Complete Accommodation Guide: Where to Stay in Chefchaouen (2025)
Discover authentic Moroccan hospitality in the heart of the Blue City. From traditional riads within the medina walls to modern hotels with panoramic mountain views, Chefchaouen offers accommodations for every budget and travel style.
🏛️ Why Stay in the Medina?
"If it is in your budget than staying in the Medina is a must!" Experience the magic of waking up inside the blue-washed old city, where centuries-old traditions continue daily. From your accommodation, step directly into the enchanting world of cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and authentic Moroccan life.
🌟 Top Recommended Accommodations
Riad Baraka ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Small riad in the walled city with exceptional rooftop views
Highlights:
- Location: Inside the medina walls - perfect for experiencing the Blue City
- Rooftop Views: Stunning panoramic vistas of the medina and Rif Mountains
- Breakfast: Large traditional breakfast included, served on the rooftop
- Room Options: Both dormitory beds and private rooms available
- Best Time: Early morning rooftop breakfast captures the city as it wakes up
Booking: Book at Booking.com • Search "Riad Baraka Chefchaouen" on hotel booking sites
Perfect for: Budget to mid-range travelers • Photography enthusiasts • Cultural immersion seekers
Riad Gharnata ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Traditional riad with modern amenities and restaurant
Features:
- Dining: On-site restaurant serving traditional Moroccan cuisine
- Technology: Free WiFi throughout property
- Rooms: Each room includes TV and mini-bar for convenience
- Architecture: Classic Moroccan riad design with central courtyard
Booking: Book at Booking.com • Updated 2025 prices available • Advance reservations recommended
Lina Ryad & Spa ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Luxury 5-star accommodation with spa facilities
Premium Features:
- Spa Services: Full-service spa with traditional hammam and modern treatments
- Dining: On-site restaurant with gourmet Moroccan and international cuisine
- Pool: Swimming pool for relaxation and leisure
- Rate: From $231 USD per night (luxury tier)
Booking: Search on Booking.com • Reviews on TripAdvisor
Riad Alhambra ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Traditional design with exceptional rooftop terrace
Outstanding Features:
- Guest Rating: 4.9/5 from guest reviews
- Rooftop Terrace: Panoramic views ideal for sunset viewing
- Design: Authentic traditional Moroccan architecture
- Atmosphere: Peaceful courtyard setting with authentic charm
Booking: Search on Booking.com • Search hotel booking sites for "Riad Alhambra Chefchaouen"
Riad Nila ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Exceptional viewpoint riad with 360-degree rooftop
Special Features:
- Views: 360-degree panoramic rooftop terrace
- Guest Rating: Perfect 10/10 guest rating
- Location: Prime medina location
- Photography: Ideal for capturing the Blue City from all angles
Booking: Search on Booking.com • Contact through hotel booking platforms
💰 Accommodation by Budget (2025 Pricing)
Budget Options (Under 300 MAD/night)
Medina Guesthouses & Hostels
Dormitory Beds: 80-150 MAD per night • Shared facilities • Social atmosphere • Perfect for backpackers
Basic Private Rooms: 200-300 MAD per night • Simple but clean • Traditional architecture • Breakfast often included
What to Expect:
- Traditional Moroccan architecture with modern basic amenities
- Shared bathrooms in budget options
- Rooftop terraces for relaxation and city views
- Friendly local hospitality and insider tips
Mid-Range Options (300-800 MAD/night)
Traditional Riads
Classic Riad Experience: Beautiful central courtyards • Traditional tilework • Modern bathrooms • WiFi • Breakfast included
Riad Baraka: Exceptional value with rooftop breakfast and stunning views
Family-Run Guesthouses: Personal attention • Local insights • Home-cooked meals available
Amenities Include:
- Private bathrooms with hot water
- Air conditioning or traditional cooling systems
- WiFi in common areas and often in rooms
- Traditional Moroccan breakfast included
- Luggage storage and travel assistance
Luxury Options (800+ MAD/night)
Boutique Riads & Hotels
Premium Amenities:
- Spacious rooms with traditional Moroccan décor
- Premium bedding and furnishings
- Private bathrooms with luxury amenities
- On-site restaurants with gourmet Moroccan cuisine
- Spa services and hammam (traditional bath) facilities
- Concierge services for tours and activities
- Airport transfer arrangements
Riad Gharnata: Restaurant on-site • Modern amenities in traditional setting • Prime medina location
🏠 Types of Accommodation
Traditional Riads
What is a Riad? Traditional Moroccan house built around central courtyard • Interior-facing rooms for privacy and cooling • Often feature beautiful gardens, fountains, and traditional architecture
Riad Benefits:
- Authentic Experience: Sleep in centuries-old traditional architecture
- Cultural Immersion: Daily interaction with local customs and hospitality
- Peaceful Environment: Interior courtyards provide quiet retreat from street activity
- Personalized Service: Often family-owned with personal attention to guests
Modern Hotels
Contemporary Comfort: International hotel standards with Moroccan character • Reliable WiFi • Air conditioning • Modern bathrooms • Often located on medina edges
