The Ultimate 24-Hour Guide to Chefchaouen: Morocco’s Blue City
Blue doors in Chefchaouen, Morocco.
Why Visit Chefchaouen?
Tucked into the Mountains of northern Morocco, Chefchaouen, often called The Blue Pearl, is unlike anywhere else. Every corner is painted in shades of blue, and the pace of life is slow. It’s a dream for photographers, culture-lovers, and anyone looking to experience a quieter side of Morocco. While many visit on a day trip or a brief pitstop… an overnight stay allows you to soak in the highlights, snap incredible photos, and wander the medina without the crowds… if you know when and where to go. Let’s dive in.
Morning: Sunrise Wandering + Secret Blue Corners
7:30am - Sunrise Stroll
Start early. The tour buses haven’t arrived yet, the streets are quiet, and the morning light paints the blue walls with a soft glow. It’s the best time for photos, with no crowds or harsh shadows.
Wander without a map
Refrain from following Google Maps (for now). The magic of Chefchaouen is in getting lost. Duck into side alleys. Take the stairs. Follow the light. Some of the most photogenic spots are in the quieter edges of the Medina.
Pro tip: Wear colours that pop against the blue, such as white, orange, pink, red, or mustard. Avoid wearing blue (you’ll blend right in, in the wrong way).
Grab a quick Moroccan mint tea or fresh orange juice
Some stands will swap a juice for a photo opp… it’s worth it. The locals here are used to photography and often create beautifully styled picture perfect corners (some charge a small fee).
Late Morning: Cultural Sites + Quiet Escape
10:00am - Visit the Kasbah
Located in the heart of the medina, this ochre-coloured fortress is one of the few buildings not painted blue. Inside, you’ll find:
A peaceful garden
The Chefchaouen Ethnographic Museum
An old prison (great for quirky photos… ask the guard nicely and he might shackle you up)
Towers with panoramic views over the Medina (some of the best views of Chefchaouen)
Entry Fee: Approx. 60 MAD
Time Needed: 45-60 minutes
Why Go: The view from the towers is one of the best in town… with a sea of blue houses with date palms and rolling hills in the background.
Midday: Lunch With a View
12:30pm - Lunch
Try:
Café Clock Chefchaouen - A laid-back rooftop café with local fusion food, vegan options, and often live music.
Lala Mesouda - Cosy, authentic Moroccan food in a traditional setting.
Early Afternoon: Riverside Walk + Shopping
2:00pm - Explore the Ras El-Maa River
Head toward the small river that runs through the edge of the medina. It’s a peaceful break from the busy laneways, and offers great views looking back toward the blue city.
If you’re feeling energetic, follow the trail uphill toward the Mosque… it’s a 20–30 minute climb and offers beautiful sunset views. If not, stay at the riverside for some relaxed people-watching and cat-spotting (they’re adorable and very friendly).
Time for a bit of shopping
Contrary to popular belief, Chefchaouen’s medina has some of the best shopping in Morocco. You’ll find:
Handwoven blankets
Leather goods
Ceramics
Natural beauty products (think argan oil, rosewater, handmade soaps)
Artwork and photography prints
Be cautious if you’re offered “chocolate” - in Chefchaouen, that can be slang for cannabis or edibles, which are illegal in Morocco.
Late Afternoon: Golden Hour & Rooftop Vibes
4:30pm - Golden hour photography
As the tour busses and day trippers peel away, take advantage of golden hour. As the sun begins to set, Chefchaouen glows with a soft orange light that contrasts beautifully with the blue walls. This is the second-best time of day for photography (after sunrise). Alternatively (if you’re blue photo’d out), chill at a rooftop bar or cafe, or return to your accommodation for a dip in the pool to relax.
Evening: Dinner + Overnight Vibes
6:30pm - Dinner
If you’re staying overnight (which I highly recommend), spend your evening back in the medina. After the day trippers leave, the city becomes quiet and magical again.
Dinner at Restaurant Triana
Sit outdoors if the weather is good to watch the sunset, the terrace overlooks the valley and distant mountains. If you’re lucky, you might spot the playful resident puppies. Then head indoors to enjoy a drink or two while listing to local live music.
Recommended Stay:
Hotel Parador - Central location, great views, pool with a panorama
Riad Nila - Beautiful design touches with a rooftop terrace
Casa Sabila - Boutique style, close to the medina, known for its warmth and local hospitality
24-Hour Itinerary Summary
Time Activity
7:30am Sunrise stroll through the medina & hidden alleys
9:00am Mint tea or orange juice photo stop
10:00am Visit the Kasbah & towers
12:30pm Lunch with a view
2:00pm River walk + shopping
4:30pm Golden hour photos + rooftop relaxation
6:30pm Dinner, drinks, and live music
One day in Chefchaouen is enough to fall in love with the blue city… especially if you time your visit around the crowds and focus on the moments between. Get lost. Chat with locals. Sip mint tea slowly. Take the photo, then put the camera down and just be there in the moment.
Planning a visit to Morocco? You might like:
Disclosure: This blog includes affiliate links. I will be paid a commission if you use these links to make a purchase.