These 8 car-free cities offer the ultimate in planet-friendly living
Turn off your engines. Put down those car keys. And lace up your walking shoes.
Today we’re highlighting car-free cities that show how beautiful it can be to experience life by foot.
From islands in Europe to coves of Alaska, here are 8 car-free cities to give you wanderlust inspiration with an eco-friendly twist.
8 environmentally-friendly car-free cities across the world
Halibut Cove, Alaska
A gem in Alaska’s first state park, Halibut Cove is surrounded by mountains, glaciers, ocean views and forests. While you won’t see cars, you will see skiffs (small boats) and ATVs. And you may even spot sea otters when you’re out and about!
Fes el Bali, Morocco
Known as the world’s largest car-free urban zone, Fes el Bali is full of thousands of narrow alleyways. Expect crowded streets, wafts of spice smells, and stalls of fresh fruit. But more than that — expect to get lost! Wandering this colorful city and stumbling upon the hidden treasures is what makes Fes el Bali so special.
Monhegan, Maine
Monhegan fittingly translates into “out-to-sea island.” With 69 people and no cars (or even paved roads), this coastal oasis is home to an artists’ colony, stony beaches, and cottages with sea views. Dreamy.
Venice, Italy
Postcard pictures of canals and colorful buildings come to life in Venice. As a city built on water, it makes sense that boats are the primary way to travel besides walking or biking. Perfect excuse to splurge on a serenading gondola ride!
Fire Island, New York
Forget the honks and horns of New York City streets! Even though Fire Island is only 63 miles from NYC it feels like a world away. Think: charming bungalows, beach walks, and white sand.
Hydra Island, Greece
You won’t find yellow cabs in Greece, but you will find cobblestone streets. This peaceful, car pollution-free island is a dream destination for anyone looking to swim in the clear blue water, soak up the gorgeous architecture, and find bliss in a slower pace of life.
La Cumbrecita, Argentina
Straight out of a storybook, La Cumbrecita is home to wood cottages, waterfalls, and thick green forests. No cars will be in sight and the pedestrian-only lifestyle is designed with the Earth in mind. The area relies almost entirely on renewable energy, plus it recycles its water and composts nearly all of its organic waste, according to CNN. Bravo!
Zermatt, Switzerland
You won’t miss driving at this mountain resort known for its ski scene in the Swiss Alps. Not into snow sports? Be sure to stroll around the car-free Old Village. It will make you fall in love with the cobblestone streets, cute boutiques, and peaceful vibes.
Of course, you don’t have to go to a car-free city to make an effort to drive a little less. By walking, carpooling, biking, and using public transport even just once a week, you can do your part to improve air quality for all of us.
Want to learn more ways to make small changes to help the environment? Check out these posts!
