How to Get from Casablanca to Rabat – Best Travel Options by Train, Bus, or Car

Take the train from Casablanca to Rabat–the main option for travellers who want speed and comfort. The ride lasts about 1 hour, with departures every 1-2 hours on most days. From Casablanca Voyageurs to Rabat-Salé you reach the city center quickly, leaving you more time for touring and planning your day. For exact times, check the ONCF timetable, and note that details can vary by service and day.

Bus travel offers a modestly cheaper alternative with solid coverage. CTM and Supratours operate direct services from Casablanca to Rabat Ville, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and stops. Buses depart from the main stations in the city and arrive in Rabat central areas, where you can hop into taxis or continue by metro. If you plan around peak hours, you’ll save time by booking ahead for better seats and connections, and you can tailor the route yourself.

Car rental or a private transfer gives you full flexibility to control your schedule. The drive along the A1 takes about 1 to 1.5 hours in calm traffic, longer during weekends or near rush hours. If you rent a car, account for tolls (péages) and parking in Rabat’s old town. You can park near the city center and use taxis or ride-hailing apps to reach your hotel. For groups, a driver offers extended stops at viewpoints or beaches; you wont regret having local guides with you to adjust plans on the fly.

Tickets and timing can be arranged in minutes: buy at the station, use the ONCF site or app, or receive a confirmation by email. Since some departures fill up, consider reserving in advance to ensure you have a seat and a smooth connections to your next leg. If you’re touring with others, block the morning trains for quick arrivals and save the afternoons for museums, markets, and cafés, a good rhythm for this short urban pairing. This lets you plan yourself around peak times and keep days flexible.

Practical tips: in Rabat you’ll find plentiful taxis, but confirm the fare before you ride; many drivers expect a fixed price for longer hops. If you arrive by train, near Rabat-Salé station you’ll see taxi stands ready for a fast transfer to major sights like the Oudaya or the ocean. For city touring and light hiking, keep a flexible plan so you can adjust to the weather and crowds since the main attractions cluster around the coast and river valleys, and you can extend your stay if you wish. Plane travel is usually unnecessary for this leg, but having a backup plan can help if connectivity to your next destination changes.

How to Get from Casablanca to Rabat: Train, Bus, or Car – Practical Travel Guide

The fastest and most reliable option is the train from Casablanca to Rabat Ville (Rabat-Ville) or Rabat-Agdal. Daily departures run roughly every 30 to 60 minutes, and the trip takes about 1 hour. Tickets are available at the station or online via the ONCF app and can be paid by card. This option suits daily travelers, business trips, and weekend getaways, offering both comfort and efficiency. You’ll enjoy easy access to central Rabat and a smooth transfer to Rabat-Salé for onward connections, with views of the countryside along the way.

Train: fast, reliable, and convenient

Casablanca Voyageurs to Rabat-Ville or Rabat-Agdal serves the primary routes, with direct services that minimize stops. Departures are frequent, during morning and evening peaks as well as midday hours. Fares vary by class; consider a slightly higher fare for more space or a faster ride, and you can pay by card at the station or in advance via the app. Small pets are sometimes allowed in carriers on trains; verify current policy before travel. Reviews consistently highlight the train as the smoother part of the Casablanca–Rabat route, while the daily schedule remains predictable for those with tight plans.

Bus or car: flexible options

Buses offer a cheaper alternative for those watching cost. Operators like CTM and other regional services run between Casablanca and Rabat with daily departures. Expect a travel time of about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and stops near Rabat-Ville or Rabat-Agdal. Tickets generally range lower than train fares, and you can pay by card on some services. If you value scenery and want more control over timing, a car presents a nice route with several options (A1 or N1), taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours in good conditions. During peak hours and holidays, plan for longer departures and potential delays, but the scenic inland and coastal views still make the drive pleasant. For those traveling with pets, car travel tends to be most straightforward, though check parking rules in Rabat and any pet policies for multi-city hops.

Driving routes connect Casablanca to Rabat via major routes and can include a stop at Rabat-Salé on the way, depending on your exact destination. The trip showcases Morocco’s varied landscapes, from urban outskirts to majestic river valleys, and keeps you in control of your daily timetable. If you’re comparing options, consider those routes for a direct, nicer pace that aligns with your plans, even if the train remains the quickest for most travelers.

