One of the questions many travelers ask before visiting Cuenca is whether it is necessary to rent a car.
For many visitors, the answer is surprisingly simple: often, no.
One of Cuenca’s biggest advantages is how walkable many parts of the city feel, especially around the Historic Center and Río Tomebamba areas. Cafés, restaurants, plazas, bakeries, markets, and cultural landmarks are frequently located within comfortable walking distance from one another.
For remote workers, long-stay travelers, and visitors who enjoy slower city life, this walkability becomes one of the most enjoyable parts of staying in Cuenca.
Walking Through the Historic Center
Travelers staying near:
- Mariano Cueva 9-69
- Gran Colombia 6-59
can comfortably explore many of Cuenca’s most important areas on foot.
Popular nearby locations include:
- Parque Calderón
- Catedral Nueva
- Calle Larga
- Río Tomebamba
- cafés
- museums
- restaurants
- bakeries
Because many streets remain active throughout the day, walking often feels like part of the experience of exploring the city itself.
Why Many Remote Workers Prefer Not Using a Car
Many digital nomads and long-stay travelers choose Cuenca specifically because daily life can feel simpler without constantly relying on transportation.
Instead of spending time in traffic, visitors often prefer:
- walking between cafés
- exploring historic streets
- working remotely from nearby coffee shops
- using riverside walking paths
- enjoying slower routines
Areas around:
- Parque Calderón
- Calle Larga
- San Sebastián
- Río Tomebamba
are especially popular because they naturally connect through walkable streets.
Public Transportation and Taxis
For areas located farther from the Historic Center, visitors can still use:
- taxis
- ride-sharing apps
- public transportation
throughout the city relatively easily.
Many travelers combine walking with occasional short taxi rides depending on where they plan to explore. Compared to larger cities, transportation in Cuenca often feels less stressful and more manageable.
Ordóñez Lasso and Travelers With Cars
Some travelers staying near:
- Av. Ordóñez Lasso
- Higuerillas
may find having a car more convenient, especially for:
- longer regional trips
- mountain excursions
- easier parking access
- quieter residential stays
At the same time, even these neighborhoods remain relatively connected to central Cuenca.
A Slower Way to Experience the City
One of the reasons many visitors enjoy Cuenca is because the city naturally encourages slower exploration.
Instead of constantly moving between distant attractions, travelers often spend time:
- walking through historic streets
- sitting in cafés
- visiting plazas
- exploring markets
- enjoying riverside walks
For many long-stay travelers, this slower rhythm becomes one of the most memorable parts of life in Cuenca.
Why Walkability Matters
As remote work and long-term travel continue growing, many travelers increasingly prioritize cities where daily life feels:
- calmer
- simpler
- walkable
- less dependent on transportation
Cuenca offers exactly this balance.
For many visitors, the ability to comfortably live, work, and explore without constantly needing a car becomes one of the city’s biggest advantages.
To discover more corners of Cuenca, continue with our local guide.
