Last Updated on 3rd May 2023 by Sophie Nadeau
If you’re getting ready to visit, then this article offers basic information to prepare for the trip and it will also help you choose among the best things to do in Chefchaouen to make the most of your trip!
Chefchaouen is a romantic, pale blue, enclave situated in the Rif Mountains in the northwest of Morocco. This surprising destination attracts dozens of visitors for its incredible sights and calm atmosphere. Combining a charming collection of winding blue alleys and a quirky vibe, the city is one of the most beautiful destinations in northern Africa.
Contents
Where is Chefchaouen?
Located at an elevation of about 550 meters above the sea, Chefchaouen is a small city in the Rif Mountain chain in the northwest of Morocco, in Africa.
Locally also known as Chaouen, the city is not far from the southern tip of Spain. Many people visit Chefchaouen by crossing the Gibraltar Strait by ferry.
Although the city is relatively isolated from the rest of Morocco, it is possible to visit Chefchaouen from Tangier or to include it in a tour of the northernmost cities in the country, including Fez, Meknes, the capital, Rabat, and even Casablanca.
When to Visit Chefchaouen
Since Chefchaouen has become very popular, you’re bound to find tourists all year round, especially in the European summer, as the city is quite popular and easy to reach from Europe. For that reason, avoiding the months between June and August will guarantee fewer crowds and, consequently, better prices.
Winter can be too cold since this is a mountain settlement, but is quite enchanting and even more peaceful during this time of the year.
Visiting in the shoulder seasons (Fall and Spring) is always the best idea. If you are planning a longer trip to Morocco, be sure to check out our suggested Morocco itinerary.
How to Get to Chefchaouen
One of the best starting points to reach Chefchaouen is the northern city of Tangier, which is well connected with the south of Spain.
Tangier has two different bus stations in Tangier and both offer bus routes that connect both towns.
Several daily buses connect Tangier Main Bus Station, or Gare Routiere to Chefchaouen, the journey is about 3 hours and the ticket is about 12 euros plus a small extra fee for luggage.
Direct buses to Chefchaouen also depart from CTM Gare Voyageurs and prices are similar, however, when you depart from this point, the tickets can also be purchased online, although any extras for luggage must be purchased at the station.
Chefchaouen is about 112 km from Tangier (about 2.5 hours by car), and 165 km from Gibraltar in Spain (the trip is about 4 hours including the ferry crossing and driving from Tangier).
Another popular alternative to getting to Chefchaouen is to depart from the coastal city of Casablanca. Casablanca is about 340 km from Chefchaouen and the journey is about 5 hours by car. There is a daily bus also available (leaving around 1 pm from Casablanca and the trip takes about 6 hours.
Bus tickets are about 40 euros, and – as usual in Morocco – there is an extra fee for luggage that must be paid at the moment of departure (usually 10 Dirhams – about 2.5 euros).
Private day trips like this one from Casablanca to Chefchaouen are also a good alternative offering comfortable transport, affordable prices, and all the stops you might need.
There are 3-5 daily buses (depending on the season) connecting Fez to Chefchaouen. The ride is about 4 hours and the ticket is about 20 euros. All buses depart from the new city of Fez and not from the old town (the distance is about 5 km, take this into account when planning how to get to the bus station).
If you prefer to drive, it’s good to know that Fez is 211 km away (a bit less than 3 hours by car) and that the road, even if quite bendy at times, offers amazing mountain views. Day trips from Fez to Chefchaouen are another way to visit.
Finally, if you’re visiting the popular city of Marrakech, and you also enjoy train travel, then getting from Marrakech to Chefchaouen by train can be a unique experience. Both cities are not connected by direct bus. You will first need to take the train from Marrakech to Fez, and then ride the bus.
Both cities are not close to each other, Marrakech is about Marrakech 576 km from Fez (about 7 hours by car), so if time is a limit, a domestic flight from Marrakech to Fez is an excellent alternative.
Finally, it’s also possible to get to Chefchaouen from Morocco’s capital, Rabat, which is located 250 km from Chefchaouen. Buses are also available, and the trip is about 5 hours.
Where to Stay in Chefchaouen
Nothing better than a read to experience the best of Morocco. These ancient guest houses feature several comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and are often open to a central patio with plants and sometimes a fountain. Many roads also feature terraces where it’s possible to have breakfast each morning.
Just like hotels, roads come in all sizes and for all budgets, from low-cost accommodation with basic amenities to luxurious roads where you can splurge on lavish meals or relaxing beauty treatments.
No matter what kind of accommodation you choose, it’s always more practical to stay within the limits of the old town (or blue city). This way, you will be able to access all the most interesting points on foot and discover unique hidden gems that you could otherwise miss.
These are the best roads in Chefchaouen divided by budget category.
Affordable riads in Chefchaouen
- Hotel Souika is ideal for budget travelers, partly hotel and partly hostel, the property features accommodation in the historical center of Chefchaouen in typical Moroccan style and is only 60 meters from the old Medina. The place offers shared bathrooms and 2 living rooms equipped with sofas, a reading area, and a music room. Here, guests can have breakfast on-site or use the common kitchen to prepare their meals. Check prices and availability here.
