MOROCCO
One night in Chefchaouen:
How to explore
the Blue City
irst thing you should know is that, you only need one day in Chefchaouen. Another thing is that the Blue Pearl of Morocco is indeed very blue. So blue that your eyes feel weird when you step out of the alleys. However, everything is so peaceful and calm, you can't not fall in love with it.
Chefchaouen feels quiet and gentle, inviting you to slow down and explore without rush.
It’s been a dream for a long time to visit this city and we didn’t just pass by – we got to spend one night in the Medina. Chefchaouen is often called the Blue Pearl of Morocco, and the name makes sense the moment you step into the medina. The city’s blue-washed streets range from soft pastels to deep indigo, creating a peaceful, almost dreamlike atmosphere. Unlike other Moroccan cities, Chefchaouen feels quiet and gentle, inviting you to slow down and explore without rush.
We arrived in Hôtel Dar Terrae at night. The place is beautiful, mind you the tricky narrow staircases you have to climb for the reception and the rooms. It’s technically a hotel designed like a riad, with rooms around a courtyard, ran by a family who is more than happy to have you.
One of the perks of staying in places like this, is that you will enjoy traditional dishes. Our dinner included tagine with vegetables and chicken and believe me when I say these were among the best potatoes I’ve ever tried. For breakfast, we were served sfenj, a light Moroccan doughnut made from a sticky yeast dough that’s deep-fried until golden and crisp on the outside, with a soft interior.
After breakfast, it was time to explore. Chefchaouen’s medina is small, compact, and perfect for wandering on foot. Getting lost here is part of the experience – the blue alleyways eventually lead you back to familiar landmarks. You could get a local guide if you are on a tight schedule, but I feel like it’s unnecessary.
No one knows exactly why Chefchaouen’s buildings are painted blue. Some believe the tradition began in the 1930s when Jewish refugees painted their homes blue to symbolize the sky and spirituality. Others say the color helps repel insects or cool the city in summer. Today, the blue remains because it defines Chefchaouen’s identity and draws travelers from around the world.
One of Chefchaouen’s charms is discovering small artisan shops tucked behind arches and down narrow side streets. The city is known for its ceramics, woven blankets, wool garments, and leather goods. Shopping here feels relaxed and personal, often turning into quiet conversations rather than negotiations. Rest assured we discovered an oasis of ceramics, hidden away behind an alley and an arch, but there are plenty of big and smaller shops (and with great prices).
Plaza Uta el-Hammam is the social center. Cafés and restaurants spill into the square, making it a perfect place to rest and people-watch. From here, you can easily explore the medina or climb to nearby viewpoints.
It really is a photographer’s dream. Chefchaouen is one of the most photogenic places in Morocco. Blue staircases, arched doorways, hanging plants, and colorful ceramic plates appear around every corner, not to mention those colorful carpets against blue walls. Early mornings offer the best light and the quietest streets, perfect for photography.
Is One Night in Chefchaouen Enough?
Chefchaouen doesn’t require a long visit. One night is enough to explore the medina, enjoy the atmosphere, and reset after busier cities like Fes or Marrakech. While you could stay longer, its magic lies in its simplicity and unhurried pace. You can enjoy it to the fullest by casually walking around, shopping and interacting with the people.
Even though its such a famous town, there were very few tourist around. The blue color, the cool breeze and the general tranquility will make it indeed feel like you’re in a dream.