the upper part of the Medina. The cost is 20 MAD for a 24-hour period.
• Parking Place Outa Al Hammam: This is a small private and paid carpark located next to the Parador Hotel on Avenue Hassan II.
• Camping Azilan: This is the most famous spot. It’s located at the top of the hill, right above the Medina. It’s basic, but the location is unbeatable—you can walk down into the city in 10 minutes. The views over the Rif mountains are spectacular.

Motorhome Parking in Chefchaouen

The most popular place to park overnight with a motorhome in Chefchaouen in in the Allal Ben Abdellah Avenue Park4Night.

Chefchaouen – Av. Allal Ibn Abdellah

• Location: Allal Ben Abdellah Avenue
• Type: Parking Lot Day / Night 
• Park4Night: #45746  
• Cost: 50 MAD 24h 
• Facilities: None   

About: This is a guarded carpark, and it is very close to the medina and other shops and restaurants. However, it is very (very) basic and not particularly clean.  

It is nothing to write home about. But we have stayed here on three visits to Chefchaouen in our motorhome and had no problems.  

Read more about Campsites In Morocco That We Recommend.

Part 9: Final Thoughts

Chefchaouen is more than just a photo op. Yes, it’s arguably the most photogenic city in Africa, but there are some beautiful quiet moments amidst all the Insta-famous things to do in Chefchaouen: the sound of the call to prayer, the smell of fresh bread from a community oven, and the cool mountain air mixed with those beautiful blue walls. 

Pack a good pair of walking shoes, and prepare to be charmed by the Blue Pearl of Morocco. 

Enjoy all the Blue Things To Do in Chefchaouen – and happy travels!

Travel Planning for Morocco & Beyond

These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel. 

• Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally. 
• 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online. 
• Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.  
• GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
• SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country. 
• World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before planning things to do in Chefchaouen and Morocco!