Welcome to Nashville, also known as Music City! It’s a lively and exciting place with lots of music and Southern charm. No matter if you love country music, delicious food, or learning about history, Nashville has something special for everyone.

But what if you don’t have a car while visiting this city? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. In this article, I’ll show you the best areas to stay in Nashville where you can easily explore the city on foot, by bike, or using public transportation.

Get ready to experience the rhythm of the city and uncover its hidden gems without needing a car.

Also Read: Car-Free Living: The Best Places to Stay in Switzerland

Can I Live In Nashville Without A Car

Yes, you can definitely live in Nashville without a car. Nashville provides various transportation choices, so you can easily get around without having your own car.

The city has a good public transportation system with buses and the Music City Star commuter rail. Plus, Nashville is becoming more bike-friendly, offering bike lanes and shared bike programs.

If you decide to live in certain neighborhoods near downtown, you’ll discover that many essential places like grocery stores, restaurants, and entertainment options are within walking or biking distance. This makes living without a car much more convenient and doable.

You can rely on rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, which are readily accessible in Nashville. These services make it simple to travel around, especially for longer trips or late-night outings.

So, even without a car, you can fully enjoy what Nashville has to offer.

Best 5 Area To Stay In Nashville Without A Car

Downtown Nashville – The Heart of the City

Downtown Nashville is the lively core of the city, boasting a mix of historic landmarks, live music venues, trendy restaurants, and exciting nightlife.

Staying in this area means you’ll be within walking distance of major attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame and the iconic Broadway strip, where you can listen to live music day and night.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous Ryman Auditorium, the “Mother Church of Country Music.”

With many amenities nearby and pedestrian-friendly streets, downtown Nashville is an ideal location for car-free living.

East Nashville

For a more artsy and bohemian vibe, East Nashville is the place to be.

This eclectic neighborhood is filled with charming boutiques, art galleries, and a diverse culinary scene.

Explore the Five Points area, a hub for unique shops and excellent dining options.

East Nashville’s charm extends to its walkable streets and friendly atmosphere, making it a great choice for those seeking a car-free experience.

The Gulch

If you enjoy a contemporary setting, The Gulch is a trendy and upscale neighborhood known for its modern apartments, chic boutiques, and upscale dining.

This area is conveniently connected to downtown and offers various transportation options like rideshares and e-scooters.

With its luxurious accommodations and proximity to entertainment venues, The Gulch provides an urban living experience without the need for a car.

Midtown

Midtown is a diverse and energetic neighborhood, attracting locals and tourists alike.

This area is a melting pot of cultures, offering a wide range of international cuisine and lively nightlife spots.

Midtown’s central location makes it easy to access other parts of Nashville via public transportation or by taking a leisurely walk.

Experience the unique blend of Southern hospitality and global influences in Midtown.

Hillsboro Village

For a more relaxed and charming environment, Hillsboro Village is the perfect choice.

Known for its historic buildings, this neighborhood offers a selection of quaint shops, cozy cafes, and local boutiques.

It’s a pedestrian-friendly area where you can stroll around and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Hillsboro Village is well-connected to other parts of Nashville through buses, making it a delightful place to stay without a car.

Germantown

Germantown is a historic neighborhood with a charming and welcoming atmosphere.

Known for its beautiful Victorian-style homes and tree-lined streets, this area offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city center.

You’ll find an array of local eateries, boutique shops, and art galleries to explore.

Germantown is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to access other parts of Nashville and experience the city’s delights without a car.

12 South

For a hip and trendy neighborhood with a laid-back vibe, 12 South is an excellent choice.

This lively area is brimming with stylish boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy cafes.

Enjoy a leisurely walk along 12th Avenue South and discover unique street art and local flavors.

12 South is also bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes for cyclists to explore the neighborhood’s attractions conveniently.

How to stay in Nashville without a car

Choose the Right Neighborhood

Opt for neighborhoods that are well-connected and pedestrian-friendly.

Downtown Nashville is a fantastic choice, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within walking distance.

Other great options include East Nashville, known for its artsy vibe, and The Gulch, a trendy and modern area.

Public Transportation

Nashville has a growing public transportation system, including buses and the Music City Star commuter rail.

Hop on a bus or train to explore different parts of the city conveniently and affordably.

Check the schedules and routes beforehand to plan your adventures.

Pedal Around with Bikes

Nashville is becoming more bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes and shared bike programs.

Rent a bike and pedal your way through the city’s sights and sounds. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to see Nashville up close.

Hail a Ride When Needed

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Nashville. When you need a lift to a specific location or after a late-night outing, simply hail a ride with your smartphone app.

Enjoy the Walkability

Many neighborhoods in Nashville are perfect for strolling. Put on your walking shoes and wander through streets lined with unique shops, historic buildings, and local attractions. You’ll discover hidden gems that you might miss when driving.

Plan Ahead for Longer Trips

If you’re heading out of town or exploring attractions further away, look into guided tours or group excursions. These options allow you to experience the city’s surroundings hassle-free and without a car.

Stock Up Locally

Choose a neighborhood close to grocery stores and local markets. This way, you can easily walk or bike to buy fresh produce and supplies, reducing the need for a car when running errands.

Embrace the Car-Free Lifestyle

Living without a car in Nashville might be a change, but it can be liberating and exciting. Embrace the car-free lifestyle, and you’ll find that it opens up new opportunities to interact with the city and its friendly residents.


By picking the best neighborhood and being adventurous, you can find the secret delights of Music City and make lasting memories. So, forget about your car and dive into the lively and spirited Nashville, where excitement and life fill every corner!

Hey there, fellow wanderers and welcome to my website! I’m Paul, but my friends affectionately call me Pablo.

My adventures are all about exploring the world without wheels and leaving a positive impact on the places I visit or write about.

Hailing from a small town in the UK with big dreams, my heart beats for the thrill of discovering new horizons and immersing myself in diverse cultures. While others might be zooming by in cars, I’ve found my joy in exploring places on foot, breathing in the soul of each city, and capturing moments that transport you through time.

Allow me to give you a glimpse into some of the footprints I’ve left across the globe.