Aarau is highly walkable, especially within its charming old town. Its compact layout allows travelers to easily explore shops, cafes, and local attractions on foot. The city has invested significantly in pedestrian infrastructure, providing well-maintained paths and safe crossings. This makes walking a practical option for daily activities, and the city's award-winning efforts in pedestrian planning enhance the overall walking experience.

Aarau offers a robust public transportation network that serves both the city and its surrounding areas. With services from the Aargau S-Bahn and Busbetrieb Aarau, travelers can easily navigate the city and connect to other parts of the region. The Swiss Federal Railways ensure convenient access to major Swiss cities, making Aarau an accessible hub for further travel. While efficient, some travelers may find the depth of coverage less comprehensive compared to larger cities, especially late at night.

Aarau provides a reasonably bike-friendly environment with decent cycling infrastructure. The city's flat terrain and investment in bike paths support cycling as a viable mode of transport. With the Mittelland Route—a national cycling path—running through the city, travelers can enjoy scenic rides. However, the bike lanes could be more extensive, and cyclists should remain mindful of mixed-traffic areas where bike-specific infrastructure is limited.