Amherst offers a walkable experience primarily around its central areas near Amherst College and UMass Amherst. These regions are bustling with amenities like shops, restaurants, and services catering to students and faculty, making it convenient for travelers to accomplish daily errands without needing a vehicle. However, the walkability tends to decrease as you move away from these cores, with fewer sidewalks and greater distances in residential parts. Even so, the presence of parks like Amherst Common provides pleasant spots for walking.

Public transit in Amherst is facilitated by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, which offers bus services that connect the Five College area and surrounding towns. This connectivity allows travelers to access nearby college towns and shopping areas. However, the frequency and reach of these services can be limited, particularly at night or during weekends, making it less reliable for certain schedules. Although there are connections to intercity buses for longer trips, the local public transit may not be sufficient for all transport needs.

Amherst is quite accommodating for cyclists, featuring bike-friendly infrastructure such as the Norwottuck Rail Trail and the ValleyBike Share program. These facilities make biking a practical mode of transport, especially within campus areas and for commuting between nearby towns. Bike lanes and shared road riding are prevalent, enhancing the bikeability for those comfortable with such terrain. However, the terrain and seasonal weather can impact the ease of cycling, and cyclists should be aware of these potential challenges.