The Hidden Blue Gem of Morocco

Located in the mountains of northern Morocco is a city that you should not miss when visiting this beautiful country. Many people skip it because it takes some time to get there, but it’s worth every minute of the journey.

A Mountain City Worth the Journey

The city feels completely different from the rest of Morocco and has its own special atmosphere. I actually started my travels in Morocco here, and it was the perfect place for me to begin. The city is calm, beautiful and peaceful, especially compared to places like Fes and Marrakesh.

Welcome to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s Blue City

There’s one thing that makes Chefchaouen stand out and might be the reason you’ve heard of it before. It’s known as the Blue City, and that name couldn’t be more accurate. The entire city is covered in blue, from the buildings to the streets, in every shade you can imagine.

Everywhere you look, there’s blue, and it’s something you really have to see in person to appreciate

A Name That Reflects the Landscape

The name Chefchaouen is a mix of Arabic and Berber, and it literally describes the landscape around it. It means “watch the horns,” referring to the two mountain peaks that rise above the city and look like horns.

The city is surrounded by lush green mountains and sits on a hill where the blue buildings start at the bottom and stretch all the way up to the top.

When I say the town is blue, I really mean it. Walking through the medina of Chefchaouen feels almost unreal. The floors are blue, the walls are blue, the houses are blue, even the rooftops are blue.

Every shade you can think of covers the city, and it makes the streets and alleyways look like something out of a painting.

A Medina Painted in Every Shade of Blue

The locals take a lot of pride in keeping the city beautiful. You’ll see local art hanging on the walls, small decorations, and handmade pieces that reflect their culture. Every street you walk down has its own look. Even the squares have blue benches, blue tiles, and colorful windows.

Every door is painted a different shade or has its own design, and it’s so fun to wander around and see how each one is different. You could walk through the medina for hours and still find new little spots that make you stop and look around in awe.