ST_F_SUNDAYTRENDS

TRAVEL
Car-Free Destinations
MONT SAINT MICHEL
FRANCE
This tiny island commune in Normandy is a famous landmark
and draws 3 million visitors a year, who come to see the walled
isle with an ancient and historic monastery. The narrow streets
mean it is impossible to bring a car and all transport is banned
here. Instead enjoy a walk and make sure you climb to the top.
VENICE
ITALY
It seems impossible to escape
traffic these days, even when
you are on holiday. However,
we have found some car-free
destinations where you can do
just that. Good walking shoes
are essential of course!
One of the most magical and charming cities in the world
is totally car-free, in fact it is the largest car free zone in the
whole of Europe. The 118 little islands are connected by 400
bridges so enjoy strolling through the narrow streets, take a
gondola or otherwise a water taxi to get around. Step back in
time and relax for a bit.
THE MEDINA OF
FES-AL-BALI
MOROCCO
This is the most ancient part of Fes and is not only famous for
being home to the oldest university in the world but is also
considered to be the largest car-free urban area on the planet.
Cars are banned from the tiny ancient streets of the medina and
it is no wonder - some parts are so narrow you could barely walk
through them let alone drive a car. Best leave the wheels at home!
Have you been to any of these car-free destinations? Please
let us know by commenting below and post your own tips
and photos to Sunday Trends. ST
Credit: WAYN
ZERMATT
SWITZERLAND
Why drive when you can ski? The pretty village of Zermatt is
a car-free zone. With such breathtaking surroundings in the
shadow of the famous Matterhorn mountain, this is a place
to don your skis and forget about cars. There are over 20,000
people in the town during busy periods but absolutely none
of the chaos of noisy engines, traffic and fumes. Pure bliss. Oh
and if you do want to take the weight off your feet you can
always get a horse drawn carriage.
DUBROVNIK
CROATIA
The beautiful medieval walled city of Dubrovnik is world
famous and is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is a tourist
hub and traffic is banned from the old town. There are many
churches, cafes, bars and palaces to visit without a car in sight.
The pedestrian friendly streets make it a safe place for kids too.
BALD HEAD ISLAND
NORTH CAROLINA
USA
This small and beautiful island of 12,000 acres has pristine
beaches, maritime forests and marshes, along with a very
scenic golf course. No cars are allowed so residents and tourists
get around on electric golf buggies or on their own two feet. It
is accessible only by ferry from the nearby town of Southport.
Away from the hustle and bustle, this island is famous for its
'Loggerhead Turtle Walk', with a chance to watch the turtles
nesting on the beach.
GULANGYU XIAMEN
CHINA
Known for its scenery, beaches and architecture, this island is
off the coast of Xiamen in Southern China. It is a popular tourist
destination for Chinese people and is on the list of 'National
Scenic Spots’ in the country. Cars and motorcycles are banned
but the island is very small so it is easy to walk around by foot
or get a ride in an electric golf cart taxi.
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