Casablanca to Rabat by Train: Main stations, routes, and connection points

Take a direct oncf train from Casablanca Voyageurs to Rabat Ville; this is the fastest and most reliable choice for most travelers looking to move between casablanca and Rabat. Daily departures run from early morning to late evening, and boarding at Casablanca Voyageurs is straightforward with clear signs and staff help. This option suits everyones group looking to travel between cities without transfers. Thats why this is our recommended option; for casablancas schedules, check 12go for up-to-date times and prices.

Main stations and routes: Casablanca Voyageurs, the largest station in the city, hosts IC and oncf high-speed trains on the Casablanca–Rabat corridor. Rabat Ville is the central Rabat stop, while Rabat Agdal serves some trains as an alternative. The typical route is direct: depart Casablanca Voyageurs, stop at Rabat Ville or Rabat Agdal, then reach your Rabat destination. If your group stays near Moulay Youssef, Rabat Ville is a short ride away by tram or taxi.

Connections and getting around: In Rabat Ville you can connect to the tram network and local buses to reach the Medina, Kasbah of the Udayas, and the largest museums. In Casablanca, a short vehicle ride from the airport area brings you to the main station for boarding. This setup is friendly for groups and solo travelers alike, with staff available to help you choose the right stop. For questions, email ONCF support.

أسبكت	التفاصيل
Departure station	Casablanca Voyageurs (Casablanca-Voyageurs). Largest station in Casablanca; oncf IC and Al Boraq services operate here. Depart times begin early and run daily.
Arrival stations	Rabat Ville (central Rabat) and Rabat Agdal (secondary stop). Both link to city transport and taxi stands.
Routes	Direct corridor: Casablanca Voyageurs → Rabat Ville or Rabat Agdal. Some trains continue to other cities via connections, but the main pair is direct.
Travel time	IC trains: about 75–90 minutes; Al Boraq: about 60–70 minutes. Distance roughly 90 km (56 miles).
التردد	Daily departures with multiple slots; peak in the early morning and late afternoon. Check ONCF for exact times.
Connection points	Rabat Ville connects to tram lines and buses for the medina, museums, and other sights. In Casablanca, reach the main station from the airport area via a short taxi ride or tram.
Booking and info	Book via ONCF official site or 12go. You may receive an email confirmation; schedules on casablancas pages are also listed there.
Tips	If traveling with a group, direct trains simplify logistics; early booking helps secure preferred seating and avoid busy periods.

Train Schedule and Travel Time: Casablanca–Rabat timings on ONCF lines

Recommendation: Take the direct ONCF Intercity from Casablanca Voyageurs to Rabat Ville, then transfer to a local tram or taxi to reach central Rabat. Purchase tickets online in advance to lock in the best price and avoid long queues at the station, a solid choice for travelling across morocco.

Timetable and travel time: On weekdays direct Casablanca–Rabat services run roughly every 45–60 minutes from early morning to late evening. Typical travel time ranges from about 50 to 75 minutes depending on stops; the fastest services stay under an hour, while trains calling at Rabat Agdal or other stops extend to about 70–75 minutes. Arrival stations include Rabat Ville, with some services terminating at Rabat Agdal.

Line and purchase details: Knowing these options helps you plan ahead. Use the ONCF app or official site to buy tickets, or purchase at Casablanca Voyageurs. You can also buy at other city counters. If you are sightseeing after arrival, plan to land at Rabat Ville and use a tram or taxi to reach points such as Hassan Tower, the fortress, and the Kasbah. The tram is a modern, efficient means to move around central Rabat, especially along Avenue Mohammed V and nearby avenues.

Costs and cancellation: Fares vary by class and flexibility. Second class offers lower costs; first class adds comfort. Expect a typical one-way range around 80–120 MAD in second class and 120–200 MAD in first class, with occasional sale prices online. Cancellation rules apply; refunds depend on ticket type and timing, so check the policy at purchase to avoid charges.

Arrival and practical tips: After arrival, the Hassan Tower area and the fortress are easy to reach from Rabat Ville by tram or a short taxi ride. If you plan sightseeing, allocate time for the fortress, the tower, and the avenue-side scenery. Weather can change with the season, so pack layers. A driver can speed up transfers, but you will get a richer experience by using local transit at your own pace and exploring anywhere you want.

Ticketing and Booking for Trains: Online, app, or at the station

Book online or via the official ONCF app to secure the least hassle and often the cheapest fares for the Casablanca to Rabat route. This offering saves time, avoids long lines, and shows you available rides, seating options, and prices before you travel.

