No, there are currently no night trains with sleeper cars between Marrakesh and Fez. It is possible to leave Marrakesh on the 7:00 PM train and be in Fez at 1:27 AM; however, we donât recommend arriving in a new city so late at night.
How many days in Fez is enough?
Give yourself 3 days to see Fezâs main sites and take in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. If you are visiting during national or religious holidays, take that into consideration when planning your trip, as some sites may be closed to tours.
How long is the train ride from Marrakesh to Fez?
Around 6.5 hours! ONCFâs trains whisk passengers across the country almost every hour of the day from Marrakeshâs main railway station, with the last one leaving at 7:00 PM. The trains in Morocco are relatively reliable and punctual, if not a bit slow.
Is it worth visiting Fez?
100%! Fez is among the most well-preserved cities from the ancient Arab world and has been the meeting point of African, Arab, and European trade for over 1000 years. It still has that authentic, old-world feel but with modern amenities.
What is the best way to get from Marrakesh to Fez?
The best way to travel depends on your needs! If youâre trying to get to Fez fast, take a 1-hour flight with Ryanair. If youâre looking for a deeper cultural experience, hire a driver to get to the sites youâd like on your schedule.
How do I go from Marrakesh to Fez?
If youâre driving, the highways on this route will take you to all the major cities. Starting in Marrakesh, take the A2 highway to Rabat then transfer to the A1 towards Casablanca. From Casablanca, the A3 leads you straight to Fez.
A road trip across Morocco will take you back in time with its unique fusion of Andalusian, Arab, and African styles. The drive from Marrakesh to Fez covers 330 miles (531 km) and stops in several major cities.
You will head west out of Marrakesh towards the coastal city of Rabat. Then, follow the coastline south to Casablanca before heading inland. As you approach Fez, the landscape from your window will gradually change from arid coastal to desert.
Morocco is still emerging as a popular destination among travelers, so explore some of the lesser-known corners of North Africa. Unlike buses or trains, having a private driver allows you to venture exactly where you want between the major cities.
Time is money, especially when youâre traveling. The route between Marrakesh and Fez is an especially brilliant opportunity to visit another city or two since youâll already have to change highways in Rabat and Casablanca. Daytripâs easy-to-use booking system allows you to include sightseeing stops effortlessly, with prices starting at just $96 (âŹ89) per person. Letâs get started!
About Fez
Like Marrakesh, Fez is another of Morocco's imperial cities. Fez is the oldest of these former capitals and is often called the âAthens of Africa.â It was founded in the 9th century by Idris I and quickly became a spiritual and educational center as home to the University of al-Qarawiyyin, one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world.
Fez is one of Morocco's most inland major cities. It is in the transitional climate zone between the Mediterranean climate in the north and the arid Sahara Desert in the south.
### Fez: a Moroccan must-see
Fez needs to be on your Moroccan vacation itinerary! Beyond its historical allure, Fez is a living city where ancient traditions coexist with the rhythms of modern life, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Moroccan experience.
Its architecture is a stunning display of Islamic art, with madrasas and mosques decorated with geometric tiled walls in deep blues and greens. The medina is a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and scents.
As you slip through intricately carved wooden doors and under arches adorned with Islamic calligraphy, you are instantly transported back in time. Bazaar merchants sell everything from handmade rugs to fragrant spices. Artisans craft leather goods and pottery using traditional methods, maintaining Fez's reputation for high-quality craftsmanship.
A private driver makes it easy to travel across Morocco to Fez on your schedule, so join the millions of happy travelers who use Daytrip to make their vacation dreams come true!
From Marrakesh to Fez: travel tips
A little preparation goes a long way! Keep these helpful tips in mind when packing for your Marrakesh to Fez transfer!
Fes or Fez?
Writing city names with different alphabets is tricky! Youâve probably already seen Marrakesh also spelled as Marrakech, so donât be surprised when you see Fez spelled as Fes on maps, road signs, and travel guides. These spellings can be used interchangeably!
