{"id":1228,"date":"2025-04-29T12:09:53","date_gmt":"2025-04-29T12:09:53","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/?p=1228"},"modified":"2025-04-29T13:06:12","modified_gmt":"2025-04-29T13:06:12","slug":"this-new-train-journey-links-three-of-moroccos-most-beautiful-cities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/2025\/04\/29\/this-new-train-journey-links-three-of-moroccos-most-beautiful-cities\/","title":{"rendered":"This new train journey links three of Morocco\u2019s most beautiful cities"},"content":{"rendered":"
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A new train link is set to make Morocco more accessible to travellers (Picture: Getty Images)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A new golden age of train travel<\/a> has dawned, and it\u2019s safe to say we are now in the thick of the rail renaissance.<\/p>\n

For the first time in a century, trains are the It-girl of transport, and over the past few months, a slew of ambitious projects<\/a> have been announced.<\/p>\n

These include a \u00a399 European Sleeper service<\/a> from Brussels<\/a> to Venice<\/a>, and a new train that will directly link the Spanish and Portuguese capitals<\/a> of Madrid<\/a> and Lisbon<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Morocco<\/a> is the latest country to join the slow (and sustainable) travel club. The North African jewel<\/a> is launching an extended rail line linking three of its most spectacular cities for the first time in history.<\/p>\n

The Al Boraq line, which currently runs between Kenitra and Tangier, will add stops in Morocco\u2019s capital, Rabat, plus the tourist hotspots of Casablanca<\/a> and Marrakech<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Rabat, Casablanca and Marrakech are the cities being added to the rail route (Picture: Metro)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration.\u00a0Sign up here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

Currently, Al Boraq is Africa\u2019s only operating high-speed railway system. The planned 430km extension will make it the longest on the continent, too.<\/p>\n

Aside from making Morocco more accessible, the updated route \u2013 set to cost close to \u00a34 billion \u2013 is expected to drastically cut travel times.<\/p>\n

For example, the journey from Tangier to Rabat will take one hour. From Tangier to Casablanca it will be one hour and forty minutes, while Tangier to Marrakech will take two hours and forty minutes.<\/p>\n

Those travelling to Rabat from Casablanca\u2019s Mohammed V International airport and vice versa will reach their destination in just 35 minutes.<\/p>\n

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The Arab League Park in Casablanca is a palm tree paradise (Picture: Getty Images)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The construction connecting Kenitra and Marrakech was officially launched earlier this month by King Mohammed VI, who welcomed a new era of ultra-modern rail infrastructure across the country.<\/p>\n

He said in a statement: \u2018This project demonstrates Morocco\u2019s firm determination to continue developing the national rail network,\u2019 and noted that this transformation will serve as \u2018the backbone of a sustainable and inclusive transport system.\u2019<\/p>\n

While news of the project is exciting, locals and visitors alike will have to wait a few years until they can travel on the new lines. <\/p>\n

Currently, completion is expected to be operational before the 2030 FIFA World Cup.<\/p>\n

Things to do in Rabat<\/h2>\n

Rabat, a city of about one million, has been Morocco\u2019s coastal capital since 1912. <\/p>\n

Despite its status, it\u2019s a less intense experience than Marrakech and a calmer introduction to the country as a whole.<\/p>\n

Defined by Islamic and colonial heritage and laid-back pace, Rabat is the best of both worlds for every type of traveller.<\/p>\n

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@elisolidum<\/a> <\/p>\n

A Week in Rabat, Morocco \ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\udde6 it feels weird to call a capital city underrated, but that\u2019s totally how I feel about Rabat. finding time to slow down, visiting bookshops and cafes, grocery shopping at local markets, catching sunsets on the beach, and finding a little sense of home in the chaos of Morocco. It\u2019s been a month of fast-paced travel all over the country, and taking a week to settle down in Rabat has been much needed \ud83d\udc4c\ud83c\udffd #travel<\/a> #morocco<\/a> #tiktoktravel<\/a> #travelblogger<\/a> #fyp<\/a> <\/p>\n

