Traveling between the economic hub of Casablanca and the ancient imperial city of Fes is a popular route for both tourists and locals. Taking the Casablanca to Fes train is fast, convenient, and allows you to skip the stress of driving or navigating bus schedules.
Here is everything you need to know to plan a smooth train trip between Casablanca and Fes.
Travel Time and Frequency
The rail link between Casablanca and Fes is one of the most reliable and frequent lines in Morocco.
- Service Type: Operated by Al Atlas trains.
- Travel Time: The journey takes between 3 hours 40 minutes and 4 hours, depending on the number of intermediate stops.
- Schedules: Trains depart hourly from early morning (around 6:00 AM) to late evening (around 8:00 PM).
Key Stops Along the Route
The train rides along the fertile plains of northern Morocco, making stops at several key cities along the way:
- Rabat: The capital city, with stops at Rabat Ville and Rabat Agdal.
- Kenitra: A major transport hub.
- Meknes: Another historic imperial city, ideal for exploring Volubilis and the Bab Mansour gate.
If you have extra time, you can easily turn this trip into a multi-day journey by hopping off at Meknes or Rabat before continuing to Fes.
Departure and Arrival Stations
- Departing Casablanca: You can board the train at Casa Voyageurs, the main station. It is easily reachable by taxi or tram from anywhere in Casablanca.
- Arriving in Fes: You will arrive at Fes Railway Station (Gare de Fes). Located in the modern *Ville Nouvelle* (New Town), it is a clean, modern facility. From here, the historic Fes el-Bali (old Medina) is a quick 10-minute taxi ride away.
Onboard Classes and Ticket Pricing
- First Class: Recommended for comfort. Seats are wider, arranged in quiet compartments of six, and fully air-conditioned. Tickets cost about 170 to 195 MAD ($17 – $19.50 USD).
- Second Class: Comfortable and air-conditioned, but seating is not always guaranteed during rush hours. Tickets cost approximately 115 to 130 MAD ($11.50 – $13 USD).
Top Travel Tips
- Buy at the Station or Online: You can easily buy tickets online on the ONCF portal or at the station self-service kiosks. Foreign credit cards are widely accepted online.
- Luggage: Keep your bags close. There are no size limits, but you must lift your bags into the overhead racks or place them in the carriage vestibules.
- Medina Taxis: Outside Fes Station, look for the red *petit taxis*. Ensure they turn on the meter before departing. A ride to the Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud) should cost around 15 MAD.
Taking the Casablanca to Fes train is a highly efficient and relaxing way to transit from the modern coast to the medieval heart of Morocco.