### Choose your travel outfit wisely
When visiting religious sites, it's important to dress in longer and looser clothing. Both men and women should cover their shoulders, chest, and knees. This dress code is not only respectful but also ideal for sun protection and comfort for long car rides. Loose clothing allows for better air circulation, and long sleeves help prevent sunburn. Opt for breathable materials like linen and steer clear of uncomfortable synthetic fabrics.
How to get from Marrakesh to Fez
For your Marrakesh to Fez transfer, you can choose between riding the bus or train, booking a flight, or riding in a private car. The route passes through several major cities, so use this opportunity to explore!
Marrakesh to Fez with a private driver
The simplest way to customize your vacation around Morocco is with a private driver. Many of Moroccoâs best attractions are challenging to reach efficiently with public transit due to distance, but with Daytrip, youâll enjoy door-to-door service from a friendly, English-speaking driver.
Your Moroccan road trip will begin when your expert driver picks you up from your address in Marrakesh. This 5-hour and 20-minute drive will be more comfortable and exciting, with stops at Moroccoâs greatest landmarks. Book a stop in El Jadida for lunch, then an afternoon break in Sale to stretch your legs. Get a peek at the seaside before you head inland again to Fez!
Once in Fez, youâll be glad not to have to navigate public buses or hire a taxi from the train station. After your action-packed trip, your driver will take you right to your hotel in Fez and help with your luggage, too! Secure a seat for just $96 (âŹ89) per person.
### Marrakesh to Fez by flight
Ryanair operates flights between Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) and Fes Sais International Airport (FEZ) four times a week. Tickets can be as low as $15 (âŹ14) before adding luggage. This is the fastest way to travel, as the flight is only 1 hour and 10 minutes. The airport is located south of Fes and is a 20-minute taxi ride from the city center.
As with all Ryanair flights, it is crucial to check in online 24 hours before your flight and manage your ticket on your phone to avoid the high check-in fee at the airport!
### Marrakesh to Fez by train
Direct trains leave almost every hour of the day between Marrakesh and Fez. Tickets are between $21 to $35 (âŹ19.50-âŹ32.50) and can be bought online from ONCF. The trip takes 6.5 hours, all of which is in air-conditioned comfort.
### Marrakesh to Fez by bus
The cheapest way to travel through Morocco is by bus, with tickets ranging from $8 to $30 (âŹ7.40-âŹ28), but it is not very fast or comfortable. CTM buses have direct connections between Marrakesh and Fez, but the trip can take anywhere from 7.5 to 11 hours. We definitely recommend skipping the bus for this transfer.
Things to do when you get to Fez
After a long, thrilling journey from Marrakesh to Fez, a good nightâs rest is essential to prepare for this exciting city. Start your Fez adventure with these must-do activities:
Step back in time in the medina
The Fes el-Bali Medina spans 540 acres (218 hectares) and has 9,000 winding cobblestone streets. It is the most intact and well-preserved medieval city in the Arab world and has earned a spot as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It would take weeks to see every single street, so focus your energy on the oldest part of the city. Begin your exploration by entering through the Bab Bou Jeloud Gate, also known as the Blue Gate. With so much ground to cover, itâs best to dedicate an entire day to this enchanting area.
The medina is entirely car-free, and its labyrinthine streets transport you back to its 9th-century origins. As the former capital of Morocco, on several occasions, it houses over 300 mosques and numerous administrative buildings. Unlike many markets in other historic cities, the medina in Fez is used by locals and visitors alike.
Within the souks or bazaars, youâll find a treasure trove of shops selling handmade rugs, leather goods, spices, perfumes, pottery, and jewelry. Observe artisans crafting pots and rugs right before your eyes, and donât forget to pick up a fez, the traditional hat of the city.
### Al-Attarine Madrasa
This 700-year-old Al-Attarine Madrasa is an excellent example of the architectural styles popular during the Marinid Sultanate: intricate stucco work, mesmerizing zellij tilework, and ornately carved wooden panels. Situated near the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, it served as an important center for religious and scholarly education in medieval Morocco.
