Zermatt, Switzerland

Swiss ski resort Zermatt, famous for the towering, snow-tipped Matterhorn looming over it, has been car-free for as long as anyone can remember. The decision is seemingly an environmental one. Surely an abundance of air pollution could potentially obscure its unreal scenery. Much has also been written about Zermatt’s desire to become a fully self-sustaining resort. To visit, visitors will need to park up in nearby Täsch and take a shuttle train – before getting on an electricity-powered bus, hopping in an eTaxi, pedaling a you-powered bike, or simply walking. Though it does seem there is one car rental option, suitable for visitors with mobility concerns. An electric shuttle bus ferries visitors and residents from Täsch to Zermatt's center, although horse-drawn carriages are the preferred mode of transport in the town's center.

Zermatt is a popular best car-free vacation destination, but this mountain town in the Swiss Alps still takes its car-free policy seriously. Those looking to stay and play at the foot of the Matterhorn — known for skiing, hiking, and climbing — have to travel in by train, helicopter, or taxi, which have permission to use the road into Zermatt and can drop travelers at your hotel. The alpine town is beyond charming and the mountains are a destination for skiing and winter sports. The lack of cars allows the air to be free of pollution, which could obscure the view of the Matterhorn from Zermatt.