Online booking steps are straightforward: choose origin casablancas at Casablanca’s Casa-Voyageurs or Casa-Port, set Rabat as your destination (Rabat-Ville or Rabat-Agdal), pick a date, and specify the number of passengers (including children). Then purchase and receive an electronic ticket by email or in the app; you can present the ticket on your phone or print it if you prefer. Details about payment and delivery appear clearly during checkout.

The ONCF app mirrors online options and adds real-time updates, mobile ticket storage, and easy changes if plans shift. This makes getting a ride smoother, especially for families with children, because you can adjust plans without starting from scratch.

At the station, you can still buy tickets in person if you prefer face-to-face service. Ticket offices usually open early, and it is wise to arrive 30 minutes before departure for standard intercity rides; plan a bit more time for high‑speed trains. Bring your ID and your e-ticket or printed copy for safety checks, and follow staff directions on platforms and boarding procedures.

Cheapest fares often appear when you purchase online months ahead or choose off-peak times. If you travel with kids, look for child discounts or family offers advertised during booking. Whether you leave in the morning or afternoon, the Casablanca–Rabat ride remains modest in duration and convenient, with some scenic moments along the coast and through river valleys that make the trip worth it.

Note: food options are available at major stations, and many trains allow light snacks onboard. Keeping your ticket handy and using official channels for purchase helps ensure safety and a smooth trip, from origin to destination on your chosen ride.

Casablanca to Rabat by Bus: Operators, routes, and pickup points

Book a CTM or Supratours bus from Casablanca to Rabat for reliable, affordable travel with frequent daytime departures and straightforward pickup points.

• Operators – CTM and Supratours (oncf). CTM runs modern, air‑conditioned coaches with reserved seating; Supratours is ONCF’s long‑distance bus network, often offering slightly lower fares but solid comfort. Reviews frequently mention punctuality and easy online booking, though you may see busier departures during peak visiting periods. Access to both networks’ tickets is straightforward via their sites or at the gare;, however, you should still confirm your pickup point a day ahead.
• Routes – The main Casablanca–Rabat corridor runs along the A1 highway, covering roughly 85–100 km. Typical travel time sits between 1h30 and 2h, depending on traffic and stops. Both operators run extended schedules on holidays and weekends, ensuring at least a few options each hour during peak travel times. If you’re visiting Rabat’s coastal areas first, you’ll still land in a good central location with easy onward access.
• Pickup points – In Casablanca, use the primary gare routière clusters or CTM/Supratours counters near the city center; look for clearly marked platforms and staff who can point you to the correct bus. In Rabat, common dropoffs include Rabat‑Ville and Rabat‑Agdal; from either, a short taxi ride will put you near Moulay Youssef or the Oudayas for quick access to sightseeing and food options. The least hassle route often starts at the Casablanca gare routière and ends at Rabat‑Ville, minimizing transfers and keeping your day’s liveliness intact.

Tickets and costs – Prices typically range from around 80 to 150 MAD one‑way, depending on operator, time of day, and seat class. Online purchase is convenient via ctmbus.ma or oncf.ma (Supratours) with a few clicks; you can also buy at the station, which saves you the online booking step if you’re already visiting the gare. For students and groups, ask about discounts or extended combinations to stretch your budget.

Tips for a good trip – Arrive 15–20 minutes before departure to access your platform and board smoothly; keep your tickets handy for quick checks by staff or police at major stops. If you’re visiting Rabat’s architecture and century‑old sites, plan a short taxi ride from Rabat‑Ville to Moulay Youssef or the Oudaya for a more relaxed start to your day. Pack water and light snacks; many buses have food options nearby at the stations, and you can click to check live times on the operator pages. Looking for the most affordable option? Supratours often presents the least expensive fare for flexible schedules, while CTM tends to offer more extended seating choices and slightly higher comfort levels.

Overall, CTM and Supratours provide good value for travel between Casablanca and Rabat, with clear routes, dependable pickup points, and straightforward ticket purchase that most travelers would recommend when visiting this pair of Moroccan capitals.

Bus Schedules and Fares: How to plan a day trip and buy tickets

Plan ahead: purchase a return ticket online to secure a seat and save time at the station. Casablanca–Rabat bus fares typically range from 90 to 150 MAD one-way, depending on operator and dates. Round-trip tickets or bundled deals can trim the price by about 10–20%. If you prefer flexibility, you can buy at the counter on the day, but online purchase gives faster boarding and a confirmed seat. Moroccan travellers also look for deals that fit a tight budget while keeping travel comfortable.

Schedules and travel times: Buses start around 6:00 from Casablanca and run every 30–60 minutes through the afternoon; last departures around 20:00–21:00. The ride takes about 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route. In march, check operator sites for any changes due to holidays or maintenance, and note that weekend services can differ from weekday timetables.

Routes and operators: CTM and Supratours offer direct Casablanca–Rabat services; some local operators provide shorter hops. For a day trip, choose a direct route to Rabat Ville to minimize transfers. Verify the platform and departure time on the day of travel, and consider a morning departure to maximize time in Rabat for sightseeing and a comfortable return window.

Plan your Rabat visit: arrive early to see the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Oudaya garden, and the Hassan Tower before lunch. After lunch, visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum and the Medina. Return by a late afternoon bus to Casablanca. If you share a ride with fellow travellers, you may secure a simple round-trip option and split costs on transport between sites.

Tickets and practical tips: buy online or at the counter; carry your ID and a small amount of dirhams for any on-site payments. A single ticket suffices for solo travellers, while a group can explore a round-trip deal or a bundled fare. When planning dates, consider March school holidays or Moroccan festa holidays, which can affect availability and crowding. If you plan to stay overnight, look for affordable riads or hotels near Rabat Ville and compare a few options to secure a good rate.

Driving from Casablanca to Rabat: Distance, tolls, and driving tips

Drive via the A1 for the fastest link between Casablanca and Rabat, covering about 95 km (60 miles). Typical driving time is 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes, with a morning start often avoiding the heaviest traffic around Casablanca’s outskirts.

On the toll route, toll plazas appear along the A1. Total tolls for a standard car usually fall in the 60–90 MAD range. Carry cash in dirhams to handle the booths. If traffic slows you, plan a short pause in Mohammedia or Skhirat to stretch and recharge before entering Rabat-Salé.

Tips for a smooth drive: check traffic apps before you leave, fill up before the highway, and keep to the posted speed limits (120 km/h on the motorway). I recommend a morning departure to minimize delays, and consider a mid-route stop to enjoy coastal views before continuing into rabat-salé or central Rabat.

After you arrive, you could visit the Kasbah des Oudayas and the Bou Regreg views, then explore the city’s mosques and modern avenues. If you’re booking hotels for a short stay, compare daily deals in Rabat and Rabat-Salé, and use bookaway to compare accommodation and transfers. While planning, click through deals from different providers to find the best sale and passenger-friendly options for your trip–whether you return the same day or extend your visit.

Choosing the Right Mode: Compare cost, duration, and reliability for your trip

Take the train for Casablanca to Rabat: it offers the best balance of complete cost, duration, and reliability for most travelers. From Casablanca’s Casa-Voyageurs to Rabat Ville, travel time is typically 1h15m–1h30m, with daily departures from early morning to late evening; you can easily book seats online and secure them in advance.

Rail: Train

• Cost and value: Typical one-way fares range roughly 60–120 MAD, depending on service tier and time of day. This option usually delivers the best value for a complete day of touring in Rabat.
• Duration and reliability: 1h15m–1h30m; daily departures from morning through evening; Saturday schedules include multiple options so you can pick a convenient departure.
• Seats and booking: Modern cars with 2+2 seating; to ensure seats, book ahead via the ONCF site or app; note that you can reserve seats with a few clicks.
• Practical tips: If you arrive from airports, you can connect to the rail network via a quick transfer to central stations; a morning departure lets you start sightseeing in Rabat right away, including mosques and the fortress, and you can return by evening.

Ground transport: Bus or Car

• Bus: Public buses offer a low-cost option, usually 40–60 MAD one-way; duration is about 1h45m–2h depending on traffic; best for a simple, cheap hop if you travel light.
• Car: Driving provides door-to-door convenience; for roughly 85–95 km, fuel and tolls run around 150–250 MAD, with typical driving times near 1h15m in light traffic; parking in Rabat can be tight near the old town, so plan a short stop for views of Rabat’s fortress and mosques, and then park near your hotel or a convenient lot; driving in the morning helps avoid the late-day gridlock.
• Notes: If you opt for a car, you’ll have the opportunity to visit multiple spots at your own pace, but beware tight city streets and strict parking rules; bus tickets can be cheaper, but schedules vary daily, not always reliable on weekends.

источник: local timetables, ONCF guides, and travel guides.