\u266c September \u2013 Sparky Deathcap<\/a> <\/section>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n

Founded in the 12th century, every stone is steeped in history. The Kasbah des Oudayas neighbourhood provides obvious Andalusian influence, with whitewashed buildings and dominant blue doors. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the charming medieval fortress district has become a hotspot for artists and creatives from all over the globe.<\/p>\n

Hassan Tower \u2013 considered the symbol of Rabat \u2013 is one of the most famous sites in the city. Marvel at its Moorish architecture while soaking up the sun. <\/p>\n

Summer in Rabat \u2013 and Morocco in general \u2013 can reach 40\u00b0C, so it\u2019s worth visiting in the shoulder seasons when temperatures aren\u2019t as strong.<\/p>\n

Things to do in Casablanca<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re into a mix of modern and historical, Casablanca is for you.<\/p>\n

The city is widely known as Morocco\u2019s chief port, as well as being one of the largest artificial ports in Africa.<\/p>\n

Whether you visit the Hassan II Mosque, an elaborate oceanfront mosque, or head to the Arab League Park, famed for its lush gardens and palm trees, Casablanca offers a unique Moroccan experience.<\/p>\n

Just over a 90-minute drive from Casablanca is El Jadida, a chaotic but authentic Moroccan port city that\u2019s yet to be invaded by tourists. <\/p>\n

Nicknamed the \u2018Hamptons of Morocco\u2019, the medina of this UNESCO-listed old town is said to be the most European-looking in Morocco. No visit is complete without a walk along the city walls, which capture panoramic views of the ocean.<\/p>\n

Metro<\/strong>\u2018s Alice Giddings<\/a> spent a week at Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, a luxurious hotel on the\u00a0Atlantic\u00a0coast just outside the city walls that boasts 7km of private beach and lavish suites dotted around a swimming pool.<\/p>\n

Read her full report here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Things to do in Marrakech<\/h2>\n

Nowhere does it get more quintessentially Moroccoan than in Marrakech, with its bustling bazaars, street food tours, and a melting pot of culture.<\/p>\n

For history, head to the Saadian Tombs and El Badi Palace. For a taste of daily life, it\u2019s all about Jemaa el-Fna square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site bursting with music, traditional storytelling and food vendors. For culture, check out the Ben Youssef Madrasa to admire centuries-old Islamic architecture.<\/p>\n

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@kelseyinlondon<\/a> <\/p>\n

\ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\udde6 How to spend a perfect day in Marrakech \u2b07\ufe0f\u2063 \u2063 MORNING\u2063 9am \ud83c\udfeb Ben Youssef Madrasa\u2063 10am \u2615\ufe0f Bacha Coffee 11am \ud83d\udecd Go shopping in Souk Semmarine\u2063 \u2063 AFTERNOON\u2063 1pm \ud83c\udf7d Lunch at Le Jardin (order the chicken pastilla!)\u2063 3pm \ud83c\udf35Jardin Majorelle \u2063 \u2063 EVENING\u2063 6pm \ud83c\udf79 Drinks & dinner at DarDar Rooftop\u2063 \u2063 More Marrakech Recommendations \u2b07\ufe0f\u2063 \u2063 \ud83d\udccdTHINGS TO DO\u2063 Le Jardin Majorelle, Moroccan Cooking Class (Amal Women\u2019s Training Center), Ben Youssef Madrasa, Le Jardin Secret, go shopping in the souks, Saadian Tombs, Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Jemaa el-Fnaa, YSL Museum, Stay overnight in a Agafay desert camp (I recommend Be Agafay & Scarabeo Camp), sunrise hot air balloon ride, spa say \/ hammam, El Badi Palace, Day trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls, desert quad bike tour, Maison de la Photographie\u2063 \u2063 \ud83c\udf7d RESTAURANTS \u2063 Le Jardin, Dar Dar Rooftop, La Trattoria, L\u2019Mida, Bacha Coffee, Les Jardins Du Lotus, El Fenn Rooftop, Nomad, Le Salama, La Table at Royal Mansour, Comptoir Darna, Cafe Des Epices\u2063 \u2063 \ud83c\udfe8 STAY \u2063 Riad Botanica, Riad Sakkan, Riad Be, Riad L\u2019 Atelier, Riad Yasmine, Roya Mansour, Riad 42, El Fenn, Riad Jardin Secret, Amanjena, La Sultana \u2063 \u2063 \u2063 #marrakech<\/a> #marrakechmedina<\/a> #marrakech\ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\udde6<\/a> #visitmarrakech<\/a> #riadmarrakech<\/a> #instamarrakech<\/a> #marrakesh<\/a> #morocco<\/a> #moroccotravel<\/a> #moroccotrip<\/a> #visitmorocco<\/a> #morocco\ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\udde6<\/a> #travelmorocco<\/a> #exploremorocco<\/a> #instamorocco<\/a> #uktravelblogger<\/a> #travelblogger<\/a> #travelguide<\/a> #traveltips<\/a> #travelblog<\/a> #marrakechrestaurant<\/a> #marrakechfood<\/a> \u2063 \u2063 24 hours in Marrakech | Things to do in Marrakech | Marrakech Itinerary | 1 day in Marrakech | Marrakech Restaurants | Marrakech Cafes | Marrakech Bars | Hotels in Marrakech | Marrakech food spots | Marrakech travel tips | Marrakech hidden gems | Marrakech activities | Marrakesh Itinerary<\/p>\n

