

The fastest and easiest way to travel from Casablanca to Rabat is by train, with journeys from about 45 minutes to 1 hour. This guide is for anyone planning the trip, from business travelers commuting between Morocco's economic hub and its capital city to tourists building a Morocco itinerary, and it covers schedules, stations, ticket prices and the main attractions so you can choose the best option and make the most of your time. Trains are run by ONCF, Morocco's national railway, and two types of service operate on this route. Al Boraq, Africa's first high-speed train, launched on 15 November 2018 and links Casablanca with Rabat on its way north to Kenitra and Tangier, with departures from Casa Voyageurs every hour from 06:00 to 21:00 (from 07:00 on Sundays) and a stop at Rabat Agdal. TNR shuttle trains run frequently from Casa Port train station, located in the city center near the port, and from Casa Voyageurs, and stop at both Rabat Agdal and Rabat Ville train station, taking about 55 minutes to 1 hour. Shuttle train tickets cost approximately 35 Dh per person, while Al Boraq costs a bit more but offers a faster ride with reserved seats, Wi-Fi and a café car. The last train from Casablanca to Rabat departs around 10 PM, so if you plan a night out, check the timetable or arrange other transport back. Book Al Boraq in advance on weekends, holidays and during the summer months, while shuttle tickets can usually be bought at the station on the day. Cash is often preferred for small purchases in Morocco, especially for local transport, and local taxis usually prefer payment in dirhams (MAD).
When you visit Rabat, the political capital of Morocco, you find a city that is a lot smaller, with around 1 million inhabitants, and is often viewed as safer and less overwhelming than Casablanca. Rabat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its royal history, and its historic medina is easy to explore on foot. The Kasbah of the Udayas, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers beautiful views over the Atlantic Ocean and a peaceful Andalusian garden. The Hassan Tower stands 44 meters tall and dates back to the 12th century, and next to it lies the Mausoleum of King Mohammed V, one of the city's most interesting historical sites. Chellah features Roman ruins and a medieval necropolis, showing the ancient history of the surrounding area, and you can also see the gates of the Royal Palace, where the king's official residence is located. Rabat's green parks, quiet streets and calm cafés make it an enjoyable destination, but nightlife in Rabat is generally quieter, with limited options compared to the vibrant scene in Casablanca. Public transportation in Rabat includes the Rabat-Salé Tramway, which connects major landmarks and gives easy access to the main attractions from Rabat Ville train station. At the moment, the train is the best way to travel between the two cities: driving takes about 1 hour for roughly 90 km but Casablanca traffic can add a lot more time, and buses are slower. A high-speed extension from Kenitra to Marrakech via Rabat and Casablanca has been under construction since April 2025 and will make rail travel even faster.
Al Boraq high-speed trains take about 45 minutes, while TNR shuttle trains take about 55 minutes to 1 hour.
Shuttle train tickets cost approximately 35 Dh per person. Al Boraq costs a bit more and includes a reserved seat.
The last train from Casablanca to Rabat departs around 10 PM, so plan your evening transport in advance.
Casa Port train station is located in the city center near the port, close to the old medina and the Hassan II Mosque.
Rabat Ville train station is in the center of the capital city, within walking distance of the historic medina and Mohammed V Avenue, with easy access to the tramway.
Cash is often preferred for small purchases, especially for local transport, and local taxis usually prefer payment in dirhams (MAD).
Visit Casablanca for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants and modern city life. Visit Rabat for its history, culture, parks and calm atmosphere. Many travelers spend time in both.
Casablanca has a vibrant nightlife scene with diverse bars, and its nightlife offers more options than Rabat's. Rabat is quieter at night.
Yes. Rabat has around 1 million inhabitants, while Casablanca has over 3.5 million, making Casablanca Morocco's largest city.
The Andalusian Garden is located inside the Kasbah of the Udayas, a peaceful spot with beautiful views close to the Atlantic Ocean.
The Hassan Tower stands 44 meters tall and dates back to the 12th century, next to the Mausoleum of King Mohammed V.
The old medina is small but interesting, close to the port and the Hassan II Mosque, with markets and traditional houses.
Public transportation in Rabat includes the Rabat-Salé Tramway, which connects major landmarks, and petit taxis are available at every station.
Yes. With trains under an hour, a day trip from Casablanca to Rabat is easy and enjoyable, though you do not necessarily need to rush: one night in each city lets you see more.
Yes. At the moment, the train is the fastest and most reliable option. Driving takes about 1 hour but traffic in Casablanca can make it much longer, and buses are slower.
Casablanca is the best city to party, with bars and clubs along the Corniche and in the city center.
Yes. Casablanca's Mohammed V airport is Morocco's main international hub, with flights to Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
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