Quick Answer
The best way to get from Mohammed V Airport to central Casablanca is by ONCF train. A one-way ticket costs around 40-45 MAD ($4-$4.5), and the journey to Casa-Voyageurs station takes about 35 minutes, with trains running every 30-60 minutes from early morning until late evening. For late-night arrivals, pre-booked private transfer or grand taxi is your only reliable option, costing 250-400 MAD ($25-$40). The cheapest option is the public bus for just 20 MAD ($2), but it's slower and less comfortable.
By Train: The Recommended & Most Efficient Way
Morocco's national rail operator, ONCF, provides a direct, affordable, and reliable rail link from the airport to the heart of Casablanca. The train station is conveniently located within the airport complex.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Exit Arrivals: After collecting your luggage, follow signs for "Gare / Train Station".
- Find the Station: You'll need to take an elevator or escalator up one level and cross a covered footbridge connecting Terminal 1 directly to the airport train station. The walk takes 5-10 minutes.
- Buy a Ticket: Use the automated kiosks (available in French, Arabic, and English) or go to the ticket counter. Select your destination: either Casa-Voyageurs (main station, best for most hotels and connections) or Casa-Port (closer to the old medina and corniche).
- Board the Train: Trains are usually modern and air-conditioned. Look for trains bound for "Casablanca". There are two classes: First (Première) and Second (Deuxième). First class offers more spacious seating but is rarely necessary for the short trip.
| Destination Station | Approx. Journey Time | Approx. Fare (Second Class) | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casa-Voyageurs | 33-38 minutes | 40 MAD | Main hub for trains/buses/taxis; best for most city hotels. |
| Casa-Port | 42-47 minutes | 45 MAD | Closer to the Old Medina (Medina), Hassan II Mosque, and Corniche. |
Train Schedule & Frequency
Trains run approximately every 30-60 minutes from around 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM. It's crucial to check the latest timetable on the ONCF website as schedules can change, especially on weekends and holidays.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Fast, reliable, inexpensive, avoids city traffic, stations are centrally located, comfortable.
- Cons: Not available after ~11 PM. Limited luggage space (large suitcases can be awkward during peak times). Requires a short walk from the terminal.
By Public Bus: The Most Budget-Friendly Option
For travelers on an extreme budget, public buses connect the airport to the city. This is significantly slower and less comfortable than the train but costs a fraction of the price.
Primary Bus Options:
- Bus No. 19 (Casabus): This is the main public bus line. It departs from outside Terminal 1 (look for the bus shelter). The journey to central stops like Place des Nations Unies can take 60-90 minutes depending on traffic. Fare is a flat 20 MAD (pay directly to the driver, exact change is helpful).
- CTM Bus (Inter-City): While CTM is primarily for inter-city travel, some routes from other cities terminate at the airport. It is not a dedicated airport shuttle to downtown Casablanca. Do not confuse this with a direct airport service.
What to Expect & Key Tips
- Frequency: Bus 19 runs approximately every 30-40 minutes, but schedules are irregular.
- Comfort: Buses can be crowded, especially with luggage. Not recommended if you have multiple large suitcases.
- Route: It makes many stops through suburbs before reaching the city center. Use Google Maps with the transit layer to track its approximate location.
- Best For: Solo travelers or couples with minimal luggage, arriving during daylight hours, prioritizing cost above all else.
By Taxi or Private Transfer: For Convenience & Late-Night Arrivals
Door-to-door service is available via taxis or pre-booked private transfers. This is the only viable option for flights arriving after the last train (~11 PM) or before the first train (~5:30 AM).
Grand Taxis (Shared/Occupied)
Official airport "Grand Taxis" (usually large Mercedes sedans) are available outside the terminals. They are metered for airport trips to the city center.
- Official Rate: The fixed meter price to central Casablanca (e.g., city center, Ain Diab) is approximately 250-300 MAD during the day and slightly higher at night. Always ensure the driver resets and uses the meter.
- Negotiation: If the meter is "broken," you must negotiate firmly. Agree on a price (aim for 250-300 MAD) before getting in the car.
- Shared vs. Private: Drivers may try to fill the taxi with other passengers to maximize profit. For a private ride, state "engagé" (occupied) and expect to pay the full metered fare.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers (Highly Recommended)
For ease, especially after a long flight or with family/group, booking in advance is best. A driver will meet you in arrivals with a name sign.
- Price: Typically €25-€40 ($27-$43) for a standard car, depending on the service and vehicle size. Fixed price, no hidden fees.
