Main attractions in Chefchaouen
The Medina of Chefchaouen
The heart and soul of Chefchaouen is its medina. Wandering through the narrow blue alleys feels like stepping into a different world. The calm and cooling effect of the blue walls, combined with the beautifully crafted doorways, the window iron bars and lots of flowering pots, create a serene atmosphere that is almost surreal. Try to walk inside the medina as much as you can, to reach every little pitorseque cornere there is to find!
Plaza Uta el-Hammam
This central square (“plaza”) is the focal point of life in Chefchaouen. Surrounded by cafes and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine while people-watching. Other than eating, you can also learn more about the local history visiting the museum located in this square.
The Kasbah Museum
Located in Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the Kasbah Museum is housed in a fortress built in the 15th century. Its Andalusian-style garden, small art gallery, and ethnographic museum provide a deep dive into the history and cultural heritage of the region. You can climb the tower of the Kasbah, that offers a panoramic view of the city.
Ras El Ma
Just outside the medina, the Ras El Ma water source is where the locals come to collect water, wash clothes, irrigate lands, move mills and catch up with neighbours. This natural spring reflects the daily life of Chefchaouen and offers a glimpse into the town’s reliance on traditional practices. It is probably the reason why people established in this location at the first place.
The Spanish Mosque
A short hike from the medina, the Spanish Mosque sits on a hill overlooking Chefchaouen. Built during the 1920s during the Rif war (war between the Spanish and the Berber tribes of the region), it was never actually used as a mosque but has become a popular spot for watching the sunset above the town.
To get to this location, you will have to go through the east exit and hike for about 30 minutes.
Moroccan cuisine
No visit to Chefchaouen is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Traditional Moroccan dishes like tajine, couscous, and mint tea are abundant. For a truly local experience, try the fresh goat cheese (jben), a regional specialty which is now consumed in all the country.
