Getting to Chefchaouen from Tangier
Chefchaouen, the blue town of the Rif, is the most requested day trip from Tangier. Here is how to get there, how much time to allow and what to see.
- Allow about two hours by road.
- No train: car, grand taxi or coach.
- One day is enough; a night there is more pleasant.
How long the drive takes
Chefchaouen is about two hours by road from Tangier, via Tetouan or inland. The road crosses the hills of the Rif and becomes winding as you approach the town.
Ways to get there
By car, you are free to set your own times and can stop in Tetouan. By grand taxi, you can book a taxi for the day, or go via Tetouan in a shared taxi. By coach, companies such as CTM serve Chefchaouen: book the day before in high season. Organised trips from Tangier are also very common.
What to see in Chefchaouen
You explore the medina without a map, among blue walls, studded doors and flowerpots. Outa el-Hammam square, with its kasbah, is the meeting point. The Ras el-Ma spring marks the top of the town. For the overall view, walk up to the Spanish Mosque, preferably in the late afternoon.
A day trip or a night there?
In one day you will see the essentials, but you will share the medina with many visitors. With a night, you enjoy the calm of the evening and morning, the best times for photos.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take between Tangier and Chefchaouen?
About two hours by road.
Is there a train to Chefchaouen?
No. You go by car, grand taxi or coach.
Can you do Tangier–Chefchaouen in a day?
Yes, if you leave early. A night there is still more pleasant.