Marrakech to Fes by Train: Everything You Need To Know

Marrakech to Fes by Train

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Is There a Train From Marrakech to Fes?

Why yes! Yes, there is a train from Marrakech to Fes. In fact, there are several trains that run daily from Marrakech to Fes, so you’ll have options to choose from as well as seat types. But no worries, we’ll get to all of that just below.

The train that runs from Marrakech to Fes is the Al Atlas Train, which is one of two trains that run in Morocco. The second train, Al Boraq, is the fastest train in Africa running at speeds of 300 kph (186 mph). To catch a ride on the fastest train in Africa, you’ll need to head to popular Moroccan cities like Casablanca, Kenitra, Rabat, and Tangier.

Word to the wise, and whichever train route you plan to book in Morocco when you know the dates you want to travel by train, we recommend booking as soon as you are able! While you’ll have a handful of time slots to choose from on any given day, traveling by train is a popular way to get around Morocco by tourists and locals so timetable slots will definitely sell out.

Check out our one-week Morocco itinerary right here!

How Long is The Train Ride From Marrakech to Fes

Traveling overland (i.e. bus or train) from Marrakech to Fes is definitely not a quick trip. If you are looking for the fastest way to get from Marrakech to Fes, it would be to fly.

Located about 330 miles (530 km) northeast of Marrakech is the ancient city of Fes.

Taking anywhere from 6.5 to 7 hours, Marrakech to Fes by train will definitely take up the majority of the day so do your best to book a ticket on the earlier side.

You’ll want (and frankly need) as much time as you can get to explore Fes. It’s massive and nothing short of fascinating!

Check out 14 things you cannot miss when visiting Fes!

Marrakech to Fes Train Ticket Price

When booking your train ticket to Fes from Marrakech, you have two options to choose from. First class or second class.

First-class tickets cost around $30 USD
Second-class tickets cost around $20 USD

We opted for the first-class ticket between the two options.

First class is an air-conditioned compartment that seats 4-6 people. There is a small table next to a large window with storage over the seats for your bags. Plus, you’ll have a slightly reclining seat, extra legroom (when compared to second-class), and power outlets. It’s definitely a comfortable ride!

Before you leave Marrakech, check out the best way to spend one day in Marrakech!

Where to Buy Morocco Train Tickets

You can book your Marrakech to Fes train tickets online through the ONCF website.

TIP: When you visit the ONCEF website, the site language will be French. For all you non-French speakers out there, have Google Translate on your browser and Google will take care of the English translation for you.

Separately, you can opt to book online through 12go Asia or directly through your accommodation in Marrakech, or by paying a visit to the Marrakech Train Station if you prefer to book your ticket once you arrive in Morocco.

As we previously stated, train travel in Morocco is a VERY popular way to get around the country. Please plan to book your train tickets a few weeks ahead of your preferred departure date.

If train tickets from Marrakech to Fes are sold out at the timetable you want, try booking another slot or opting for a private transfer to Fes if you need to depart and arrive at certain times.

TIP: If you want to book through your accommodation, please reach out to your Marrakech Riad ahead of your arrival so the staff can help coordinate and book your train tickets on your behalf.

Marrakech to Fes Train Timetables

As we said above, there are multiple time slots for travelers to get from Marrakech to Fes. For a list of Marrakech to Fes train timetables, please see below.

Departure Time	Arrival Time
4:50am	11:15am
5:50am	12:25pm
7:50am	2:25pm
9:50am	4:22pm
10:50am	5:19pm
11:50am	6:25pm
12:50pm	7:15pm
1:50pm	8:25pm
2:50pm	9:16pm
3:50pm	10:21pm

NOTE: Departure and arrival times are prone to change. Check the ONCF website for the most up-to-date train timetables.

Where is The Marrakech Train Station

On the day of your departure date to Fes, you’ll need to make your way to the Marrakech Train Station. Built-in 2008, the Marrakech Train Station is located west of the Marrakech Medina, about a 10-15 minute taxi ride.

You can flag down a taxi or coordinate a ride pickup directly with your accommodation. Do your best to arrive at the train station 30-20 minutes prior to your departure time as these trains leave on time!

You’ll be able to use the restroom and grab a snack or two. However, the food selection is fairly limited, so come prepared with anything you may need (i.e. water, snacks, etc).

