How to Get From Fes to Marrakech by Train: Local’s Guide

So, you want to learn how to get from Fes to Marrakech by train? Well, you are not alone since these two cities are really far away from each other, like 532 kilometers (330 miles) away from each other to be precise.

Luckily for you, though, Marrakech and Fes are well-connected by train, plane, bus, and road if you want to do a cool road trip through Morocco.

However, many people choose to travel from Fes to Marrakech by train since it is one of the fastest ways to travel between these two cities and only takes around 6.5 or 7 hours.

Sure, you can get from Fes to Marrakech by car in around 5.5 hours, but the drive is annoying and will take you through many major cities where traffic is intense.

There are also many road signs written only in Arabic, which can make driving challenging. It’s also not as cheap as the train since you’ll have to rent a vehicle and pay for gas.

Alternatively, taking the bus is cheaper than the train. But, this trip will take around 12 hours as you travel from Fes to Marrakech, making many stops along the way.

Traveling by plane is another option since flights only take about an hour between the two airports. But, tickets are expensive and can cost upwards of $100.00.

So, if it were me I would choose to travel from Fes to Marrakech by train. I’ve done it and it’s an easy trip since the seats are comfy. But, you will need plenty of snacks and drinks since it is a long trip.

There are also plenty of trains departing daily. Therefore, you can leave early in the AM (like 6:00 am) and spend the rest of your day exploring Marrakech. Or, you can sleep in and arrive in Marrakech in time for dinner.

However, let’s go over everything you need to know about taking the train from Fes to Marrakech. This way you are well-prepared and can enjoy a smooth trip between these two cities.

FYI, this local guide is also applicable if you are traveling from Marrakech to Fes by train.

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What Company Operates the Train from Fes to Marrakech?

ONCF, or the Office National des Chemins de fer du Maroc, is the national railroad company in Morocco and is who you’ll buy your tickets from before you travel from Fes to Marrakech.

Trains are safe, fast, modern, efficient, reliable, and connect cities like Fes, Tangier, Rabat, Marrakech, and Casablanca.

Additionally, there is an amazing high-speed train service that runs between Casablanca and Tangier. Sadly, though, there are no train lines in place south of Marrakech.

Therefore, if you want to travel from Marrakech to Essaouira, or Agadir, then you will have to use the bus.

Is there a direct train from Fes to Marrakech?

Yes, there is a direct train from Fes to Marrakech. Trains typically depart every hour starting at 4:55 am and ending at 5:40 pm. So, you should be able to check out from your Fes riad, visit a cool Fes hammam, and then make your way to the train.

The journey will take between 6.5 and 7 hours and you have the option to select either first-class or second-class tickets.

If you take the last train out of Fes, you can even book a single bed for around 232 Dirhams ($23.00).

Generally, first-class tickets cost 232 Dirhams ($23.00) while second-class tickets cost 172 Dirhams ($17.20).

I personally find the second-class tickets comfortable and have never had an issue. However, if it is summer then you may want to go first class since you’ll likely be in an air-conditioned six-person compartment, making the journey more comfortable.

In contrast, second-class tickets typically don’t come with A/C. However, both types of train tickets can be purchased online and at the ticket counter of the train station.

Fes Railway Station

The main train station in Fes is the Fes Railway station. Yes, there are some secondary stations for local trains, but this is the primary train station that you will use to take the train from Fes to Marrakech.

Generally, I suggest arriving at the station 15 minutes before your scheduled departure since there isn’t a ton to do at the Fes train station and your train definitely won’t leave early.

However, the train station in Fes does have amenities like bathrooms, ticket counters, information desks, cafes, comfortable waiting areas, and convenience stores.

To get to the train station from the Medina, I suggest taking a taxi since it will only take you between 15 and 17 minutes to get to the train station this way.

Generally, a ride in a red petit taxi from the Medina to the train station will cost around 20 Dirhams ($2.00). The driver will probably try to overcharge you so just ask to use the meter.

If they refuse, just mention the “police” and the meter should come right on since most drivers don’t want to get into any legal trouble.

Marrakech Railway Station (Gare de Marrakech)

Thankfully, there is one main train station in Marrakech and it is known as Gare de Marrakech. It sits next to the Supratours bus station and is about 25 minutes away from the Medina by bus.

You could take buses #5, #10, #14, and #66 from here to the Medina. Tickets are purchased on the bus and are around 6 Dirhams per person. Just double-check the bus number since schedules can change.

