How to get from Marrakech Menara Airport to Jemaa el-Fnaa

Marrakech Menara Airport sits only a few kilometers from the medina, so getting to the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square is quick and easy: you can hop on the cheap Airport Shuttle Bus 19, grab an official taxi or private transfer, use a local public bus with a short walk, or arrange a door-to-door pickup through your riad or an online platform—this guide explains timings, costs and step-by-steps for each option.

At A Glance (Marrakech Menara Airport to Jemaa el-Fnaa)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚌 Airport Shuttle Bus 19 (RAK → Jemaa el-Fnaa)	~20–35 minutes (traffic-dependent)	Budget travelers, solo visitors, light luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~30 MAD one-way / 50 MAD return, pay on board (cash) » check airport bus tickets
🚕 Taxi / Private Transfer (Door-to-door)	~15–30 minutes (can be longer in peak traffic)	Late arrivals, first-time visitors, heavy luggage
🏷️ Cost: Official airport taxis typically ~70–100 MAD (day/night flat rate); pre-booked private transfers ~150–250 MAD per car » compare private transfers | GetTransfer offers
🚌 Public Bus 11 + Short Walk	~30–45 minutes + 5–10 minutes walk	Ultra-budget travelers, those used to local buses
🏷️ Cost: ~4–6 MAD one-way, pay the driver (no advance booking needed)
🚐 Hotel / Riad Transfer (Bundled)	~20–40 minutes door-to-door	Staying in a riad, minimal hassle, late-night arrivals
🏷️ Cost: Typically ~10–25 EUR per room/vehicle depending on riad/agency » airport transfer options | Trip.com transfers

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / Most Convenient: Taxi or private transfer from the official rank outside the terminal or pre-booked online if you want a driver waiting with your name sign.
• Cheapest / Good Value: Airport Shuttle Bus 19 goes directly between the terminal and Jemaa el-Fnaa and is inexpensive even for solo travelers.
• Ultra-Budget / Local Experience: Public Bus 11 is the lowest-cost option but involves a short walk to the roadside bus stop and can be crowded.
• Least Hassle for Riads: If your riad is deep inside the medina and hard to find, choose a hotel/riad-arranged transfer so the driver and riad porter coordinate drop-off and luggage help.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Decide your arrival strategy in advance: For late-night flights or if you have large bags or kids, consider pre-booking a taxi via GetYourGuide airport transfers, GetTransfer or your riad.
• Have cash in Moroccan dirhams: Bus 19 and public Bus 11 are cash-only. Withdraw at airport ATMs before heading out.
• Compare transfer prices online: Check shuttle and bus listings on 12Go and private options on Trip.com airport transfers or Klook airport transfer options.
• Ride-hailing apps: International apps like Uber or Bolt do not currently operate in Marrakech. Rides are usually by official petit/grand taxis or pre-booked services like Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer Marrakesh taxis.
• Plan your onward transport: Once in the medina, streets are mostly pedestrian. For exploring wider Marrakech or day trips, consider scooters or bikes via BikesBooking Marrakech.
• Store bags if rooms aren’t ready: If you reach the city hours before check-in, use luggage storage near the medina via Radical Storage Marrakech.
• Where to stay: For easy access to Jemaa el-Fnaa and airport shuttles, look at riads/hotels in the medina or near the square on Booking.com Marrakech.

🚌 Option #1 — Airport Shuttle Bus 19 (Cheapest & Direct)

Budget-friendly Direct to Jemaa el-Fnaa Runs frequently

• Overview: ALSA’s Airport Shuttle Bus 19 runs between Marrakech Menara Airport and Jemaa el-Fnaa, stopping at key points like Hivernage and Gueliz. It has luggage space and is designed for travelers.
• Schedule & frequency: Typically every ~20–30 minutes from early morning (around 06:00–06:30) until late evening, with extended or night services on some timetables. Always check the latest times on the airport or city transport information boards.
• How to book (with price): No advance booking needed—just pay the driver when you board. Expect about 30 MAD one-way or 50 MAD return. For an idea of journey time and bus options, you can also check the airport-to-Jemaa el-Fnaa route on 12Go. Official information on the airport’s ground transport (including Bus 19) is available via the VisitMarrakech transport page.
• Pros: Very cheap, reasonably fast, drops you by Jemaa el-Fnaa; no need to negotiate fares; good for solo travelers.
• Cons: Cash-only; can be crowded at peak times; fixed timetable; may require a short walk from the bus stop to your riad inside the medina.

