Casablanca to Rabat Train Day Trip: Coastal Cities Explorer

Casablanca to Rabat Train Day Trip: Morocco's Modern Coastal Route

Morocco's Atlantic coast offers a compelling contrast to desert and mountain experiences. A train journey between Casablanca and Rabat—just 90 km apart—connects two of Morocco's most important cities, combining modern infrastructure with historic sites, creating a perfect day excursion.

About These Cities

Casablanca (Casa)

• Size: Morocco's largest city (3.6+ million)
• Significance: Economic center and port
• Character: Modern, cosmopolitan
• Famous for: Hassan II Mosque, colonial architecture
• Beach culture: Growing coastal lifestyle
• Contemporary: Shopping, dining, nightlife

Rabat

• Size: Administrative capital (600,000+)
• Significance: Royal capital and government seat
• Character: Historic yet modern
• Famous for: Royal Palace, Medina, Kasbah
• Culture: Museums and cultural institutions
• Atmosphere: More relaxed than Casablanca

The Train Journey

Train Specifications

• Distance: 90 km
• Duration: 1 hour direct
• Frequency: Multiple departures daily
• Cost: $5-15 depending on class
• Comfort: Air-conditioned, comfortable seating
• Views: Coastal and urban landscapes

Train Classes

• Economy: Basic, budget-friendly
• Comfort: Reclining seats, better amenities
• First class: Premium seating, more space
• Recommendation: Comfort class for reasonable experience

Booking Tickets

• Online: ONCF website or booking apps
• Stations: Purchase day-of (usually available)
• Peak times: Weekday mornings less crowded
• Groups: Special rates available
• Return: Book return ticket same day

Casablanca Highlights

Hassan II Mosque

• Feature: Minaret visible from sea
• Height: 210 meters (tallest in Muslim world)
• Architecture: Modern Islamic design
• Tourism: Non-Muslim exterior viewing only
• Photography: Stunning from waterfront
• Best time: Afternoon light (golden hour)

Old Medina

• Character: Traditional market area
• Atmosphere: Less touristy than others
• Shopping: Local goods, seafood
• Authenticity: Real local life
• Exploration: 2-3 hours recommended

Corniche (Waterfront)

• Layout: Long beach and promenade
• Activities: Walking, swimming, dining
• Atmosphere: Modern, cosmopolitan
• Restaurants: Excellent seafood options
• Sunset: Beautiful evening setting

Ville Nouvelle (New City)

• Architecture: French colonial design
• Character: Modern shopping districts
• Culture: Museums and galleries
• Dining: Contemporary restaurants
• Atmosphere: Urban and vibrant

Rabat Highlights

Kasbah of the Udayas

• Age: 12th-century fortress
• Views: Ocean and river vistas
• Garden: Beautiful blue-and-white houses
• Atmosphere: Peaceful, artistic community
• Photography: Exceptional photo locations
• Time: 2-3 hours exploration

Royal Palace

• Status: Official residence
• Viewing: External only (not open to public)
• Impressiveness: Stunning white marble
• Guard protocol: Respectful distance required
• Photography: Beautiful exterior shots

Medina

• Character: Historic walled city
• Markets: Traditional souks
• Atmosphere: More laid-back than Fes
• Exploration: 2-3 hours recommended
• Dining: Good local restaurants

Rabat National Museum

• Focus: Moroccan history and art
• Exhibits: Archaeological artifacts
• Quality: Well-curated collections
• Time: 2-3 hours thorough visit
• Cost: $5-10 entrance

Chellah Ruins

• Age: Roman and Islamic periods
• Setting: Atmospheric archaeological site
• Gardens: Beautiful manicured grounds
• History: Multiple civilizations
• Photography: Evocative ruins photography
• Cost: $5 entrance

Perfect Day Itinerary

Early Morning (7-8 AM)

• Start in Casablanca
• Quick breakfast
• Travel to train station
• Board early train

Casablanca (8-11 AM)

• Arrive at Casa Voyageurs station
• Hassan II Mosque exterior tour
• Corniche walk
• Quick medina visit

Train Journey (11 AM-12 PM)

• Scenic 1-hour train ride
• Relax and enjoy views
• Lunch on train (bring food)

Rabat Afternoon (12 PM-5 PM)

• Explore Kasbah of Udayas
• Tour medina area
• Museum visit (if time)
• Late lunch/early dinner

Rabat to Casablanca (5-6 PM)

• Evening train back
• Dinner in Casablanca
• Rest for evening

Optional Evening

• Casablanca nightlife
• Seafood dinner
• Hotel relaxation

Transportation Details

Casablanca Stations

• Casa Voyageurs: Main station, trains to Rabat
• Casa Port: Alternative station
• Casa Fez: High-speed connections
• Taxis available: From all stations
• Hotel proximity: Ask concierge for nearest

Rabat Stations

• Rabat Ville: Central station
• Rabat Agdal: Alternative station
• Taxis: Available from stations
• Walking distance: Some hotels walkable

Budgeting for Day Trip

Food and Dining

Casablanca

• Seafood: Fresh fish restaurants corniche
• Traditional: Medina tagines and couscous
• Modern: Contemporary dining scene
• Street food: Mrouzia and pastilla stalls
• Beach clubs: Casual waterfront dining

Rabat

• Traditional: Medina restaurants
• Seafood: Kasbah area dining
• Modern: Ville Nouvelle restaurants
• Casual: Café culture
• Street food: Local specialties

Photography Opportunities

Casablanca

• Hassan II Mosque (from water)
• Corniche waterfront
• Medina architecture
• Modern city skyline
• Beach scenes

Rabat

• Kasbah blue-and-white houses
• Ocean vista from Kasbah
• Royal Palace exterior
• Medina street scenes
• Chellah ruins

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April-May): Mild weather
• Fall (September-October): Comfortable
• Avoid: Peak summer heat

What to Bring

• Hat and sunglasses
• Comfortable shoes (walking)
• Water bottle
• Camera
• Light jacket (evening cool)
• Cash and cards
• Phone charger

Getting Around

• Taxis: Reliable, metered
• Walking: Much of city walkable
• Buses: Available but taxis easier
• Distances: Manageable day trip

Cultural Notes

Respect and Etiquette

• Dress modestly (especially near mosques)
• Ask before photographing people
• Remove shoes in homes/shops when indicated
• Respect prayer times
• Accept hospitality graciously

Combining with Other Activities

Extended Coastal Trip

• Add Essaouira (further south)
• Coastal road trip
• Beach time
• Multi-day exploration

Northern Morocco Circuit

• Tangier alternative
• Chefchaouen mountains
• Extended exploration

Highlights of Your Day Trip

• Experience Morocco's modern cities
• Enjoy easy train travel with views
• See Hassan II Mosque majesty
• Explore Kasbah of the Udayas
• Taste coastal cuisine
• Connect metropolitan Morocco
• Create memorable day experience

A Casablanca-Rabat train day trip offers a refreshing change of pace, showcasing Morocco's contemporary face while maintaining historic charm. Perfect for those wanting coastal culture without deep desert immersion, this accessible journey provides diverse experiences within easy reach.