Fez: Day Tour to the Blue Town of Chefchaouen

Are you looking for a one day excursion from Fez to the vibrant and stunning blue town of Chefchaouen? With its ancient medina, beautiful cobbled streets and incredible blue painted walls, Chefchaouen is one of the most interesting places in Morocco and should not be missed. Read below for a full guide to the local sights, activities and tips on how to make the most out of your day trip.

Getting from Fez to Chefchaouen

The journey from Fez to Chefchaouen takes approximately 3 to 4 hours by car. You can either hire a driver for the day, take a private transfer or take a shared shuttle or train. Car hire is generally the most cost effective way to travel, as you will have more flexibility in terms of stops, departures and duration. Private transfers are normally the fastest and most luxurious way to get there, and shared shuttles or train can also be a convenient option if you don’t want to drive yourself. If you choose the shared shuttle option, be sure to book in advance, as they can fill up quickly.

Things to Do in Chefchaouen

Once you’ve arrived in Chefchaouen, there is an array of activities to enjoy.

Explore the Old Town

The Old Town of Chefchaouen should be your first stop. Here, you can explore the cobbled streets, colorful buildings and artisan markets which give Chefchaouen its unique character. The town is known for its hand-dyed fabrics, leather goods and intricate rugs, so be sure to haggle with the locals for a good price!

Visit the Kasbah

At the edge of the Old Town lies the Kasbah, one of the main tourist sights in Chefchaouen. This old fort has been restored to its original glory and is now home to a museum featuring traditional weapons, pottery and sculptures. If you make it up the hill, you will get an incredible view of Chefchaouen from the top!

Stroll Through the Medina

The Medina of Chefchaouen is also worth exploring. Here you will find plenty of souvenir shops, street food vendors and locals selling traditional crafts. Be sure to take some time to wander around and soak up the atmosphere of this unique town.

Hike Up Jebel El-Kelaa

For more incredible views over Chefchaouen, make sure to hike up Jebel El-Kelaa. This mountain is located just outside of the city and gives you an incredible 360-degree view over the town. The hike isn’t particularly strenuous and is suitable for most people.

Take a Day Trip To Volubilis

Volubilis is an ancient Roman city located just outside of Fez and is a great day trip from Chefchaouen. Here you will find awe-inspiring ruins, mosaics, tombs and more. Make sure to hire a tour guide if possible as they can fill you in with lots of interesting details.

When To Visit

Chefchaouen is best visited between April and June when temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer tourists around. If you’re looking for more vibrant atmosphere and better deals, then visit during Ramadan when many locals head back to their hometowns for celebrations.

Where To Stay In Chefchaouen

There are plenty of great accommodation options in Chefchaouen including hotels, hostels and Airbnbs. Check out GetYourGuide for the best deals and make sure to book in advance if possible.

Additional Tips For Visiting Chefchaouen

• Make sure to bring comfortable shoes as you will be doing lots of walking.
• Bring some supplies as it can be hard to find grocery stores in Chefchaouen.
• If visiting during Ramadan, be aware that many businesses will close during prayer times.
• Don’t forget your camera as there are plenty of photo opportunities!

Chefchaouen is an incredibly vibrant town that is not to be missed! With its cobbled streets, colorful buildings and stunning views, it truly is one of Morocco’s hidden gems. Packed with plenty of interesting sights and activities, make sure to book your day trip from Fez in advance to make sure you don’t miss out on anything! If you are looking for more information or would like to book a day trip or activity in Chefchaouen, check out GetYourGuide.

An Insider’s Guide to Fez: Uncovering Hidden Gems, Cultural Experiences & Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Fez is a city brimming with history and culture that offers a unique travel experience for people seeking an unforgettable vacation. While many tourists flock to the famous landmarks, such as the Royal Palace or the Bou Inania Madrasa, the city has plenty of lesser-known attractions that are just as fascinating. Here’s an insider’s guide to Fez that will make your trip one-of-a-kind.

Local Attractions: The Hidden Gems

The Chouara Tannery is an iconic attraction in Fez, but have you heard of the Seffarine Medersa? This Islamic college was built in the 14th century and is adorned with intricate tile work and carvings. You can marvel at the beautiful architecture and learn about the history of Islamic education in the city.

If you prefer something outdoors, the Jnan Sbil Gardens offer shade and serenity. Located near the heart of the medina, the gardens are a perfect escape from the bustling city, with tall palms, blooming flowers, and small ponds.

Dining Spots: The Best of Fez’s Food Scene

For an authentic taste of Fez, head to the streets and savour the local street food. Try the bissara, a delicious savory soup made from dried split fava beans, or the m’smmen, a flaky and buttery flatbread that is perfect for breakfast. To experience fine dining, book a table at Restaurant Nur, which offers a contemporary twist on classic Moroccan cuisine, using only the freshest seasonal ingredients.

Apart from the tasty food, Fez’s Cafe Clock is a cultural hub where locals and tourists gather for storytelling, live music, and even cooking classes. Brush up your culinary skills and try your hand at making a traditional Moroccan meal.

Cultural Experiences: Insights into Fez’s Traditions

In Fez, music is an integral part of the culture. Head to the Qarawiyyin Mosque, an ancient Islamic university that also hosts concerts from time to time. At the Dar Adiyel cultural center, you can learn to play traditional Moroccan instruments like the oud, the qanun, or the ney.

Another immersive experience is to attend the local festivals. In September, Sefrou Cherry Festival brings together vendors and performers for three days of music, food, and dancing. In July, the Festival of World Sacred Music brings together artists from all over the globe to perform in various venues throughout the city.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from Fez

Fez was once the capital of Morocco, and as such, has an impressive history that goes back centuries. The Kairaouine Mosque was founded in the 9th century and is the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Its library holds over 40,000 ancient manuscripts.

Another fascinating story is the rivalry between Fez and Marrakesh. The two cities competed to be the cultural and political center of Morocco and left behind a legacy of beautiful architecture, such as the Bahia Palace in Marrakesh. Fez’s answer is the Dar Batha Museum, which houses a magnificent collection of Fez’s traditional arts and crafts.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unique Adventures in Fez

If you’re an adventurous spirit, take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise over the Atlas Mountains and witness the stunning landscapes from above. To truly experience the city’s artisanal legacy, head to the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts, where you can admire traditional Moroccan woodworking techniques.

Finally, for an unforgettable night out, visit the Palais Amani hotel, where you can sip on cocktails while watching a belly dancing show in a beautifully restored 17th-century palace.

Fez is a city brimming with history, creativity, and traditions, and there’s no better way to explore it than by going off the beaten path. Adventures like these will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime and stories that you’ll share for years to come.