Place Outa el Hammam Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen's lively central square, framed by historic architecture and buzzing with cafes and local life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, cooler temps
Place Outa el Hammam Chefchaouen
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chefchaouen's lively central square, framed by historic architecture and buzzing with cafes and local life.
"The vibrant heart of Chefchaouen, perfect for soaking in the blue city's unique atmosphere."
Politely Decline Touts
Restaurant promoters can be persistent. A firm 'no, thank you' usually works.
Enjoy Mint Tea
Sip on traditional mint tea at a cafe and watch the world go by.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bustling Square
Place Outa el Hammam
Chefchaouen's vibrant heart, alive with cafes, shops, and local life. Perfect for people-watching.
Kasbah Museum
Within Place Outa el Hammam
Explore the historic fortress for insights into Chefchaouen's past and panoramic city views.
Grand Mosque
Adjacent to Place Outa el Hammam
An iconic landmark with a distinctive octagonal minaret, a beautiful architectural sight.
Parrot Encounters
Place Outa el Hammam
Colorful parrots often feature in photo opportunities with local guides, adding a unique touch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Blue City's Heart
Embrace the Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Politely Decline Touts
Restaurant promoters can be persistent. A firm 'no, thank you' usually works.
Enjoy Mint Tea
Sip on traditional mint tea at a cafe and watch the world go by.
Capture the Colors
The square and surrounding alleys are incredibly photogenic.
Visit the Kasbah
Don't miss the Kasbah for history and great views over the square.
Tips
from all over the internet
Politely Decline Touts
Restaurant promoters can be persistent. A firm 'no, thank you' usually works.
Enjoy Mint Tea
Sip on traditional mint tea at a cafe and watch the world go by.
Capture the Colors
The square and surrounding alleys are incredibly photogenic.
Visit the Kasbah
Don't miss the Kasbah for history and great views over the square.
Sunset Views
Head to nearby viewpoints for stunning sunset vistas over the blue city.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Place Outa el Hammam is the vibrant, beating heart of Chefchaouen, offering a lively atmosphere with cafes, shops, and historical landmarks like the Kasbah. Visitors enjoy the people-watching and the central location, though some find the aggressive restaurant promoters to be a downside. The unique parrot encounters add a memorable, if sometimes debated, element to the square's character.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Place Outa el Hammam is the main square and the heart of Chefchaouen's medina. If you're staying within the medina, it's easily walkable. For those arriving by taxi, ask to be dropped off at the entrance to the medina, and it's a short walk from there. Many visitors find it's best to park outside the medina and walk in.
Parking directly at Place Outa el Hammam is not possible as it's within the pedestrian medina. There are several parking lots available just outside the medina walls. These are generally safe and affordable, and it's a short walk into the square.
The most common ways to reach Chefchaouen are by bus or grand taxi. Buses from major cities like Fes, Tangier, and Tetouan are frequent and affordable. Grand taxis offer a faster but more expensive option. Consider booking bus tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Place Outa el Hammam itself is a public square and is free to enter. You can wander freely and enjoy the atmosphere.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee to visit the Kasbah Museum located within Place Outa el Hammam. It's well worth the modest cost for the historical insights and views.
The Kasbah Museum typically opens daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check locally or a few days before your visit for the most up-to-date information. Generally, it's open during daylight hours.
The Grand Mosque is primarily a place of worship. Non-Muslims are generally not permitted to enter the mosque itself, but you can admire its exterior architecture from the square.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire square is a photographer's dream! Capture the lively cafes, the Kasbah, the Grand Mosque, and the colorful interactions. Don't forget to explore the surrounding blue alleys for iconic shots.
It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors or those involved in activities like the parrot encounters. Many are happy to pose for a small tip. 
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing the warm tones of the buildings and the lively atmosphere. Mornings are quieter and offer a different, more serene perspective.
Look out for the colorful parrots that are often part of photo opportunities with local guides. Also, the 'Chefchaouen' letter signs are popular spots for memorable photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The square is lined with cafes and restaurants offering a range of Moroccan cuisine, from tagines and couscous to grilled meats and fresh salads. Many have outdoor seating perfect for enjoying the ambiance.
While some restaurants can be pricier, you can find more affordable options by exploring slightly off the main square or looking for smaller cafes. Street food and local bakeries also offer budget-friendly snacks.
Expect to pay anywhere from 80-150 MAD for a main course at a sit-down restaurant in the square. Cafes offering lighter meals or snacks will be less.
Many visitors enjoy the experience of dining on the square for the atmosphere. However, some Reddit users suggest that venturing a few streets away can sometimes yield more authentic and better-value meals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Be mindful of the persistent restaurant touts, which might require a bit of extra attention with young children. The surrounding blue alleys, while beautiful, can be narrow and winding, so keeping a close eye on little ones is essential. Consider visiting in the morning when it's less crowded and more relaxed for family exploration.
📸 Photographers
Don't just focus on the square itself; the real magic often lies in the adjacent blue alleys. Explore these narrow passageways for iconic shots that define Chefchaouen. Be patient, observe the local life, and be ready to capture candid moments. Remember to be respectful when photographing people.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Look for smaller eateries or bakeries just a few streets away from the main square for more affordable meals. The square itself is free to explore, and simply soaking in the atmosphere is a rewarding experience. The Kasbah Museum has a small entrance fee, making it an accessible cultural activity. Walking through the surrounding blue medina is also a free and highly recommended activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of Chefchaouen
+1Navigating the square requires a certain awareness. While the ambiance is generally welcoming, be prepared for persistent restaurant promoters who aim to lure you into their establishments. A polite but firm 'no, thank you' is usually sufficient to move on. Some travelers have noted this can be a bit overwhelming, but it's a common feature of busy tourist squares in Morocco.
Beyond the immediate buzz, the square serves as a gateway to Chefchaouen's famous blue alleys. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the labyrinthine streets that make the city so iconic. The Kasbah Museum, located within the square, offers a deeper dive into the region's history and provides excellent panoramic views of the surrounding medina and mountains.
Unique Encounters: The Parrots of Outa El Hammam
+1It's worth noting that these parrots are part of a local tradition, and their handlers consider them like family. While they are a popular attraction, there have been discussions regarding their welfare and whether they are a protected species. Some reports indicate that authorities have intervened in the past, but the practice often continues.
+1For visitors, engaging with the parrots can be a delightful, albeit brief, experience. Remember to be respectful and consider offering a small tip to the handler if you choose to take photos. It's a quirky aspect of Chefchaouen that adds to its unique charm and provides a memorable anecdote for your travels.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit