For many people considering a retirement in Europe, one of the things they look forward to is the option to go car-free. It makes sense for a number of reasons.
One, depending on the make, model, and age of your vehicle, importing it from North America to Europe can cost upwards of $20,000. Not only that, but it can take over a year, due to differing emission and operational standards.
Two, you’ll find that many homes in European cities don’t come with allocated parking. You’ll need to find a space on the street or pay to use a parking garage, an expense which can quickly add up. And that’s in addition to all the other cost considerations. Though prices vary from country to country and depend on the chosen make and model, Europeans pay on average €27,500 for a new car and monthly running costs run an average of €616. That’s quite a chunk out of the average retiree’s budget.
And three, most European cities boast excellent public transport systems which are straightforward and affordable to use. As well as senior discounts some destinations even offer completely free travel.
In Luxembourg, public transport on trains, trams, and buses is free for both residents and visitors alike.
In Hungary’s capital, Budapest, passengers over 65 travel free on public transport.
On the island of Malta and in Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, residents can travel for free on most public transport routes.
Indeed, right across Europe you’ll find railcards for seniors offering discounts as high as 50 per cent on train travel.
Here are the cities I recommend you consider if you’re looking to go car-free in Europe.
Paris, France
Paris metro leaving Passy Station and crossing Pont de Bir-Hakeim, Paris, France
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In my opinion, Paris, where I live part-time, may be the best city in the world in which to go car-free. It has an excellent public transportation system that consists of the Paris Métro, the RER (suburban express railway), tramways, and buses. These will get you anywhere you need to go, usually in under 30 minutes.
That said, Paris is a relatively small, flat city. It’s easily accessible and best explored on foot or by bike. Public bikes are also available for rent at stations across the city.
While there are no senior discounts for those traveling on public transport in Paris, the cost is low—a single ticket for the metro, bus, or RER within the city will run you €2.10. For retirees looking to explore outside the city, you will be able to take advantage of senior discounts on national trains.
Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, has a public transportation network which is both efficient and easy to use. It includes the metro, trams, trains, buses, and ferries. The metro consists of four color-coded lines that are served by 55 stations across the city. This is the fastest and most stress-free way to get across the city.
These iconic yellow trams are a great way to get around in Lisbon, Portugal
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Since 1901, the trams, similar to the ones found in San Francisco, have tackled Lisbon’s hills on behalf of pedestrians. Walking can also be a great option for navigating Lisbon. It’s incredibly scenic, but also hilly. Many streets are paved with cobblestones, which are slick after years of wear. This can present problems for older folks and those with mobility issues so it’s important to be aware of.
Berlin, Germany
Voted as the city offering the world’s best public transport, the German capital, Berlin, is home to an extensive public transport system which includes underground and light-rail trains, buses, trams, and numerous options for e-scooter, bicycle, and motor scooter sharing.
The city offers reduced fares on public transport to Senior citizens aged 65 and above.
Berlin is a wonderful place to explore on foot, it’s flat, safe, and has wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones. The city is also implementing a Pedestrian Law to further improve accessibility for those going car-free here.