Discovering Tranquil Retreats: 10 Prime Destinations for a Vehicle-Free Escape

In 2025, over 45 million Americans embarked on toll road adventures during Memorial Day weekend-marking an increase of approximately 1 million travelers compared to the previous year. This surge shattered the 2005 record of 44 million holiday travelers heading to their favorite vacation spots. As travelers seek more relaxed and environmentally conscious options, many are choosing destinations that either restrict or entirely ban motorized vehicles, offering a more peaceful and immersive experience.

From iconic pedestrian zones to lesser-known islands, the appeal of exploring without the noise and pollution of cars is growing. These car-free zones not only reduce stress associated with traffic and parking but also allow visitors to truly unwind and connect with their surroundings at a leisurely pace. Paul Melhus, CEO of ToursByLocals, emphasizes that traveling without a vehicle diminishes the anxiety of navigation, parking hassles, and the rush of urban life, making the journey more enjoyable. His company organizes trips to renowned auto-free locations such as Dubrovnik, Croatia; Governor’s Island, New York; and Hydra Island, Greece. Here are ten destinations where you can leave your car behind and embrace a more authentic, unplugged adventure.

1. Tunø, Denmark: A Hidden Gem in the North

Spanning just 1.4 square miles, Denmark’s Tunø has been inhabited since the Stone Age. This quaint island is best explored on foot, bicycle, scooter, or via the island’s tractor taxis, known locally as traxas. Visitors typically arrive by a scenic ferry ride from Hou on the Jutland Peninsula, which takes about an hour and offers glimpses of seals and porpoises along the way.

Surrounded by lush green hills and pristine sandy beaches, Tunø attracts nature lovers, birdwatchers, and hikers alike. The island’s most striking feature is the 14th-century Tunø Church, which functions as both a chapel and lighthouse, perched atop a hill and encircled by apple trees and wild blackberries. The island boasts several cozy eateries, a microbrewery, and a converted dairy that now serves as a charming seaside inn, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan: A Step Back in Time

Positioned on Lake Huron between Michigan’s peninsulas, Mackinac Island has been a popular vacation destination since the 1800s. With over 80% of its 3.8-square-mile area designated as Mackinac Island State Park, the island offers scenic trails and a butterfly conservatory that draws nature enthusiasts.

The island’s historic downtown features Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and eateries like the Watercolor Café and the Ice House BBQ, renowned for its sprawling garden. Fudge-making is a local tradition, with seven confectionaries producing around 10,000 pounds daily. The historic Grand Hotel, built in 1887, boasts the world’s longest porch and has recently added amenities such as a BMX bike course, mini-golf, and a greenhouse nature center, blending history with modern leisure.

3. Medina of Fez, Morocco: A Medieval Marvel

Covering 690 acres, the Medina of Fez is one of the largest continuous car-free urban areas globally and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its labyrinth of narrow streets, accessible only by foot or donkey, is a living museum of Moroccan history. Beyond bustling souks selling spices, textiles, and leather goods, the medina houses centuries-old palaces, mosques, fountains, and educational institutions.

The Bab Boujloud, or Blue Gate, serves as the main entrance to this ancient city. The Dar Batha Museum, housed in a former palace, showcases traditional Moroccan textiles and embroidery, set within a lush garden featuring a mosaic-tiled courtyard and fountain. Visitors can stay in historic riads-traditional Moroccan guesthouses-many of which have been transformed into boutique hotels. While most mosques restrict non-Muslim access, the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque’s library is open to the public, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s scholarly heritage.

4. Trogir, Croatia: A Coastal Medieval Treasure

This UNESCO World Heritage site, with roots dating back to Hellenistic times, is a picturesque island town blending Roman, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Located just an hour from Split, Trogir’s cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval structures evoke a step back in time. The highlight is the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Lawrence, with its towering bell tower and intricately carved stone portals depicting biblical scenes, including Adam and Eve.

The waterfront promenade, lined with palm trees, seafood restaurants, and cafes, offers a relaxing stroll. During summer, the town hosts numerous music festivals, adding to its vibrant cultural scene. For beach lovers, Čiovo Island, connected by a pedestrian bridge, provides quick access to stunning Adriatic beaches.

