Harbin has a relatively walkable city center, where travelers can find European-style plazas and attractions like St. Sophia Cathedral and Zhongyang Pedestrian Street. These areas are compact and pedestrian-friendly, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites easily accessible on foot. However, the city's sprawling layout means that some neighborhoods require longer walks or the use of public transport, and the harsh winter climate can be a deterrent to walking.

Harbin boasts a good public transportation network, with an extensive bus system and a developing metro service that connects key areas of the city. Travelers can navigate efficiently without needing a car, thanks to affordable taxis and bus routes that cover most important destinations. Although not as expansive as systems in larger cities, the metro lines and train availability offer convenient travel options for getting around Harbin and beyond.

Biking in Harbin is challenging due to inconsistent bike lane infrastructure and harsh winter conditions. While there are bike lanes, their quality varies and some have been removed to prioritize car traffic. The icy conditions during winter make cycling dangerous, and steep overpasses can be difficult to navigate for cyclists. Despite the rise in bike-sharing services, the overall biking environment is limited to milder seasons and less demanding routes.