- Travel Enthusiast
- May 23, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: May 2
CHEFCHAOUEN - MOROCCO: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Chefchaouen might be small, but it’s one of Morocco’s most unforgettable places.
Located in the foothills of the Rif Mountains, this peaceful town — known as the Blue City — will charm you with its blue-painted streets, relaxed pace, and stunning natural surroundings. It’s a place to slow down, enjoy tea on a rooftop, and wander through quiet alleyways. Don’t forget your camera — almost every corner here is photogenic, making it one of the most Instagrammable places in Morocco.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to make the most of your visit — from must-see places and where to stay, to easy trips beyond the medina.
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CHEFCHAOUEN HIGHLIGHTS
If you’re looking for the absolute best of Chefchaouen, here’s where to start:
The Blue Medina – A dreamy maze of sky-blue alleyways and whitewashed walls, perfect for wandering and taking photos.
Spanish Mosque – A short hike uphill rewards you with sweeping views over the city and surrounding mountains.
Ras El Maa Waterfall – Just on the edge of the medina, this peaceful stream is where locals gather and cool off.
The Kasbah – Right in the heart of town, this restored fortress offers quiet gardens and a panoramic viewpoint from its tower.
Artisan Souks – Chefchaouen is known for its weaving, pottery, and leather goods — this is one of the best spots in Morocco to shop local.
GETTING TO AND AROUND CHEFCHAOUEN
Getting around Chefchaouen:
Walk through the medina – The compact, cobblestone streets are best explored on foot. Chefchaouen’s medina is smaller and quieter than those in bigger cities. As you explore, you'll stumble across colorful doorways, hidden squares, and picture-perfect corners around almost every turn.
Grab a taxi – Need to get somewhere outside the medina? Taxis are readily available and affordable. Just make sure to confirm the price before you hop in.
Getting to Chefchaouen:
Planning a day trip? Chefchaouen is a popular destination for day tours from nearby cities. Here are a few options:
From Fes – Explore the blue city on a full-day trip that includes transportation and free time to wander the medina.
From Tangier – Join a guided day trip with hotel pickup and drop-off, a walking tour of Chefchaouen, and time to explore at your own pace.
From Tangier (Chefchaouen & Akchour Waterfalls) – Combine a visit to Chefchaouen with a hike to the beautiful Akchour Waterfalls on this full-day adventure.
Bus – Regular buses connect Chefchaouen with Tangier (about 2.5 hours) and Fes (about 4 hours). CTM and ALSA are the main companies, offering comfortable, air-conditioned buses with reserved seats.
Rent a car – Driving gives you flexibility and lets you enjoy the scenic route through the Rif Mountains. The roads are paved and easy to follow, though some sections are winding.
CHEFCHAOUEN ITINERARY
Spending a day or two in Chefchaouen? This itinerary has you covered.
DAY 1
Morning: Walk up to the Spanish Mosque, just outside the medina, for panoramic views of the blue city and Rif Mountains. It’s a steady climb, and the view at the top is one of the best in town.
On your way back, stop at Ras El Maa Waterfall, a peaceful spot where locals gather to cool off and relax by the water.
Lunch: Head into the medina and grab lunch at Restaurant Beldi Bab Ssour, a go-to spot for traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous. The setting is warm and authentic.
Afternoon: Wander the Blue-Painted Medina — every corner is photogenic, so take your time and enjoy getting lost in its winding streets. There’s no set route, just follow your curiosity.
Then, explore the Artisan Souks — browse handwoven blankets, colorful rugs, and painted ceramics.
Later, visit the Kasbah, a small museum with gardens and a tower offering sweeping views of the city.
Evening: Have dinner or tea at one of Chefchaouen’s rooftop cafés. Café Clock is a popular choice, known for its relaxed atmosphere, rooftop views, and occasional live music.
DAY 2
After covering all of Chefchaouen’s highlights on Day 1, Day 2 is your chance to explore beyond the blue city. If you’re staying overnight, head to Akchour — a hidden gem tucked into the Rif Mountains. Just an hour from town, this peaceful valley offers waterfalls, forest trails, and a quiet escape into nature.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Akchour is about an hour by car from Chefchaouen. You’ve got a few ways to get there, depending on your budget and how much flexibility you want:
Guided tour – An easy, stress-free option. Most tours include round-trip transport, a local guide, and plenty of free time to explore the waterfalls and the valley at your own pace.