Best for: Travelers wanting modern amenities while experiencing Chefchaouen's charm
Guesthouses & Pensions
Family-Run Hospitality: Small properties with personal attention • Home-cooked meals • Local insights and recommendations • Budget-friendly with authentic experience
📍 Best Neighborhoods to Stay
Inside the Medina (Old City) - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Pros:
- Wake up inside the famous blue-painted streets
- Walking distance to all major attractions
- Authentic cultural experience
- Perfect for photography enthusiasts
- Traditional Moroccan architecture
Considerations:
- Narrow streets may challenge luggage transport
- Some noise from early morning activities
- Traditional buildings may have steep stairs
Medina Edge & New City
Pros:
- Easier access for vehicles and luggage
- Often better mountain views
- More modern amenities available
- Quieter at night
Considerations:
- 10-15 minute walk to medina center
- Less immersive cultural experience
- May require taxi for evening dining
🛏️ Room Types & What to Expect
Standard Riad Rooms
- Single Rooms: Perfect for solo travelers • Often with shared bath in budget options
- Double Rooms: Queen or twin beds • Private bathrooms in mid-range+ accommodations
- Triple Rooms: Ideal for families or friends • Often with extra floor mattress (traditional style)
- Suites: Larger rooms with sitting areas • Premium furnishings • Best views
Traditional Features
- Tadelakt Walls: Traditional polished plaster walls • Cool and beautiful
- Zellij Tilework: Intricate geometric patterns • Authentic Moroccan craftsmanship
- Cedar Wood Ceilings: Hand-carved traditional patterns • Natural and fragrant
- Berber Carpets: Traditional rugs adding warmth and authenticity
🍽️ Accommodation Dining Options
Breakfast Included
Traditional Moroccan Breakfast: Most accommodations include generous breakfast featuring:
- Fresh bread from local community ovens
- Local honey and preserves
- Traditional pancakes (msemen or baghrir)
- Moroccan mint tea and coffee
- Fresh seasonal fruits
- Local cheese and olives
Rooftop Breakfast: Many riads serve breakfast on rooftop terraces with stunning views of the medina and mountains
In-House Dining
- Riad Restaurants: Some accommodations offer lunch and dinner • Traditional home-style cooking
- Cooking Classes: Many riads arrange cooking workshops • Learn authentic Moroccan recipes
- Special Dietary Needs: Most accommodations accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary requirements with advance notice
🚗 Practical Accommodation Information
Arrival & Luggage
Medina Access: Cars cannot enter the old medina • Many accommodations offer luggage porter service from parking areas • Small fee (20-50 MAD) typically charged
Airport Transfers: Most mid-range+ accommodations arrange airport pickups • Prices vary by distance (100-300 MAD depending on airport)
Booking Considerations
- Peak Season: March-June and October-December • Book 2-4 weeks in advance
- Ramadan Period: Some accommodation policies change • Breakfast timing adjusted
- Summer Heat: July-August can be hot • Ensure accommodation has adequate cooling
- Winter Mountain Weather: December-February cooler • Check heating availability
Payment Methods
- Cash Preferred: Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) for smaller establishments
- Credit Cards: Accepted at larger riads and hotels • Visa/Mastercard most common
- Online Booking: Booking.com, Airbnb, and direct websites available
- Deposits: Often required for peak season bookings
📱 Technology & Connectivity
WiFi & Internet
- Most Accommodations: Free WiFi in common areas • Password provided at check-in
- In-Room WiFi: Available in mid-range+ accommodations • Speed varies
- Backup Options: Local cafes offer internet if accommodation WiFi fails
Electrical & Charging
- Outlets: European-style (Type C/E) • Bring universal adapter
- Voltage: 220V • Check device compatibility
- Charging Stations: Most accommodations provide USB charging options
🎯 Choosing the Right Accommodation
For First-Time Visitors
Recommendation: Traditional riad inside the medina • Cultural immersion • Walking distance to attractions • Riad Baraka excellent starting choice
For Photography Enthusiasts
Recommendation: Accommodation with rooftop terrace • Early morning and sunset access for golden hour photography • Medina location essential
For Families
Recommendation: Larger riads with triple rooms or family suites • Ground floor access if possible • Pool or garden areas for children
For Budget Travelers
Recommendation: Riad Baraka dormitory options • Community-style accommodations • Shared facilities but authentic experience
For Luxury Seekers
Recommendation: Boutique riads with spa services • Premium locations • Concierge services • Riad Gharnata for dining excellence
🌟 Insider Accommodation Tips
- Rooftop Access: Confirm 24/7 rooftop access for sunrise/sunset photography
- Local Connections: Ask accommodation owners for restaurant recommendations • Often know hidden gems
- Porter Services: Budget 20-50 MAD for luggage assistance in medina
- Arrival Timing: Coordinate arrival time with accommodation • Some have limited reception hours
- Cultural Respect: Traditional riads are family homes • Respect local customs and quiet hours
- Negotiation: Direct booking sometimes offers better rates than online platforms
- Extended Stays: Weekly/monthly rates often available for longer visits
