As the largest city in Morocco, Casablanca is a major commercial hub and home to almost four million people. That being said, it’s not the capital - that’s Rabat, around 90 kilometres north. For me, Rabat is a much more relaxed city to explore, with an atmospheric medina, beautiful French colonial architecture and some wonderful museums.
However, Casablanca is a logical gateway. It’s home to the nation's busiest international airport and is often the first port of call for travellers, particularly if you’re flying from somewhere other than Europe. And with considerably more flights arriving into Mohammed V International Airport than Rabat–Salé Airport, it makes sense to arrive in Casablanca, then travel onwards to Rabat, either the same day or after visiting the monumental Hassan II Mosque.
If you’re thinking about doing the same, then this article is for you as I’ll explain how to get from Casablanca to Rabat and what I think is the best way of getting from Rabat to Casablanca. I’ll cover everything from trains to buses and private transfers, as well as explain the advantages of taking a guided tour.
In my opinion, different options suit different people, with some being perfect for travellers on a budget and others for those with tight schedules. So read on to discover which one is best for you!
You can learn more about Rabat vs Casablanca here.
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Here are my top picks for the best way to get from Casablanca to Rabat:
Best way to get from Casablanca to Rabat
Most convenient way of getting from Casablanca to Rabat
Cheapest way to get from Casablanca to Rabat
Best way to get from Casablanca to Rabat if you’re short on time
How to get from Rabat to Casablanca
How to get from Casablanca to Rabat by train
The best way to get from Casablanca to Rabat
If you’re looking for the best way to get from Casablanca to Rabat, the train is, in my opinion, the answer. Al Atlas trains (operated by the national railway company ONCF) travel between the two cities, with multiple daily departures (from 5:40 in the morning to 00:15 at night) and a journey time of around one hour.
Trains heading to Rabat leave from Casa-Voyageurs Railway Station, situated in the Belvedere area, approximately a 10-minute taxi ride from the Hassan II Mosque. If you're arriving from Mohammed V International Airport, you can catch one of the hourly trains to Casa Voyageurs, with a travel time of about 35 minutes. Ticket prices from the airport to Casa Voyageurs range from 15 to 30 dirhams or you can purchase a ticket directly to Rabat at the airport's railway station counters. Just keep in mind that you'll need to switch trains at Casa Voyageurs.
Trains from Casablanca arrive at the Rabat Ville Railway Station, which is conveniently located in the city centre. If you’re staying in the medina, it’s possible to walk from the railway station or catch a taxi for the five-minute journey. Petit taxis are readily available outside the station or you can ask your Rabat riad to arrange a fixed-price transfer to coincide with your arrival.
How to purchase train tickets from Casablanca to Rabat
When purchasing train tickets from Casablanca to Rabat, you have two choices. One option is to go to the ticket counter at a Casablanca train station and buy your tickets directly. This is quite straight forward but there may be lines, particularly during busy travel periods.
You can also purchase your tickets online via the ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer) website, which quite easy to navigate. That being said, I often have issues accessing the ONCF website (it just doesn't want to load), so I end up using 12go to book my train tickets in Morocco. If this also happens to you, 12go is a good alternative. It also sells bus tickets in Morocco, so you can easily compare prices and services to find the one that's best for you.
It's a good idea to book your tickets a few days ahead to secure your preferred departure date, time and class. This is especially important during busy travel seasons, like the days leading up to Eid al-Adha (6 to 10 June 2025) and Eid al-Fitr at the end of Ramadan (30 to 31 March 2025), when trains can get fully booked.
Prices start from around 40 dirhams (4 USD) for second-class tickets and 70 dirhams (7 USD) for first-class tickets. The decision to choose between first-class and second-class tickets mainly depends on individual taste and financial considerations. Although there are some differences in comfort and amenities, they are not significant.
After finishing your online booking, you'll get a PDF ticket that you can easily show on your mobile device when you board the train, simplifying the check-in process.
What to expect on the Casablanca to Rabat train
I’d recommend arriving at Casa Voyageurs Railway Station about 15 minutes before your train is set to leave, giving you enough time to find the platform and get settled in. Remember, Casa Voyageurs is the largest railway hub in the country, so it’s big! Inside, you’ll find everything from cafes to convenience stores and restrooms.
Whether you have a first or second-class ticket from Casablanca to Rabat, you'll have access to the train's bathroom facilities and a small food cart offers drinks and snacks during the journey. However, prices can be steep, so it's best to grab some refreshments at the station before you board.
Best way to get from Rabat to Casablanca
How to get from Casablanca to Rabat by bus
The cheapest way to get from Casablanca to Rabat
If you’re on a budget, the best way to travel from Casablanca to Rabat is by bus. Buses run frequently throughout the day, from 6 in the morning to midnight, so you really can travel when it suits you. The journey is really comfortable, with reclining seats, air conditioning and ample legroom, and takes anywhere from 55 minutes to one hour and 40 minutes, depending on which Casablanca bus station you are departing from.
