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Chefchaouen, morocco

Chefchaouen

morocco

About Chefchaouen

Nicknamed the 'blue city' for being painted entirely in various shades of blue, Chefchaouen is popular among photographers looking for something unusual. Here, you'll wander around old buildings and streets steeped in history – the town was established in 1471 by Moorish and Jewish refugees, and it has a magnificent mix of cultures as a result. It's a low-key spot compared to the better-known Tangier and Fes, making it a relaxing place to slow down after the lively bustle of Morocco's bigger cities.

If you've always wanted to stay in a riad, you're in luck: many hostels in Chefchaouen are housed in these traditional, colourful Moroccan buildings, with grand central courtyards and arched windows. Choose a 600-year-old building restored by local craftsmen or a Chefchaouen hostel with a rooftop terrace for admiring the surrounding green mountains. Free breakfasts often come with traditional treats like mint tea. The temperature varies a lot in the mountains, so look for Chefchaouen hostels with fans for the warmer months and heaters for when it's cooler.

Travellers tend to stick close to the historical medina and the traditional Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the main square. Further out, you'll find a maze of smaller alleyways up winding flights of stairs. These areas are usually quieter, with locals going about their daily business. This is especially true out towards the Ras el-Maa natural water spout to the east of the city walls, where some residents do their laundry and gather to chat to each other. 

A top activity in Chefchaouen is strolling around the alleyways, either alone or on a tour, and enjoying the city's vibrant colours. Stop by the souk (market) to browse locally crafted leather products, or take a trip to the Andalusian Gardens in the Kasbah Museum. Outside town, the Rif Mountains are a hikers' paradise – the two-day trek to the Talassemtane National Park is especially popular. For laid-back walks, try the Cascades d'Akchour trail. It starts about a 30-minute taxi ride from Chefchaouen and leads to waterfalls and rock pools for swimming. 

The best way to explore Chefchaouen's labyrinthine streets is on foot. If you're arriving from Fes, it's around a 3.5-hour drive, while from Tangier it takes just over 2 hours. Public buses tend to involve slightly longer journeys, but they're convenient and inexpensive options from both cities. Some travellers prefer the CTM line, as you can book in advance on the website (up to 72 hours before). Taxis are available to take you to the outer reaches of Chefchaouen. 

City Info

Countrymorocco
Hostels9
Country CodeMO

9 Hostels in Chefchaouen

Bleu home
Bleu home

Located in Chefchaouen

10 (1 reviews)

Among the facilities at this property are a shared kitchen and a shared lounge, along with free WiFi throughout the property.

From Rs646.62
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Dar Dadicilef
Dar Dadicilef

Located in Chefchaouen

9.7 (811 reviews)

Dar Dadicilef is in the heart of the medina of Chefchaouen,

From Rs117.96
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Dar Hadra (Torre Hadra)
Dar Hadra (Torre Hadra)

Located in Chefchaouen

9.3 (179 reviews)

Along with comfortable accommodation Dar Hadra offers guided tours of the city and hiking in the mountains.

From Rs1428.78
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Pension Souika
Pension Souika

Located in Chefchaouen

9.3 (886 reviews)

We are situated in Chefchaouen, northern Morocco. Souikka is newly opened hostel in an old part of town, the medina.

From Rs9.24
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Hotel Chams
Hotel Chams

Located in Chefchaouen

9 (46 reviews)

Chams is located in the heart of Chefchaouen old city Medinna, our hostel Chams is 2 minutes walk from the main entrance of the old city Bab el Ain.

From Rs952.52
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Riad Baraka
Riad Baraka

Located in Chefchaouen

9 (2684 reviews)

Centrally located, stylish & comfortable rooms, 4 languages spoken, come and enjoy modern facilities and a Gourmet breakfast from Chaouen best terrace

From Rs138.56
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Aline Hostel
Aline Hostel

Located in Chefchaouen

8.8 (1339 reviews)

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of life, to refresh yourself, to rest, to have fun come to Aline Hostel in Chef Chaouen...

From Rs92.37
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Hostal la Joya
Hostal la Joya

Located in Chefchaouen

8.1 (366 reviews)

Hostal la Joya is very close to the main square Outa Hammam!

From Rs554.25
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AliBaba Appartement Hostel
AliBaba Appartement Hostel

Located in Chefchaouen

7.6 (5 reviews)

AliBaba Apartment Hostel offers private apartments, private rooms in shared apartment, and Bamboo rooms on the terrace.

From Rs357.19
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Backpacking in Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a fantastic destination for backpackers offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and affordability. Whether you're planning a short trip or making it part of a longer backpacking journey, this city should definitely be included in your travel itinerary. When looking for accommodation in Chefchaouen, hostels provide the best value and opportunity to meet fellow travelers.

Whether you're looking for a social party hostel, a quiet retreat, a centrally located base for exploring the city, or something in between, Chefchaouen has options for every type of traveler. Many hostels in Chefchaouen offer additional amenities like free breakfast, communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, and organized activities.

When visiting Chefchaouen, don't miss the opportunity to:

  • Explore the local cuisine and nightlife
  • Visit historical landmarks and cultural sites
  • Connect with other travelers at hostel events
  • Discover hidden gems off the tourist path in Chefchaouen