Quick Answer
The best way to get from Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport to Asilah is by train. Take the local shuttle bus or a taxi to Tangier Ville (City) Railway Station, then board a southbound train to Asilah. The total journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and costs approximately 40-80 MAD ($4-$8), depending on your starting point in Tangier and train class. For the cheapest option, take a CTM bus from the Tanger bus station, costing around 25-35 MAD, but it requires a transfer from the airport via taxi.
By Train: The Recommended & Most Reliable Route
Morocco's national railway operator, ONCF, provides an efficient and scenic connection to Asilah. This is the top choice for most travelers due to its balance of speed, cost, and comfort.
Key Clarification: Tangier has two main train stations: Tangier Ville (downtown, the main station) and Tanger Ain Diab (also known as Tanger Morora, closer to the port and some suburbs). Asilah also has two: Asilah (the main station, about 2km from the medina) and Asilah Sud (south of town). For simplicity, aim for Tangier Ville to Asilah station.
| Route Option | Total Journey Time | Estimated Cost (MAD) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recommended: Taxi + Train from Tangier Ville | ~1.5-2 hours | Taxi: 150-200 MAD Train: ~30 MAD (2nd class) |
Fastest overall, comfortable trains, frequent departures. | Requires a taxi transfer first. |
| Budget Public: Airport Bus + Train | ~2-2.5 hours | Bus: ~20 MAD Train: ~30 MAD |
Cheapest combined option. | Longer, depends on bus schedule alignment. |
Step-by-Step Guide: Airport to Asilah by Train
- Airport to Tangier Ville Station: No direct train from the airport. You must first reach the city station.
- By Taxi: The most straightforward option. Take an official "Petit Taxi" (beige color) from outside arrivals. Insist on using the meter or agree on a fare upfront (approx. 150-200 MAD). The ride takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic.
- By Local Bus (Line A1): The airport bus runs to the city center (Ibn Batouta Bus Station). From there, it's a short taxi ride (10-15 MAD) to the train station. Check current schedules on Tangier's official site.
- Buying Train Tickets: Purchase at the station counter, from automated kiosks (available in French/Arabic), or online via the ONCF Voyages app/website.
- Boarding the Train to Asilah: Take any southbound train on the line towards Rabat, Casablanca, or Marrakech. All stop at Asilah. Trains run frequently from early morning until late evening (approx. every 1-2 hours). The journey from Tangier Ville to Asilah takes about 40-50 minutes.
- Arrival in Asilah: Disembark at Asilah station. From here, take a petit taxi (10-15 MAD) or walk 20-25 minutes to the entrance of the picturesque medina.
By Bus: The Most Economical Choice
For budget-conscious travelers, intercity buses are the cheapest direct land transport. CTM (the main national company) and other operators like Ghazala run services from Tangier to Asilah.
Critical Note: Buses depart from the Tanger (Gare Routière) bus station in the city center, not from the airport. You must first get from TNG Airport to this bus station via taxi (150-200 MAD) or the A1 airport bus.
| Bus Company | Approx. Frequency | Journey Time (Tanger to Asilah) | Approx. Fare (MAD) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CTM | Every 1-2 hours | ~50-70 minutes | 25-35 MAD | Reliable, air-conditioned, luggage compartment (allowance included). |
| Other Operators (Ghazala, etc.) | Very frequent | ~60-80 minutes | 20-30 MAD | Often cheaper, can be less comfortable and make more stops. |
How to Take the Bus from the Airport
- Travel from TNG Airport to the Tanger Gare Routière (main bus terminal).
- At the station, find the CTM or other company ticket counters. You can usually buy tickets on the spot, but for guaranteed seats during peak times (weekends, summer), booking in advance is recommended via the CTM website.
- Board the bus to Asilah. It will drop you at the Asilah bus station, which is on the outskirts of town, a 15-20 minute walk or a short taxi ride to the medina.
Luggage: CTM allows one medium suitcase stored below, often included in the ticket price. Larger or extra bags may incur a small fee.
By Taxi or Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
A direct taxi or pre-booked private transfer is the most convenient but significantly more expensive option. It is typically not recommended for solo or budget travelers but can be justified in specific scenarios.
Grand Taxis (large, often older Mercedes sedans, usually beige or off-white) are the vehicles for intercity journeys. They typically wait for up to 6 passengers to share the ride and cost to reduce the per-person fare.
| Option | Approx. Cost | Journey Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Grand Taxi (per seat) | ~50-80 MAD | ~1 hour | Travelers comfortable sharing and waiting for the taxi to fill. |
| Private Grand Taxi (chartered) | 400-600 MAD | ~50-70 min | Groups of 3-6, families with lots of luggage, or late-night arrivals. |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer (Online) | 500-900 MAD | ~50-70 min | Those seeking fixed price, confirmed booking, and modern vehicle. |
When to Choose a Direct Taxi/Transfer:
- Late-Night or Very Early Morning Arrivals: When trains and buses are not operating.