Before you leave Marrakech, did you see these 20 top Marrakech sights and attractions?!

Marrakech to Fes Night Train & Train Stops

Good news! The train from Marrakech to Fes is a direct route. Woo-hoo! Are we right?!

While the train does not stop, you will pass through Casablanca, Rabat, and Meknes. You’ll get a tiny preview of each city as you pass through, but it’s nothing major.

If you’d like to visit Casablanca, Rabat, or Meknes you’ll need to book a separate train ticket from Marrakech to either of these cities and then a separate onward ticket to Fes.

Opting to stop in either Casablanca or Rabat is a great way to break up the train trip to Fes if you have the time!

As for a night train from Marrakech to Fes. While it would be amazing! Sadly, an overnight train to Fes does not exist.

About the Train Ride from Marrakech to Fes

From Marrakech, the train heads up along the coast north to Rabat before making a right and heading east towards Fes. You’ll pass through large cities, small towns, and rural countryside.

The railways are well maintained (nothing like our train ride to Bagan in Myanmar!), so you’ll chug at a bump-free pace as you make your way to Fes. And sheesh, you should be excited because Fes is a treat!

It’s actually our favorite city in Morocco.

Check out the Best Things to Do in Fes, Morocco!

Countryside scenery the way to from Marrakech to Fez by train

What To Bring on The Train from Marrakech to Fes

It’s safe to assume you’ll have all your belongings with you on the train, but there are a few things to make sure you have secured – i.e. food, water, and things to help you pass the time.

On the train to Fes, we packed

A deck of cards
A book
Podcast
Had a movie or two downloaded to the Netflix app
Made sure our neck pillow was easily accessible in case we wanted to take a nap
Water bottle topped off
Snacks from the Marrakech Medina (dried fruit, nuts, etc)

Tip: If you’re worried about food, you can check with your accommodation to see if they will make you a takeaway lunch or breakfast!

Alternative Transportation Options To Fes

If the train from Marrakech to Fes doesn’t seem like the right fit for you, understand you have other transportation options to choose from. This is your trip, so you do you!

Marrakech To Fes By Bus

If you wish to book transport from Marrakech to Fes by bus, you can do so through CTM. Offering several daily departure times, the bus from Marrakech to Fes takes anywhere from 7.5 to 10.5 hours and costs $14 – $17 USD.

Flying From Marrakech To Fes

Without a doubt, the quickest way to get from Marrakech to Fes is to fly. Taking around 1 hour nonstop to fly, if you want to book a flight, we suggest booking in advance as nonstops are guaranteed to sell out.

Private Car Transfer To Fes

If you like the idea of leaving when you want, stopping when you want, and sharing a ride only with your significant other, family, or friends, consider booking a private transfer from Marrakech to Fes.

Or, if you have the time, booking a several-day tour (like this one!) to take you to some of the amazing sights not only on the way to Fes but in Morocco is definitely another great way to get to the ancient city of Fes.

Rent A Car

Last but certainly not least you can opt to rent a car and drive to Fes yourself! Definitely a road trip for the memory books, don’t ya think?!

Tip: You can also opt to book a one-way on either of the above options (flying, bus, train, etc) if you don’t want to have the same experience twice. i.e. You can take the train to Fes and fly back to Marrakech.

Where to Stay in Fes

For The Budget Conscious: Dar Borj is a cozy family-run Dar located in the medina and a few minutes walk from The Blue Gate. With an unbelievable rooftop terrace, enjoy some mint tea and watch the sunset over the media.

For The Luxury Inclined: From an amazing on-site spa to a wonderful bar and lounge to fabulous food and intricate decor and tile work, Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux is a one-of-a-kind accommodation experience in the heart of the Fes medina.

For Something In Between: Riad Fes Al Cazar Suite & Spa is a beautiful riad that is situated in the historic old town of Fes. Featuring a swimming pool and friendly staff, Riad Fes Al Cazar is a great choice for travelers.

For more places to stay in Fes, you can check out the latest places and prices here.

Want More On Morocco!?

14 Amazing Things To Do In Fes, Morocco

20 Amazing Things to Do In Marrakech

How To Spend One Day in Marrakech

11 Things To Do in Chefchaouen, Morocco

The Best 7 Days In Morocco

Morocco Travel Tips: Things To Know Before You Go

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Happy Travels,

– Lauren & Jesse Stuart (The Stus)