Alternatively, you could take a taxi from the bus station to the Medina. It costs between 20 Dirhams ($2.00) and 50 Dirhams ($5.00) and takes around 10 minutes.

One of many Marrakech tips is to ask to use the meter and to have your GPS on, with accurate directions to your final destination.

Taxi drivers WILL try to overcharge you and sometimes try to use an indirect route so that the journey takes longer and they can charge you more. Just ask about the meter and mention the “police” when they refuse.

Usually, they will back down since they know what they are doing is illegal and they could get in trouble.

Additionally, the Marrakech train station is fully equipped with everything you might need, including bathrooms, luggage storage, ticket counters, waiting areas, shops, restaurants, cafes, and more.

It’s not huge but you’ll find all the amenities you could need. I think there is even a Starbucks and McDonald’s on-site TBH..

How to Get Tickets for the Train from Fes to Marrakech

You have two ways to get tickets for the train from Fes to Marrakech. You can get them at the ticket counter in Fes or you can buy them on the ONCF website. It’s pretty easy to use and Google Chrome converts it into English for me.

I typically buy them online since you don’t have to wait in a long line for tickets. You’ll just get a PDF on your phone and you can use that to check into your train.

Generally, I would try and purchase your tickets a few days in advance so that you get the tickets and departure time that you want. However, book well in advance if there is a major holiday and a lot of people will be traveling.

Local Tip: Every train is different. So the difference between first-class and second-class tickets can vary. However, there isn’t a huge difference between the two classes. We had second-class tickets and were just fine.

I had a seat, plenty of space, and didn’t have to ride with chickens or anything like that. You typically do get an assigned seat though and I would be sure to sit in it since Moroccans will be quick to point out that you’re sitting in the wrong seat/

The last time we were on the train it was a HUGE issue since the numbers for the seats were mislabeled and everyone was freaking out because people were sitting in the wrong seats. Anyway, just stick with your seat and you should be fine.

How Much is the Train from Fes to Marrakech?

Second-class tickets cost around 172 Dirhams ($17.20) while first-class tickets cost around 232 Dirhams ($23.20).

However, this is just a rough estimate since prices can vary greatly based on what time of year you are traveling and what time of day you are traveling.

Most of the time, train tickets are very affordable, but they will tend to be a little more expensive than bus tickets since the train is faster.

What is the Difference Between First-Class and Second-Class Tickets?

Honestly, there isn’t much of a difference between first-class and second-class tickets. I have ridden both and I believe with first-class tickets you ride in a private compartment with six people. The benefit is that you can enjoy A/C for your journey.

In contrast, second-class tickets mean sitting in a giant train car with lots of other people. The seats are still comfortable but you probably won’t have A/C. You’ll also have an assigned seat and can put your luggage on the shelf above the seats.

Both tickets include access to bathrooms (they are not super clean) and access to a small food cart that sells light snacks and drinks. I would bring your own food/drinks since it’s a long trip and there aren’t a ton of items to choose from.

Train Amenities

Trains in Morocco have staff that will help you locate your seats and assist you with your luggage if need be.

TBH, I wouldn’t really count on them since I have always found them kind of hard to find and kind of MIA. LOL. But, they are there. You just need to seek them out.

There are also bathrooms on the train but I have always found them kind of gross. However, you will probably need to use them since the journey takes like 7 hours.

I would also bring toilet paper with you to the toilet since it is sometimes missing from the bathroom.

You’ll also have overhead shelves that you can use to store luggage. However, they will not fit giant rolling bags and I do not suggest you try shoving an oversized bag onto the shelf.

This happened one time when I was taking the train from Fes to Marrakech and it actually fell on someone and hurt them.

Instead, leave your luggage in the walkway. It’s annoying but better than hurting someone when your giant bag falls on them.

In terms of A/C, we did not have A/C in second class when we rode from Fes to Marrakech. It was fine but it can be an issue if it’s summer and the temperatures outside are scorching.

So, if its summer you may want to get first-class tickets so that you can enjoy A/C.

There is also a food cart that travels to every section of the train. It’s not huge and sells things like coffee, tea, snacks, and sandwiches.

TBH, I wasn’t impressed with the selection and would just bring snacks with me on the train. It’s also worth noting that no food cart service will be available if you are traveling during Ramadan.

You should also be respectful and refrain from eating and drinking in front of locals who are fasting for the holiday.

