The Ultimate Guide: 20+ Most Instagrammable Places in Chefchaouen
Most Instagrammable Places in Chefchaouen Nestled in Morocco’s Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen’s mesmerizing blue-washed streets create a dreamlike canvas that has captivated photographers and Instagram enthusiasts worldwide. Finding the perfect spots to capture this azure wonderland can be overwhelming with so many picturesque corners. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to capture more of its magic, this comprehensive guide reveals the most photogenic locations, complete with an interactive map, photographer’s tips, and insider knowledge to help you create stunning images that stand out from the typical tourist shots.
Why is Chefchaouen So Blue? (A Quick Cultural Snapshot)
Before diving into the best photo spots, understanding why this city is awash in blue adds depth to your experience. The tradition dates back to the 1930s when Jewish refugees, who considered blue a symbol of heaven and divine protection, began painting buildings. Others suggest the color repels mosquitoes or cools buildings in summer. Whatever the origin, locals continue the tradition, regularly refreshing the blue wash, creating this living artwork that has become Morocco’s most photogenic city.
Interactive Map of Chefchaouen’s Most Instagrammable Spots
To make your photo adventure seamless, we’ve created a custom Google Map marking every location mentioned in this guide. Each pin includes the name, brief description, and corresponding number from this article.
How to use this map:
- Click the star icon to save it to “Your Places” in Google Maps
- Access it offline by downloading the area before your trip
- Use the pins to navigate efficiently between photo spots
💡 Pro Tip: Plan your route to hit the most popular spots early morning (before 9am) or during late afternoon golden hour when crowds thin and light is optimal.
The Top 20+ Instagrammable Places in Chefchaouen (Organized for Clarity)
Famous Landmarks & Viewpoints
1. The Famous Blue Stairs (Callejón el Asri)
This iconic staircase flanked by blue walls and colorful flower pots has become Chefchaouen’s most photographed spot. The vibrant flowers provide perfect contrast against the various shades of blue.
📍 Location: Just off Plaza Uta el-Hammam, behind Hotel Parador (Map Pin #1)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Arrive before 8am to have this spot to yourself. Position your subject about halfway up the stairs looking down to capture the beautiful curve and cascading blues. A 35mm lens works perfectly here to avoid distortion while capturing the full scene.
Cultural Note: Remember this is a residential area. Keep noise to a minimum and be respectful of locals who need to use these stairs daily.
2. Plaza Uta el-Hammam
The heart of Chefchaouen, this main square offers multiple photo opportunities with its restored kasbah, central fountain, and surrounding cafés with traditional Moroccan seating.
📍 Location: Central Chefchaouen, impossible to miss (Map Pin #2)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: The square looks most magical during blue hour (just after sunset) when café lights begin to twinkle against the deepening blue sky. For a unique shot, photograph the plaza from the elevated terrace of Café Aladdin.
3. Spanish Mosque Viewpoint
Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this abandoned mosque offers panoramic views of Chefchaouen nestled between mountains.
📍 Location: 20-minute uphill walk from the eastern edge of the medina (Map Pin #3)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: This is the ultimate sunset spot. Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset to secure a good position. Bring a zoom lens (70-200mm) to capture compressed shots of the blue city against the mountainous backdrop. A tripod is essential for sharp twilight shots.
Enchanting Blue Alleys & Streets
4. Callejón el Haouta
This narrow, winding street features striking variations of blue with charming doors and windows, creating perfect framing opportunities.
📍 Location: Northeast of Plaza Uta el-Hammam (Map Pin #4)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: The morning light creates beautiful shadows and highlights along this alley. Look for spots where sunshine streams between buildings, creating dramatic light beams against the blue walls.
5. Rue Bin Souaki
Known for its perfectly maintained blue wash and minimal foot traffic, this street offers some of the purest blue backdrops in the city.
📍 Location: Eastern medina, near Ras El Ma spring (Map Pin #5)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: The uniformity of blue here creates a surreal background. Have your subject wear contrasting colors like yellow or orange to really pop against the monochromatic backdrop.
6. Quartier Al Kharrazine
This neighborhood features narrow staircases and corridors with multiple arches that create natural frames for your photos.
📍 Location: Northeast section of the medina (Map Pin #6)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Look for intersecting alleyways that create dramatic leading lines. Shoot through arched doorways to frame distant subjects for added depth.
Picturesque Doors & Windows
7. The Blue Door with Red Flower Pots
This specific door has become famous on Instagram for its vibrant red geraniums contrasting against an intensely blue façade.
📍 Location: Near Bab Souk, western edge of medina (Map Pin #7)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: This spot receives harsh midday light, so photograph early morning or late afternoon. For a lifestyle shot, have someone pretend to knock or open the door slightly.
