Founded in 1471, this town of some 43,000 set at the foot of the Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco about two hours south of Tangier is most famous for its 16th-century medina (old quarter) packed with buildings in various shades of blue. It's a dream to wander its steep cobblestone lanes; luxuriate in its secret gardens; browse its souks and shops for lovely local products such as exquisite wood carvings, leather goods, woolen clothing, and woven blankets; sip aromatic mint tea at sidewalk cafés; visit a hammam (traditional sauna); stay in its picturesque riad guesthouses; and savour a delicious tagine in one of its many restaurants.

Read more in our post Chuffed by Chefchaoeuen, Morocco´s ¨Blue City¨.

Ethen Rera