Instead, eat before you board the train and then again when you arrive in Marrakech since there are a ton of great brunch spots in Marrakech.

Tips for Taking the Train from Fes to Marrakech

TBH, taking the train from Fes to Marrakech is SUPER easy, comfortable, and cheap. You don’t need a ton of tips since it’s a pretty straightforward experience. However, here are some local tips that I use everywhere time I travel on the train,

• Opt for First Class Tickets in the Summer – I did not have A/C when I traveled with second-class tickets. It wasn’t a big deal for us since it was super hot, but this can be an issue in the summer when the desert is brutally hot. Whether the A/C was off or just not working, I don’t know. But, I would play it safe and get first-class tickets if traveling during the summer.

• Don’t Shove Oversized Bags Onto Luggage Racks – The shelf for overhead luggage storage is narrow on the train. So, giant rolling bags won’t fit here and don’t try to make them. I saw a HUGE bag fall on someone and it was awful. Instead, just leave your bag in the aisle and try to make it when people need to get there. It’s annoying but WAY better than having it fall on someone.

• Sit in Your Assigned Seat – I have ridden on the bus/train all over the world. In some countries, no one cares about assigned seats and you can sit wherever. In other places, it is a BIG deal if you sit in someone’s seat. In Morocco, they are not a fan of you sitting in their seat. So, stick with your assigned seat and avoid any issues. I have also always had an assigned seat and if you’re unsure, ask a train conductor.

• Sit by the Window – The views of the desert are beautiful as you travel from Fes to Marrakech. So, try to sit by the window and see as much of the Moroccan countryside as you can.

• Download Something to Watch – The train ride from Fes to Marrakech is long and can get really boring. So definitely download something to watch to help pass the time.

• Take the First or Last Train of the Day – I like to do this if I have limited time. So, if you leave on the last train of the day then you can spend most of the day exploring Fes, rather than wasting your time on the train. However, if you want to spend a day in Marrakech then board the first train of the day and check out Marrakech once you arrive.

• Bring Snacks/Drinks – Honestly, the food service on the train is not great. It’s also a long trip and just a good idea to bring some food and drinks with you in case you get hungry or thirsty.

• Bring Toilet Paper to the Bathroom – I have been in many train bathrooms in Morocco that were dirty and did not have toilet paper. So, I suggest bringing your own with you just in case.

• Double Check You’re Getting Off at the Right Stop – Some cities, like Casablanca, have multiple stops within the city. So, it’s always a good idea to double-check and make sure you are not getting off at the wrong station. I asked a local and he prevented me from disembarking the train too soon in Casablanca. You could also use your GPS.

• Arrive Early – Most trains and buses in Morocco are pretty punctual and depart on time. So, I suggest that you arrive 15 minutes early. This way you have ample time to check in and wait on the platform for your train after however many days in Fes.

• Respect Local Customs – Fes is a bit more conservative than Marrakech. So, women should dress in loose-fitting clothes that cover the knees and shoulders. “They” also say that men should cover their shoulders and legs but my partner wears shorts with no problem. And yes, he is Moroccan. But, men might want to err on the side of caution and cover their shoulders and knees just in case.

• Learn Some French/Moroccan Dialect – It’s also a good idea to learn a few phrases in the Moroccan dialect/French since English isn’t as widely spoken in Morocco as it is in other countries. Yeah. it will just make communication a lot easier.Moroccan dialect is better though since not everyone speaks French.

Fes to Marrakech by Train FAQs

Is there a Fast Train from Fes to Marrakech?

No, there is not a fast train from Fes to Marrakech. The fast train only runs between Casablanca and Tangier, with stops in Rabat along the way.

How do I Get from Fes to Marrakesh?

You can get from Fes to Marrakech and Marrakech Airport by car, plane, bus, or train. I prefer traveling from Fes to Marrakech by train sit it is affordable, easy, and much faster than the bus.

Is the Train from Marrakech to Fes Nice?

Yes, the train from Marrakech to Fes is very nice. Train carriages are spacious, comfortable, and have plenty of places for you to store your luggage. Windows are also large and offer stunning views of the vast desert landscape.

Are Trains in Morocco Good?

Trains in Morocco are great. I use them all the time since they are safe, on-time, comfortable, and easy to use. I also love that you can book your tickets online and don’t have to worry about waiting in line at the ticket counter.

That wraps up this guide on how to get from Fes to Marrakech by train. I hope you found it useful and have everything you need for a safe trip.

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