Chefchaouen Medina, Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima, Morocco

5Cimmerianbloke 5:00 PM Dec 14, 2022

Photographic bliss
The old medina of Chefchaouen is a photographer's dream. The blue-painted alleys, the stray cats, the glorious weather all compensate for the tourist trap atmosphere and the overabundance of souvenir shops. The best moments to visit the village are early mornings or eventually winter-time as less tourists flood the place. I have been able to dodge harassing souvenir sellers and even managed to eat quietly outside the medina for a decent price. I would definitely avoid this beautiful place during the summer though. Recommended for its lovely atmosphere.

5cymopterus 5:00 PM Feb 23, 2020

The Medinas of Chefchaouen, Fes, and Marrakesh – Some Thoughts
We spent at least a couple days in each of these Medinas during our travels. Here are some thoughts. Each adds to a wonderful visit to Morocco. Chefchaouen – A pleasure to explore with its beautiful blue walls and calm streets. Town consisted mostly of locals going about their daily business and lives with relatively few tourists peering around. Nice intact neighborhoods each with a wonderful tiled fountain. Shopkeepers and sales people are pleasant and friendly. A great place to shop and wander. A picturesque town not to be missed. Fes – Fes is an amazing city. As you venture through one of the gates into the Medina, you seem to step back in time. Much of it is as it was probably a century ago. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the narrow streets. The city was built on slopes leading down to the central river so as you walk from the city wall into the central portions you are heading down as the streets or walkways become narrower and buildings higher, adding to its mystery. The sloping nature of the city also allows for fantastic views from the many terraces of riads and restaurants. It is easy to get lost on the very narrow side streets that lead into the many neighborhoods, many of which terminate in dead ends, making for exciting exploring. Sitting in a street side restaurant and watching the throngs of people passing by is a great activity while in Fes. Most locals are very friendly, but watch out for the few want-to-be guides, who offer to be helpful for a price. Marrakesh – The Medina is large and hectic, especially because motorcycles are allowed on all the streets and narrow walkways. You have to continually dodge motorcycles and, on some streets, cars, as they zoom by. The large central souk is a labyrinth of narrow streets brimming with a wide assortment of interesting goods and crafts. You can easily wander in circles trying to find your way out. Marrakesh has the most tourists of the three Medinas and their mark is felt. The Bahia Palace, Maison de la Photographie, and Jardin Majorelle located in or near the Medina are all worth a visit. Experiencing the evening chaos and activity at the Djemaa el-Fna, the main square, is also a must.