Shared grand taxi – Head to the grand taxi stand next to the CTM bus station on Avenue Maghreb Arabe. Shared taxis cost around 25 dirhams per person (about €2.30) and leave once all seats are filled. It's a budget-friendly option, but you might need to wait a little.
Private taxi through your hotel – Many hotels can arrange a private taxi for you. It's more expensive, but you’ll travel directly without waiting for other passengers and can leave whenever you’re ready.
Driving your own car – If you have a rental, driving to Akchour is pretty straightforward. The road is mostly paved and easy to follow, though parking at the trailhead can get busy, especially on weekends.
WHAT TO DO IN AKCHOUR:
There’s more than one way to experience Akchour, depending on how much you want to walk or simply relax:
Hike to the Akchour Waterfalls – Follow a scenic riverside trail through forested paths and stone bridges. You can choose how far you want to go:
Lower Waterfall – Easy and accessible in about 45 minutes. A peaceful spot with shallow pools — great for a rest or a quick dip.
Upper Waterfall – A more challenging hike (2–3 hours round trip) leading to a dramatic 100-meter cascade tucked into the cliffs.
Bridge of God (Pont de Dieu) – On a separate trail from the same starting point, this natural rock arch carved by the river is a striking photo spot and an easy walk for a shorter outing.
Relax by the river – Bring a book, dip your feet in the water, or just take in the sound of the stream and the mountain breeze.
Swim in natural pools – Along the way, there are spots where you can take a refreshing dip in crystal-clear water.
Have a picnic – Pack snacks or grab something from one of the small cafés near the river and find a shady spot to eat.
Try a traditional lunch – Simple tagines and grilled dishes are served in rustic cafés near the start of the trails — often right beside the water.
WHERE TO STAY IN CHEFCHAOUEN
Staying overnight? Here are some great places to stay in Chefchaouen:
Dar Jasmine – A peaceful retreat surrounded by lush gardens on the edge of town, offering cozy suites, private terraces, and attentive service in a serene setting.
Lina Ryad & Spa – A stylish escape in the heart of the medina, featuring a full-service spa, traditional Moroccan dining, and elegant rooms crafted with local design.
Dar Echchaouen – A relaxed stay overlooking the medina, blending Moroccan architecture with modern comfort, plus an outdoor pool, hammam, and regional cuisine.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Is Chefchaouen, Morocco worth visiting?
Yes, Chefchaouen is definitely worth visiting. Known for its striking blue-painted medina, relaxed vibe, and beautiful mountain setting, it offers a completely different experience from Morocco’s larger cities. It’s the perfect place to wander, take photos, shop for local crafts, and enjoy peaceful moments in charming cafés.
Is there a train from Marrakech to Chefchaouen?
No, there’s no direct train service from Marrakech to Chefchaouen. The nearest train station is in Tangier, which is about 2 to 2.5 hours away from Chefchaouen by road. If you’re traveling from Marrakech, you can take a train to Tangier, then continue by bus, grand taxi, private transfer — or even book a guided day trip that includes transportation and time to explore Chefchaouen.
How do you pronounce Chefchaouen?
Chefchaouen is pronounced "shef-sha-wen". It’s sometimes shortened to just “Chaouen” by locals, but you’ll hear both names used interchangeably when you’re there.
What is the closest city to Chefchaouen?
The closest major city to Chefchaouen is Tetouan, located about 1.5 hours away by car. Tetouan has a beautiful old medina of its own and is a common stop for travelers heading into the Rif Mountains. Tangier is another nearby option, about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive, and offers easy connections to both northern Morocco and Spain by ferry.
BEYOND CHEFCHAOUEN
Got extra time? Here are a few amazing nearby destinations that are worth checking out.
Tangier – A gateway between Europe and Africa, Tangier mixes old-world charm with coastal energy. Wander through the historic Kasbah, get lost in the lively medina, and enjoy sweeping views of the Strait of Gibraltar. Want to make the most of your trip? Take a look at our Tangier guide.
Fes – Step into the cultural heart of Morocco in Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with winding alleys and stunning architecture. From the intricate Bou Inania Madrasa to the buzzing souks, Fes is a city where every corner tells a story. Planning a visit? Check out our full Fes itinerary for all the details you need.
Tetouan – Located between the mountains and the sea, Tetouan offers a beautiful blend of Moroccan and Andalusian influences. Stroll through its well-preserved medina, admire the craftsmanship at the Tetouan Grand Mosque, and discover a quieter, more local side of northern Morocco.