\u266c original sound \u2013 Kelsey\ud83d\udc97London Travel Creator<\/a> <\/section>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n

And, as Millennials and Gen Z continue to popularise the sober tourism trend<\/a>, Metro\u2019s<\/strong> Gergana Krasteva<\/a> found that Marrakech is the perfect choice for teetotal travellers. In January, she spent 72 hours in the \u2018Red City,\u2019 soaking up culture instead of alcohol.<\/p>\n

Noting that it\u2019s a \u2018place that doesn\u2019t need booze to be interesting,\u2019 Gergana explored opulent palaces and atmospheric souks with aromatic cuisine. <\/p>\n

She said: \u2018All are making the city known as the Jewel of the South an increasingly popular choice for sober travellers.\u2019<\/p>\n

However, if Morocco has always been on your bucket-list, but the chaos of Marrakech doesn\u2019t appeal, Gergana recommends a visit to Fez<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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The ancient city of Fez offers a less chaotic Moroccan experience (Picture: Getty Images)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Around two hours and twenty minutes from Rabat, Gergana reports that the city nicknamed the \u2018Athens of Africa\u2019 has held onto much of the traditional culture that defines it.<\/p>\n

With none of the crowds and a spiritual and cultural focus, it\u2019s also cheap to get to: at least four direct flights depart from London every week, from as little as \u00a327 one-way.<\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s never been easier to visit the ancient tanneries, stunning architecture, and royal palaces that make this city so fascinating,\u2019 Gergana adds.<\/p>\n

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\n\t\t\t\tFrom Africa to the Middle East \t\t\t<\/h2>\n
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Can\u2019t wait until 2030? Saudi Arabia<\/a> has also tapped into the luxury rail travel trend, becoming the first Middle Eastern country to embrace it. <\/p>\n

In 2026, plans to launch the \u2018Dream of the Desert\u2019 are in motion, the first five-star rail service in the region that will travel around 780 miles through the Arabian Desert, from Riyadh to Al Qurayyat, near the northern border with Jordan. <\/p>\n

However, concerns over the ambitious project have risen due to the country\u2019s \u2018dire\u2019 human rights situation.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

A new train link is set to make Morocco more accessible to travellers (Picture: Getty Images) A new golden age of train travel has dawned, and it\u2019s safe to say we are now in the thick of the rail renaissance. For the first time in a century, trains are the It-girl of transport, and over […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1230,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[17],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1228","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1228","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1228"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1228\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1235,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1228\/revisions\/1235"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1230"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1228"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1228"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1228"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}