Morocco has many incredible destinations, but Chefchaouen and Fez are two of the most popular among travelers. Both cities are rich in culture and history, yet they offer completely different experiences. If you’re planning a trip and wondering which one to choose, this guide will help you decide.
🏙️ Overview of Each City
🌊 Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl
- Famous for its blue-painted streets and mountain views
- Peaceful, photogenic, and perfect for relaxation
- Great for nature lovers and hikers
🕌 Fez – Morocco’s Cultural Capital
- Home to the world’s oldest university (Al-Qarawiyyin)
- A bustling, maze-like UNESCO-listed medina full of souks and history
- Best for culture, history, and authentic Moroccan life
🎯 Top Things to Do
✅ In Chefchaouen:
- Wander the blue streets and take stunning photos
- Hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views
- Visit local artisan shops and enjoy Moroccan mint tea
- Take day trips to Akchour waterfalls or Talassemtane National Park
✅ In Fez:
- Explore Fez Medina, one of the largest car-free areas in the world
- Visit Chouara Tannery, Al-Qarawiyyin University, and Bou Inania Madrasa
- Shop for traditional crafts like leather goods, pottery, and carpets
- Take a day trip to Volubilis (Roman ruins) and Meknes
🛍️ Shopping & Souks
- Fez: Best for authentic handicrafts, leather bags, and traditional goods.
- Chefchaouen: Smaller souks with unique wool products and handmade items.
🍲 Food Experience
- Fez: More variety of street food and fine dining, famous for pastilla and harira.
- Chefchaouen: Cozy cafés with mountain views, serving tajine and couscous.
📸 Atmosphere & Vibe
- Chefchaouen: Laid-back, quiet, and picturesque – great for couples and photographers.
- Fez: Bustling, historic, and immersive – perfect for culture lovers.
🚌 Accessibility
- Chefchaouen: No airport, usually reached from Tangier, Fez, or Tetouan.
- Fez: Has an international airport and train connections to major cities.
🏆 Which One Should You Choose?
| Best For | Chefchaouen 🌊 | Fez 🕌 |
|---|---|---|
| Culture & History | ❌ | ✅ |
| Photography | ✅ | ✅ |
| Shopping Souks | ❌ | ✅ |
| Relaxation | ✅ | ❌ |
| Easy Access | ❌ | ✅ |
✔ Choose Chefchaouen if you want a peaceful, photogenic trip with hiking and mountain views.
✔ Choose Fez if you want history, culture, shopping, and an authentic Moroccan experience.
💡 Best Option? Visit both cities! You can travel between Fez and Chefchaouen in about 4 hours by car or bus, making it easy to combine them in your itinerary.