As the largest city in Morocco, Casablanca serves as an important gateway for many travellers to the country. Home to the nation's busiest international airport, it’s often a first port of call and the launching point for exploring other destinations such as Fes, less than 300 kilometres away. With considerably more flights arriving at Casablanca's Mohammed V International Airport than at Fes-Saïss International Airport, it makes a logical arrival point for visiting this ancient city.
It’s for this reason many travellers ask me how to get from Casablanca to Fes or what I think is the best way of getting from Fes to Casablanca. In my opinion, different solutions cater to different needs, with some being ideal for budget-conscious travellers and others for those who have limited time to travel. You may want to soak up the scenery while riding the train or have the freedom of being behind the wheel on a self-driving road trip. If you're taking a long-haul flight to Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, you may want the convenience of being picked up from the airport and dropped directly at your accommodation in Fes, with no other hassles involved.
In this article, I'll explain all the different options available when considering how to get from Casablanca to Fes, including train, bus, flight and private transfer. I’ll also explain the advantages of renting a car and embarking on a road trip, as well as booking a full-day guided tour from Casablanca to Fes.
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Best way to get from Casablanca to Fes
Most convenient way to get from Casablanca to Fes
Cheapest way to get from Casablanca to Fes
Most flexible way to get from Casablanca to Fes
Best way to get from Casablanca to Fes if you’re short on time
How to get from Casablanca to Fes by train
The best way to get from Casablanca to Fes
If you’re looking for affordability and convenience, the best way to get from Casablanca to Fes is by train. Al Atlas trains (operated by the national railway company ONCF) travel between the two cities, with multiple daily departures (from 6:40 in the morning to 21:15 at night) and a journey time of around 4 hours. It’s worth mentioning that this is not the Al Boraq (Morocco’s high-speed railway), as this currently only travels between Tangier and Casablanca.
Trains to Fes depart from Casa-Voyageurs Railway Station, which is located in the Belvedere neighbourhood, around 10 minutes by taxi from Hassan II Mosque. If you’re coming from Mohammed V International Airport, there are hourly trains from the airport to Casa Voyageurs and the journey takes 35 minutes. Tickets cost between 15 and 30 dirhams but you can also buy your ticket all the way to Fes at one of the counters at the Mohammed V International Airport railway station. Just remember, you will need to change trains at Casa Voyageurs.
Trains from Casablanca arrive at the Fes Railway Station, which is around 10 minutes by taxi from the medina. Petit taxis are readily available outside the station or you can ask your riad to arrange a fixed price transfer to coincide with your arrival. If you're looking for riad inspiration in Fes, you'll find some of my top picks here.
How to purchase train tickets from Casablanca to Fes
When buying Casablanca to Fes train tickets, you have two options. The first is to visit the ticket counter at Casablanca Voyageurs Railway Station, where you can purchase your tickets in person. This is a relatively straightforward process, though it may require waiting in line, especially during peak travel times. Not all staff will speak English but it's the kind of transaction you can usually make successfully, even if you're speaking different languages.
The alternative is to book your tickets online through the ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer) website. Generally speaking, it's user-friendly and can be automatically translated if you don’t speak French or Arabic. 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.
I’d recommend booking a few days in advance to ensure availability of your preferred departure time and class of service. This is particularly important during peak travel periods, such as in the lead up to Eid al-Adha (6-10 June 2025) and Eid al-Fitr (30-31 March 2025) when trains tend to fill up quickly.
Prices start from around 200 dirhams (20 USD) for second-class tickets and 300 dirhams (30 USD) for first-class tickets. The choice between first-class and second-class tickets is largely a matter of personal preference and budget. While the amenities and comfort level vary slightly between the two classes, the differences are not drastic. Often, first-class will be quieter as many travellers opt for the cheaper second-class tickets.
What to expect on the Casablanca to Fes train
It's a good idea to arrive 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. Casa Voyageurs is the largest railway hub in the country and is pretty impressive, with cafes, convenience stores and restrooms.
Both first and second-class train tickets from Casablanca to Fes provide access to the train's bathroom facilities and a small food cart makes its way up and down the aisles if you want to buy drinks and snacks. That being said, these tend to be pricey, so it’s best to stock up at the station before departure.
Best way to get from Casablanca to Fes
How to get from Casablanca to Fes by bus
The cheapest way to get from Casablanca to Fes
The cheapest way to travel from Casablanca to Fes is by bus and may be the best choice if you're travelling on a tight budget and want to save your dirhams. Buses operate at regular intervals throughout the day (there are about 20 from Casablanca to Fes each day) and offer a comfortable journey with reclining seats, air conditioning and plenty of legroom. During my first trip to Morocco, I took the bus from Casablanca to Fes and as a solo female traveller, I found the experience to be hassle-free.
If you’re travelling from Casablanca to Fes by bus, there are two different bus stations serving the route: Casablanca FAR and Casablanca Aïn Sebaâ. 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. The best way to get to either 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 Fes
When planning your bus trip from Casablanca to Fes, it's best to purchase your tickets online a few days before your travel date. If your trip coincides with major holidays like Eid al Adha (6-10 June 2025) or Eid al Fitr at the end of Ramadan (30-31 March 2025), when many Moroccans are on the move to visit loved ones, it's best to book your tickets a couple of weeks in advance. This ensures you have a confirmed seat for your preferred date and time.
