Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Fes Saiss Airport to Meknes is by taking a taxi to Fes-Ville train station, then a train to Meknes. This journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours total and costs approximately 150 to 250 MAD ($15-$25). For the fastest option (1 hour), take a direct airport taxi or pre-booked private transfer for around 500 MAD ($50). For the cheapest option (~30 MAD, $3), take the public bus from the airport to Fes, then a connecting bus to Meknes.
Option 1: By Train (via Fes-Ville Station) – Best Balance
While Fes Airport lacks a train station, combining a short taxi ride with Morocco's efficient ONCF rail network is the most recommended method for comfort, speed, and value.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Airport to Fes-Ville Station (Gare de Fès): Upon exiting arrivals, take an official airport grand taxi (beige color). The fixed price to the train station is around 50-80 MAD during the day. Ensure the meter is on or agree on the price before departure. The journey takes 20-30 minutes.
- Train from Fes to Meknes: At Fes-Ville station, purchase a ticket to Meknes. Trains are frequent (approx. every 1-2 hours) from early morning until late evening. The direct train ride takes 35-50 minutes.
- Arrival in Meknes: You will arrive at Meknes Railway Station (Gare de Meknes), located conveniently for accessing taxis or city transport.
| Leg of Journey | Estimated Time | Estimated Cost (MAD) | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| FEZ Airport → Fes-Ville Station (Taxi) | 20-30 min | 50 - 80 | Use official airport taxis; negotiate fare first. |
| Fes-Ville → Meknes Station (Train) | 35-50 min | 35 - 75 (Class dependent) | First class (Première) offers more space. Check ONCF schedule. |
| TOTAL | 1h 15min - 2h | 85 - 155 | Most reliable and comfortable public option. |
Why Choose the Train?
Trains offer scenic views of the Moroccan countryside, are punctual, and have spacious seating with luggage storage. It's ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families who don't mind one easy transfer.
Option 2: By Domestic Flight – Analysis & Why It's Not Practical
Key Takeaway: There are no direct flights from Fes Saiss Airport (FEZ) to Meknes. Meknes does not have a commercial airport. Attempting to fly via another city is highly inefficient for this short distance.
Hypothetical "Flight + Train" Scenario (e.g., via Casablanca):
To illustrate why flying is a poor choice, let's compare the "door-to-door" time of a theoretical flight connection versus the direct land options from FEZ.
| Step | Estimated Time | Total Elapsed Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1. FEZ Airport arrival, transfer to terminal | 30 min | 0:30 |
| 2. Check-in, security for domestic flight | 60-90 min | ~1:45 |
| 3. Flight FEZ → CMN (Casablanca) | 1 hr | ~2:45 |
| 4. CMN arrival, collect bags, taxi to Casa Voyageurs station | 60 min | ~3:45 |
| 5. Train CMN → Meknes | 2.5 hrs | ~6:15+ |
This 6+ hour journey is far longer and more expensive than the 1.5-2 hour direct train or taxi option from Fes. Conclusion: Do not consider flying for this route.
Option 3: By Bus – The Most Economical Choice
For budget travelers, the bus network provides the lowest-cost connection, albeit with more steps and less comfort than the train.
Detailed Routes & Options:
- Step 1 (Airport to Fes City): Take the local public bus (Line 16) or a shared grand taxi from the airport to the main Fes bus stations (like CTM or Gare Routière). Bus fare: ~5 MAD. Taxi share: ~20 MAD per person.
- Step 2 (Fes to Meknes):
- CTM Bus: The premium bus company. Departs from CTM Fes station. Journey: ~1 hour. Cost: ~30-40 MAD. Offers online booking, air conditioning, and baggage allowance. Check CTM schedules.
- Local Bus: Departs from Fes's main Gare Routière. Cheaper (~20-25 MAD) but less comfortable, slower, and with frequent stops.
Bus Travel Essentials:
Booking: Always book CTM tickets in advance, especially on weekends. Luggage: One suitcase in the hold included. Arrival: Buses arrive at the CTM station or main bus terminal in Meknes, from which you'll need a local taxi to your final destination.
Option 4: By Taxi & Private Transfer – Door-to-Door Speed
This is the most straightforward but also the most expensive option, ideal for groups, those with heavy luggage, or travelers arriving late at night.
Types of Taxis & Transfers:
- Airport Grand Taxi (Direct): Beige Mercedes sedans waiting outside arrivals. They can take up to 6 passengers (tight squeeze). You must negotiate the fare rigorously. Expect to pay 400-600 MAD for the entire car to Meknes. The ride takes about 1 hour.
- Pre-Booked Private Transfer: The most stress-free option. A driver meets you at arrivals with a sign. Fixed, agreed-upon price (typically 500-700 MAD), modern vehicle, and direct to your Meknes hotel. Bookable via many travel websites or local agencies.
When to Choose a Taxi/Transfer:
- Traveling in a group of 3 or more (can be cost-effective).
- Arriving after 9:00 PM when public transport has ended.
- Have significant mobility issues or excessive luggage.