- Traveling in a Group (3+ people): The cost can become comparable to buying multiple train/bus tickets.
- Heavy Luggage or Mobility Issues: Direct door-to-door service eliminates transfers.
- Immediate Departure Needed: You don't want to wait for a shared taxi to fill up.
How to Get One: For a shared taxi, go to the Grand Taxi rank at the airport and state your destination. For a private charter, negotiate firmly but politely with the driver or book in advance via a reputable transfer company online.
Ticket & Cost Comparison: At a Glance
This table summarizes all key data to help you decide. Note: Costs are per person in Moroccan Dirham (MAD). 10 MAD ≈ $1 USD.
| Transport Method | Total Est. Time (Door-to-Door) | Est. Cost (MAD) | Transfers Required | Best For | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (via Taxi to Station) | 1.5 - 2 hours | 180 - 230 MAD | 1 (Taxi to Tanger Ville station) | Most travelers, balancing speed, comfort & cost. | ✅ BEST OVERALL |
| Bus (CTM) | 2 - 2.5 hours | 175 - 235 MAD* | 1 (Taxi/Bus to Tanger bus station) | Ultra-budget travelers, those not in a rush. | ✅ BEST BUDGET (*if sharing taxi to station) |
| Shared Grand Taxi | 1 - 1.5 hours | 50 - 80 MAD | 0 (Direct) | Adventurous travelers, short on time but not money. | ⚠️ Good if it fills quickly |
| Private Taxi/Transfer | 50 - 70 mins | 400 - 900 MAD | 0 (Direct) | Groups, families, late arrivals, luxury seekers. | 💎 MOST CONVENIENT (but costly) |
Traveler Experience & Essential Tips
Beyond schedules and prices, these practical insights will make your journey smoother.
- Luggage in Asilah's Medina: The old town (medina) of Asilah has narrow, cobbled streets. If your accommodation is inside, large wheeled suitcases are a major hassle. Consider packing light or using a backpack. Some riads offer luggage porter service – ask in advance.
- Money & Negotiation: Have small bills (20, 50 MAD notes) for taxis and buses. For taxis not using a meter, always agree on the total fare before getting in. A polite but firm negotiation is expected.
- Language: While French and Arabic are primary, basic English is understood in tourist areas. Learning a few phrases (e.g., "Asilah, combien?" for taxi fare) is helpful.
- Timing Your Trip: If arriving during peak Moroccan holiday periods (summer, Eid), book train tickets online in advance if possible. Buses and shared taxis will be busier.
- Phone & Data: Purchase a local SIM card (like Maroc Telecom, Orange) at the airport for reliable Google Maps, ride-hailing apps (like Careem), and checking schedules on the go.
- From Asilah to TNG Airport for Your Return: Simply reverse the train or bus process. Allow extra time. For an early flight, a pre-booked private transfer from Asilah is the most stress-free option.
FAQs: Tangier Airport to Asilah Transport
Is there a direct train from Tangier Airport to Asilah?
No. There is no railway station at Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport (TNG). You must first take a taxi or bus to Tangier Ville train station, then board a train to Asilah.
What is the cheapest way to get from TNG to Asilah?
The absolute cheapest is the combination of the public airport bus (Line A1) to Tangier city center and then a CTM or local bus to Asilah. However, the most practical budget option is a taxi to the bus station + CTM bus.
How long is the taxi ride from the airport to Asilah?
A direct private taxi takes about 50 to 70 minutes, depending on traffic. A shared Grand Taxi may take slightly longer as it drops off other passengers.
Can I use a ride-hailing app like Uber or Careem?
Careem operates in Tangier and can be a good alternative to taxis for getting to the train or bus station, as fares are fixed in the app. However, for the intercity journey to Asilah itself, they may not be available or cost-effective compared to a Grand Taxi.
Is it easy to find a taxi at Asilah station to the medina?
Yes. Both the train and bus stations in Asilah have a rank of waiting petit taxis. The fare to the medina gate is fixed and low (10-15 MAD).
What if my flight arrives very late at night?
Trains and buses stop running by late evening. Your only viable options are a pre-booked private transfer (most reliable) or negotiating a private Grand Taxi at the airport rank, which will be expensive. Consider this when booking flights.
Is it safe to travel from the airport to Asilah as a solo traveler?
Yes, generally very safe. Stick to official taxis, use the train during daylight hours, and exercise normal precautions. The route is well-traveled by tourists and locals alike.
Should I buy my train ticket online in advance?
For standard class, it's usually not necessary unless traveling on a major holiday. However, buying online via the ONCF app guarantees you a seat and saves time at the station. For comfort class (Première), advance booking is a good idea.