List of the 10 Beautiful Car-Free Cities in the World

If you look around yourself, you will notice that in a family of 4, at least two individuals possess two cars; this means in a population of millions or billions, the number of cars owned collectively would be staggering. 

Even though public transport is available to help reduce the number of cars on the road, people still prefer the convenience and comfort of using their own vehicles for transportation. 

This leads to high pollution and traffic congestion in urban areas, ultimately impacting the environment and quality of life for residents. 

However, there are a few cities around the world that majorly use public transport and aid in reducing air pollution and traffic congestion significantly. 

So, ready to know how these cities have successfully implemented public transport systems to reduce the number of cars on the road and improve air quality? Here are the top 10 car-free cities that prioritise public transportation and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.

List of Car-Free Cities in the World

Here's the list of the top 10 car-free cities that don't use cars as the primary mode of transportation:

Source: Carfree Cities

1. Venice, Italy

• Country: Italy
• Air Pollution Rate: Approximately 25 µg/m³ (2024)
• Population: 260,000 (2024)
• Mode of Transportation: Walking and Boating (vaporetti and gondolas)

Venice is situated on a cluster of 126 islands, interconnected by over 400 bridges that span its famous canals, linking various districts. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts around 20 million tourists annually and maintains a vehicle-free status. The city's residents are so averse to wheels that there was even a proposal to ban rolling suitcases. 

2. Mackinac Island, USA

• Country: USA
• Air Pollution Rate: Approximately 15 µg/m³ (2024)
• Population: 500 (2024)
• Mode of Transportation: Bicycles, Horse-drawn carriages, and Walking

Mackinac Island is a small island located in Lake Huron, known for its ban on motor vehicles since the late 19th century. The island’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and historical charm has led to a reliance on bicycles and horse-drawn carriages for transportation. The absence of cars allows for cleaner air and promotes outdoor activities, making it an ideal location for eco-conscious travellers.

3. Giethoorn, Netherlands

• Country: Netherlands
• Air Pollution Rate: Approximately 20 µg/m³ (2024)
• Population: 2,600 (2024)
• Mode of Transportation: Boats (punters), Bicycles, and Walking

Giethoorn, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is famous for its picturesque canals and absence of traditional roads. Instead of cars, residents and visitors navigate the village using boats or bicycles. This car-free lifestyle contributes to lower air pollution levels and preserves the idyllic landscape. By limiting vehicular traffic, Giethoorn ensures that both residents and tourists can enjoy clean air and a peaceful environment.

4. Hydra, Greece

• Country: Greece
• Air Pollution Rate: Approximately 18 µg/m³ (2024)
• Population: 1,800 (2024)
• Mode of Transportation: Walking, Donkeys, and Water Taxis

Hydra is a charming Greek island that has banned all motorised vehicles since the 1960s. The island's steep terrain and narrow streets make cars impractical, leading to a reliance on walking, donkeys, and water taxis for transportation. This unique approach has resulted in exceptionally low levels of air pollution. The tranquil atmosphere attracts visitors seeking an eco-friendly destination while allowing residents to enjoy a high quality of life free from vehicular emissions.

5. La Digue, Seychelles

• Country: Seychelles
• Air Pollution Rate: Approximately 12 µg/m³ (2024)
• Population: 2,000 (2024)
• Mode of Transportation: Bicycles and Walking

La Digue is one of the most beautiful islands in the Seychelles and is entirely car-free. The island’s small size makes it easy to explore by foot or bicycle, with lush landscapes and stunning beaches enhancing the experience. This car-free policy helps maintain pristine air quality. The lack of cars not only reduces pollution but also enhances the island's charm and tranquillity.

6. Matheran, India

• Country: India
• Air Pollution Rate: Approximately 30 µg/m³ (2024)
• Population: 7,000 (2024)
• Mode of Transportation: Horses and Walking

Matheran is Asia's only automobile-free hill station located near Mumbai. The town's elevation and dense forests make it an ideal retreat from urban life. Visitors must leave their vehicles at designated parking areas outside the town and rely on horses or walking paths to explore. This unique policy helps preserve Matheran's natural beauty while ensuring cleaner air for both residents and tourists. 

7. Ghent, Belgium

• Country: Belgium
• Air Pollution Rate: Approximately 22 µg/m³ (2024)
• Population: 260,000 (2024)
• Mode of Transportation: Bicycles, Public Transport (trams/buses), and Walking

Ghent has transformed its city centre into a largely car-free zone since implementing its circulation plan in the late 1990s. This initiative aimed to reduce traffic congestion while enhancing air quality by promoting cycling and public transportation as primary modes of travel. The city's commitment to sustainability has led to increased green spaces and improved public health outcomes. 

8. Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Country: Netherlands
• Air Pollution Rate: Approximately 25 µg/m³ (2024)
• Population: 900,000 (2024)
• Mode of Transportation: Bicycles, Trams, and Walking

Amsterdam is known for its extensive cycling infrastructure and pedestrian-friendly policies that have reduced reliance on cars over the years. While not entirely car-free, approximately one-quarter of trips in the city are made by bike or on foot, significantly lowering air pollution levels. The city's initiatives to promote cycling include dedicated bike lanes and rental programmes that encourage residents and tourists alike to choose sustainable transport options. 

9. Oslo, Norway

• Country: Norway
• Air Pollution Rate: Approximately 20 µg/m³ (2024)
• Population: 1,550,000 (2024)
• Mode of Transportation: Bicycles, Public transport (buses/trams/trains), and Walking

Oslo has implemented a comprehensive plan aimed at becoming one of Europe’s most environmentally friendly cities by reducing car usage significantly. The city encourages walking, cycling, and public transport through extensive infrastructure improvements while limiting access to vehicles in certain areas. Oslo’s efforts have resulted in improved air quality and reduced noise pollution while promoting healthier lifestyles among residents. 

10. La Cumbrecita, Argentina

• Country: Argentina
• Air Pollution Rate: Approximately 10 µg/m³ (2024)
• Population: 800 (2024)
• Mode of Transportation: Walking and Bicycles

La Cumbrecita is a picturesque village nestled in the Sierras de Córdoba mountains with strict regulations against motor vehicles since its inception in the early 20th century. Visitors are encouraged to explore on foot or by bicycle amid stunning natural scenery. The absence of cars ensures clean air quality for both residents and visitors seeking refuge from urban life.

Some Fun Facts Related to these Car-free Cities?

Some key points about these car-free cities:

• Venice is famous for its canals and gondola rides instead of cars.
• Mackinac Island in Michigan allows only bicycles and horse-drawn carriages as transportation.
• Giethoorn in the Netherlands, dubbed the "Venice of the North", has no roads and relies on boats for travel.
• Hydra in Greece bans all wheeled vehicles, including bicycles, due to its hilly terrain.
• La Digue in the Seychelles offers a car-free haven with breathtaking natural beauty.
• Matheran in India is Asia's only automobile-free hill station.
• Ghent in Belgium is the second-largest car-free region in Europe.
• Amsterdam has limited cars, with only 19% of residents using them daily, and a focus on biking.
• Oslo aims to be car-free by strategically removing vehicles and adding pedestrian areas.
• La Cumbrecita in Argentina closes its roads to cars from 10 am to 6 pm, with vehicles parked at the entrance.

How do car-free cities manage emergency services?

• Car-free cities manage emergency services through innovative strategies and infrastructure adaptations to ensure timely responses while maintaining their vehicle-free status.

• In these urban environments, emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars, often utilise designated lanes or paths that allow them to navigate efficiently. 

• For example, in Ghent, Belgium, emergency services are integrated into the city's pedestrian-friendly design by maintaining clear access routes within car-free zones.

• This allows emergency responders to reach incidents quickly without being hindered by traffic congestion.

• Additionally, some cities implement alternative transportation modes for emergencies. 

• In Venice, where traditional vehicles cannot operate, emergency services rely on boats to reach various districts across the canals. 

• This unique approach ensures that even the most remote areas can receive urgent assistance.

• Car-free cities also emphasise public awareness and community engagement. 

• By educating residents about emergency protocols and the importance of keeping pathways clear, cities foster a cooperative environment that supports swift emergency responses.

What are the environmental benefits of car-free cities?

Car-free cities offer numerous environmental benefits that contribute to healthier urban living and sustainability. 

By eliminating or significantly reducing vehicular traffic, these cities enhance air quality as they decrease emissions from cars, which are major contributors to air pollution. 

For instance, after implementing car restrictions, Madrid saw nitrogen oxide levels drop by 38% in its city centre, demonstrating the immediate impact of reduced vehicle emissions on urban air quality.

Additionally, car-free environments lead to lower noise pollution. The absence of engines and honking horns creates a quieter atmosphere, which can improve mental health and overall quality of life for residents. 

In Brussels, car-free Sundays resulted in a noticeable 10 dB reduction in noise levels. These cities also promote green spaces by reallocating land previously used for roads and parking lots. 

This not only enhances biodiversity but also helps mitigate the urban heat island effect, where cities become significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to human activities.

Furthermore, car-free cities encourage active transportation modes like walking and cycling, which contribute to public health by reducing sedentary lifestyles and associated chronic diseases. 

Also Read: List of Countries in Europe: Interesting Facts, Population, Area