There are several bus companies travelling between Casablanca and Fes, with the main one that tourists use being CTM. At the time of writing, CTM has around 20 daily buses from Casablanca to Fes, with prices starting from 110 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 3.5 and 5 hours.
Buses from Casablanca to Fes
First bus: Departs Casablanca FAR at 6:45 and arrives in Fes at 11:45 (duration 5 hours)
Last bus: Departs Casablanca FAR at 21:00 and arrives in Fes at 01:15 (duration 4 hours and 15 minutes)
Buses from Fes to Casablanca
First bus: Departs Fes at 01:30 and arrives in Casablanca at 06:15 (duration 4 hours and 45 minutes)
Last bus: Departs Fes at 17:00 and arrives in Casablanca at 21:35 (duration 4 hours and 35 minutes)
Buses from Casablanca to Fes stop at the Gare Routière located on Rue Melilla. It’s located in the Ville Nouvelle neighbourhood, around 15 minutes’ drive from the medina of Fes el Bali.
To buy bus tickets on the CTM website, just fill in your name, email, phone number and the type of ID you intend to use, along with the ID number. For most international travellers, this will be a passport. Once you've submitted your information, you'll have the option to select a different seat if you're not satisfied with the one assigned to you.
After entering your payment information, you'll get an immediate confirmation email and a downloadable PDF ticket to present to the bus driver upon boarding—no printing required. If you prefer to pay in cash, simply visit the bus station to complete your purchase.
What to expect on the Casablanca to Fes bus
If you're travelling by bus from Casablanca to Fes, I'd recommend arriving at the bus station at least 15 minutes early. This will give you time to check-in any luggage you might have, with the process similar to checking bags at an airport. After paying a small fee, typically between 5 and 10 dirhams, you'll get a tag or sticker, and staff will help you load your bags onto the bus.
When it's time to board, look for your seat number clearly displayed above. Keep in mind that there are no restrooms on the bus from Casablanca to Fes, so it's wise to use the facilities at the station beforehand. Don't forget to have a few dirhams ready to tip the attendant when using public toilets in Morocco.
Once you're settled in your seat, just relax and take in the scenery as it rolls by outside the window!
How to get from Casablanca to Fes
How to get from Casablanca to Fes by private transfer
The most convenient way to get from Casablanca Airport to Fes
If you're travelling with a group or simply want the most convenient way to get from Casablanca to Fes, a private transfer is a perfect solution. The drive typically takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, allowing for stops at scenic spots and restrooms along the way - something that I love and is a big advantage over the bus. Since it's a private service, you can tailor the stops to your interests (I'd recommend a short visit to Meknes) and take breaks whenever needed.
You can easily arrange a private transfer from Casablanca to Fes in advance, and they will pick you up from your hotel in Casablanca or Mohammed V International Airport if you want to travel directly to Fes on arrival. This will save you the hassle of having to get a train or bus to Casa Voyageurs railway station and it’s for this reason I think a private transfer is the best way to get from Casablanca Airport to Fes if you’re not travelling on a budget. Upon arriving in Fes, the driver will take you right to your riad or hotel, or as close as possible to the pedestrian-only medina.
For those with lots of luggage or travelling with young children, a private transfer from Casablanca to Fes can really simplify your journey. You won't have to navigate busy bus/train stations or manage public transport with little ones in tow. Additionally, you can select your departure time, offering you the flexibility to travel at your convenience, whether that's early morning, late at night or to coincide with the arrival of your plane at Mohammed V International Airport.
If you’re looking for recommendations, this private transfer from Casablanca to Fes comes with rave reviews (it’s been awarded the Viator Badge of Excellence for its outstanding reputation) and includes a private tour of Fes on arrival.
"This was exactly what we were looking for when we planned a trip from Casablanca to Fes. Our driver Mourad was on-time, friendly, and made the ride very comfortable.” (read more reviews here)
How to get from Fes to Casablanca
How to fly from Casablanca to Fes
The quickest way to get from Casablanca to Fes
While flying is the quickest way to get from Casablanca to Fes, once you factor in travel to and from the airports, plus check-in times, it actually isn’t that fast. The only time where I think flying would be the most convenient choice is if you are arriving on an international flight into Casablanca Mohammed V Airport and want to get a domestic connection directly to Fes.
Royal Air Maroc has daily flights between the two cities, with the flights from Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca departing at 23:15 and arriving at Fes-Saïss International Airport at 00:25. It’s just over an hour in duration. If you want to fly from Fes to Casablanca, flights with Royal Air Maroc leave Fes-Saïss International Airport at 07:25 and arrive at Mohammed V International Airport at 08:35.
Flights from Casablanca to Fes (and visa versa) start from around 830 dirhams (83 USD), including checked baggage. They can be booked via the Royal Air Maroc website or Expedia, which gives you the option to display prices in the currency of your choice.