Step-by-step: Airport Shuttle Bus 19

1. After exiting customs at Marrakech Menara Airport, follow signs for “Bus” or “Shuttle 19” towards the large car park in front of the terminal.
2. Look for the white/orange ALSA bus with the number 19 and “Jemaa el-Fna” or “Centre Ville” on the front. If unsure, ask the driver “Jemaa el-Fna?”.
3. Have at least 30 MAD in cash ready. You buy your ticket directly from the driver when boarding (return tickets cost ~50 MAD and are validated again on your return journey).
4. Place large luggage in the designated racks and keep valuables with you. Sit near a window for a first glimpse of Marrakech.
5. Stay on the bus until the final or clearly announced stop at Jemaa el-Fnaa. From there, walk to your riad/hotel—many accommodations send a porter to meet you if you arrange this in advance.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Bus Stop / Jemaa el-Fnaa)

• From Arrivals to Bus 19 stop: The stop is just outside the terminal across the main car park. Follow the crowd heading to buses and look for ALSA Bus 19 signage.
• From Jemaa el-Fnaa back to the airport: The return stop for Bus 19 is near the square (often signed as “Aéroport”). Always confirm with the driver before boarding.
• With heavy luggage or mobility issues: If walking across the car park or navigating the medina from the bus stop is difficult, consider a private transfer instead.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #2 — Taxi or Private Transfer (Fastest, Door-to-Door)

Door-to-door Flexible times Most comfortable

• Overview: Taxis wait at the rank directly outside Menara Airport. They can drop you at the nearest point to your riad near Jemaa el-Fnaa (cars cannot enter many medina lanes). You can also pre-book a private transfer with a driver waiting in Arrivals.
• Official taxi fares: Airport information and local tourism offices indicate regulated flat rates between the airport and city centre/medina of about 70 MAD (day) and 100 MAD (night), though many drivers will ask closer to 100–150 MAD including luggage. Check posted tariffs at the official taxi stand and agree the fare before getting in.
• Private transfers: If you want a driver holding a name sign, pre-book via GetYourGuide private transfers, GetTransfer Marrakech airport, or services like Welcome Pickups Marrakech. Expect from ~150–250 MAD per car depending on time and vehicle type.
• Pros: Fastest and most convenient with luggage; 24/7 availability whenever flights land; direct to your accommodation area.
• Cons: More expensive than the bus; occasional haggling if you don’t use the official fare booth or pre-booked service.

Step-by-step: Taxi or Private Transfer

1. After collecting your bags, exit the terminal and follow signs to the taxi rank. Look for licensed beige “Petit” or larger “Grand” taxis.
2. For official taxis, either go to the fare booth (if available) to pay a fixed price and receive a ticket, or confirm the fare with the driver before entering the car. Mention that you’re going to Jemaa el-Fnaa / your riad name.
3. If you booked a private transfer through GetYourGuide, Trip.com or similar, meet your driver at the designated meeting point in Arrivals (usually holding a sign with your name).
4. Share the address and, if possible, a map screenshot of your riad with the driver. Many riads are in car-free alleys, so expect to be dropped at a nearby gate and walk a few minutes.
5. Pay in MAD at the end of the ride unless pre-paid online. Small notes make things easier.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Taxi Rank / Medina Drop-off)

• Taxi rank location: Immediately outside the terminal building at Menara Airport. Just follow the taxi icons after customs.
• Typical drop-off for Jemaa el-Fnaa: Many taxis drop passengers near Place Jamaa el-Fnaa or by the Koutoubia Mosque parking, a short walk to the square.
• Peak traffic: In the late afternoon and early evening, allow extra time—traffic around the medina gates can slow down considerably.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #3 — Public Bus 11 + Short Walk (Ultra-Budget)

Cheapest More local Less convenient with luggage

• Overview: Regular city Bus 11, run by ALSA, connects the airport road with central Marrakech and stops near Jemaa el-Fnaa. However, it does not pull up directly at the terminal, so you need to walk out to the main road and flag it down at the bus stop.
• Schedule & frequency: Buses usually run every 20–30 minutes during the day, but timetables are less tourist-focused than Bus 19 and may vary on weekends or holidays.
• How to pay (with price): Buy your ticket from the driver when boarding; expect around 4–6 MAD one-way. No reservations, and exact change is recommended.
• Pros: The very cheapest way to reach Jemaa el-Fnaa; good for budget travelers familiar with public buses.
• Cons: Requires a 10–15 minute walk from the terminal to the roadside stop; not ideal with big suitcases or at night; buses can be crowded and less comfortable.

