Yesterday, the world celebrated International Car-Free Day, encouraging people globally to forgo cars for a day. By 2024, the number of cars is projected to reach 1.475 billion—equating to one car for every 5.5 people, or 182 cars per 1,000 individuals. While this figure might seem large, the environmental impact is significant: a typical passenger vehicle emits around 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually.
When multiplied by 1.475 billion cars, the consequences become alarming. Car-free cities aim to reduce traffic congestion, lower pollution levels, and enhance overall quality of life. This movement promotes healthier transportation alternatives, such as cycling, walking, and public transit. Discover the various countries that have embraced this change.
What is car-free city day ?
Car-Free Day is an annual event celebrated in many cities around the world to promote sustainable transportation and raise awareness about the environmental impacts of car use. On this day, local authorities often encourage residents to give up their cars for various modes of transport, such as walking, cycling, and public transportation.
The initiative aims to reduce air pollution, traffic congestion, and noise, while also promoting healthier lifestyles and community engagement. Car-Free Day typically features activities like street fairs, cycling events, and educational programs to inspire long-term changes in transportation habits. It's part of a broader movement to create more livable and sustainable urban environments.
World’s stunning car-free cities in 2024
Zermatt, Switzerland
Nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt has been a car-free haven for as long as anyone can remember. Access for private vehicles is permitted only until Täsch, located 5 kilometres away. From Täsch, visitors can switch to a shuttle train that runs every 20 minutes to reach Zermatt. Once in the town, transportation options include walking, horse-drawn carriages, eTaxis, bicycles, and a free eBus that operates two routes: the skibus and the Winkelmatten bus.
La Digue, Seychelles
La Digue, a tranquil island in the Seychelles, is a place where time seems to stand still. With no traffic jams or honking horns, the best way to explore is by bike. The island's main road offers scenic views and leads to the stunning Anse Source d'Argent, one of the world’s most photographed beaches. Visitors can also trek to Anse Coco, snorkel, or kayak in clear waters. For those with limited mobility, electric buggies are available to help navigate the island.
Venice, Italy
Venice's Centro Storico is renowned as Europe’s largest pedestrian-only urban area. Built on a network of 126 islands, the city features over 400 bridges connecting various districts. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Venice attracts around 20 million tourists each year, all while remaining vehicle-free. In fact, locals have even considered banning rolling suitcases to maintain their peaceful, wheel-free environment.
Lamu, Kenya
Lamu, home to one of the oldest Swahili towns, has outlawed cars entirely. Instead, donkeys provide land transport, while traditional dhows ferry visitors around the archipelago. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lamu boasts a rich history and features stunning architecture made from coral stone and mangrove timber. The Old Town’s narrow streets and intricately designed buildings reflect a unique blend of Swahili, Arabic, Persian, Indian, and European influences.
Fes el Bali, Morocco
Fes el Bali, the larger of Fes’s two medinas, is a remarkably preserved mediaeval city with over 13,000 historic structures. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, it is likely the largest contiguous car-free area in the world. With some streets as narrow as 24 inches, the area is largely inaccessible to vehicles, making it a truly unique destination for visitors.
Ghent, Belgium
Since 2017, the city centre of Ghent has been car-free, enhancing its mediaeval charm. The city offers a free park-and-ride shuttle, along with regular bus routes, tram lines, and even an electric boat service for eco-friendly mobility. Night buses and free transport for children under 14 further enhance the appeal of public transport in this vibrant university town.
Hydra, Greece
On the picturesque island of Hydra, cars and even bicycles are banned. The only way to navigate its charming alleys is on foot or via the island’s trusty mules. While mules may be slow, they provide a unique way to explore the island. Boats are the preferred mode of transportation to reach the more remote beaches.\
Giethoorn, The Netherlands
Located just 75 miles from Amsterdam, Giethoorn is a postcard-perfect village without cars or paved roads. Known as the Dutch Venice, visitors can traverse the area by bike, boat, or foot over the many footbridges crossing its serene canals. The town's name, which means "goat horn," originates from the discovery of wild-goat horns by early settlers.
Yelapa, Mexico
Yelapa, a charming cove located in the Bay of Banderas, is completely car-free. Although a road leads to the outskirts, travel to and from the village is primarily by boat. In the 1960s and 70s, Yelapa became a haven for hippies, and today its laid-back vibe continues to attract visitors seeking a peaceful escape. The popular saying, “I’d rather have a palapa in Yelapa than a condo in Redondo,” captures the island's allure.
