Nestled in the scenic Rif Mountains of northern Morocco lies Chefchaouen, a small but dazzling city painted in a hundred hues of blue. Known as "the Blue Pearl," this town is a favorite among travelers for its unique charm, colorful alleyways, and laid-back vibe. Whether you’re coming from Fes or Tangier, Chefchaouen makes for a memorable day trip filled with photo ops, local culture, and fresh mountain air.
🚐 Getting There: Options From Fes & Tangier
If you're starting from Fes, you have a few good ways to reach Chefchaouen. The most affordable method is by CTM bus, which takes just over 4 hours. These buses are reliable, safe, and run several times a day. Tickets can be booked online or at the station.
Prefer something quicker and more flexible? A private driver can get you there faster and with more comfort—ideal if you're traveling in a group and can split the cost. You can book a driver through your hotel or online.
Coming from Tangier? You're in luck—it’s only about a 2.5-hour journey. You can take a bus, hire a driver, or join a shared day tour. The road is winding but in good condition, making for a scenic drive into the mountains.
🏙️ Exploring Chefchaouen on Foot
Once you arrive, you'll find that Chefchaouen is delightfully walkable. Tours and taxis will drop you near Bab El Ain, the main entrance to the old medina. From there, get ready to roam the dreamy blue alleys, which seem to belong to another world. If you’re carrying luggage after a bus ride, it’s worth taking a quick taxi ride up the hill to avoid the long walk.
While the city is calmer than big Moroccan hubs like Fes or Marrakesh, you might still encounter a few persistent vendors. Nothing too overwhelming—just part of the local flavor!
📸 Best Photo Spots in Chefchaouen
For Instagram-worthy snapshots, head to these picture-perfect locations:
Alley of Colored Pots – Possibly the most iconic spot, with vibrant potted plants lining the blue walls.
Orange Juice Shop – Cute, quirky, and refreshing, with fresh-squeezed juice and colorful decor.
Solid Blue Alley – A hidden corner where everything from the walls to the doors is painted pure blue.
Place El Haouta – A relaxed square with a water fountain and mountain views.
Mural Street – A whimsical road featuring murals of Santorini.
Magic Lamp House of Aladdin – A restaurant with a rooftop terrace offering breathtaking city views.
🏰 More Attractions Nearby
If you have extra time, check out:
The Kasbah – A historic fortress-turned-museum that offers panoramic views from the tower.
Ras El Maa Waterfall – A small waterfall just outside the medina, great for a quick nature break.
Bouzafer Mosque (Spanish Mosque) – A short uphill hike brings you to sweeping views of Chefchaouen from above.
⏳ Is A Day Trip Enough?
Absolutely. While there are hotels if you want to stay overnight, most visitors find 4 hours in Chefchaouen enough to hit the highlights, take photos, and enjoy a leisurely lunch. From Fes, the round-trip takes about 8 hours total, so it’s a long but manageable day. If you're coming from Tangier, you'll have even more time to explore.
💭 Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Chefchaouen may not be as polished as Instagram makes it look—expect to see stray cats, a bit of street litter, and uneven roads—but its charm is undeniable. It’s not a blue Santorini, but it’s real, colorful, and full of character. As long as you keep your expectations grounded, a trip to this blue-washed town is absolutely worth the journey.
