How to Get to Fes. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Fès–Saïs Airport FEZ

This is the key airport serving Fes. It is a smaller, modern airport found roughly 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of the central area.

Flight Information

Airlines: Ryanair, Air Arabia Maroc, Royal Air Maroc, Transavia, Vueling, TUI fly.
Standard routes: Most direct flights originate from European cities (Paris, London, Barcelona, Madrid, Rome, Brussels, Frankfurt).
No typical direct flights from North America or Asia. Connect via key European transport centers (e.g., Paris CDG, Madrid MAD).

Airport Transfers

Upon arrival, various options connect you from Fès–Saïs Airport (FEZ) to the city center or your accommodation.

Options to City/Accommodation

Airport Transfer service (ALSA Line 16): Connects to Fes Ville Nouvelle train station. Affordable (MAD 20-30).
Petit Taxi: Small, red taxis outside terminal. Agree on price Before starting (MAD 120-150 to medina gate, 70-100 to Ville Nouvelle).
Private Transfer: Many riads/hotels offer pre-arranged pick-up. More expensive but convenient, especially if arriving late or staying deep in the medina.

Price Fluctuations

Flight prices generally increase during Fes's high season (spring and autumn) and during big holidays. Less frequent flights during low season.

Booking Ahead

Booking flights well in advance, especially for peak travel times, helps secure better rates. Check Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Airport Facilities

Fès–Saïs Airport is compact but functional. It offers currency exchange services, car rental desks, cafes, and duty-free shops. Use Skyscanner for flight comparisons.

Land Transportation

Train Connections ONCF

Fes is a key rail hub. The station is in the Ville Nouvelle.
Regular services to Rabat (~A three-hour period), Casablanca (~3.5-4 hrs), Marrakech (~7-8 hrs, often change in Casablanca), Meknes (~30-40 mins), Tangier (~4-5 hrs via Al Boraq from Kenitra/Rabat).
1st class provides more comfort, assigned seating, and air conditioning. 2nd class is cheaper, with open seating.
Border crossings are indirect from Fes. They happen via land from neighboring countries (Algeria often closed) or via Spanish enclaves or ferry ports like Tangier.

Long-Distance Buses & Self-Driving

Bus Options: CTM and Supratours are reliable. Buses connect Fes to metropolitan areas not served by train, like Chefchaouen (4-5 hrs) and Merzouga (9-10 hrs). Book tickets a day or two in advance.
Self-Driving: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended. Major international rental companies (DiscoverCars.com, Hertz, Avis) available.
Road Conditions: Major highways are well-maintained. Rural roads vary. Driving standards are not the same as Western countries. Expect reckless driving, sudden stops.
Parking: Impossible within Fes medina. Park outside medina walls in paid lots (e.g., near Bab Bou Jeloud).

Sea & River Arrivals

Ferry Services

Fes is a city not on the coast, not served directly by sea. The nearest large ferry docks are Tangier Med and Tangier Ville (from Spain/Gibraltar), and Nador (from Spain).

Connecting to Fes

Visitors arriving by ferry would then use train or bus services to reach Fes from the port cities.

River Transportation

No commercial river transit choices exist for arrival in Fes. The Oued Fes (Fes River) is not navigable for passenger transport.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Timing

No particular exit fees or taxes are imposed on tourists departing Morocco by air or land.

Departure Recommendations

Airport (FEZ): Arrive at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure for check-in, security, and passport control.
Train/Bus Station: Arrive at least 30-ONE hour prior to departure. Validate train tickets prior to boarding if they are flexible.
Allow ample time for transfers to your point of departure, notably from within the medina.

Airport/Station Facilities

Fès–Saïs Airport and the city's main public transport by train and bus stations offer basic services for departing travelers.

Services Available

Cafes for refreshments.
Duty-free shops and souvenir outlets at the airport for last-minute purchases.
Kiosks for snacks and beverages at train and bus stations.

Final Travel Note

Verify current flight and train schedules closer before you depart date.

Next Up: Getting Around Fes. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Continue to Getting Around Fes