The short answer
As a sightseeing ride, yes; as transport, not really. The green horse-drawn calèches lined up near Jemaa el-Fnaa are for a slow loop of the ramparts, the Menara gardens or the palm groves, not for getting from A to B. Official tariffs are posted for set routes and hourly hire, so confirm route and price first.
In more detail
A calèche loop shows you the walls and gates at an easy pace, which is pleasant on a first afternoon or with older travellers who would rather not walk far. It is not quicker than a taxi, and it cannot enter the narrow medina lanes either.
Look for the displayed rates, then agree the route and the total with the driver before you climb in. Settling it afterwards is where disputes start.
If the welfare of the horse matters to you, take a moment to look at its condition first. You are free to walk on and choose another carriage, or none.
Good to know
- Late afternoon is cooler and the light on the ramparts is better.
- Agree whether the price is per carriage or per person.
- For an evening loop with a guide, our vintage sidecar tour is the other option.
- Loops also run out to the Menara gardens and the palm groves; ask which routes have posted tariffs.