6 Fascinating Car-Free Villages and Cities Around the World

How much would you love to visit a village with zero cars? One where you can really hear birds chirping, footsteps on cobblestone streets, and the occasional clip-clop of a horse-drawn carriage or ring of a bicycle bell? No honking horns, no revving engines….it almost sounds magical in a buzzing, screeching world full of autos.

Well, you’re in luck! There are car-free villages all over the world that aren’t just charming relics of the past but thriving, sustainable communities that deliver a slower, more peaceful way to travel. Some have remained car-free by tradition, others by necessity, and a few have consciously chosen to keep automobiles out to preserve their beauty.

Here are six of the most fascinating car-free villages worldwide—and what makes each one special.

Giethoorn, Netherlands

Located about halfway between Amsterdam and Groningen, Giethoorn is a village that looks exactly like it belongs in a storybook, complete with thatched-roof cottages, canals, and quiet gardens.

Instead of roads, this small town is built on a network of canals, making boats the primary mode of transportation. Cars are nonexistent here, and locals navigate their daily lives using whisper boats—silent electric vessels that glide through the water without disrupting the peace.

If you can visit, rent a traditional punter boat and explore the charming canals at your own pace. Go strolling along the village’s wooden footbridges and head to Museum ‘t Olde Maat Uus, which provides insight into the village’s history.

Hydra, Greece

Hydra, a picturesque island in the Aegean Sea, has long remained free of cars, motorbikes, and even bicycles. Strict preservation laws ensure this timeless destination retains its historic charm, allowing only donkeys, water taxis, and foot traffic to move through its narrow, winding streets.

The lack of vehicles adds to the island’s allure, making every walk feel like stepping into the past. Hydra Town, the island’s main settlement, is filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant bougainvillea. Donkey rides offer a charming way to explore, while waterfront tavernas provide the perfect setting for watching the sunset over the sea.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt, a stunning Alpine village in Switzerland, has taken a firm stance against combustion-engine vehicles to protect its pristine environment. Only electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages are allowed within the town, creating an air of serenity rare in modern tourist destinations.

The lack of traffic noise makes Zermatt an even more magical place to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps. You can take the Gornergrat Railway for an adventure on the second-highest rail in Europe, ski or snowboard on world-class slopes, or hike scenic trails like the Five Lakes Walk, where the surrounding mountains reflect perfectly in the waters.

Venice, Italy

Few places in the world are as famously car-free as Venice. Built on more than 100 small islands and connected by a labyrinth of canals and bridges, the city has no room for cars. Instead, people get around on foot, by gondola, or on vaporetti—public water buses that crisscross the Grand Canal.

Venice’s charm lies in its dreamlike atmosphere. Wandering its quiet backstreets leads you to hidden piazzas, centuries-old churches, and lively cafés. A gondola ride will give you a romantic way to experience the city from the water, while landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica showcase Venice’s rich history. If you stray from the tourist hotspots, you’ll discover charming local neighborhoods like Cannaregio, where Venice’s quieter, more authentic side comes to life.

Fes el Bali, Morocco

Fes el Bali, the ancient medina of Fes, is one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. Its narrow, maze-like streets, some barely wide enough for two people to pass, were never designed for modern vehicles. With more than 9,000 alleyways, the medina is where donkeys, handcarts, and pedestrians are the only means of transport.

Traveling through Fes el Bali is a sensory experience unlike any other. The air smells of spices, fresh bread, and leather from the city’s famous Chouara Tannery, where traditional dyeing techniques have been used for centuries. The souks are packed with handcrafted goods, from colorful ceramics to intricate textiles, and you can explore hidden courtyards and historic mosques, including Al Quaraouiyine, the world’s oldest university.

Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA

Mackinac Island, a small island in Lake Huron, has been car-free since 1898. The ban on automobiles was originally imposed to prevent the disruption of local life, but it has since become part of the island’s unique identity. Today, the only way to get around is by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage or horseback, giving Mackinac Island a timeless charm.

You can explore the island’s Victorian-style architecture, browse its famous fudge shops, or take a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic streets.

Ready to Travel?

There’s something undeniably special about exploring a place without the constant presence of cars. Car-free villages offer cleaner air, quieter streets, and a more immersive experience, where you can truly slow down and appreciate your surroundings.

Have you had the chance to visit a car-free village? Share your stories and tips with the Frayed Passport community!

About the Author

Originally from Indiana, Heather believes every destination has a story worth telling and a reason to visit. With a deep love of adventure, history, and psychology, she shares travel trivia, tips, and inspiration to encourage you to explore the world with curiosity and optimism. Read her other articles on Frayed Passport here.

Featured image by Michel van der Vegt from Pixabay