Casablanca FAR, Casablanca Aïn Sebaâ and Casablanca Maarif all have buses departing for Rabat. Casablanca FAR is located on Rue Leon l’Africain, around five minutes by taxi from Hassan II Mosque and is usually the most convenient bus station for tourists staying in the city centre. Casablanca Aïn Sebaâ is located in the eastern suburbs, around 20 minutes by taxi from Hassan II Mosque. As it’s the closest station to Rabat, the journey from Casablanca Aïn Sebaâ is the shortest at just 55 minutes.
Casablanca Maarif is located southwest of the city centre and buses from here to Rabat take the longest, up to one hour and 40 minutes. Unless you are staying in the area, there is no need to travel out to Maarif to get the bus. I’d recommend checking the timetable for buses to Rabat from Casablanca FAR or Casablanca Aïn Sebaâ first.
The best way to get to any of the Casablanca bus stations is to jump in a petit taxi and ask the driver to drop you at the “Gare Routière” or you can use a ride-sharing app like Careem to book the trip.
How to purchase bus tickets from Casablanca to Rabat
When organising your bus trip from Casablanca to Rabat, it's a good idea to buy your tickets online a few days ahead of your travel date. If your journey falls during significant holidays such as Eid al Adha (6-10 June 2025) or Eid al Fitr at the end of Ramadan (30-31 March 2025), when many people in Morocco are travelling to see family, it's wise to secure your tickets a couple of weeks in advance. This way, you can guarantee a seat for your chosen date and time.
Several bus companies operate between Casablanca and Fes, with CTM being the most popular choice among tourists. While there are cheaper alternatives available, they typically include multiple stops or necessitate bus transfers, which can make the journey longer. Although this might add a sense of adventure and save you some cash, I recommend choosing CTM for a smoother and more comfortable travel experience.
At the time of writing, CTM has more than 40 daily buses from Casablanca to Rabat, with prices starting from 35 dirhams. It’s important to note that fare prices fluctuate depending on demand, so check the CTM for your preferred dates. Depending on which station you leave from and the service you choose, the journey takes between 55 minutes and one hour and 40 minutes.
Buses from Casablanca to Rabat
First bus: Departs Casablanca FAR at 6:00 and arrives in Rabat at 07:00 (duration one hour)
Last bus: Departs Casablanca Aïn Sebaâ at 23:59 and arrives in Rabat at 01:05 (duration one hour and 6 minutes)
Buses from Rabat to Casablanca
First bus: Departs Rabat at 04:00 and arrives in Casablanca FAR at 05:30 (duration one hour and 30 minutes)
Last bus: Departs Rabat at 21:00 and arrives in Casablanca Aïn Sebaâ at 21:50 (duration 50 minutes)
Buses from Casablanca to Rabat stop at the Gare Routière located on Avenue Hassan II. It’s around 10 minutes’ drive from the medina and further away than if you travel by train and arrive at the Rabat Ville Railway Station. On arrival, you can easily get a petit taxi to your accommodation.
To purchase bus tickets on the CTM website, simply provide your name, email, phone number and the type of ID you plan to use, including the ID number. Most international travellers will use a passport for this. After submitting your details, you can choose a different seat if the assigned one doesn't meet your preference.
Once you enter your payment details, you'll receive an instant confirmation email along with a downloadable PDF ticket, which you can show to the bus driver when boarding—no need to print it out. If you’d rather pay in cash, just head to the bus station to book your ticket and you’ll receive a paper copy to present upon boarding.
What to expect on the Casablanca to Rabat bus
If you’re taking the bus from Casablanca to Rabat or travelling from Rabat to Casablanca by bus, I’d recommend arriving at the bus station at least 15 minutes early. This will give you enough time to check in any luggage you might have - simply take it to the counter and check it in like you would at the airport. After paying a small fee, usually between 5 and 10 dirhams, you'll receive a tag or sticker and the staff will assist you in loading your bags onto the bus.
When it's time to board, look for your seat number displayed above and be sure to sit in your assigned seat to avoid confusion as others board. Remember, there are no restrooms on the bus from Casablanca to Rabat, so it's best to use the facilities before you board. As with any public restrooms in Morocco, keep a few dirhams handy to tip the attendant.
Once you're comfortably seated, just sit back and enjoy the journey from Casablanca to Rabat!
Best way to get from Casablanca Airport to Rabat
How to get from Casablanca to Rabat by private transfer
The most convenient way to get from Casablanca Airport to Rabat
If you're travelling with a group or simply want the most convenient way to get from Casablanca to Rabat, a private transfer is a perfect solution. The trip typically takes about one hour to one hour and a half, so you’ll be there before you know it! The great thing about a private transfer is they will pick you up directly from your Casablanca hotel or Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, saving you the hassle of getting to the bus or train station.
Upon arriving in Rabat, the driver will take you right to your riad or hotel, or as close as possible to the pedestrian-only medina. It’s this convenience that makes a private transfer the best way to get from Casablanca to Rabat if you’re not on a tight budget. That being said, private transfers between the two cities aren’t that expensive, particularly if you have a few people in your party.
