You land at Mohammed V, collect your bags and face the first real decision of your trip: train, taxi or a driver holding a sign with your name. Getting from Casablanca airport to the city centre is easy once you know how each option works, what it costs and where it actually drops you. This guide compares all three so you can choose before you fly.
Where is Casablanca airport and how far is the city centre?
Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (IATA code CMN) is Morocco's largest airport and the main hub of Royal Air Maroc. It sits near the town of Nouaceur, roughly 30 km south of central Casablanca. By road the drive into the centre, the Corniche at Ain Diab or the Casa Port area takes about 40 minutes in normal traffic, and longer at weekday rush hours. The airport is run by ONDA, Morocco's airports authority, which publishes flight information on its official website.
There are three realistic ways to reach the city: the ONCF airport train, an airport grand taxi, or a pre-booked private transfer. Buses exist, but for most international visitors with luggage they are the least practical choice.
Option 1: the airport train to Casa Voyageurs and Casa Port
The railway station is located underneath the terminal area and is run by ONCF, the national railway company. Trains link the airport with Casa Voyageurs, the main intercity station, and continue on to Casa Port near the old medina and the business district. The ride to Casa Voyageurs takes roughly 35 to 40 minutes.
- Frequency: generally about one train per hour during the day, fewer early in the morning and late at night. Always check the current timetable on the ONCF website before you travel.
- Fare: a second-class single is inexpensive, typically in the region of 40 to 50 DH (approximate).
- Tickets: buy at the station ticket office or machines; card payment is usually possible but carry some dirhams.
- Last mile: from Casa Voyageurs or Casa Port you still need a red petit taxi to reach most hotels.
The train is a good fit for solo travellers with light luggage who arrive in the daytime. It is less convenient after a late flight, with heavy suitcases, or for families with children, because of the waits and the extra taxi at the other end.
Option 2: grand taxi from the arrivals hall
White grand taxis wait outside arrivals. They are licensed to carry passengers between the airport and the city, and fares to central Casablanca are usually agreed as a fixed amount rather than metered. Expect to pay somewhere around 250 to 350 DH for the car in daytime, with higher prices quoted at night (approximate figures; they change and are often negotiated).
The advantages are obvious: no booking, door-to-door, and cars available for most arrivals. The drawbacks are price negotiation after a long flight, older vehicles in some cases, limited boot space for large suitcases and no child seats. If you go this way, agree the total price for the car and the exact destination before loading your bags.
Option 3: a private transfer with meet and greet
A private transfer means a driver waits for you in the arrivals hall with a name sign, follows your flight if it is delayed and takes you straight to your address. Our private transfer from Casablanca airport to the city has a fixed price per vehicle, not per person, with tolls, fuel and luggage included: from 500 DH for 1 to 3 people, 600 DH for 4 to 7 and 1,100 DH for groups of up to 17.
This option makes most sense for late arrivals, families, groups splitting the cost, business travellers on a schedule, and anyone who would rather not negotiate in a new country. It also works well when your final destination is not central Casablanca at all: see our direct transfer from Casablanca airport to Rabat or the drive from Casablanca airport to Marrakech.
Casablanca airport to city centre: comparison table
| Option | Time to centre | Typical cost (approx.) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONCF train + petit taxi | 35-40 min on board, plus waiting and taxi | 40-50 DH per person + 20-40 DH taxi | Solo travellers, light luggage, daytime |
| Airport grand taxi | About 40 min | 250-350 DH per car, more at night | Travellers happy to negotiate |
| Private transfer | About 40 min, door to door | From 500 DH per vehicle (1-3 people) | Families, groups, late flights, business |
How do I book and meet my driver at Mohammed V?
- Book online on our transfer booking page with your flight number, arrival time and hotel address.
- Add the number of passengers and large bags so we send the right vehicle.
- After landing, go through passport control, collect your luggage and pass customs.
- Look for your driver holding a sign with your name in the arrivals hall.
- If you cannot see your driver, message us on WhatsApp; the driver tracks your flight and waits if you are delayed.
Practical tips for arriving in Casablanca
Immigration queues at Mohammed V can be long when several long-haul flights land together, so allow time. Withdraw or exchange a small amount of dirhams at the airport for tips and small purchases. Mobile data helps if you need to contact a driver; a local SIM or eSIM is easy to set up at arrivals.
Many visitors only pass through Casablanca. If your plan is to head to Marrakech straight after landing, weigh the options in our guide to renting a car or hiring a driver in Morocco, and browse all Casablanca airport transfer routes for the full list of destinations.
Is it safe to take a taxi from Casablanca airport?
Yes, licensed airport taxis are generally safe. The common problems are price, not safety: unclear fares, extra charges for luggage or a driver who does not know a small hotel. Use only official taxis from the rank, confirm the price and the destination in advance, and keep the hotel's address and phone number on your phone. Avoid unofficial drivers who approach you inside the terminal.
Key takeaways
- Mohammed V Airport (CMN) is about 30 km and 40 minutes by road from central Casablanca.
- The ONCF train is the cheapest option but runs roughly hourly and still needs a taxi at the end.
- Grand taxis are door to door but require price negotiation.
- A private transfer has a fixed price per vehicle and a driver waiting at arrivals, which is the simplest choice at night or with family.
