1. Giethoorn, Netherlands
Known as “The Venice of the North,” this village has no roads in the town center — only canals and walking or cycling paths. Residents use silent electric boats to get around. It’s peaceful, green, and incredibly scenic.
Transportation: boats, footpaths, bicycles
2. Venice, Italy
This world-famous city has no roads for cars. Instead, it’s built entirely on canals with over 150 waterways and 400 bridges. Most travel is done by boat or on foot.
Transportation: gondolas, water buses (vaporettos), walking
3. Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA
Cars have been banned here since 1898. Residents and visitors travel by horse-drawn carriage, bicycle, or foot. The island is preserved in a time before motor vehicles.
Transportation: horses, bicycles, walking
4. Hydra Island, Greece
This Greek island allows no motor vehicles. The streets are narrow and cobbled, suited only for pedestrians, donkeys, and mules. Goods are transported by hand or animal.
Transportation: donkeys, mules, water taxis, walking
5. La Cumbrecita, Argentina
A pedestrian-only mountain village in Argentina, La Cumbrecita is committed to sustainable tourism. Cars must be parked outside the village, and the town is entirely walkable.
Transportation: walking only
6. Zermatt, Switzerland
Located near the Matterhorn, this alpine town has banned gas-powered vehicles to maintain its clean air. Only electric vehicles, horse-drawn carriages, and foot travel are allowed within the town limits.
Transportation: electric shuttles, horse-drawn sleighs, walking
7. Fes el Bali (Old Fes), Morocco
The ancient medina of Fes is a dense, maze-like area with over 9,000 alleyways. It’s the largest urban car-free zone in the world. The pathways are too narrow for vehicles, and everything moves by foot or with pack animals.
Transportation: walking, donkeys, carts
Why these places matter
These locations preserve a way of life that prioritizes community, sustainability, and slower living. By removing cars, they offer cleaner air, reduced noise, and a unique charm that’s difficult to replicate in modern cities.
