Fes to Marrakesh tickets

About the journey from Fes to Marrakech

Morroco is full of magical towns and charming villages. After spending time in the country's cultural capital, you may be ready to explore the economic center. Traveling from Fes to Marrakech is easy thanks to several different transportation choices.

You can use public transport options, such as the bus or a train, and see more of Morocco along the way. 

Or, if you prefer to set your own schedule or travel independently you can hire a car or minivan to drive you the 533 km (330 miles) southwest to Marrakesh.

Four fascinating things to do in Marrakech

Marrakech is a city of juxtaposition. The worn streets of Old Town are a stark contrast to the vibrant neighborhoods that surround it. The blend of old and new offers a glimpse into the city's unique identity.

Here are some of the best things to do during your time in the city:

1. Learn about Islamic Architecture at Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa. Because the mosques in Marrakech are closed to non-Muslims, touring this Quranic college is the best place to learn about Islamic design.

2. Wander the central Souks. Souks are open-air markets that sell everything from spices to carpets. Souk Haddadine, Souk Cherratine, and La Criée Berbère are among some of the most popular. 

3. Explore the Mellah. The Mellah is the old Jewish Quarter of Marrakech and is a beautiful neighborhood. Be sure to stop by Slat Al Azama synagogue to marvel at the blue courtyard.  

4. Visit Bahia Palace. This is one of the most ornate and extravagant buildings in Marrakech and has some of the best examples of Andalusian and Moorish architecture in Morocco.

How to get from Fes to Marrakech

There are several options to get you from Fes to Marrakech. Choosing the right fit will come down to travel preference and budget. 

Bus

With prices starting around $18, buses are the cheapest way to get to Marrakech. The ride takes between 7.5 and 9.5 hours, depending on the operator and the pick-up and drop-off locations. 

All buses will have A/C, but depending on the company you choose, there could be TVs, a charging port for your cell phone or other small electronics, WiFi, and reclining seats.

Be sure to download a podcast or a few movies to keep you entertained along the way.

The bus will stop in places along the route like Casablanca, Sale, Rabat, and Meknes for quick 15-minute bathroom and stretch breaks.

Train

The train is a great option if you want to take in the sights along the way. 

The ride will take about six and a half hours, and all the trains will have A/C and bathrooms on board. There are several departures per day, so you can easily book a ticket that fits best with your schedule. 

There are a few ticket choices.

First Class Train (tickets start around $46).

First Class train tickets will get you a seat in the First Class cabin. Seats are plush and comfortable, providing more legroom than second-class seats. Most cabins will also have charging ports near the seats. Some even have WiFi.

Second Class Train (tickets start around $28).

Second Class train tickets provide you with a seat in a cabin. You can expect 6 seats in one cabin, three facing forward and three facing backward. There is a small table to share in the cabin.

Car or Minivan Transfer

If you prefer to book a private transport, you can hire a car or a minivan. 

While this is the most expensive option, the advantage of booking your own vehicle is controlling when and where you are picked up, as well as when you stop. 

The ride will take about five hours, and you can expect English-speaking staff to collect you from your accommodation in Fes and drop you off directly at your hotel or airport in Marrakech. 

Cars and minivans come with A/C and reclining seats. They may have WiFi, chargers, and bottled water, depending on who you book with. 

Some cars and minivans are shared, so if you want the whole vehicle to yourself, look for the private transfer filter on the left sidebar. 

About the ride to Marrakech from Fes

The trip from Fes to Marrakech is a scenic one, so be sure to grab a window seat! 

As you drive through the countryside, you'll be treated to stunning views of majestic mountains, breathtaking valleys, and stark desert landscapes. It's hard to imagine that all of this terrain can belong to one country. 

Best time to visit Marrakech

You can visit Marrakech pretty much any time of year. However, there are a few factors to consider when planning your trip.

Spring and fall are the best times to visit Marrakech. Temperatures are consistently mild, and there is little rain to dampen your experience. 

Temperatures range between 25-28℃ (77-82℉). The low humidity makes it the perfect weather to wander new city streets.

Summers in Marrakech, and most of Morocco for that matter, are hot and dry. Temperatures soar to 37℃ (99℉), so avoid traveling during this time if heat isn't for you.

Winter is the coolest time of year and also experiences the most rainfall. 

However, temperatures still range between 18-22℃ (64-71℉), so it isn't that cold. 

January is the rainiest month, but you can still expect some sunshine every day.

Where to go next

There are so many places that should be on your Moroccan travel bucket list. 

After visiting Marrakech, head to Casablanca. It is only a three-hour bus ride or a 45-minute flight away! Not only is this city home to the famous namesake movie, but it is also the best place to learn about Morocco's past and experience the exciting changes to the present. 

Essaouira is another great option. It is a three-hour bus ride from Marrakech and a lovely town by the sea with a charming old town. This medina is protected by 18th-century ramparts that you can explore and learn about Morocco's sea-trading history.

There are so many choices when it comes to figuring out where to go after your time in Marrakech comes to an end. No matter what you decide, though, you'll be impressed with Morocco's intriguing history, impressive architecture, and exciting cities.