How to Get From Casablanca to Tangier: 4 Travel Options

When I lived in Northern Morocco for almost a year, I became an expert at traveling from Casablanca to Tangier. I’ve done this trip several times via multiple modes of transportation (mainly to see my dentist in Casa), and this article shares everything there is to know about how to get between the two cities.

Whether you opt for a train, bus, flight, or private transfer, it’s easy to make your way between Tangier and Casablanca, especially if you have clear information about each mode of transport. Keep reading to discover four different ways to get from Casablanca to Tangier (or Tangier to Casablanca), plus tips to make your travel day a breeze.

Casablanca to Tangier by Train: Best Way to Travel

The best way to get from Casablanca to Tangier is by high speed train. The Al Boraq TGV runs between the two cities multiple times per day at a speed of around 200 miles per hour. Opened in 2018, the journey from Casablanca to Tangier by train takes about two hours, with the option of first or second class tickets. The train stops in Rabat and Kenitra, and tickets cost around 200 dirhams ($20 USD) for second class. The earlier you buy the ticket, the more affordable it is. They’re available for purchase online three months in advance.

I’ve taken the TGV between the two cities a handful of times and it’s a comfortable, pleasant journey. The train leaves from either the Tangier or Casablanca central train station and there’s plenty of room for luggage, especially in the large shared compartments, making it an easy way to travel if you have a big suitcase.

Out of all the ways to travel from Casablanca to Tangier, the train is by far the best option, especially if you don’t want to lose an entire day sitting in Moroccan road traffic. Tangier is one of the best places to visit in Morocco and the easy trip from Casablanca makes it an accessible option while visiting the country.

More Ways to Get from Casablanca to Tangier

While the train between Casablanca and Tangier is the best way to travel, it’s not your only option. Here are more ways to get from Tangier to Casablanca, and vice versa.

Read More: Tangier Travel Guide

Casablanca to Tangier by Bus

The CTM bus company runs regular routes between Casablanca and Tangier, with several busses in the morning until around 11AM, and a couple in the evening, between 5 and 6PM.

The trip takes between 5 and 5 and a half hours, more than double the time it takes on the train. Tickets are around 120 or 145 dirhams ($12-$14) and there is large luggage storage under the bus. You can book tickets online or at the station, though, during busy times of the year, busses can sell out.

There are three CTM bus stops in Casablanca: FAR, Ain Sebaa, and Maarif. They all run services to Tangier, and Casablanca FAR is the closest station to the city center.

When you arrive in Tangier, the bus stop is a 15-minute drive from the medina. There is a taxi stand next to the bus stop, and the ride costs between 20 and 50 dirhams.

Given the comparable price point, in my opinion, it’s worth the few extra bucks to take the train.

Casablanca to Tangier by Car (Rental, Taxi, or Private Transfer)

If you’d rather hit the road, you can take a taxi or private car all the way from Casablanca to Tangier. The trip takes between 3 hours and 45 minutes to four hours. It’s a pretty straight shot up the coast, making it easy to drive yourself if you feel like renting a car and taking a little road trip (with compelling stops in Rabat and Kinetra on the way).

You can also find taxis to Tangier at the large lots near the train station in Casablanca, or through your accommodation. If you take a taxi from the station, it’s essential to agree on a flat price before you start driving to prevent any unwanted surprises when you reach Tangier.

My advice is if you want to travel from Casablanca to Tangier by car is to have your hotel or riad book you a private transfer, with either a driver or a taxi. This will get you the most favorable travel rate and (hopefully) a reputable driver for the journey. Leave the haggling to the professionals and sit back and enjoy the ride.

Casablanca to Tangier by Plane

Since Casablanca and Tangier are home to international airports, it’s easy to fly between the two cities. There are direct flights every other day for around $115, and it’s only an hour and 20 minutes of air time.

For a more affordable option, consider flying from Casablanca to Tetouan and then taking a taxi to Tangier. There’s normally a nonstop flight from Casablanca to Tetouan every day, and fares can be as low as $35. When you arrive in Tetouan, Tangier is a 1.5 hour drive from the airport and cheap shared taxis are readily available.

While it’s not the most practical travel route, flying from Casablanca to Tetouan makes sense if you want to explore places in Northern Morocco, like a day trip to Chefchaouen or Akchour before heading to Tangier.

Aside from a private transfer, flying is one of the most costly ways to get from Casablanca to Tangier, and can take the longest amount of time when you consider getting to the airport, security checks, baggage claim, etc… which is worth keeping in mind when weighing modes of transportation.

Read More: Best Restaurants in Tangier

Tips for Traveling from Casablanca to Tangier

Consider Your Luggage

The amount of luggage you travel with largely determines the best mode of transportation between Casablanca and Tangier. If you have big rolling suitcases, you’ll do best on a bus, private taxi, or train, in that order.

Crowded trains can have limited space for luggage, and domestic flights don’t include checked bags. But CTM buses have large luggage storage underneath, and private transfers grant you access to a full trunk to use, allowing for more cargo than other modes of transportation.

However, if you’re sharing a taxi, beware that your big bag may be strapped to the roof. This is why I always advise packing light and using a backpack or duffle that can sit on your lap when traveling in Morocco.

Watch the Road!

Driving in Morocco is reckless by nature, so while a road trip may sound fun, in practice, it can be pretty dicey if you don’t have experience behind the wheel in North Africa. Moroccan roads are lawless, so if you have any doubts about renting a car, it’s much safer to opt for a taxi or private driver. Sometimes, it’s really not worth the risk, especially since Moroccan police are prone to pulling over foreigners in rental cars.

Book Tickets in Advance

Typically, it’s pretty easy to fly by the seat of your pants while traveling in Morocco. But during peak seasons, holidays, or other busy times of the year, it’s essential to book train and bus tickets in advance to secure a place. Booking earlier will also grant you more favorable rates if you’re looking to save a few bucks.

Make Friends With Locals

A large part of traveling in Morocco is relying on the kindness of strangers to get you to your destination. Make friends with locals for an easy day — a smile goes a long way, and so do please and thank you when you need directions. Moroccan locals are very friendly and eager to help if you need it. Don’t be afraid to chat with people on trains, buses, or shared taxis. It’s part of the experience!

So What’s the Best Way to Get From Casablanca to Tangier?

The best way to get from Casablanca to Tangier is by the high speed train. It’s the quickest mode of transportation and provides the best value in terms of price, comfort, and luggage storage. If you prefer to take the scenic route, the CTM bus is an affordable option. Or for more privacy, opt for a private transfer. Whichever way you choose to travel, the journey is well worth it to experience the best that Morocco has to offer.

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