Morocco’s Blue City, Chefchaouen, Named Among World’s Most Beautiful Destinations

The SUN dedicates an article to Chefchaouen. "Just a few hours from the United Kingdom is a city full of blue buildings – and it has been named one of the most beautiful cities in the world," states the publication. It was Architectural Digest that named it one of the most beautiful cities in the world in 2024. "Few cities can entice a traveler to book a trip based on a single photo, but Chefchaouen, the blue-washed mountain town in northern Morocco, is one of those places," Architectural Digest magnifies.

Several explanations have been put forward regarding the blue color of the city. The buildings were said to have been painted blue by the Jews who settled there. Some think that blue helps to keep mosquitoes away, while others claim that the blue paint simply reflects the color of the sea.

Founded in 1471 by Jews and Moors fleeing Spain, the blue city captivates with its typical traditional architecture, its multiple natural landscapes, and its blue buildings. The most iconic places include the Kasbah – a 15th-century fortress and keep – and the Grand Mosque – one of the most important religious sites in the city with an octagonal minaret. In 2010, the medina of Chefchaouen was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.

The SUN invites British tourists to discover Chefchaouen, its dishes, particularly tagine, stalls selling saffron and other local products. "Food in general in the city is relatively cheap and restaurant meals can cost as little as £3.28, or £20.50 for a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant," it is specified. The city of Chefchaouen is also described as an ideal destination for backpackers and those on a limited budget. Many affordable accommodations can be found there.

To get to Chefchaouen, the British newspaper advises taking a flight from London Gatwick or London Stansted to Tangier in three hours. The ticket costs around £100 round trip.