Also read: Indian investors are rushing to buy properties in Greece; here’s why
When multiplied by 1.475 billion cars, the consequences become alarming. Car-free cities aim to reduce traffic congestion, lower pollution levels, and enhance overall quality of life. This movement promotes healthier transportation alternatives, such as cycling, walking, and public transit. Discover the various countries that have embraced this change.
What is car-free city day ?
Car-Free Day is an annual event celebrated in many cities around the world to promote sustainable transportation and raise awareness about the environmental impacts of car use. On this day, local authorities often encourage residents to give up their cars for various modes of transport, such as walking, cycling, and public transportation.
The initiative aims to reduce air pollution, traffic congestion, and noise, while also promoting healthier lifestyles and community engagement. Car-Free Day typically features activities like street fairs, cycling events, and educational programs to inspire long-term changes in transportation habits. It's part of a broader movement to create more livable and sustainable urban environments.
World’s stunning car-free cities in 2024
Zermatt, Switzerland
Nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt has been a car-free haven for as long as anyone can remember. Access for private vehicles is permitted only until Täsch, located 5 kilometres away. From Täsch, visitors can switch to a shuttle train that runs every 20 minutes to reach Zermatt. Once in the town, transportation options include walking, horse-drawn carriages, eTaxis, bicycles, and a free eBus that operates two routes: the skibus and the Winkelmatten bus.
La Digue, Seychelles
La Digue, a tranquil island in the Seychelles, is a place where time seems to stand still. With no traffic jams or honking horns, the best way to explore is by bike. The island's main road offers scenic views and leads to the stunning Anse Source d'Argent, one of the world’s most photographed beaches. Visitors can also trek to Anse Coco, snorkel, or kayak in clear waters. For those with limited mobility, electric buggies are available to help navigate the island.
Venice, Italy
Venice's Centro Storico is renowned as Europe’s largest pedestrian-only urban area. Built on a network of 126 islands, the city features over 400 bridges connecting various districts. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Venice attracts around 20 million tourists each year, all while remaining vehicle-free. In fact, locals have even considered banning rolling suitcases to maintain their peaceful, wheel-free environment.
Lamu, Kenya
Lamu, home to one of the oldest Swahili towns, has outlawed cars entirely. Instead, donkeys provide land transport, while traditional dhows ferry visitors around the archipelago. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lamu boasts a rich history and features stunning architecture made from coral stone and mangrove timber. The Old Town’s narrow streets and intricately designed buildings reflect a unique blend of Swahili, Arabic, Persian, Indian, and European influences.
Fes el Bali, Morocco
Fes el Bali, the larger of Fes’s two medinas, is a remarkably preserved mediaeval city with over 13,000 historic structures. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, it is likely the largest contiguous car-free area in the world. With some streets as narrow as 24 inches, the area is largely inaccessible to vehicles, making it a truly unique destination for visitors.
Ghent, Belgium
Since 2017, the city centre of Ghent has been car-free, enhancing its mediaeval charm. The city offers a free park-and-ride shuttle, along with regular bus routes, tram lines, and even an electric boat service for eco-friendly mobility. Night buses and free transport for children under 14 further enhance the appeal of public transport in this vibrant university town.
Hydra, Greece
On the picturesque island of Hydra, cars and even bicycles are banned. The only way to navigate its charming alleys is on foot or via the island’s trusty mules. While mules may be slow, they provide a unique way to explore the island. Boats are the preferred mode of transportation to reach the more remote beaches.\
Giethoorn, The Netherlands
Located just 75 miles from Amsterdam, Giethoorn is a postcard-perfect village without cars or paved roads. Known as the Dutch Venice, visitors can traverse the area by bike, boat, or foot over the many footbridges crossing its serene canals. The town's name, which means "goat horn," originates from the discovery of wild-goat horns by early settlers.
Yelapa, Mexico
Yelapa, a charming cove located in the Bay of Banderas, is completely car-free. Although a road leads to the outskirts, travel to and from the village is primarily by boat. In the 1960s and 70s, Yelapa became a haven for hippies, and today its laid-back vibe continues to attract visitors seeking a peaceful escape. The popular saying, “I’d rather have a palapa in Yelapa than a condo in Redondo,” captures the island's allure.
Also read: Indian investors are rushing to buy properties in Greece; here’s why
