ABSTRACT This study investigates whether and how perceived aesthetic quality of urban spaces play a role in influencing the use of active transport modes. By focusing on urban spaces in terms of car-oriented or human-oriented types within the Reykjavik metropolitan region and interpretation of qualitative interviews, this investigation goes beyond previous studies that have identified particular characteristics of preselected urban spaces stimulating aesthetic experience. Analyses of routes to neighborhood grocery stores used by selected survey respondents show a relationship between choices of active modes and the two types of urban spaces. Morover, interpretation of qualitative interviews suggests explantory information about how perceived aesthetic quality of urban spaces has an important role in promoting the use of active transport mode. This depends on the options provided at different locations within the urban structure, shaped by the planning idelogies that have affected the aesthetic quality of urban spaces.