5. Corn Island, Nicaragua: Tropical Seclusion

Once a hideout for pirates, Corn Island remains a tranquil Caribbean escape. Accessible via a short flight from Managua to Big Corn Island, followed by an eight-mile boat ride, this one-square-mile island offers a serene environment with no crowds-even during peak season.

Surrounded by coconut, mango, and breadfruit trees, the island’s beaches are perfect for relaxing in hammocks or exploring by kayak, paddleboard, or traditional Miskito wooden sailboats. Climb the historic Corn Island Lighthouse for panoramic views of the turquoise waters and vibrant sunsets, or venture into the jungle and along the shoreline on hiking and horseback riding trails.

6. Porquerolles Island, France: A Mediterranean Paradise

Just a 10-minute ferry ride from the French Riviera, Porquerolles is the most visited of France’s Golden Isles. Its pristine beaches, limestone cliffs, and lush landscapes are ideal for outdoor activities like rock climbing, cycling, and hiking. About 80% of the island is part of Port-Cros National Park, ensuring its natural beauty remains protected.

Explore historic sites such as the 14th-century Sainte-Agathe Castle or visit the Villa Carmignac, a contemporary art museum housed in a Provençal farmhouse. The island’s main village, established in the 19th century, features a variety of restaurants and shops, with accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to charming villas and houseboats. Visiting in spring or early fall offers a quieter experience away from the summer crowds.

7. Channel Islands, California: Nature’s Sanctuary

Off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, five of the eight Channel Islands form a protected national park offering untouched wilderness and abundant wildlife. Accessible by boat or helicopter, these islands provide opportunities for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and hiking, with several tours available weekly during peak season.

Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara, and Anacapa islands feature kelp forests, sea caves, and diverse marine life, including sea lions, dolphins, and colorful fish. Birdwatchers can observe species like the Western gulls, Brandt’s cormorants, and the rare Scripps’s murrelet. For the adventurous, San Miguel Island offers challenging 16-mile hikes with breathtaking vistas, best attempted with a guide.

8. Hoi An, Vietnam: A Cultural and Historic Haven

Hội An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a charming ancient port city on the Thu Bồn River. Its well-preserved architecture from the 15th to 19th centuries includes traditional shophouses, temples, and the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, believed to ward off mythical monsters. The city’s lantern-lit nights create a magical atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls.

During the day, visitors can enjoy boat cruises on traditional Vietnamese basket boats, participate in cooking classes, or visit tailor shops renowned for quick, custom-made garments. The city’s vibrant street food scene features delicious Vietnamese coffee and bánh mì sandwiches, earning it a reputation as a culinary capital. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels to riverside villas, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful, culturally rich escape.

9. Pontevedra, Spain: A Pedestrian-Friendly City

Less than an hour’s drive from Santiago de Compostela, Pontevedra became car-free in 1999 through a government initiative that created over 1,600 parking spaces around its historic center. Today, visitors can explore the city’s medieval streets on foot, admiring landmarks like the Gothic Santa Maria Basilica and the Church of the Pilgrim Virgin, which is linked to the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

The central Plaza de la Herrería, lined with cafes and restaurants, is perfect for relaxing with local Rías Baixas wines. A walk across the Roman-era Burgo Bridge over the Lérez River offers scenic views and a glimpse into the city’s rich history. The city’s blend of history, art, and gastronomy makes it a compelling destination for a tranquil getaway.

10. Rottnest Island, Australia: An Island of Quokkas and Natural Beauty

Just a short ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island-affectionately called “Rotto”-is a compact paradise of beaches, coral reefs, and wildlife. The island’s small size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, bike, or via hop-on, hop-off bus tours. Visitors can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, spot playful dolphins, or paddle along scenic coastlines.

One of the island’s most famous residents is the quokka, a cheerful marsupial known for its friendly smile. The Wadjemup Bidi trail network offers 27 miles of walking paths through wetlands, forests, and shoreline, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. The island’s Indigenous history is also celebrated through guided tours led by the local Whadjuk Noongar community, enriching the experience with cultural insights.

Embracing destinations that prioritize pedestrian and ecological preservation not only enhances your travel experience but also supports sustainable tourism. Whether you seek historical charm, natural splendor, or cultural immersion, these ten locations demonstrate that the best adventures often happen when you leave your vehicle behind and venture out on foot or pedal power.