Fes to Rabat tickets

About the ride from Fes to Rabat

Say farewell to Morocco's cultural and spiritual center and embrace the historical city of Rabat.

Those searching for the easiest method of transportation between Fes and Rabat can choose between taking a train, bus, car, or minivan.

The 201.7-kilometer (125.3-mile) journey takes two to four hours, depending on your choice.

Whether you opt for a private car transfer or try Morocco's public transportation system, you'll pull into Rabat ready to discover a gem that has more than earned its UNESCO World Heritage listing.

Is Rabat worth visiting?

As one of Morocco's four imperial cities, Rabat is definitely worth visiting — the others include Marrakesh, Fes, and Meknes.

Rabat has numerous historical and cultural attractions, including the Chellah Necropolis and the Kasbah of the Udayas. It's a cornucopia filled with treasures.

Graced with slightly less chaotic energy than other major cities in Morocco, it perfectly intertwines historical and modern architecture, which helped earn its status as a UNESCO World Heritage city.

Six outstanding activities in Rabat

This too-often missed gem will charm you with its selection of unforgettable attractions. 

Keep these top treasures near the top of your itinerary:

1. Roam the old medina: Less tangled than the old towns of Fes and Marrakesh, this glorious medina is far easier to navigate but equally beautiful. White-washed houses with blue-painted doors and windows line the streets, and marketplaces burst with colors and smells. The sensory overload will immediately enchant you.

2. Wander the walls of the Kasbah of the Udayas: Tucked at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River, the citadel offers spectacular views and fascinating insight into Rabat's ancient history.

3. Visit the Grand Theatre de Rabat: A bold symbol of Rabat's surge toward cultural renewal, the monumental building is the largest performing arts complex in Africa. Pick a show or just marvel at the spaceship-like structure's unique modern curves.

4. Meet Rabat's twin: Head north of the city to visit Sale, Rabat's smaller twin. Walk via the Hassan II Bridge to take in some signature landmarks, like the medina and the citadel, along the way.

5. Tour Hassan Tower: It might be incomplete, and half its intended height, but this 12th-century mosque is still a beautiful sight to behold. 

6. Wander the Chellah Necropolis: Satisfy your inner history nerd with a visit to a sprawling archaeological site. Once a Roman colony before being abandoned, the site became the dynastic necropolis of the Marinid dynasty, a Berber-Muslim empire that thrived between the mid-13th century and the 15th century.

How do I get from Fes to Rabat?

The best way to get from Fes to Rabat is by train, bus, car, or minivan.

By train

Taking the train is the most convenient way to travel between major cities in Morocco.

You'll depart from Fes Train Station, in the heart of the city, and arrive at Rabat Train Station approximately three hours later.

With two class options to choose from — first and second — you'll arrive in comfort. Thanks to the extra comfort and a bargain price, it's worth paying for the first-class seating unless you're on a tight budget.

First-class seats start at $17, and second class are around $12.

All trains are air-conditioned and have WCs on board.

By bus

The cheapest way to travel between Fes and Rabat is to take an air-conditioned bus.

With multiple daily services, the bus is a fast, affordable, and convenient option. Prices start at $7, and it takes between 2.5 and 4.5 hours to reach Rabat.

Services leave from and arrive at different stations, depending on the operator. Check your ticket for up-to-date information about departure and arrival points.

Arrive at the station 15 minutes early to confirm that you have the right station and bus before departure.

Possible bus amenities include:

TV

An allowance of up to 23 kg (50 lbs) of luggage, including one large bag and one carry-on-sized bag.

Rest stops

By private car

Speed up the journey by opting for a private car transfer that takes two hours to travel from Fes to Rabat. 

You can choose the pick-up and drop-off locations and split the cost between your group of up to four passengers. Prices start at $140 per SUV.

Car amenities include:

Air conditioning 

English-speaking staff

An allowance of 20 kg (44 lbs) of luggage

Water

Rest stops

By minivan

You'll need a minimum of two passengers to book, so it's ideal for traveling couples or friends. Prices start at $42 per person. 

You'll get picked up at your hotel in an air-conditioned minivan. After two to three hours (depending on your rest stops), you'll get dropped off at your hotel in Rabat.  

Possible minivan amenities include:

WiFi, subject to availability 

TV

Reclining seats

USB charger

Water

If you're traveling in a larger group of up to six people, you can hire a private minivan. Prices start at $228 per vehicle, and you can choose your departure time.

The best things about the journey from Fes to Rabat

Although the journey between Fes and Rabat isn't particularly exciting, you'll still enjoy glimpses of local life and vast landscapes.

As you approach the portside city of Rabat, the views will morph into vistas of the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

You won't miss much if you just stick your headphones in and nap the whole way. 

However, train travel has the best views thanks to the large windows and a more scenic route away from the motorway.

When is the best time to visit Rabat?

The so-called "cold" shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer the most inviting weather in Rabat. A pleasant, summery temperature spreads throughout the city from April to May and September to October.

Check out the Mawazine World Musical Festival in May or June to witness a vibrant event celebrating openness and respect.

Avoid visiting in mid-summer when the temperatures peak at roasting, meaning you'll be sweating more than you thought humanly possible. If you must visit in the summer, you'll be happy to know that Rabat is slightly cooler in July and August due to its coastal location.

How long should I spend in Rabat?

Spend a minimum of two days in Rabat to see what makes the capital city of Morrocco so magical.

If you favor slow travel, book at least five days to tick off all the top sites before befriending some locals to get to know the pulse of the city.

Where should I go after Rabat?

Before you leave the area, roam southwest to discover the tranquil town of Temara. This seaside destination sprawls along a lengthy coastal area with sandy beaches and vibrant markets.

With your Rabat adventures wrapped up, check off the rest of Morrocco's imperial cities by visiting Marrakesh or Meknes, known for its incredible metal works and markets.