- Advantages: No haggling, fixed price, meet-and-greet, child seats available on request, 24/7 service. Companies like Viator or GetYourGuide offer reliable booking platforms.
- Best For: Families, groups (3+ people), late-night/early-morning arrivals, travelers with lots of luggage, or those wanting absolute hassle-free arrival.
Ticket, Cost & Time Comparison: Choose Your Best Option
This table summarizes all key data to help you decide at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Key Features & Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONCF Train | 35-45 min | 40-45 MAD ($4-$4.5) | BEST ALL-ROUND. Fast, reliable, affordable. Avoids traffic. Limited late-night service. |
| Public Bus (No. 19) | 60-90 min | 20 MAD ($2) | CHEAPEST. Very slow, traffic-dependent, can be crowded. For extreme budget travelers. |
| Airport Grand Taxi (Metered) | 30-50 min | 250-350 MAD ($25-$35) | Door-to-door. Available 24/7. Requires meter use or firm negotiation. |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer | 30-50 min | 250-400 MAD ($25-$40) | BEST FOR CONVENIENCE. Fixed price, meet-and-greet, ideal for groups/late arrivals. |
Verdict: If your flight aligns with the train schedule, take the train. If you arrive late at night, have a group, or value door-to-door service, pre-book a private transfer for the best experience.
Traveler Tips & Local Experience
Go beyond the basics with these practical insights from seasoned travelers and locals.
- Cash is King: Have some Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) ready upon arrival. You'll need cash for the train ticket kiosks/counters, buses, and taxis. ATMs and currency exchange are available in the arrivals hall.
- Train Station Choice: If your hotel is near the Hassan II Mosque, the Corniche (Ain Diab), or the Old Medina, getting off at Casa-Port might be a shorter taxi ride. For most modern city center hotels and connecting to other cities, Casa-Voyageurs is better.
- Late-Night Strategy: If you land after the last train, your options are taxi or pre-booked transfer. The taxi queue can be long and chaotic. Pre-booking online is a stress-saver worth the extra few dollars.
- Beware of "Faux Guides": Ignore unsolicited offers for "help" or "cheap taxis" inside the terminal. Proceed directly to the official taxi rank or your pre-arranged driver.
- Weekend & Holiday Travel: Train and bus schedules may be reduced on Fridays (the holy day) and national holidays. Check the ONCF website for special timetables.
- Data/Sim Card: Consider buying a local SIM card at the airport (Maroc Telecom, Orange, Inwi kiosks) to use ride-hailing apps like Careem or Heetch for trips within the city later. Their airport pick-up can be tricky, so they are not the primary recommendation for the first leg.
FAQs: From Mohammed V Airport to Casablanca
Is there a direct train from Mohammed V Airport to Casablanca city center?
Yes. Direct ONCF trains run from the airport's own station to both Casa-Voyageurs and Casa-Port stations in the city center. No transfers are needed.
What is the cheapest way to get from CMN airport to downtown?
The public bus No. 19 at 20 MAD ($2) is the absolute cheapest. The train at 40 MAD ($4) offers much better value for money, balancing low cost with speed and comfort.
How do I get from the airport to Casablanca at midnight?
There are no trains or public buses after ~11 PM. Your only options are the official airport Grand Taxis (negotiate firmly or insist on the meter) or a pre-booked private transfer, which is the most reliable choice for late-night arrivals.
Is Uber or Careem available at Mohammed V Airport?
While apps like Careem operate in Casablanca, official pick-up from the airport can be inconsistent and sometimes prohibited. Drivers may cancel or ask you to meet them in the parking lot. For a hassle-free arrival, the train, official taxi, or a pre-booked transfer are more reliable options.
How far is Mohammed V Airport from the city center?
The airport is approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) southeast of central Casablanca. The travel time varies drastically by mode: 35 min by train, 30-50 min by car/taxi (depending on traffic), and 60-90 min by bus.
Which train station in Casablanca is best for tourists?
Casa-Voyageurs is the main station, best for accessing most hotels and for onward travel. Casa-Port is closer to the Old Medina, Hassan II Mosque, and the seafront Corniche area. Choose based on your final destination.
Can I use a credit card to buy train tickets at the airport?
Yes, the automated kiosks at the airport train station accept major international credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard). The ticket counters may also accept cards, but having some cash as a backup is always advisable.
Is it easy to find a taxi from Casa-Voyageurs station to my hotel?
Yes, Casa-Voyageurs station has a large, official taxi rank right outside the main entrance. Use the "Petit Taxis" (small, usually colored red) for trips within the city. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a short-trip price (e.g., 20-30 MAD) before departure.