Going from Tangier to Marrakech? Also, you have three main options: the train, a direct drive, or a private tour through Chefchaouen, Fes and the Sahara. First, the train is fast and cheap. Then, the drive is flexible. Finally, a private tour turns the journey into the highlight of your trip. This guide compares all three.
Quick answer: by train, plan about 5.5 to 6 hours with one change in Casablanca. By road, the direct drive is about 580 km, or around 6 hours without stops. However, the best way to see Morocco is a 5-day or longer private tour that links Tangier to Marrakech through the desert.
Tangier to Marrakech: Your Options
| Option | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Train (Al Boraq + classic train) | About 5.5 to 6 hours | Fast and budget-friendly |
| Overnight train | About 10 hours | Saving a hotel night |
| Direct drive | About 6 hours without stops | Flexibility |
| Private tour via Fes and the Sahara | 5 days or more | Seeing the best of Morocco on the way |
By Train
The high-speed Al Boraq links Tangier and Casablanca in about 2 hours 10 minutes. Then, a classic train continues to Marrakech in roughly 3 hours. As a result, the whole trip takes about 5.5 to 6 hours with the change. In addition, an overnight train with sleeper berths runs between Tangier and Marrakech. Check times and book on ONCF, because schedules change.
Good to know: a new high-speed line from Kenitra to Marrakech is under construction, and it should cut about two hours from this trip in the coming years.
By Road
The direct drive follows the motorway south via Rabat and Casablanca, about 580 km in total. In addition, it takes around 6 hours without stops. However, the motorway route skips the most beautiful places. Therefore, most travelers prefer to take more time.
The Scenic Way: A Private Tour Through the Sahara
Instead of a long transfer, you can travel slowly and see the blue town of Chefchaouen, the medina of Fes and the Erg Chebbi dunes. For example, our 5-day desert tour from Tangier to Marrakech via Merzouga covers the essentials. For more time, browse all our tours from Tangier.
- Chefchaouen: the blue town of the Rif. Read our Chefchaouen guide.
- Fes: the old medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Sahara: a camel trek and a night in a desert camp near Merzouga.
- The kasbah road: Todra Gorge, the Dades Valley and Ait Ben Haddou.
Arriving from Spain
Many travelers reach Tangier by ferry. Moreover, the fast ferry from Tarifa arrives at Tangier Ville port in about one hour. Meanwhile, ferries from Algeciras usually arrive at Tanger Med, about 45 km east of the city, in around 1.5 hours. For the full guide, read our page on Morocco tours from Spain.
Tangier to Marrakech FAQ
How long is the train from Tangier to Marrakech?
About 5.5 to 6 hours, with a change in Casablanca. Also, the overnight train takes longer, but saves a hotel night.
How far is Tangier from Marrakech by road?
About 580 km, or around 6 hours on the motorway without stops.
Is there a direct train from Tangier to Marrakech?
Day trips usually need a change in Casablanca. However, the overnight sleeper train runs directly.
What is the best way to travel from Tangier to Marrakech?
If you have time, a private tour via Chefchaouen, Fes and the Sahara is the best way. If you are short on time, take the train.
Can I start a Sahara tour in Tangier?
Yes. In addition, our tours from Tangier reach the desert and finish in Marrakech, Fes or back in Tangier.
Which port does the ferry from Spain use?
Ferries from Tarifa use Tangier Ville, in the city. Ferries from Algeciras usually use Tanger Med, east of the city. Always check your ticket.
Plan Your Trip from Tangier
Tell us your arrival date and your time in Morocco, and we’ll plan the route to Marrakech. Contact us, or build your own route with our Morocco custom tours.