- Dar Mdaqa is a private, small apartment in Chefchaouen, ideal for couples, small families, or longer stays. The place features a fully equipped kitchen, perfect to help you save some money and make your meals. The apartment is only 400 meters from the Casbah. Check prices and availability here.
Mid-range riads in Chefchaouen
- Riad La Santa is a wonderful and quite affordable place to stay in town. It’s located only 300 meters from Chefchaouen’s Casbah and boats impressive views of the mountains. The guest house has a terrace and there is also private parking available at a small charge. The breakfast at the riad features vegan, halal, and kosher options while the restaurant specializes in Moroccan gastronomy. Check prices and availability here.
- Dar Yakout is a colorful and traditional property, with rooms that are perfect for groups of friends and families in the center of Chefchaouen. Over here, all rooms feature a cozy terrace while the property offers a complete morning breakfast that includes vegetarian and halal options. Check prices and availability here.
Luxurious riads in Chefchaouen
- Casa Hassan is a luxurious road in the old town, in the area known as Quartier Andalouse. It offers classic accommodation only meters from the main square. Rooms feature artwork from local artists and antique accessories, a fireplace, and a lounge. Breakfast is served every morning on the patio, terrace, or in your room. There is also a restaurant that serves traditional Moroccan cuisine. Check prices and availability here.
- Ryad Sarai is about 10 minutes from the heart of the old town, the main square in Chefchaouen, and offers accommodation with a private seating area. There is also a beautiful shared lounge and a terrace with mountain views where breakfast is served daily. It also offers family rooms and a kid-friendly indoor pool. Check prices and availability here.
Best Things to Do in Chefchaouen
Ok, now that when to go, how to go, and where to stay in Chefchaouen have been sorted out, let’s dive into the best things to do in Chefchaouen, Morocco.
Medina of Chefchaouen
The city’s ancient Medina is one of the most charming old towns in Morocco. Over here, for years locals have painted the walls of their homes and shops in different shades of blue making the place look strikingly beautiful.
All around the historical center, it’s possible to see signs with information regarding different buildings in Arabic, English, and Spanish, making it easier for visitors to understand the history and importance of the places they are discovering.
In Medina, it is possible to visit Mellah el-Jedid. In Morocco, the urban mellah used to be the Jewish district which was often enclosed and fortified, and often located close to the Casbah (or citadel). This is one of the oldest buildings in Chefchaouen (dating back to the sixteenth century).
The Old Casbah
Known as Kasbah or Casbah, Chefchaouen’s old citadel dates back to 1471. This red-walled citadel has the shape of a fort and was built this way to protect the settlement from foreign invaders that had already taken other nearby cities under their control, such as Tangier and some smaller towns.
Today, the casbah is also home to the city’s Ethnography Museum, one of the several places worth a stop in town to learn about the folklore and traditions of the people living in this region.
Place Uta el-Hammam
Spend a few moments wandering about the city’s main square, Place Uta el-Hammam.
The cobbled square represents the vibrant heart of Chefchaouen’s Medina and it’s an excellent place to stop for a Moroccan tea while doing some people-watching. The place, lined up with shady trees, is lined with lovely cafeterias and restaurants and is perfect for a lunch stop as well.
Besides, close to the square, it is also possible to find some of the best attractions, including the old Casbah and the Grand Mosque.
The Souk
Mondays and Thursdays are the days when the local public market (in Arabic souk) takes place in Chefchaouen.
As usual, experiencing a souk is a thrilling experience that involves a lot of bargaining, and some interesting finds.
In Chefchaouen, the souk features farmers that go down from the Rif valleys to sell their products which can include handmade leather and metal crafts, ceramics, but also wool garments, herbs, vegetables, and spices.
Grande Mosquée of Chefchaouen
Built back in 1560 and featuring a minaret added during the eighteenth century, Jamaa Kbeer (Grand Mosque) is one of the most beautiful buildings in town.
It’s located right next to the Casbah and it features unique Moorish architecture mixing intricate Arabic decorations and gorgeous Spanish styles. Its beautiful octagonal minaret is inspired by the shape and colors of Seville’s Torre de Oro, in Spain, with three series of blind arches that surround the tower.
Although non-Muslims are not allowed to visit, checking out the outside of the mosque offers a clear understanding of the beauty and holiness of the place.
Public Hammam
One of the things you cannot miss when visiting the city is to check out at least one of the two Chefchaouen’s Hammams. The oldest and most important one is located a few meters from Place Uta el-Hammam and is known as the public hammam.
Although historically, there used to be separate hammams for men and women, a tradition that has been lost with the years as many of these public baths now share a space and have different time slots for men and women to use them.
For a very small fee (about 8 euros), it’s possible to experience the different cleansing and beauty treatments that Moroccan hammams have traditionally offered, including scrubbing, and massage. Remember that you will need to carry your own flip-flops and soap, as well as a towel.