Cultural Note: This is a private residence, so be quick and quiet when photographing.
8. The Cat Door
A small blue door with a cat-shaped cutout at the bottom has become a quirky photo favorite.
📍 Location: Near Ras El Ma waterfall (Map Pin #8)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Get low to photograph this door at cat-eye level. If you’re lucky, one of Chefchaouen’s many street cats might even pose for you near its designated entrance!
9. Painted Pottery Door Frame
This distinctive entrance features colorful ceramic plates embedded around the doorframe, creating a unique frame within your photograph.
📍 Location: South of Plaza Uta el-Hammam (Map Pin #9)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Use a 50mm lens to capture both the details of the pottery and the context of the blue surroundings. Shoot during overcast conditions to avoid harsh shadows on the intricate details.
Artistic Details & Cultural Spots
10. The Woven Hat Wall
A display of traditional straw hats against a blue wall creates a perfect composition of textures and shapes.
📍 Location: Along Rue Targui, near the main market (Map Pin #10)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: This makes for a perfect flat lay opportunity – pick up a mint tea from a nearby café and place it among the hats for a quintessential Moroccan still life.
11. The Blue Carpet Stairs
These steps are regularly adorned with handwoven Moroccan carpets displayed for sale, creating a cascade of patterns against blue stairs.
📍 Location: Near the northern medina entrance (Map Pin #11)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Ask the carpet seller for permission before photographing their merchandise. A small tip or purchase is appreciated. Use a slightly elevated position to capture the full display of patterns.
12. Chefchaouen Arts Museum
This small museum not only houses interesting artifacts but features an inner courtyard with exceptional blue walls and traditional architecture.
📍 Location: Just off Plaza Uta el-Hammam (Map Pin #12)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: The inner courtyard has balanced, even lighting throughout the day, making it perfect for portraits any time. Look for the ornate windows and doorways that serve as beautiful natural frames.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
13. The Vertical Garden Wall
A lesser-known spot where plants grow from small niches in a blue wall, creating a living installation.
📍 Location: Near Ras El Ma waterfall, follow the river path south (Map Pin #13)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Use a shallow depth of field (f/2.8 or wider) to focus on particular plants while blurring the blue wall into a dreamy backdrop.
14. The Blue Shadow Staircase
During mid-morning, this specific staircase creates dramatic geometric shadows that photographers adore.
📍 Location: Northwest corner of the medina (Map Pin #14)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Visit between 10-11am when the sun creates the most distinctive shadow patterns. Experiment with black and white photography here to emphasize the graphic quality of light and shadow.
15. Rooftop of Casa Perleta
This guesthouse offers a stunning rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city’s blue rooftops and surrounding mountains.
📍 Location: Near Bab Souk (Map Pin #15)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Even if you’re not staying here, you can usually purchase a drink to access the rooftop. Visit at sunset for golden light washing over the sea of blue buildings. A wide-angle lens (16-24mm) is essential for capturing the expansive view.
16. The Blue Bridge
A small bridge crossing the Ras El Ma river painted in the city’s signature blue creates a perfect photo opportunity, especially with the sound of rushing water below.
📍 Location: Southeast of the medina near the water source (Map Pin #16)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Use a slow shutter speed (1/15 second or slower) to capture the motion blur of the water while maintaining the structural sharpness of the bridge. A portable tripod is helpful here.
Nature & Surroundings
17. Ras El Ma Waterfall
This small waterfall at the edge of town is where local women traditionally wash clothes. The combination of flowing water and blue surroundings creates magical photos.
📍 Location: Eastern edge of the medina (Map Pin #17)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: A polarizing filter eliminates water glare and enhances the blue tones. Always ask permission before photographing women working at the washing stations.
18. Akchour Waterfalls
Though located 30 minutes outside Chefchaouen, these stunning falls surrounded by lush vegetation offer a refreshing contrast to the blue city shots.
📍 Location: 30-minute drive + moderate hike from Chefchaouen (Map Pin #18)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Pack a waterproof camera case as spray from the falls can be substantial. The hike offers multiple photography opportunities, so allow a full day for this excursion.
Food & Beverage Spots
19. Café Clock’s Blue Courtyard
This popular café features a stunning blue courtyard with traditional seating and exceptional food styling opportunities.
📍 Location: Near Bab Souk (Map Pin #19)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Their mint tea service and traditional breakfast make for gorgeous top-down food photography against blue tables. Ask for a seat in the central courtyard for the best natural lighting.
20. Restaurant Morisco Terrace
Offering one of the best dining views in Chefchaouen, this restaurant’s terrace overlooks the entire medina.
📍 Location: Upper level near central Plaza (Map Pin #20)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Reserve a table for sunset. Order colorful dishes like a Moroccan salad or tagine that pop against the blue backdrop of the city below.