### Melt into relaxation at a hammam
After a long day of touring the city, treat yourself to a traditional Moroccan hammam experience! Find relaxation and rejuvenation through a steam bath, exfoliating scrub, and aromatic massage. Enjoy these age-old wellness rituals in one of the most historic cities in the Arab world.
When is the best time to visit Fez
For the best experience, plan your visit to Morocco during the spring or autumn. In these shoulder seasons, youâll enjoy pleasant, sunny weather with average temperatures around 77°F (25°C).
Summers in Morocco, particularly in inland cities like Marrakesh and Fez, bring intense heat. In July and August, temperatures often soar to 96°F (36°C), accompanied by a very high UV index. If youâre not accustomed to the extreme heat of the Sahara Desert, itâs best to avoid visiting Morocco during the summer months.
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El Jadida
The UNESCO-listed old town of this seaside city looks distinctly âun-Moorishâ because it was founded by the Portuguese. Ported DevelopmentÂ
Casablanca
Famed for the eponymous film, Moroccoâs financial center has a surprisingly varied array of attractions, including the countryâs largest mosque (and you can actually go inside!). Fame and FortuneÂ
Rabat
Once a haven for pirates, Moroccoâs capital and its UNESCO-listed medina offers laid-back serving of Barbar culture. The Quiet Coastal CapitalÂ
Sale
The historic city where Robinson Crusoe was imprisoned by pirates has preserved its history while outgrowing nearby Rabat. A Captivating TraditionÂ
Volubilis
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the best-preserved Roman ruin in Morocco, famed for its in-situ mosaics. Magnificent Roman MosaicsÂ
Meknes
The former capital of Morocco, the UNESCO-listed medina of this imperial city is accessed by the most beautiful gate in the country. Gateway to GreatnessÂ
âWe just completed our fifth DayTrip journey this year with excellent, friendly, professional drivers in Morocco, Italy and Mexico. All were experts on the local scene and very accommodating to our particular needs. In Morocco we scheduled brief stops in Rabat and the Roman ruin of Volubilis on our way from Marrakech to Fez. One of our three trips in Mexico involved negotiating a challenging road over the Sierra Madre Mountains from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido. The driver was highly skilled and midway through the seven hour trip we stopped for lunch at a spectacular restaurant high in the mountains with a beautiful view.â
âWe used Daytrip on 3 occasions during our visit to Morocco this month . Each trip ,Marrakesh to Fez, Fez to Essiouira and back to Marrakesh.
Each driver was excellent and could not have been more helpful . This is a very professional company and when considering whether to rent a car and drive or use Daytrip I would recommend Daytrip every time in Morocco for a relaxing safe trip .
â
âWe had four transfers with Daytrip: from Marbella to Tarifa, then from Tarifa to Chefchaouen, from there to Fez and from there to Marrakesh. Definitely the right move!
We had two cases and 2 pieces of cabin luggage and we would not have done this well on local buses in Morocco. Trains didn't go the routes we needed. This might have cost as little extra, but it was so worth it. All 4 drivers were punctual and very polite. One was a little unsociable, but the other 3 were great! We got heaps of information and advice from them. Having our own personal driver meant we could ask for rest stops as we needed them and being locals, they knew where to best stop for Westerners (I'm talking about toilets). On two of the transfers we did side-trips, where the drivers organised tour guides for us. On one transfer, we had cancelled a side-trip and the driver, who knew about this, made sure to at least drive past where we would have stopped. We will absolutely be using Daytrip again in the future.â
âPuncture pick up @ Bab Boujeloud inside known as ( Blue Gate ) @ FES , lost in medina compound ,10mn walk to Medina Social Club which is a maze effect to found us ! Journey start from Fes to Marrakeck hit the freeway with full of confidence and praise to the experience of the driver' s skill. ( C. code 295168 ) cost Euro 273. Arrival hotel door to door took 6.30 hours, was a perfect performance run ! Do remember Daytrip is the answer to commute city to city ! Patrick.â
