Casablanca to Meknes tickets

About the ride from Casablanca to Meknes

Departing the palm-lined boulevards of Casablanca is no easy feat. This cultural capital isn't your typical tourist city, but one you'll remember for years to come. However, it's time to put on your best pout and kiss this spot goodbye! It's time to venture forward to Meknes — a city dubbed the "Versailles of Morocco."

So, why is Meknes aligned with a palace on the outskirts of Paris? Because it's one of the grandest cities in the country. 

Meknes was the capital during Sultan Moulay Ismail's reign, and as the leader, he focused on adorning the city with fantastic architecture and detailed design. You'll want to take a snap of every piece of mosaic you see!

But before you become a pro photographer, you'll need to know how to hop from Casablanca to Meknes. 

Fortunately, it's easy.

The distance from Casablanca to Meknes is approximately 155 miles (250 km). This journey takes anywhere from two to four hours, depending on the transport option you choose. Bus, train, and minivan are the top rides for this route. 

Get ready to continue your tour of Morocco's highlights. 

Why is Meknes famous?

The Historic City of Meknes (now a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is famous thanks to its unique Spanish-Moorish architecture, designed by Sultan Moulay Ismail. Every year, thousands of visitors arrive to see the old city's high walls, decorated gates, and maze-like medina in person. 

Stunning sights to see in Meknes

From beautiful buildings to solemn mausoleums, here are the top landmarks you must add to your Meknes itinerary. 

1. Visit the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. A mausoleum might sound too somber, but the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is a must-see and one of the most important buildings in the city. This opulent structure is the resting place of Moulay Ismail, the Sultan who created the city and its stunning aesthetic.
   
   

2. Gaze at the splendor of Bab Mansour. It's one of the giant gates marking the start of the old city and a towering monument with detailed mosaics every visitor should gaze upon.
   
   

3. Get lost in the medina. Meknes' old medina is a web of small alleys and streets with souks and shops. It's the best place to pick up souvenirs and genuine crafts.
   
   

4. Admire the opulence of the Dar Jamai Museum. Even if exhibitions aren't your usual thing, this museum is worth a visit. This building is a palace built by the Jamai family in 1882. Here, you can admire the architecture, ceramics, jewelry, and gardens in one place. Simply divine.

How to get from Casablanca to Meknes

Buses, trains, and minivans are the best connections from Casablanca to Meknes. But which matches your travel groove? Learn what sets these apart below.

The bus

Buses are the most affordable way to get to Meknes, as ticket prices start at $5 per person. However, expect to pay more depending on the bus you select and its amenities.

Bus journeys take three to five hours to arrive in Meknes. The time varies due to different routes, stops, and departure/arrival points. 

Common departure points for buses include Ouled Ziane Bus Station, Agence Ghazala Casablanca, or CTM Bus Station Casablanca. You'll likely arrive at CTM Bus Station Meknes or  Agence Ghazala Meknes.

Typical amenities include A/C, large luggage (up to 44 lbs/20 kg), and individual seats. Some buses have TVs and WiFi, but these aren't guaranteed.

The train

Trains from Casablanca to Meknes are the fastest option. These take approximately two hours and depart over 14 times a day. 

The cheapest train tickets begin at $15 for second-class seats and increase for first-class seats. The main differences between first and second-class seats are comfort and space. In the first class, you have a section with two to four seats surrounding a table. In the second class, there are six seats, which makes for less legroom.  

All cabins are air-conditioned, with bathroom access nearby. 

You'll get up to 50 lbs/23 kg of luggage.

Most train journeys depart from Casablanca Train Station, L'Oasis Train Station, or Casablanca Airport. You'll arrive at Meknes Train Station.

The minivan

Minivans are another excellent way to get to Meknes.

These usually have space for three to six guests, but the capacity depends on the individual ride you book. 

Prices start at $75 per person. So, if you were to travel with four people, the hire would cost $300 in total.

The travel time between Casablanca and Meknes via minivan is approximately two hours. 

Minivans pick up and drop off at your hotel, making it super convenient. 

General amenities in minivans to Meknes include A/C, bathroom breaks, up to 44 lbs/20 kg of luggage each, and English-speaking staff. Some minivans also provide USB chargers, TV screens, water, and reclining seats. 

Note that none of the minivans to Meknes are private transfers. This means there's a chance you might share the ride with some new friends. 

Pro tip: Bring water for the ride! Morocco can get very warm in the summer. Stay hydrated to enjoy the adventure. 

More details about the journey from Casablanca to Meknes

The ride from Casablanca takes you approximately 155 miles (250 km) northeast. 

Meknes is much further inland than Casablanca. Most rides follow the highway or train tracks, limiting the views on the way. However, some drivers may take the A5 route that follows the coastline and takes you through nearby cities like Mohammedia and Rabat. 

All rides to Meknes are safe for travelers, including women and solo travelers. You'll find English speakers at bus or train terminals. Don't be afraid to ask for directions from station staff. 

The best time to travel from Casablanca to Meknes

The best time to visit Meknes is from April to November. 

The sun shines throughout this long period, with the hottest months being July and August, when the temperatures reach highs of 98°F/37°C. 

If you want cooler sunshine, consider April, May, June, September, October, and November, where the average temperature is 77°F/25°C.

It isn't cold from December to March. However, the temperature is an average of 60°F/16°C. You'll need a jacket and layers during this period.

Meknes isn't a rainy destination. March receives the most rain — 4.5 inches/118 mm or about seven days per month.

Where to travel after Meknes

If you have extra time after Meknes, why not visit Rabat, Morocco's capital? 

Rabat is known for its French-colonial and Islamic heritage and is home to stunning forts, intriguing museums, and gorgeous sea views. Meknes to Rabat takes one hour by train and two hours by bus.