I’ve done the route between Tangier (in the far north of Morocco) and Marrakech many times — by car, bus, and train. It’s a long stretch across the country, roughly 570 km, and driving it usually takes at least 7–8 hours depending on traffic and stops via paid highway.
Over the past few years, that’s changed. With the introduction of the Al Boraq and improved connections, you can now do the journey in about 5 to 6 hours. That’s why for Marrakech to Tangier I keep choosing the train — it cuts several hours off the trip and makes the whole journey more predictable. The full journey takes about 5 to 6 hours and requires one change in Casablanca.
Many travellers still imagine public transport in Morocco like something out of India — overcrowded, people standing everywhere, even sitting on the roof. That’s not the reality here. The train system, run by ONCF, is organised and easy to use. You can check schedules and buy tickets online without any issue. The high-speed Al Boraq is on a completely different level — modern, clean, and comfortable. The second train from Casablanca to Marrakech is more basic in comparison, but still functional. It’s not luxury, but it works.
You can purchase train tickets at www.oncf-voyages.ma website
First part: Tangier to Casablanca (high-speed)
If you book first class (around €55 / 550 MAD), the difference starts already at Tangier train station. There’s a separate waiting area for first-class passengers with seating, coffee, and light snacks, so you’re not standing in the main hall.
From this lounge, you have a direct access point to the boarding area. While other passengers queue from the main side, you enter from a separate exit, which makes the process noticeably smoother.
On the Al Boraq, first-class seats are wide, with good legroom and space for luggage. It’s quiet enough to work or rest during the journey. There’s also a café carriage where you can buy coffee and simple food — the interior feels modern and slightly futuristic compared to standard trains in Morocco. The journey to Casablanca takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes. When booking, the ticket usually already includes the connection to Marrakech, so you don’t need to buy separate tickets.
After arrival in Casablanca, you simply change trains for the second part of the journey.
Change in Casablanca
You change trains at Casa Voyageurs. It’s the same station, and transfers are usually straightforward — you get off and walk to the next platform.
Second leg: Casablanca to Marrakech
The train to Marrakech is more basic. Instead of open seating, you’ll often be in a compartment with up to six people. It’s not the same standard as the high-speed train, but for the remaining 2.5 to 3 hours, it does the job.
Why this option makes sense
Even with the transfer, this is still the fastest way to travel between Tangier and Marrakech. You avoid an 8-hour drive, don’t deal with traffic, and don’t have to think about navigation or stops. Once you’re on the train, everything runs on schedule.
Practical tips
- Book early if you want first class on the high-speed train
- Arrive 20–30 minutes before departure
- In both trains, you can buy water and snacks, so no need to worry about being hungry.