Bonus Spots for the Dedicated Photographer
21. The Blue Laundry Alley
On certain days, residents hang washing in this narrow alley, creating vibrant displays against the blue walls.
📍 Location: Northwest medina, ask locals for directions (Map Pin #21)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: This is entirely dependent on laundry day, usually midweek. Respect privacy and photograph from a distance using a telephoto lens to compress the colorful garments against the blue background.
22. The Cat Steps
A particular staircase frequented by several friendly cats offers unique opportunities for animal lovers.
📍 Location: Near western medina wall (Map Pin #22)
💡 Pro Photography Tip: Bring cat treats to encourage these photogenic felines to pose. A fast shutter speed (minimum 1/250) will help freeze their movements.
Beyond the Obvious: Finding Your Own Unique Shots
While this guide highlights the most photogenic spots, Chefchaouen rewards explorers. Look for:
- Unexpected Color Pops: Orange trees, red flower pots, yellow doors
- Texture Contrasts: Worn wooden doors against smooth blue walls
- Daily Life Moments: Locals going about their routines (always ask permission)
- Detail Shots: Antique door knockers, painted tiles, traditional crafts
- Reflections: Rain puddles or mirrors creating double blue magic
Don’t be afraid to wander off the main paths. Some of the most magical photos come from unplanned discoveries in quiet residential areas.
Practical Photography Tips for Chefchaouen
Best Times for Photography
| Time of Day | Advantages | Best Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Early Morning (6-9am) | Empty streets, soft light | Blue Stairs, Main Plaza, Narrow Alleys |
| Golden Hour (1hr before sunset) | Warm glow on blue walls | Spanish Mosque Viewpoint, Rooftops |
| Blue Hour (just after sunset) | Magical blue ambient light | Plaza with café lights, City Panoramas |
| Overcast Days | Even lighting, saturated blues | Anywhere – perfect for detailed shots |
Gear Suggestions
- Wide-angle lens (16-35mm): Essential for narrow alleys and architectural shots
- Standard prime lens (35mm or 50mm): Perfect for street scenes and portraits
- Lightweight tripod: Necessary for low-light and blue hour photography
- Polarizing filter: Enhances the blue colors and reduces glare
- Phone photographers: Download a camera app with manual controls for better exposure in challenging light
What to Wear for Photos
- Colors that pop against blue: Yellow, orange, white, red
- Flowing fabrics: Create movement and drama in your shots
- Culturally appropriate attire: Shoulders and knees covered (especially for women)
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking on uneven surfaces all day
💡 Style Tip: Pack a few statement accessories like hats or scarves that can quickly change your look between photos without requiring complete outfit changes.
Respectful Photography Guidelines
- Always ask permission before photographing locals
- Avoid photographing people in prayer or engaged in private activities
- Be patient and wait for crowds to clear rather than interrupting people’s movements
- Don’t block narrow pathways while setting up shots
- Consider purchasing items from shops or cafés whose exteriors you photograph
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the most famous Instagram spot in Chefchaouen? A: The blue staircase (Callejón el Asri) with flower pots is arguably the most photographed location in the city, appearing in countless Instagram posts.
Q: When is the best time of year to photograph Chefchaouen? A: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer ideal photography conditions with pleasant temperatures, good light, and moderate tourist numbers.
Q: Do I need to pay to take photos at these spots? A: Most outdoor locations are free to photograph. Some rooftop terraces may require you to purchase a drink, and museums charge entrance fees.
Q: How much time do I need to photograph all these locations? A: Two full days allows you to hit all major spots, with early mornings and evenings dedicated to the most popular locations when light is best.
Q: Are drones allowed in Chefchaouen? A: Drone usage is heavily restricted in Morocco and not permitted within the medina. Always check current regulations before traveling with a drone.
Q: Is it safe to walk around with expensive camera equipment? A: Chefchaouen is generally quite safe, but always maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially when changing lenses or using tripods.
Conclusion
Chefchaouen’s photogenic charm goes beyond its Instagram fame – it’s a place where every corner tells a story through color, light, and texture. This blue city offers endless creative possibilities for photographers willing to explore its winding streets and hidden corners.
With this map and guide in hand, you’re well-equipped to capture stunning images while experiencing the authentic magic of Morocco’s blue pearl. Remember that the best photographs often happen when you’re fully present, so take time between shots to absorb the unique atmosphere of this remarkable place.
Which of these Instagrammable spots are you most excited to photograph? Share your own Chefchaouen photos or tips in the comments below! And don’t forget to pin this guide for your upcoming Moroccan adventure.
Looking for more Moroccan photography inspiration? Check out our guides to [Marrakech’s Most Photogenic Riads] and [Capturing the Magic of the Sahara Desert].
