Chefchaouen, Morocco: What It’s Really Like Visiting the Blue City

Updated: May 22, 2026

Chefchaouen, also known as Chaouen, is a stunning mountain city in northern Morocco and one of the most unique places to visit in the country. Famous for its blue-washed buildings tucked into the old medina, the city draws travelers from around the world looking to experience its quiet charm and photogenic streets.

The blues vary from nook to nook, and I was drawn to them from the very first photo I ever saw of Chefchaouen. There are several theories as to why it’s blue, including religious symbolism, temperature and mosquito control. I planned my trip around this blue city, and I’m grateful to have experienced its beauty. I just wish I had more than one night to take it all in. I’d absolutely go back.

Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen

It’s one of those dream destinations that I didn’t think I’d ever get to. Morocco is not easy to travel in, considering that it’s not as well-connected (in transportation) as Europe. As I mentioned in my previous Desert post, the country is enormous, and the cities are far apart. Think hours of driving. 

However, when we decided to add Morocco to our “this is happening now” trip list, I knew Chefchaouen had to be the number-one stop. Wandering the blue streets of Chefchaouen ended up being the highlight of my time there; there’s no real itinerary, just endless corners to explore.

Compared to bigger cities like Fes and Marrakech, Chefchaouen feels much more laid-back. There are no pushy sellers, fewer crowds, and a slower pace, making it easy to enjoy where you are. It ended up being one of my favorite stops in Morocco, and honestly, I think it’s the perfect place to begin your trip.

Photo Spots in Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen isn’t about ticking off major attractions; it’s about taking in the unique beauty this city offers. Some of the most memorable moments came from simply exploring the tiny alleyways.

So here are some of my favorite scenes and places to photograph throughout the city. These photos are more for inspiration since I couldn’t read the signs to give you exact locations. Plus, where’s the fun in that?

Blue Alleyways in Chefchaouen

The blue alleyways are what make Chefchaouen so iconic. Around every corner, the shades of blue shift slightly, making each street feel unique. It’s easy to roam without a plan and still stumble across scenes that feel completely untouched. If you enjoy photography, this is where you’ll spend most of your time. Capturing these streets is easily one of the best things to do in Chefchaouen.

Doors & Details in Chefchaouen

Many of the doorways are framed by textured walls, worn steps, and pops of contrasting tile that stand out against the blue. Some doors are adorned with local goods for sale, as you see below. It’s a reminder that Chefchaouen isn’t just about the color, but about the character built into every corner.

Quiet Corners in Chefchaouen

Some of the best spots in Chefchaouen aren’t marked on a map, and that’s what I love about it. Your visit will be your own. With your own finds and your own inspiration, it’s easy to get lost in it. And without the crowds, you can really take in the details. If you have the chance, head out early in the morning or later in the evening. That’s when Chefchaouen feels the most peaceful.

What to Know Before Visiting Chefchaouen

As mentioned, Chefchaouen is a smaller, slower-paced destination compared to cities like Marrakech or Fes. Most people come here to relax, wander, and take photos rather than follow a packed itinerary. It’s generally considered very safe for tourists.

One thing that surprises many visitors is how compact the town really is. You don’t need taxis or transportation once you’re inside the medina. Everything is walkable, and getting a little lost is part of the experience. We visited in September, and it didn’t feel crowded at any time of the day.

Special note: There isn’t a strict dress code in Chefchaouen, but it’s recommended to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture. 

At specific times of day, the call to prayer is broadcast over speakers throughout the city. The first time you hear it, it can be quite startling if you’re not expecting it.

One morning around 5 a.m., it rang through our riad window and woke me up instantly. For a split second, I was completely disoriented and couldn’t figure out where the sound was coming from before realizing what it was.

It was one of those moments that really reminds you you’re in a different place with a different rhythm of life. While it can catch you off guard at first, I also appreciate having experienced it. It became part of the atmosphere of Chefchaouen.

If you’re short on time, you can visit on a day trip, but staying at least one night makes a huge difference.

Quick Guide to Chefchaouen

• Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) or fall (Sept–Nov)
• How long to stay: 1–2 days is perfect
• How to get there: Most travelers visit from Fes or Tangier
• Is it worth visiting? Yes, especially if you love photography and slower travel

How to Get to Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen isn’t the easiest place to reach, but that’s part of what keeps it feeling so peaceful and less crowded than other Moroccan cities.

Several companies offer day trips to Chefchaouen from big cities like Fes or Tangier, but a few hours is simply not enough time. I recommend at least one night, but aim for two if possible. I wish I could’ve cut out Fes and stayed an extra night in Chefchaouen.

The best route to ensure easy access to Chefchaouen is to fly into Tangier, rather than Marrakech. Marrakech seems to be the most common airport to fly into, but it is located on the opposite end of Chefchaouen, a 9-hour drive away. My route went like this:

• Fly into Tangier
• Private Taxi to Chefchaouen- 2.5-hour drive
• Miserable bus to Fes
• Private driver to the Sahara Desert
• Private driver to Marrakech
• Fly out of Marrakech

Getting from Tangier to Chefchaouen

After a lot of research, I booked Tangier Taxi to pick us up from the airport in Tangier and drive the 2.5 hours to the city of Chefchaouen. They had good reviews, and I was able to book everything online easily.

Tangier Taxi offers air-conditioned cars and Wi-Fi, and they were very responsive. You give a deposit before the trip, then pay the driver in cash the day of arrival. You can pay them in euros or dirhams. It’s the pricier transport option, but I can assure you that the splurge is well worth it in Morocco. 

Since my travels, I’ve noticed more well-reviewed private transfer options through Viator, so if that’s easier for you, definitely check it out.

Another option for traveling from Tangier to Chefchaouen is to take a local “petit” taxi. With petits, you’ll need to negotiate the price, and the cars may not be well-maintained. You’ll then be dropped off at a halfway point, as petit taxis cannot leave the city limits. In this new city, you’ll need to take a different taxi (and negotiate again) to get to Chefchaouen. No thanks, right?

Since cars are not allowed inside the old town, our riad host came to pick us up from the designated taxi drop-off point. I couldn’t wait to explore! I was so excited to finally be in this beautiful blue city.

Where to Stay in Chefchaouen (Riad)

If you’re wondering where to stay in Chefchaouen, staying inside the medina is the best way to experience the city.

To get a more local experience, choose a riad over a hotel. Riads are like bed and breakfasts. We chose Casa Sabila. This riad is in the heart of everything we wanted to see, and it was very affordable.

Casa Sabila offers a private room and bath, with refreshing Moroccan mint tea delivered right to your door whenever the mood strikes.

Breakfast is included and served on the terrace, where you’ll get a lovely view over the city. The hosts were respectful and courteous as well, so we do recommend it. The photo below was the entrance to our room. Swooning over that door!

Our riad host also provided us with several restaurant recommendations, and we ultimately chose Beldi Bab Ssour (pictured below). We enjoyed every dish we ordered.

Chefchaouen Tours & Experiences

If you prefer a more guided experience, these highly-rated tours can help you make the most of your time in Chefchaouen:

→Explore Chefchaouen like a local

→Private photo tour with a local pro photographer

→3-Hour Cooking Class overlooking the Blue City