Nestled in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco, Chefchaouen—nicknamed The Blue Pearl—is a visual dream. With its narrow blue-washed alleys, peaceful mountain views, and laid-back pace, it’s one of the country’s most photogenic towns. And yes, it can absolutely be done in a day trip from Fez.
Whether you’re looking to go independently or on a guided tour, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Fez to Chefchaouen day trip.
Option 1: Taking the CTM Bus from Fez to Chefchaouen
If you’re traveling independently, CTM is the most reliable and comfortable bus company operating between Fez and Chefchaouen.
- Departure: Buses leave from the Fez station, located about 3 km from the Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud). If you’re staying in the medina, it’s around a 40-minute walk, or a short taxi ride.
- Travel Time: The journey takes approximately 4.5 hours each way.
- Comfort Level: CTM buses are air-conditioned, have assigned seating, and generally run on time. It’s best to book in advance online—this route is popular.
- Price: A round-trip ticket costs MAD 252 (approx. €26)
When to Choose the Bus:
The CTM bus is a good option only if you plan to stay overnight in Chefchaouen. Otherwise, the long travel time and higher cost make it less practical for a one-day trip.
Option 2: Shared Day Tour from Fez (What We Did)
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- For a day trip, a shared transfer is actually the cheaper, faster, and more convenient option.
- Departure: The tour departs from the Blue Gate at 8:00 AM, which is ideal if you’re staying in the medina.
- Travel Time: Around 3.5 hours each way, with short stops for snacks and bathroom breaks.
- Return Time: You’ll be back in Fez by 7:00 PM.
- Price: Just €18 per person (approx. MAD 190) for a shared transfer in a minivan with a max of 16 people.
What We Did with 4 Hours in Chefchaouen
You get about 4 full hours in the Blue City, which was more than enough for:
- Non-stop photos around every blue-washed alley and charming stairway
- Lunch at El Cielo – Easily one of the best meals we had during 9 days in Morocco
- A sweet break in the main square (Place Outa el Hamam) with a scoop of ice cream and people-watching
For a one-day trip, we found this option quicker, more affordable, and far less hassle than taking the bus. The biggest convenience was being picked up directly from the medina, rather than walking 40 minutes to the bus station or paying for a taxi.
Happy Travels! x
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Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links for travel services I use and love, such as experiences and hotel bookings. If you click and make a booking, I may receive a small commission which helps support this site. This does not affect the price you pay.
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