The Marrakech to Fes train takes about 7 hours and costs roughly 195–250 MAD ($20–25) in second class or 290–365 MAD ($29–36) in first class. Several trains run every day, and it's the easiest and most comfortable way to travel between the two cities on a budget.
That's the simple answer. But a lot of what you'll read online about this train is out of date or a bit too optimistic. Some trains are direct and some need a change. Seven hours is the timetable, not a promise. And in 2026, construction work on Morocco's new high-speed line is affecting trains in and out of Marrakech.
A quick, honest note: I haven't taken this exact route myself. This guide is based on current information from ONCF (Morocco's national rail company), Moroccan news reports, and up-to-date 2026 travel guides, checked in October 2026. Train fares and timetables change often, so always confirm on oncf-voyages.ma before you travel.
Quick answer: Marrakech to Fes train at a glance
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Train type | Al Atlas (ONCF's regular intercity train) |
| Journey time | About 6.5–7.5 hours (can be longer in 2026 because of works) |
| Second class | About 195–250 MAD ($20–25) |
| First class | About 290–365 MAD ($29–36) |
| Trains per day | Several, mostly between early morning and late afternoon |
| Direct? | Some trains are direct; others need a change, usually at Casablanca Voyageurs |
| Where to book | oncf-voyages.ma, the ONCF Voyages app, or at the station |
Currency note: roughly 10 MAD equals $1 USD in 2026. Train prices vary with the date, the time of day, and how early you book, so check a live converter and the ONCF fare for your exact date.
How much is the train from Marrakech to Fes?
Ticket prices for the Marrakech to Fes train are not fixed. ONCF prices change depending on demand and how far ahead you book, so you'll see different numbers on different sites. Based on 2026 sources, expect:
| Class | Typical price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Second class | About 195–250 MAD ($20–25) | Open carriages or 8-seat compartments, narrower seats, AC on most trains |
| First class | About 290–365 MAD ($29–36) | 6-seat compartments, more legroom, a reserved seat |
Is first class worth it? On a 7-hour trip, I think it usually is. For about $10–15 more, you get a reserved seat, more space, and a quieter compartment. In second class, seats are not guaranteed, and on busy days (Fridays, Sundays, school holidays, and around Eid) you may stand for part of the journey.
How long is the Marrakech to Fes train?
The timetable says about 6.5–7.5 hours for around 500 km. The train goes north to Casablanca and Rabat, then turns east through Meknes to Fes. It stops at several stations on the way.
Plan for delays. Moroccan trains are generally reliable, but long routes like this one can run 30–60 minutes late, especially if you need to change trains. Don't book a tight connection, a desert tour pickup, or a dinner reservation for the moment your train is due to arrive.
What's actually true about this train
A few things you'll read online are only half true. Here's the honest version.
- "It's a direct train." Sometimes. Some departures run all the way from Marrakech to Fes. Others need a change, usually at Casablanca Voyageurs. When you book, check the number of connections before you pay.
- "You can take the high-speed train." Not to Fes. Al Boraq, Morocco's high-speed train, only runs between Tangier and Casablanca. Using it would mean a long detour, and Fes is not on the line.
- "There's a dining car." No. There's usually a snack trolley with drinks and sandwiches, but it often runs low. Bring your own food and plenty of water.
- "It always takes 7 hours." That's the timetable. In 2026, construction works can add time (see below).
2026 warning: high-speed line works near Marrakech
Morocco is building a new high-speed line from Kenitra to Marrakech. It's expected to open in 2029. That's great news for the future, but right now the works are affecting the trains you'll actually ride.
Since mid-September 2026, ONCF has been running a revised timetable, with slowdowns and changes near the work zones. On some nights, Marrakech trains have even started from Sidi Ibrahim station instead of the main station, with shuttle buses between the two.
What this means for you: check the exact timetable for your date, allow extra time, and look at ONCF's announcements in the days before you travel.
How to book the Marrakech to Fes train
- Online: book on oncf-voyages.ma or in the ONCF Voyages app. You get an e-ticket with a QR code on your phone.
- At the station: buy from the ticket windows or machines at Marrakech station. This works fine outside busy periods.
- Through a reseller: sites like 12Go sell ONCF tickets in English and accept more foreign cards, but they add a fee.
Tip: some travelers report that the ONCF website rejects their foreign credit card. If that happens, try the app, use a reseller, or simply buy at the station a day ahead.
Book a few days ahead for normal travel, and at least a week ahead for weekends, school holidays, or around Eid, when trains sell out.
Getting to and from the stations
Marrakech station is in Gueliz, the new town, about 10–15 minutes by petit taxi from the medina. Ask for the meter ("compteur"). Bus 19 also links the station with Jemaa el-Fna and the airport.
Fes station is in the Ville Nouvelle (new town). It's a short petit taxi ride to the medina gates, such as Bab Boujloud. Agree on the meter before you get in.
For more on taxi prices and avoiding scams, see Marrakech on a Budget.
Train vs bus from Marrakech to Fes
| Option | Time | Typical price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train, second class | About 7 hours | $20–25 | Budget travelers who don't mind crowds |
| Train, first class | About 7 hours | $29–36 | Most travelers; comfort and a reserved seat |
| Bus (CTM and others) | About 7–10 hours | $15–40 | Night travel, or when trains are full |
The bus can be slightly cheaper, but the train is usually more comfortable. You can stand up, walk around, and watch the countryside. CTM is the most reliable bus company on this route.
Another option is a 2–3 day desert tour from Marrakech that ends in Fes, via Merzouga. It's much more expensive, but it combines the journey with a Sahara trip.
Tips for the Marrakech to Fes train
- Take a morning train so you arrive in Fes before dark. Finding your riad in the Fes medina at night is much harder.
- Bring food, water, and a charger. Snacks on board are limited, and not all seats have power sockets.
- Keep your ticket until you leave the station. Tickets are checked on the train and sometimes at the exit.
- Watch your bags at Casablanca if you change trains there. It's a busy station.
- Ask your riad in Fes to meet you at a medina gate. The Fes medina is even more confusing than Marrakech's.
Marrakech to Fes Train FAQs
How long is the train from Marrakech to Fes?
About 6.5–7.5 hours for around 500 km. Some trains are direct and others need a change, usually at Casablanca Voyageurs. In 2026, high-speed line works near Marrakech can add extra time.
How much is the Marrakech to Fes train ticket?
Roughly 195–250 MAD ($20–25) in second class and 290–365 MAD ($29–36) in first class. Prices change with demand and how early you book.
Is there a direct train from Marrakech to Fes?
Yes, some departures run direct. Others require a change, usually at Casablanca Voyageurs. Check the number of connections when you book.
Is first class worth it on the Marrakech to Fes train?
Usually, yes. For about $10–15 more you get a reserved seat, more legroom, and a quieter 6-seat compartment. In second class, seats are not guaranteed on busy days.
Is the train or bus better from Marrakech to Fes?
The train is usually more comfortable and a similar price. The bus (CTM is the most reliable) can be slightly cheaper and is useful for night travel or when trains are full.
Conclusion
The Marrakech to Fes train is the best budget way to travel between the two cities: about 7 hours, roughly $20–25 in second class, or $29–36 in first class with a reserved seat. Book a morning train, check whether it's direct, bring your own food, and in 2026, allow extra time for the high-speed line works.
Planning your trip? See Marrakech on a Budget for daily costs, the best hostels in Marrakech, and Best Time to Visit Morocco to pick your dates.
