Hitchin's town center is compact and highly walkable, successfully integrating a variety of shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants within the historic parts of the town, allowing ease of access to daily needs. Significant attractions such as Hitchin Market, theaters, and leisure facilities are also within walking distance, providing a pleasant pedestrian experience. For travelers who appreciate a scenic walk, the town offers delightful countryside trails accessible from the central area. The primary drawback lies in some residential locations being slightly farther afield, where a car might be more necessary.

Hitchin benefits from well-connected public transit options, particularly through its strategically located train station that offers direct services to London, Cambridge, and Peterborough, which is ideal for regional travel. Its bus network serves the town and links to surrounding areas, although frequency and comprehensive coverage might not match that of larger cities. The excellent train services can compensate for these limitations, yet travelers should be prepared to plan around bus schedules when exploring less connected areas.

For cyclists, Hitchin presents a mix of opportunities and challenges. The town has scenic cycling routes leading into the countryside, including routes towards the Chilterns, which are ideal for recreational rides. While efforts are underway to expand and improve the cycling infrastructure within the town, such infrastructure remains limited, requiring cyclists to navigate some traffic-heavy areas. Despite the hilly terrain in parts of the region, cycling can still be a viable and enjoyable way to explore Hitchin for those willing to plan their routes carefully.