World’s 5 Remarkably Beautiful Walking Cities You Should Explore Now

No doubt that planes, trains and automobiles are a blessing. They get us where we want to go and fast!  Having said that, we all consider being stuck in traffic being one of the biggest banes known to humankind! Believe it or not, there are cities across the world where vehicular traffic is banned. Wondering where these places are? Read on to know about the five pedestrian-friendly cities in the world…

Matheran, India

India’s pride and joy of hill stations, Matheran is an eco-sensitive ‘no automobiles’ zone. The closest point you can drive up to is Dasturi Car Park from where it’s about a 40-minute walk to the scenic hill hamlet. Non-walkers can choose to go on horse-back and there’s even a fun toy train that runs from nearby Neral Junction to Matheran. Close to home, enjoy a peaceful holiday in Matheran devoid of impatient drivers honking incessantly!

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Venice, Italy

An Italian city built around 150 canals, Venice does have its advantages. The biggest being that the streets are made for walking and bicycling and not for vehicles to zip through. Linked by about 400 bridges, the resulting waterways and walkways define beautiful Venice. Gondolas is the most popular mode of transportation in Venice and can also be the most romantic, depending on who you’re with!

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Hydra Island, Greece

Picture perfect Hydra Island is among one of the many destinations in Greece to have no or minimal vehicular traffic. Accessible only by boat, the only way to explore Hydra Island is by foot or by using the more traditional form of transportation, donkeys! The beauty of the island is magical given that it’s a bay between the Saronic and Argolic Gulfs and surrounded by rock-strewn mountains. While in Hydra Island, also visit unspoilt neighbouring islands by water taxis.

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Read More: Things to Do on Your Honeymoon in Greece

Houten, The Netherlands

Like most towns and cities in The Netherlands, Houten is a leading example of being a bicycling town. A model as far as urban design goes, Houten is laid out in such a way that the most effective modes of transportation are either by train or bicycle. The town has a central zone with shops and plazas and is fast becoming a case study for other countries looking to create a balanced harmony between pedestrians, cyclists and car owners. Holiday in Houten, anyone?

Zermatt, Switzerland

Switzerland offers breathtaking scenery amidst a perfect Alpine setting and the mountain resort town of Zermatt is no different. Home of Mt. Matterhorn at a height of 4,478 metres, Zermatt is famed for being a skier’s paradise and the winter playground for the wealthy. A car-free zone, Zermatt is void of vehicular traffic. So, how does one get around? By walking, bicycling, skiing, snowmobiling and in electric taxis. If you really want to be stylish, opt for a horse-drawn carriage. Take plenty of deep breaths while holidaying in Zermatt…your lungs will thank you!

Read More: 5 Reasons Why Switzerland is Everyone's All Time Favourite

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So, where are you off to?