For those with lots of luggage or travelling with young children, a private transfer from Casablanca to Rabat can be a lifesaver. You can avoid the hassle of crowded bus and train stations while traveling with young children. Plus, you have the freedom to choose your departure time, allowing you to travel when it suits you best—be it early morning, late at night or timed perfectly with your flight arrival at Mohammed V International Airport.
If you’re looking for recommendations, this private transfer from Casablanca Airport to Rabat comes with rave reviews (it’s also been awarded the Viator Badge of Excellence for its outstanding reputation).
"Khalid, my driver picked me up from the airport with very welcome smiles and was super helpful loading and unloading my rather large bags. He drove with care and expertise. I hope to book him again for future tours while I'm in Morocco.” (read more reviews here)
How to get from Casablanca Airport to Rabat
How to get from Casablanca to Rabat by guided tour
The best way to get from Casablanca to Rabat if you’re short on time
If you want to visit Rabat from Casablanca without necessarily staying overnight, a guided tour is the perfect choice. This option is fantastic for those with limited time who want to experience Rabat while benefiting from the expertise of a local guide. Often, you'll uncover fascinating details that you might miss if exploring independently AND it’s completely hassle-free.
There are several full-day tours from Casablanca to Rabat available but this one is a standout due to its excellent track record (it’s also been awarded the Viator Badge of Excellence). It’s around 8 hours from start to finish and includes everything - hotel transfers, transport from Casablanca to Rabat in an air-conditioned vehicle and the services of a local guide. It’s a great option if you want a completely stress-free way to discover Rabat as everything is taken care of for you.
"Was definitely an easy way to see Rabat. Did a lot in a day. Easy pickup/drop off at the hotel. Would definitely recommend when you have an extra day in Casablanca!” (read more reviews here)
Best way to get from Casablanca to Rabat
How to get from Casablanca to Rabat by rental car
The least convenient way of getting from Casablanca to Rabat
We have driven between Casablanca and Rabat several times but this has always been as part of a longer road trip. If you just want to get from Casablanca to Rabat or Rabat to Casablanca, I wouldn’t recommend driving as you will have to negotiate busy city streets and find (and pay for) parking.
The public transport options between Casablanca and Rabat are really convenient and affordable, with the journey time so short. Even if you didn’t want to travel by bus or train, the option for a private transfer is still much less hassle than hiring a car and driving yourself. Casablanca is BUSY on the roads and I remember driving around for ages trying to find a park near our accommodation - it’s just not something I would recommend.
If you're thinking about renting a car in Morocco for an extended road trip, starting in either Casablanca or Rabat, I recommend Discover Cars. They provide free cancellation and round-the-clock support, making the experience very user-friendly. Their range features everything from small automatic cars to manual vans, catering to various travel preferences, with rates beginning at around 25 USD per day.
For more insights on driving in Morocco, take a look at my detailed article here. It covers important topics like safety issues, what to expect during police stops and the car rental process in Morocco.
If you’re looking for road trip inspiration, this one-week suggested itinerary from Fes to Marrakech includes stops in both Casablanca and Rabat.
FAQs about travelling from Casablanca to Rabat
Is there a direct train from Casablanca to Rabat?
Several trains travel each day from Casa Voyageurs Railway Station to Rabat Ville Railway Station. The journey takes approximately one hour.
Is there a train from Rabat to Casablanca?
Yes, multiple trains depart each day from Rabat Ville Railway Station to Casablanca Voyageurs. The journey takes approximately one hour.
How much is the train from Casablanca to Rabat?
Prices start from around 40 dirhams (4 USD) for a second-class seat and 70 dirhams (7 USD) for a first-class seat.
How long is the train ride from Casablanca to Rabat?
The train ride from Casablanca to Rabat is around one hour. Trains depart multiple times a day from Casa Voyageurs Railway Station to Rabat Ville Railway Station. Tickets can either be purchased online or at the railway station.
Is there a bus from Casablanca to Rabat?
Yes, CTM operates more than 40 bus services each day between Casablanca and Rabat, starting from early in the morning until late at night. The journey takes anywhere from 55 minutes to one hour and 40 minutes, depending on which Casablanca bus station you are departing from.
What is the cheapest way to get from Casablanca to Rabat?
The most affordable way to travel from Casablanca to Rabat is by bus, with tickets starting from around 35 dirhams (3.50 USD). There are several departures daily from all three stations in Casablanca: Casablanca FAR, Casablanca Aïn Sebaâ and Casablanca Maarif. The travel time varies based on your departure point, the service selected and the time of day, ranging from approximately one hour to one hour and 40 minutes.
How much is a taxi from Casablanca Airport to Rabat?
A taxi from Casablanca Airport to Rabat costs from around 700 dirhams (70 USD), with taxis available outside the arrivals terminal. Private transfers offer a reliable, fixed-price alternative, with drivers waiting for you when your plane lands.
Can you fly from Casablanca to Rabat?
As Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport and Rabat-Salé Airport are only 130 kilometres apart, there are no direct flights between the two. If you are committed to flying, you will need to transit through Agadir, Paris or Madrid, with a minimum journey time of around seven hours. When it only takes one hour on the train from Casablanca to Rabat, flying doesn’t really make sense.
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.