If you’re craving a vacation that’s equal parts relaxing and sustainable, there are many car-free places around the world that can help you truly escape the noise (and smog). These destinations—which range from city centers to entire islands—have either banned motorized vehicles for environmental reasons or for purely practical reasons (i.e. cars simply can’t fit through their narrow streets). The results are always the same: clean, peaceful areas where the air is fresh and life seems to move a little slower.
So the next time you’d like to really unplug and rewind, consider one of these beautiful car-free places around the world, from Kenya to Kyoto. Just remember to pack comfortable shoes.
This article has been updated since its original publish date.