- Value time and convenience over budget.
Warning: Always agree on the total price and currency (MAD) before getting in the vehicle for airport taxis.
Ticket Options & Cost Comparison Table
Use this table to quickly compare all transportation methods from Fes Saiss Airport to central Meknes.
| Transport Method | Total Door-to-Door Time | Approx. Cost (MAD) | Cost (USD ~) | Comfort Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi + Train | 1.5 - 2 hours | 85 - 155 | $9 - $16 | High | Most travelers (Best Value) |
| Bus (Public + CTM) | 1.5 - 2.5 hours | 25 - 45 | $2.5 - $4.5 | Low-Medium | Budget travelers (Cheapest) |
| Airport Taxi (Direct) | ~1 hour | 400 - 600 | $40 - $60 | Medium (depends on vehicle) | Groups of 3+, Late arrivals |
| Private Transfer (Pre-booked) | ~1 hour | 500 - 700 | $50 - $70 | High | Convenience seekers, Families |
Traveler Experience & Essential Tips
Insider Advice for a Smooth Journey:
- Cash is King: Have plenty of Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) in small denominations for taxis, buses, and station purchases. Credit cards are rarely accepted for these transport types.
- Luggage Strategy: Pack light if using buses or shared taxis. For train travel, luggage space is ample. For private transfers, this is less of a concern.
- Navigating Fes-Ville Station: The station is modern and well-signed. Ticket counters are labeled "Guichet." Allow an extra 15-20 minutes if you need to buy tickets on the spot.
- Weekend & Holiday Travel: Friday afternoons and Sundays evenings are peak travel times for locals. Trains and CTM buses can be full. Book train tickets online in advance or arrive early.
- Language: Basic French or Arabic phrases are very helpful for negotiating taxi fares and asking for directions. English is understood in major stations but not universally.
- Safety: This is a safe and well-traveled route. Standard precautions apply: watch your belongings in stations and use official taxi ranks.
FAQs: Getting from Fes Airport to Meknes
What is the best way to get from Fes Saiss Airport to Meknes?
For most travelers, the best balance of speed, cost, and comfort is taking a taxi from the airport to Fes-Ville train station, then catching a direct train to Meknes. This takes about 1.5-2 hours total and costs around 150-250 MAD. The fastest but most expensive option is a direct airport taxi or private transfer (1h, ~500 MAD). The cheapest option is the public bus (1.5-2h, ~30 MAD).
Is there a direct train from Fes Airport to Meknes?
No, there is no direct train from Fes Saiss Airport (FEZ) to Meknes. The airport itself does not have a train station. You must first travel to the main Fes-Ville train station (Gare de Fès), which is a 20-30 minute taxi ride away. From there, you can board frequent trains directly to Meknes.
How do I get to Meknes from Fes Airport if my flight arrives late at night?
Options are limited after approximately 10:00 PM. Your primary choices are: 1) Pre-book a private transfer (highly recommended for night arrivals). 2) Take an airport taxi (grand taxi), but be prepared to negotiate the fare firmly as prices spike at night. 3) Stay overnight in Fes and travel to Meknes the next morning via train or bus. The last trains and buses typically depart Fes by 9-10 PM.
What is the earliest transport option for a morning flight arrival?
For early arrivals (e.g., 6:00 AM), the first trains from Fes-Ville station to Meknes usually start around 6:30 AM. Therefore, after collecting luggage and taking a taxi to the station, you can likely catch one of the first trains. Grand taxis (shared taxis) from the airport also operate very early. It's advisable to check the latest ONCF train schedule for exact times.
Which option is best for traveling with children or a lot of luggage?
A pre-booked private transfer is the most convenient for families or those with heavy luggage. It provides door-to-door service, fixed pricing, and assistance with bags. The train (after a taxi to the station) is a good second choice as it offers spacious seating and luggage racks. Avoid shared grand taxis or public buses in this scenario, as space is very limited.
How much luggage can I bring on the bus or train?
Train (ONCF): You can bring multiple suitcases and bags free of charge. There are overhead racks and dedicated spaces at the ends of carriages. CTM Bus: You are typically allowed one large suitcase (stowed in the hold) and one small carry-on bag. Excess luggage may incur an additional fee. Grand Taxi/Bus: Space is extremely limited; one medium bag per person is the practical maximum.
Should I book my bus or train ticket in advance?
Train: Not usually necessary for this short route. Tickets can be easily purchased at the Fes-Ville station counter or machine shortly before departure. Booking online via the ONCF website guarantees a seat during peak hours (Friday afternoons, Sunday evenings). CTM Bus: Highly recommended to book a day in advance, especially for popular times, via their website or at the CTM desk in Fes.
Is it faster to fly to a different city and then take a train to Meknes?
No, it is not faster. Fes Saiss Airport (FEZ) is the closest airport to Meknes (approx. 60 km). Flying to Casablanca (CMN) or Rabat (RBA) and then taking a train to Meknes would add several hours of additional travel, airport procedures, and transfers, making it a much longer and more expensive journey compared to traveling directly from FEZ.