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It’s one of those things you might not think is so impactful until you’re strolling through a European city and realisation hits. It’s noticeably more quiet. I don’t smell any exhaust. I can cross the street without worrying about drivers or traffic patterns. I sense more of a peaceful vibe.
I love visiting cities, and I enjoy the contrast quieter escapes provide, so when I visit a car-free city, I feel right at home. In both places, I’m aware of the effect its energy has on my mood and body. Car-free cities have a more relaxed, go-with-the-flow feel. Bustling metropolises are exciting and electric.
While places across the globe are going car-free, Europe is filled with car-free cities and towns, and once you realise how they boost the quality of your visit, you’ll be hooked just like I am.
Why are cities becoming car-free?
Many European cities have always been car-free. And an increasing number of cities are embracing a car-free approach, promoting a higher quality of life, safety, responsible travel, and unique experiences for those willing to ditch the keys.
The rise of car-free cities is largely due to a growing awareness of the environmental impact of car travel. It means less emissions and more space for trees, which help to combat high surface temperatures.
Image source:Contiki
What are the benefits of a car-free city?
Additionally, many cities are seeking to improve the quality of life for residents by reducing noise and air pollution, and creating more community and pedestrian-friendly spaces. Without the constant buzz of traffic, these cities are often quieter and more peaceful. They are also more pedestrian-friendly, with wider sidewalks, more public squares, and a greater focus on public transport.
Some cities won’t be entirely car-free but are moving towards expanded pedestrian zones. Paris, for example, has instituted “Paris Respire,” or a Paris Breathes day one Sunday a month in the first four arrondissements of the city to promote safety for walkers and clean air.
In many cases, car-free zones have also led to a revitalisation of city centres, with businesses thriving and new attractions emerging. Less space for cars and their lanes means more space to gather, a hallmark of life in Europe. Let’s face it, car-free cities offer a level of charm that you won’t find anywhere else.
1. Venice, Italy
Venice might be the most famous car-free city in the world. Its unique network of canals and bridges makes it a truly unforgettable destination. While exploring Venice on foot can be tiring, the city offers convenient water buses and taxis, allowing you to navigate the canals with ease.
Image source:Contiki
2. Zermatt, Switzerland
Found in the heart of the Swiss Alps and under the shadow of the Matterhorn, Zermatt is a gorgeous ski village that has been car-free for decades. In fact, the road between St. Niklaus and Zermatt was closed to automobiles in 1931.
The village is only accessible by train, which has panoramic windows so you can properly take in the alpine scenery. Zermatt is a popular winter destination for skiers, but it also offers plenty of outdoor activities for summer sunseekers like hiking, canyoning, mountain biking, paragliding, and more.
3. Ghent, Belgium
Ghent is a vibrant city with a lively atmosphere and a rich history. Its car-free centre is a joy to explore on foot or by bike, with charming canals, medieval architecture, and bustling squares. The city offers excellent public transportation options, making it easy to get around without a car.
Image source:Getty Images / unsplash
4. Pontevedra, Spain
Pontevedra is a pioneer of car-free living in Europe. Its historic centre is car-free (with the exception of emergency vehicles), and the city boasts an impressive network of pedestrian and cycling paths. Some even connect to the Camino de Santiago. Located just north of Porto, this Spanish city is renowned for its well-preserved Gothic architecture, bustling markets, outdoor sculptures, and lively tapas bars.
5. Freiburg, Germany
Freiburg is almost totally car-free and has become a model of sustainable living, with its strong focus on public transportation, cycling, and pedestrian-friendly spaces. Its car-free city centre is a haven for walkers and cyclists, with numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. Traffic is only allowed on certain streets at a maximum speed of 30 km/h.
Image source:Polina Kuzokova / unsplash
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Okay, Amsterdam is not car-free, but it is car-lite. Local officials are working diligently to make other modes of transportation locals’ first choice. Amsterdam is known for its extensive network of cycling paths and its efforts to reduce car traffic, with public safety at the centre of its 27-step plan. The city centre is a joy to explore on foot or by bike, with quintessential canals, distinct buildings, historic squares, and vibrant cultural attractions.
7. Dubrovnik, Croatia
The walled city of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. Its city centre is an old-world maze of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The car-free Croatian city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, making it an ideal destination for those who prefer to explore at a leisurely pace, and for Game of Thrones fans wishing to catch a glimpse of the spiritual home of the Iron Throne via a walking tour.
Image source:Contiki
8. Cinque Terre, Italy
The five villages of Cinque Terre are linked by a series of hiking trails and a train line, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The villages are all car-free, and their colourful houses, stunning cliffside views, and delicious seafood make them a truly unforgettable destination in Italy.
9. Bruges, Belgium
With its chocolate shops, canals, cobbled streets, and medieval architecture, Bruges is a charming city that is best explored on foot or by bike, or even by horse and carriage. The city centre is largely car-free, with the exception of some streets and certain times. The numerous outdoor cafes, breweries, and museums are easily accessible by walking or cycling.
Image source:Den Harrson / unsplash
10. Hydra, Greece
Off the coast of the Peloponnese, the only available modes of transportation are by horse, mule, donkey, or foot on Hydra. That’s no matter, though, as life moves at island time. Swim, sip, and sail your way through your trip instead.
11. Oslo, Norway
Oslo claims to be one of the first major European cities to go car-free in its city centre. Since the effort to ban cars from the city completely began, Oslo eliminated more than 700 parking spaces, turning them into bike lanes, small parks, and outdoor seating. Furthermore, pedestrian and cycling deaths hit 0 in 2019, proving that car-free cities are good for your health.