Step-by-step: Public Bus 11

1. From the Arrivals area, walk out of the airport complex towards the main road (Avenue Guemassa). Ask staff or security to point you towards the closest Bus 11 stop.
2. Wait at the bus stop marked for ALSA buses. When Bus 11 arrives, confirm with the driver that the bus goes to the city center/Jemaa el-Fnaa.
3. Board at the front door, tell the driver your destination, and pay the fare in cash (small coins and notes are best).
4. Stay alert for the central stops near Jemaa el-Fnaa or Koutoubia. You can also follow your progress on an offline map app.
5. Get off near the square and walk into the medina to your accommodation.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Road / City Bus Stops)

• From the terminal: The walk to the nearest Bus 11 stop is along a busy road with limited shade—avoid this option in extreme heat or late at night.
• In the city: Bus 11 serves several stops around the medina and Gueliz; if you are unsure which stop is best, ask fellow passengers or the driver for “Jemaa el-Fna”.
• Backup plan: If the bus is full or delayed, consider switching to the more frequent Bus 19 or taking a taxi instead.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #4 — Hotel / Riad Transfer or Tour Pickup (Hassle-Free)

Riad-friendly Door-to-door Best for late arrivals

• Overview: Many riads and hotels around Jemaa el-Fnaa arrange airport pickups with a driver who meets you at Arrivals and walks you, with a porter, through the medina to your door—very helpful in the maze-like old city.
• How it works: You book the transfer through your accommodation or via an online platform. The driver meets you at a set time, then coordinates with the riad so staff or a porter are waiting at the nearest drop-off point.
• How to book (with price): Request an airport transfer add-on when reserving your room on Booking.com Marrakech stays or contact your riad directly. Prices are often from about 10–25 EUR per room/vehicle. Alternatively, browse packages on GetYourGuide transfers or Trip.com airport transfer Marrakech.
• Pros: Easiest way to reach a hidden riad; someone meets you at the airport and guides you to your door; great when arriving late or feeling jet-lagged.
• Cons: Can be pricier than Bus 19; you need to arrange it in advance and share flight details.

Step-by-step: Hotel / Riad Transfer

1. When booking your riad or hotel, ask if they provide airport pickup and confirm the price (per car or per person) and where you’ll meet the driver.
2. Share your flight number and arrival time, plus a mobile contact (WhatsApp is common). Many services also send driver details in advance.
3. On arrival, look for a driver holding a sign with your name in the Arrivals hall, or go to the agreed meeting point.
4. Ride to the medina edge near your riad. You may then transfer to a handcart/porter for the final walk through the alleys to your accommodation.
5. Pay the driver according to your booking (often pre-paid online for GetYourGuide/Klook/Trip.com, or cash directly to your riad/driver).

Getting to the main embarking points (Riad / Hotel Meeting Points)

• Airport meeting points: These are usually just outside customs in Arrivals. Your confirmation email from the transfer provider will show a map or description.
• Riad access: Many riads are in narrow alleys where cars cannot go; porters with handcarts often meet you at gates like Bab Doukkala, Bab Laksour or near Jemaa el-Fnaa.
• If your accommodation doesn’t offer transfers: You can still book a similar service on GetYourGuide private transfers or via GetTransfer Marrakesh.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Marrakech Menara Airport to Jemaa el-Fnaa)

Is there a train or tram from Marrakech Menara Airport directly to Jemaa el-Fnaa?
No. Marrakech does not have an airport train or metro. The main options are Airport Shuttle Bus 19, local Bus 11, regular taxis and pre-booked private or hotel transfers.

How long does it take to get from the airport to Jemaa el-Fnaa?
In light traffic, taxis and private transfers take about 15–20 minutes. Bus 19 typically takes around 25–35 minutes depending on stops and traffic. At peak times (late afternoon, early evening) it can be slower—allow up to 45 minutes door-to-door.

What is the cheapest way to get from Marrakech airport to Jemaa el-Fnaa?
The absolute cheapest way is local Bus 11 (around 4–6 MAD) if you’re happy to walk out to the main road and travel with locals. The Airport Shuttle Bus 19 is still very affordable at around 30 MAD and is more comfortable with luggage.

Are taxis from the airport safe and regulated?
Yes, official airport taxis are regulated and licensed. Use the taxis at the official rank outside Arrivals, check the posted flat-rate board if available, and agree the price before you get in. For extra reassurance, you can pre-book online through platforms like GetYourGuide airport transfers or GetTransfer.

Can I pay for transport from the airport by card or in euros?
Most local buses and regular taxis are cash-only in Moroccan dirhams (MAD). Some private transfers booked via Klook, Trip.com or GetYourGuide can be paid by card online in advance. It’s best to withdraw cash at the airport for small payments.

What if my flight arrives late at night?
There are usually taxis whenever flights land, but for peace of mind at night, especially if staying in a riad inside the medina, pre-book a private transfer or riad pickup. They will wait even if your flight is delayed and help you find your accommodation in the dark.

Can I store luggage somewhere near Jemaa el-Fnaa?
If your riad cannot hold bags before check-in or after checkout, consider a paid luggage service in town. Platforms like Radical Storage Marrakech list several central storage locations that you can book by the day.