Traveling between Marrakech and Fes is a popular journey, connecting two of Morocco’s most iconic cities and major international airports. Many travelers start their Moroccan adventure in Marrakech, especially since most flights from the UK arrive there, and then continue on to Fes. Both cities offer rich cultural experiences, so if possible, try to include both in your itinerary.

Below, we outline the best ways to travel from Marrakech to Fes—by desert tour, plane, train, bus, or rental car.

1. Desert Tour: The Most Scenic Route

Duration: 3 days
Cost: From around €220

If you’re looking for a truly memorable experience, a desert tour from Marrakech to Fes is the most scenic and adventurous option. These 3-day tours typically include hotel pick-up in Marrakech and drop-off in Fes, with stops at breathtaking locations in between. We’ve done this route several times and loved the flexibility of stopping at key attractions.

Highlights:

Crossing the Tizi n’Tichka pass in the High Atlas Mountains
Visiting the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou
Walking through Todra Gorge in Tinghir
Sleeping under the stars in a luxury desert camp
Watching sunrise over the dunes at Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga
Camel trekking through the Sahara
Spotting Barbary apes in the Middle Atlas cedar forests
Driving through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains

This option is ideal for travelers with time to spare and a taste for adventure.

2. By Plane: Quick and Convenient

Duration: ~55 minutes
Cost: From €30

Flying is the fastest way to travel from Marrakech to Fes, with flight times under an hour. You’ll need to arrive at the airport about an hour early, but both airports are conveniently located near their city centers.

Tickets can range from €19 to €50, depending on the season, but you can often book for around €30. While flying saves time, it lacks the scenic beauty of overland routes.

3. By Train: Comfortable and Popular

Duration: About 7 hours
Cost: From €20 (2nd class), €30 (1st class)

Traveling by train is a reliable and comfortable option. Trains run every two hours from early morning until late afternoon. First-class tickets offer reserved seats and air-conditioned compartments, which we highly recommend.

Note that both Marrakech and Fes train stations are slightly outside the city centers, so a taxi may be required. Avoid routes that transfer in Casablanca, as they significantly increase travel time.

Tip: Book online in advance and select “Fès” as the destination.

4. By Bus: Budget-Friendly Option

Duration: Around 7.5 hours
Cost: From €17

Overnight buses are a great choice for budget travelers. CTM offers several departures, including a 1:45 AM bus arriving in Fes at 9:15 AM. Other options are available throughout the day.

The CTM bus station in Marrakech is near the train station, but in Fes, it’s about 5 km from the old town. Buses are generally comfortable, but trains may be more pleasant for daytime travel.

5. By Rental Car: Travel at Your Own Pace

Duration: Around 6 hours
Cost: From €85 + ~€20 in tolls

Hiring a car gives you full control over your journey. The drive takes about 6 hours via the A7, A1, and A2 highways. This route allows for detours to places like the “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs” near Ouarzazate.

Just be aware of Morocco’s unique driving conditions and local customs. A GPS and basic French or Arabic can be very helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest way to travel from Marrakech to Fes?

The bus, with fares starting at €17, is the most economical option—especially the overnight service.

What is the fastest way?

Flying is the quickest, with direct flights taking around 55 minutes.

Which option offers the best experience?

A desert tour offers the most immersive and scenic experience, including a magical night in the Sahara.

How far is it from Marrakech to Fes?

The distance is about 532 km, and driving takes roughly 6 hours.

Blog