

The easiest way to travel from Fez to Marrakesh is the direct ONCF train, which takes about 6 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours. This guide is for anyone planning the trip between Morocco's two great imperial cities, from first-time visitors to travelers who have already decided on a longer Morocco itinerary, and it covers train schedules, ticket prices, flight options and the alternatives so you can choose the best transport for your next trip. Moroccan Railways (ONCF) runs direct trains from Fès station to Marrakech station roughly every two hours, from early morning until night, so you do not need to change trains. The route heads west through Meknes and Sidi Kacem, then spends the second half of the journey running south along the Atlantic coast through Rabat and Casablanca before crossing the plains to Marrakesh. Train tickets cost about MAD 220 to MAD 460, depending on the class and how early you book. Second class is the cheapest option, while first class gives you a reserved seat, more legroom and a quieter carriage, which is worth it on a long journey. Trains have air-conditioned carriages and a snack trolley on most services, but bring water and food, especially in summer, when temperatures in Marrakesh often pass 38 °C in June, July and August. You can buy tickets online through ONCF, at station ticket offices or with ticket machines. Midweek trains from Monday to Thursday are usually quieter, while Friday and Sunday afternoons, Moroccan holidays and the busy months of March, December and the summer fill up fast, so book in advance. The most pleasant months to visit Morocco are March to May and September to November, when the sun is warm but not too hot, while January nights can be cold in both cities.
Marrakesh was founded later, in the 11th century, by the Almoravids, and today it is a cosmopolitan hub known for its vibrant nightlife, rooftop restaurants and busy souks. Marrakech station is in the Guéliz district, a short taxi ride from Jemaa el-Fna square, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Bahia Palace and the Majorelle Garden. Marrakesh is the best base for trips to the Atlas Mountains and the desert, and it hosts the annual Marrakech International Film Festival in November. If you are arriving late, book a hotel in the medina or Guéliz in advance. Besides the train, there are several alternatives. The cheapest bus ticket from Fes to Marrakesh costs €18, and CTM buses run directly a few times a day, but the trip takes about 9 to 10 hours. Driving from Fes to Marrakesh covers 520.3 km, with a driving time of about 5 hours 15 minutes on the motorway via Rabat and Casablanca. For a faster trip, popular airlines like Ryanair offer direct flights from Fes-Sais Airport to Marrakech several times a week, and both airports also handle international flights to Europe. Cheap flights are common: the cheapest one-way fares start at €17, round-trip flights start at €32, and flight prices range from €31 to €173, depending on the airline and date. Booking on Sundays can save 6% to 13% on flight prices. Even so, airport transfers and security add several hours, so for most travelers the direct train remains the most comfortable way to cross the country and see the changing landscape on the way.
The direct train takes about 6 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours.
Yes. ONCF runs direct trains from Fès to Marrakech roughly every two hours, from morning until night.
Tickets cost about MAD 220 to MAD 460, depending on the class and how early you book.
The cheapest bus ticket costs €18, and the cheapest one-way flight costs €17 when booked early. Second-class train tickets are also good value.
Yes. Popular airlines like Ryanair offer direct flights from Fes-Sais Airport to Marrakech several times a week.
One way fares start at €17, round-trip flights start at €32, and prices range from €31 to €173. Booking on Sundays can save 6% to 13%.
Compare airline websites and book early. Cheap flights are most common midweek and outside holidays.
Driving covers 520.3 km and takes about 5 hours 15 minutes on the motorway via Rabat and Casablanca.
In the second half of the trip, the train runs along the Atlantic coast through Rabat and Casablanca before heading south to Marrakesh.
Midweek trains from Monday to Thursday are usually quieter and easier to book than Friday and Sunday departures.
Days are mild and sunny, but nights in December and January can be cold in both cities.
The old city, Fes el-Bali, is a short taxi ride from Fès station. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.
Fez operates largely through centuries-old artisan guild traditions, with craftsmen producing fine leather goods and metalwork in the medina.
The Royal Palace is not open to the public, but you can admire its famous golden gates from the square outside.
Marrakesh was founded later, in the 11th century, by the Almoravids.
Yes. Marrakesh is the best base for trips to the Atlas Mountains, and both cities offer tours to the Sahara desert.
Stay in a riad in the medina for a traditional experience, or choose a hotel in the new town for modern comfort.
Try traditional Fassi cuisine, considered the haute cuisine of Morocco.
Marrakesh hosts the annual Marrakech International Film Festival in November.
Fez had a population of 1,256,172 in 2024, making it one of the largest cities in the country.
Spend a few days in each city, add a day trip to Volubilis, and once you have decided on your route, book trains early to secure the best fares.
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