Short answer: Chefchaouen is a small town in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco, famous for its blue-washed medina. Stay at least one night, ideally two, to enjoy the quiet mornings and evenings. It is about 4 hours from Fes, 2 from Tangier and 4.5 to 5 from Casablanca.
A short history
Chefchaouen was founded in 1471 as a fortress against the Portuguese, and grew with families from Andalusia, Muslims and Jews, who left Spain in the following decades. Why is it blue? Nobody agrees: some say the colour came from Jewish families, others say it keeps mosquitoes away or keeps houses cool. Today the town keeps painting it because visitors love it.
Things to do in Chefchaouen
- Wander the blue medina early in the morning, before the day visitors arrive.
- Outa el-Hammam square: the heart of the town, with cafés facing the Grand Mosque and its octagonal minaret.
- The Kasbah: a red-walled fortress with a garden, a small museum and a view from the tower.
- Ras el-Maa: the spring at the edge of town, where locals wash wool and laundry.
- The Spanish Mosque: a 20 to 30 minute walk uphill for the best sunset view over the town.
- Akchour waterfalls and God’s Bridge: a half-day or day trip into the Talassemtane National Park, about 45 minutes by car.
- Shopping: handwoven wool blankets, goat cheese and local crafts.
How long to stay
One night is enough for the medina and the sunset. Two nights let you add a walk in the Rif or the Akchour waterfalls, and enjoy the town when it is quiet.
How to get there
- From Fes: about 3.5 to 4 hours by road.
- From Tangier: about 2 hours.
- From Casablanca or Rabat: 4.5 to 5 hours from Casablanca.
- There is no train station. Buses run from the main cities, but a private driver is much faster and lets you stop at Volubilis or Rabat on the way.
Where to stay
Stay inside or right next to the medina. Small guesthouses with a roof terrace give you the classic view over the blue houses. Parking is outside the walls, so pack light.
Best time to visit
April to June and September to October. Winters are cool and rainy in the Rif, and July and August are busy. See our month-by-month guide.
Tips
- Ask before photographing people, and respect private doorways.
- You may be offered hashish in the Rif; it is illegal, so simply decline.
- Wear good shoes: the lanes are steep and slippery after rain.
Tours that include Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen fits easily into a route between Casablanca and Fes. See our 4-day Chefchaouen and Fes tour, the 7-day imperial cities tour, the 8-day Sahara tour via Chefchaouen or the 10-day tour with Chefchaouen and Essaouira.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Chefchaouen blue?
There is no single answer. Popular explanations include Jewish families who settled there, keeping mosquitoes away and keeping houses cool. Today the town keeps the colour for tradition and tourism.
Is Chefchaouen worth visiting?
Yes. It is one of the most photogenic and relaxing towns in Morocco, a calm contrast to Fes and Marrakech.
How many days do you need in Chefchaouen?
One night is enough for the highlights; two nights let you visit the Akchour waterfalls and enjoy the quiet mornings.
How do I get from Fes to Chefchaouen?
By road, in about 3.5 to 4 hours. There is no train; buses run daily, and a private driver is the fastest option.
Want to include the blue city in your trip? Contact us for a private tour with Chefchaouen.