How to Get from Tangier to Fes
Quick answer
The easiest way from Tangier to Fes is the ONCF train (around 3.5–4.5 hours, comfortable and good value). CTM/Supratours buses also run the route, and a private driver lets you stop at Chefchaouen or Meknes/Volubilis on the way.
Tangier and Fes are both northern highlights, and the connection between them is straightforward. Your choice mostly comes down to comfort, budget and whether you want to break the journey with a stop.
Here are the options.
By train (easiest)
ONCF trains link Tangier and Fes directly in roughly 3.5–4.5 hours — comfortable, punctual and inexpensive, with first and second class. It’s the most relaxing option; book ahead in peak periods and consider first class in summer for air-con and assigned seats.
Tangier’s modern station also connects to the Al Boraq high-speed line toward Casablanca if you’re heading elsewhere.
By bus or private driver
CTM and Supratours run comfortable coaches between Tangier and Fes (similar or slightly longer than the train), a good backup if train times don’t suit. Book ahead for busy dates.
A private driver costs more but is door-to-door and flexible — and crucially lets you break the trip at Chefchaouen (the blue city is roughly between the two, a bit off the direct line) or detour via Meknes and the Roman ruins of Volubilis, turning transit into sightseeing.
Stopping at Chefchaouen
Many travellers don’t go straight through — they stop in Chefchaouen between Tangier and Fes. By public transport that means a bus (Tangier–Chefchaouen ~2–2.5 hours, then Chefchaouen–Fes ~4 hours); by private driver it’s a seamless one-day route with time to explore the blue lanes.
If Chefchaouen is on your list, routing Tangier → Chefchaouen → Fes is the classic northern itinerary.
Key takeaways
- Train is easiest: ~3.5–4.5 hours, comfortable and cheap.
- CTM/Supratours buses are a solid backup.
- A private driver allows stops at Chefchaouen, Meknes or Volubilis.
- Classic northern route: Tangier → Chefchaouen → Fes.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the train from Tangier to Fes?
About 3.5–4.5 hours on the direct ONCF train — comfortable and good value, with first and second class.
Is there a direct route from Tangier to Fes?
Yes — direct trains and buses run between the two. A private driver can also do it directly or with stops at Chefchaouen, Meknes or Volubilis.
Can you stop at Chefchaouen between Tangier and Fes?
Yes, and many do — by bus (Tangier–Chefchaouen ~2–2.5h, then Chefchaouen–Fes ~4h) or seamlessly with a private driver. It’s the classic northern routing.
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