For a more luxurious experience, it’s possible to check out a more modern public bath, which might be not as traditional but where to expect an upscale spa experience.
Art du Bien-Être is a local hammam run by local women who also make the natural products they use for different body and beauty treatments. Prices here are higher and vary depending on the chosen treatment.
The Spanish Mosque
Get ready to hike around Chefchaouen to visit some of the most beautiful sights and natural landscapes in the area. One of these is the Spanish Mosque, from where the views over Chefchaouen’s city and the whole surrounding valley are simply stunning.
To get to the mosque, you need to follow the main path that leads to the city in the opposite direction, at the end of the road, the mosque stands on top of the hill. The mosque, which is currently closed, is better seen at sunrise when the light points directly onto the blue city offering incredible photo opportunities.
During the hike, it is possible to admire the beautiful Ras El Ma waterfalls, where local women would offer to dress you like a local for a few dirhams, giving you a spectacular (and quite unique) photo opportunity.
Ras El Maa Waterfalls
Located on the outskirts of the Medina, this small but incredibly beautiful waterfall is surrounded by enchanting woodland and an old wooden bridge where the local women still come daily to wash their clothes.
The place is perfect for a stop while hiking to the Spanish Mosque and it is even possible to sit and have a cup of hot mint tea during your pause.
Fonduq Chfichu
An ancient Moroccan institution in most major towns, a fonduq was a kind of open courtyard surrounded by buildings used to offer protection for traders that would travel along the caravan routes, as well as to give shelter to their animals and goods.
The two-story buildings would keep the animals on the ground floor, in special stables, where they would be fed and the goods protected while merchants would sleep on the upper floor.
Today, just one of these Moroccan-style inns remains in Chefchaouen and it is possible to visit it, and it is a very interesting experience since, while many other fonduqs have instead been turned into modern hotels or restaurants, this special place still operates as it did centuries ago, featuring small artisan shops and a first floor used by merchants.
Hiking
Since Chefchaouen is located in a mountain area, hiking is one of the many things that travelers will enjoy during their visit.
There are different peaks to discover, including Jbel el Kelaa, a mountain right behind the Medina with wonderful paths to explore.
But that’s not all, there are plenty of well-marked paths and trails that take you through the valleys and other peaks of the Rif Mountain range.
Since the area is Morocco’s most remarkable cannabis-growing region, many times you will find police guards and patrols walking the hiking paths as well. However, they are friendly and won’t interfere with your hiking.
Finally, if you’re in good physical shape, it is possible to follow the trail that circles the Rif. This is a long circuit hike that passes through high mountains and steep valleys surrounding the Rif.
Although the trail is marked and relatively safe, it’s always better to experience the walk with a trained local guide. Most hotels will be able to provide the right contact details to get in touch with one of them.
Talassemtane National Park and Anchor Waterfalls
Located about 40 minutes by car from Chefchaouen, this fantastic national park is another perfect hiking spot and the place you need to reach to experience the best of the local nature.
Inside the park, Anchor might be the most visited area as it shelters a range of beautiful waterfalls, stunning emerald ponds, and breathtaking canyons. Over here, don’t miss the so-called Bridge of God, an impressive natural stone arch that hangs over 20 meters over the gorge.
Local Food
Moroccan food is at its best in the north of the country. In Chefchaouen, especially, you will be able to feast on traditional tajines of couscous, fish, and vegetables with plenty of spices and flavor.
These are usually paired with a cup of freshly made mint tea, a deeply-rooted Moroccan tradition that stands as a welcoming sign all over the country.
And finally, a word on Kif
Kif, (better known as hashish) is a derivate from marijuana and it’s illegal in the country, however, it is the most important source of economic income in the Rif Mountains and remains Chefchaouen’s most distinctive trait and the authentic reason why many travelers visit the area. It’s very common to see people smoking openly in many hostels, coffee shops, and even on the streets.
Known as the leading local product in the region, this mixture of tobacco and chopped pieces of marijuana is found quite easily and everywhere in the medina.
During your time in Chefchaouen, you will be asked (more than once) if you’d like to buy the local staple product not only by random people on the street but also by shop owners and other random strangers.
Despite the relaxed vibe of the city, such exchanges are illegal, even if they are overlooked by the police on occasion. A firm “no” will be enough for sellers not to insist if you’re not interested.
Keep in mind that buying and smoking kif remains strictly illegal and punishment can be harsh. It’s good to know that penalties change from city to city but can reach up to 10 years in jail.
Sometimes, though, tourists can manage to sort this issue with a very high fine, but it’s always better to avoid a stressful situation made even more difficult due to language barriers.
Another important thing to remember is that, when hiking in the Rif Mountains, taking pictures of cannabis fields and their workers can be a source of problems.
Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Chefchaouen? Pin this article now, read it again later:
Gabi Ancarola is a journalist and travel writer who has lived over 20 years in Italy, and has been living in Crete for the last five years. She hosts culinary tours, translates and writes for her Crete travel blog The Tiny Book. She’s written for Greek Reporter and published several travel guides about Greece.