The Scenic Route: Traveling from Fes to Marrakech by Train

Abdelilah

🕐 6 min read  •  ✅ Updated 2025

Connecting the two most famous imperial cities of Morocco, the Fes to Marrakech train route is one of the country’s ultimate rail journeys. While flying or taking a bus are options, the train offers a relaxed, highly scenic, and classic Moroccan travel experience.

If you are planning to travel between these two cultural capitals, here is our complete travel guide.

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Duration and Schedules

The journey from Fes to Marrakech crosses a significant portion of Morocco’s interior, moving from the foothills of the Atlas Mountains down to the dry plains of the south.

  • Travel Time: The direct train takes approximately 6.5 hours.
  • Frequency: Direct Al Atlas trains run roughly every two hours from morning until late afternoon.
  • Alternative: There is also a direct night train with sleeper compartments if you want to save on accommodation and travel while you sleep.

The Journey and Scenery

One of the main reasons to choose the train is the beautiful, changing landscapes. Along the route, you will pass:

  • The olive groves and rolling hills around Meknes.
  • The coastal plains and urban landscapes of Rabat and Casablanca.
  • The dry, red plains of the south as you approach Marrakech.

It is a long journey, but it provides a fascinating cross-section of Moroccan life and geography.

Train Classes and Comfort

Because of the 6.5-hour duration, we highly recommend choosing First Class for this trip.

  • First Class: You will get a guaranteed, numbered seat in a spacious, quiet compartment (usually 6 seats per compartment). It is air-conditioned and has more legroom. A ticket costs around 310 to 350 MAD ($31 – $35 USD).
  • Second Class: Budget-friendly but can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during holidays. A ticket costs around 200 to 220 MAD ($20 – $22 USD).

Tips for the Fes to Marrakech Route

  1. Buy Tickets in Advance: Especially if you want to book a sleeper compartment on the night train or travel during peak holiday seasons.
  2. Pack Your Own Food: Six and a half hours is a long time. Bring plenty of water, fresh fruit, pastries, and sandwiches. The trolley service is basic.
  3. Keep Your Devices Charged: Newer Al Atlas carriages have power outlets, but it is always wise to bring a fully charged power bank.
  4. Stations: You will depart from Fes Railway Station (Gare de Fes), a beautiful, modern station, and arrive at Marrakech Railway Station. Both stations are fully equipped with cafes and restrooms.

Traveling by Fes to Marrakech train is a slow-travel experience that lets you relax, read, and watch the stunning Moroccan countryside roll by.

2026 Average Prices

ServicePrice (MAD)
4-star hotel (per night)800–1200
Desert tour (half-day)400–600
City tour (full day)250–400
Local meal70–150

Exclusive Tips You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

  • Use price comparison apps like Booking.com for instant hotel deals.
  • Book desert tours before 10\u202fAM to avoid the midday heat.
  • Avoid crowded tourist spots on weekends for lower prices.
  • Negotiate inter-city transport prices directly with local drivers.
  • Eat at local markets — prices are far lower than in tourist restaurants.

Location Map

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Abdelilah

About Abdelilah

Abdelilah is a 27-year-old local travel expert based in Marrakech, professional travel videographer, and trip companion. With years of experience guiding travelers across Morocco, he founded The Morocco Guide to share authentic local advice, itineraries, and budgeting tips to help you experience the real Morocco.


Abdelilah

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