How to get from Fes to Casablanca
How to get from Casablanca to Fes by rental car
The most flexible way to get from Casablanca to Fes
We have driven from Casablanca to Fes several times and I love the convenience of being able to stop whenever we want, whether that’s for a toilet break, to pick up snacks or to explore a new town. The route between Casablanca and Fes takes roughly 3.5 hours and it goes directly through the imperial city of Meknes, which is a wonderful place to discover (you can learn more here!)
If you’re planning a road trip through Morocco or simply want to rent a car for the Casablanca to Fes leg, I would highly recommend it. Not only is driving one of the most convenient and efficient ways of getting from Casablanca to Fes but it gives you the freedom to stop along the way. Not only can you visit Meknes but you can make a detour to the holy town of Moulay Idriss or explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis.
Driving from Casablanca to Fes has one drawback: finding parking in Fes can be challenging, especially if your accommodation is in the medina. It's a good idea to contact your hotel or riad to enquire about nearby parking options. In many cases, they will send someone to assist you upon arrival and help you navigate your way to the accommodation.
If you're thinking about renting a car in Morocco, I recommend Discover Cars. They offer free cancellation and 24/7 support, which is available in multiple languages other than English. Their selection includes everything from compact automatics to manual vans, accommodating different travel styles and preferences. Prices start from approximately 25 USD per day.
For additional information on driving in Morocco, check out my detailed article here. It discusses key aspects such as safety concerns, what to anticipate during police checks and the process of renting a car in Morocco.
If you’re looking for road trip inspiration, this one-week suggested itinerary from Fes to Marrakech includes a stop in Casablanca, as well as time to explore Meknes and the Moroccan capital, Rabat.
Best way to get from Fes to Casablanca
How to get from Casablanca to Fes by guided tour
The best way to get from Casablanca to Fes if you’re short on time
If you want to visit Fes from Casablanca but don’t necessarily want to spend the night, then a guided tour is ideal. It’s great for travellers who are short on time and want to explore Fes with the services of a knowledgeable local guide. In many cases, you'll gain insights that go far beyond what you would discover on your own AND you’ll have help when it comes to haggling in the Fes souks.
There are several full-day tours from Casablanca to Fes 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 12 hours from start to finish and includes everything - hotel transfers, transport from Casablanca to Fes in an air-conditioned vehicle and lunch in the ancient city. It’s a great option if you want a completely hassle-free way to discover Fes as everything is taken care of for you.
"We were picked up very promptly by Oussama in a beautifully clean luxury SUV. His driving was most exceptional and time flew by as we drove to Fes. There we were met by Idrissi who was very friendly and knows everything about Fes as well as everyone there. We saw the Medina from the eyes of someone akin to family.” - Paul (read more reviews here)
Best way to travel from Casablanca to Fes
FAQs about travelling from Casablanca to Fes
Is there a direct train from Casablanca to Fes?
Several trains travel each day from Casa Voyageurs Railway Station to Fes Railway Station, starting from around 6:40 in the morning to 21:15 in the evening.. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.
How much is the train from Casablanca to Fes?
Prices start from around 200 dirhams (20 USD) for a second-class seat and 300 dirhams (30 USD) for a first-class seat.
How long is the train ride from Casablanca to Fes?
The train ride from Casablanca to Fes can take as little as 3 hours and 45 minutes, although some services are scheduled to take just over 4 hours. Trains depart around 10 times a day from Casa Voyageurs Railway Station to Fes Railway Station, between 6:40 in the morning and 21:15 at night. Tickets can either be purchased online or at the railway station.
What is the cheapest way to get from Casablanca to Fes?
The most affordable way to travel from Casablanca to Fes is by bus, with tickets starting from around 110 dirhams (11 USD). There are several departures daily from two stations in Casablanca: Casablanca FAR and Casablanca Aïn Sebaâ. The travel time varies based on your departure point, the service selected and the time of day, ranging from approximately 3.5 to 5 hours. In Fes, the CTM bus station is situated in the Ville Nouvelle area, around 10 minutes by taxi from the Medina.
What is the fastest way to get from Casablanca to Fes?
The quickest way to travel from Casablanca to Fes is by flying, with Royal Air Maroc providing a direct flight that takes just 1 hour and 10 minutes. However, the overall travel time from your hotel in Casablanca to your hotel in Fes will likely be much longer, taking into consideration transport to and from the airports and check-in times. Both airports are about 30 minutes away from their city centres, with transportation options including taxi or train in Casablanca and taxi or bus in Fes. One-way fares with Royal Air Maroc start at 830 dirhams (83 USD) per person and can be booked online.
How long does it take to drive from Casablanca to Fes?
If you plan on renting a car for your stay in Morocco, driving from Casablanca to Fes takes around 3.5 hours without any stops. The route is clearly signposted and will take you through the imperial city of Meknes. There are several gas stations located along the way where you can refuel. The only downside of driving from Casablanca to Fes is that parking in Fes can be difficult if you are staying at a hotel/riad within the medina. Check with the hotel/riad directly about parking facilities nearby and they may arrange for someone to meet you there and guide you to the hotel.
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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.