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Its blue lanes are among the most photographed in Morocco, and the town is only 115 km away. Here are all the ways to travel from Tangier to Chefchaouen, how long to allow and our tips to make the most of the blue pearl of the Rif.
Distance and travel time from Tangier to Chefchaouen
Allow about 2 hours 30 minutes on the road. The usual route goes through Tetouan, skirting the Rif mountains. The road is good but winding on the last stretch through the hills. Plan a break halfway, for instance for a tea with a view.
How to get from Tangier to Chefchaouen
By bus. Several companies link Tangier bus station with Chefchaouen every day. It is cheap, but the journey is longer and timetables are not flexible for a day trip.
By grand taxi. Possible with a change in Tetouan. Shared taxis leave when full, so your arrival time is uncertain.
On an organised day trip. The easiest option for a day: hotel pickup, local guide on site and return in the evening. Our Chefchaouen day trip from Tangier leaves in the morning and gives you about five hours in the blue city.
By private transfer. Ideal if you stay overnight in Chefchaouen or continue to Fes: the driver drops you at your riad, at your own pace. See our fixed-price Tangier – Chefchaouen transfer.
What to see in Chefchaouen
- Outa el Hammam square: the heart of the medina, with cafés facing the Great Mosque.
- The Kasbah: an ochre fortress with an Andalusian garden and a small ethnographic museum.
- The blue lanes: every corner is a postcard; the prettiest are in the upper quarters.
- Ras el Ma: the spring at the edge of town, where locals still wash clothes.
- The Spanish Mosque: a 30-minute walk for a panoramic sunset view.
To go further, the Akchour and Chefchaouen tour combines the blue city with a guided walk to the waterfalls, while our 2-day Chefchaouen tour lets you stay the night.
Our tips for the trip from Tangier to Chefchaouen
- Leave early to enjoy the morning light and avoid the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the medina is steep and cobbled.
- Ask before photographing local people.
- Bring a jacket: the mountains are cooler than Tangier.
To learn more about the town, see Chefchaouen on Wikipedia, then read our list of things to do in Tangier to complete your stay.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take from Tangier to Chefchaouen?
Allow about 2 hours 30 minutes for 115 km via Tetouan, depending on traffic.
Can I visit Chefchaouen in a day from Tangier?
Yes, a day trip gives you 4 to 5 hours there, enough for the medina, Outa el Hammam square and the Spanish Mosque viewpoint.
When should I go to avoid the crowds?
An early departure gets you there before the groups. On weekdays and outside holidays the town is much quieter.
