Do you only have 1 day in Chefchaouen, and want to make the most of it? Here is the perfect itinerary for spending 1 day in the blue pearl of Morocco, Chefchaouen!
In this 1 day Chefchaouen itinerary, you will:
- Visit the historical kasbah and Mosque
- Explore the beautiful blue buildings of Chefchaouen
- Shop for souvenirs in the souks
- Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch
- Sip Moroccan mint tea at the lovely waterfalls
- Climb up to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views of the city
- Enjoy a lovely dinner on a local restaurant terrace
- Relax with a cup of mint tea
Also, at the end of this Chefchaouen 1 day itinerary, I included recommendations on where to eat and where to stay for the night, and the best time to visit.
So without further ado, let’s get started!
Chefchaouen itinerary: How to spend 1 day in Chefchaouen
Explore Outa Hammam square and its attractions
Outa Hammam square is the beating heart of Chefchaouen. It’s a great place to start your 1-day itinerary, as you can get orientated and see some of the beautiful blue buildings for which this city is so famous.
The 15-century kasbah (fortress) is located in Outa Hammam square. This Kasbah is the first building that was constructed in Chefchaouen, and it served as a house for the ruler of Chefchaoueb.
The Kasbah today houses a museum with traditional Moroccan artifacts and an Andalusian garden to visit.
Another great attraction in the square is the Great Mosque, which was built in the 16 century during the foundation of the city of Chefchaoun. There are two things that distinguish the Great Mosque of Chefchaoun.
- First, the marvelous 8 faces Menara. Most mosques in Morocco are built with Menaras of 4 faces only, so this one is quite unique.
- The second thing that makes this mosque special is its handmade wooden lanterns. Usually, Moroccan lanterns are made with either glass or metal, but the ones in this mosque are made entirely of wood. And the decoration is simply stunning!
Note: Non-Muslims are not allowed inside the mosque.
The mosque and the Kasbah are not the only things in Outa Hammam square. There are several local cafes and restaurants where you can try traditional Moroccan food.
Outa Hammam square location on Google maps
Get lost in the blue alleyways of the old Medina
Right from Outa Hammam square, you will enter the old Medina of Chefchaouen. This is the most touristy part of the city.
As you walk around the Medina, you will be mesmerized by the blue buildings and narrow streets. Every single house and building in Chefchaouen is painted blue and white!
The local community of every neighborhood contributes to the regular painting of their own area so that the city always looks well-maintained and colorful. and the most interesting thing is that they use natural and eco-friendly dyes to color the buildings.
There are several small shops and stalls in the Medina where you can buy Moroccan souvenirs, such as traditional slippers, lanterns, bags, and spices.
One of the best things to do in Chefchaouen is simply get lost in its streets and find small hidden gems and decorated spots to take photos.
Shop in the small markets and art galleries
During your old Medina exploration, make sure to stop by the small shops and art galleries. These places are usually family-run businesses, and the owners are more than happy to chat with you about their products.
In the shops, you will find anything from traditional Moroccan clothes to handmade jewelry and leather goods.
And in the art galleries, you will find beautiful paintings and ceramics made by local artists. so, if you’re looking for souvenirs to bring home, this is the place to find them!
Not sure what to buy in Chefchaouen? check out our souvenir shopping guide.
Have lunch at a local restaurant in the old Medina
After all that walking around, you must be starving! There are plenty of great places to have lunch in the old Medina.
To try the best of Moroccan cuisine, head to Assaada restaurant in the heart of the Medina. This restaurant is famous for its traditional dishes, such as lamb and goat tagines, couscous, and many more.
Also, Assaada is a super budget-friendly restaurant, with most dishes costing less than other restaurants in the area.
Assaada restaurant location on Google Maps
If you are willing to pay a little bit more and want to try international cuisines, go to Café Clock. It’s a famous restaurant in Morocco and they also have branches in Marrakech and Fez.
At Cafe Clock, you can have a nice meal (Moroccan and western food), book cooking classes, have Henna tattoos done, and listen to live music.
Cafe Clock Chefchouen location on Google Maps
Spend an hour or two in Ras El ma waterfalls
Once you’re done with your lunch, it’s time to walk off all those calories and explore the green side of Chefchaouen.
Head to Ras El ma, the waterfalls of Chefchaouen. Ras El ma means head of the water and this is where the city of Chefchaouen gets its clean water.
The walk to the waterfall takes around 15 to 20 minutes. and it’s through the old Medina so you get to see more of the blue-washed building.
Ras El ma waterfalls are a great spot to relax and take in the fresh air while enjoying a fresh cup of mint tea in the cafes around.
And if you are lucky, you can also try the traditional outfits of Chefchaouen and take pictures with them at a small fee.
Ras El ma location on Google Maps
Enjoy the sunset at the Spanish mosque
The Spanish mosque is Chefchaouen’s most iconic spot and you must include it in your 1-day itinerary.
It’s located on a hilltop offering great views of the city. Straight from Ras El ma, continue your walk uphill to the Spanish mosque. It will take you another 15 to 20 minutes also to get there.
The mosque was built in the early 20th century by Spanish settlers. and it’s one of the few buildings in Chefchaouen that isn’t blue!
The best time to be at the mosque is during sunset when the city lights up and the views are simply mesmerizing.
Spanish mosque location on Google Maps
Enjoy a delicious dinner
If you are staying for dinner in Chefchaoun, you must try the food at Restaurant Bab Ssour.
This restaurant is one of the most recommended in town and for good reason. The food is absolutely amazing and they have a great selection of vegetarian options as well.
One of their must-try dishes is the seafood tagine but don’t hesitate to try other dishes as well. For the best dining experience, make sure to sit on the terrace.
Restaurant Bab Ssour location on Google Maps
Chefchaouen 1-day itinerary: When is the best time to visit
The good thing about Chefchaouen is that it’s a great place to visit all year round. Temperatures don’t get so high in summer and it’s not too freezing in winter either.
However, I personally think Chefchaoun is at its best during the spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, and November) seasons.
During this time, the weather is just perfect for exploring the city and all its surroundings.
Chefchaouen 1 day itinerary: Where to stay
If you decide to spend a night or two in Chefchaoun, here are some of the best places to stay:
Budget: Hôtel Koutoubia
Hotel Koutoubia is a great option if you’re looking for a cheap but comfortable place to stay in Chefchaouen. It’s located near the old Medina on the side of a mountain. The rooms in Hotel Koutoubia are simple but clean and the staff is very friendly and helpful.
Check the price and availability of Hotel Koutoubia
Mid-Range: Dar Meziana
With rooms nicely decorated in a traditional Moroccan style, this is a great mid-range option to stay in Chefchaouen. The hotel has a terrace where you can enjoy breakfast with a panoramic view of the city. It’s also a few minutes walks from most attractions in the city including the Kasbah and the waterfalls.
Check the price and availability of Dar Meziana
Luxury: Dar Jasmine
Dar Jasmine is a four-star hotel in Chefchaouen. Nested in the Rif mountains of the city, this hotel is undoubtedly the perfect place to stay for stunning views of the city and mountains. The hotel also offers a swimming pool, a garden, and beautifully decorated and spacious rooms.
Check the price and availability of Dar Jasmine
Note: Hotels in Chefchaouen tend to fill up quickly make sure to book your room in advance. Don’t leave it for the last minute! Book your hotel now
And that’s it! This is how you can spend 1 day in Chefchaouen, the blue city of Morocco.
Do you have any other recommendations for things to do in Chefchaouen? let me know in the comments below!
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