The Welcome of European Cities and Towns

II. Pedestrian Friendly

Everyplace in Europe seemed walkable.  There was always space for you to walk and the surroundings made it so pleasant.  There were always benches, cafes, or corners where you could step back and enjoy the scene around you.  Building and streets were small and dense, so everything you might need was much closer than in a US suburb where nowhere can be reached without a car.  Every city seemed to make an effort to give pedestrian comfortable and safe surroundings.

Alencon pedestrian street

In Alencon and many other cities I visited, streets were completely prohibited to cars.  Only pedestrian and bicycle traffic was allowed.

Stockholm bikeway

Along a busy street in Stockholm, this lovely sidewalk had been built away from the street with small cafes and shop stands as barriers (bike racks were also provided for those who wanted to stop at the cafe).

Paris pedestrian bridge

A place that is often very awkward for pedestrians is bridges.  The Parisians fixed this by buiding bridges that were only for pedestrians.  It allowed pedestrians to have access to the entire city without creating a dangerous situation.

Alencon cafe

The cafes also did a lot to create the pedestrian atmosphere.  They often spilled out into quiet streets, providing an ideal place to watch passersby.   They break up the regimented line of buildings and create an oasis.

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