Head out to these 18 most walkable cities in the world!

When discussing the world's most walkable cities, Europe undoubtedly dominates the conversation. However, pedestrian-friendly urban spaces exist globally, each offering unique charms. Walkable cities prioritize pedestrian-centric design, though factors like climate can impact even the best-planned environments.

From Prague's cobblestone streets to Tokyo's bustling sidewalks, these urban centers have ditched car-centric planning for wide walkways, ample green spaces, and efficient public transit. Some have even gone the extra mile (pun intended) with car-free zones and innovative urban planning.

Join us on a global tour of the most stroll-worthy cities, where both leisurely wanderers and power walkers can find their stride.

1. Vancouver

📍 Canada

Vancouver stands out as a premier walkable city, blending urban convenience with natural beauty. Its compact downtown core is extremely walking-friendly with key attractions and amenities within easy reach. The city's extensive pedestrian infrastructure, including well-maintained sidewalks, crossings, and wayfinding signage, ensures safe and comfortable walking experiences. Neighborhoods like Gastown, Yaletown, and the West End have a perfect mix of residential, commercial, and recreational destinations. The city's stunning natural setting, mountains, ocean, and parks, like Stanley Park, make every stroll a scenic adventure.

Best walking routes in Vancouver:

• Yaletown is a vibrant Vancouver neighborhood with charming streets lined with converted warehouses, trendy boutiques, and diverse eateries. The area boasts well-maintained sidewalks and a picturesque waterfront promenade.
• Stanley Park, a lush urban oasis, offers breathtaking scenic walks. Its 9.25km seawall loop provides stunning ocean and mountain views.

2. Florence

📍 Italy

Florence, often ranked as one of the world's most walkable cities, boasts a compact historic center where top attractions like the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, and Ponte Vecchio are just steps apart. Florence's stunning Renaissance architecture and scenic views of the Arno River make every stroll a visual delight. The restricted access to private vehicles in the city center creates a peaceful atmosphere for walkers.

Best walking routes in Florence:

• The Best of Florence walking tour offers a 2-hour journey through the city's UNESCO World Heritage sites. Starting at Piazza San Firenze, it covers key landmarks like Santa Croce Church, Piazza Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, and Pitti Palace. The route showcases Renaissance architecture, historical sites, and fashionable streets, concluding at the magnificent Florence Cathedral.
• The Oltrarno neighborhood offers a charming, less touristy walking experience. This area south of the Arno River features artisan workshops, quaint cafes, and hidden gardens. Make sure you visit the Boboli Gardens for a peaceful stroll among Renaissance-era landscaping and sculptures.

3. Riga

📍 Latvia

Riga's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a pedestrian's paradise with its narrow cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. The city's compact size allows for easy exploration on foot, with most attractions within walking distance. Landmarks like the Freedom Monument, Riga Cathedral, and the House of the Blackheads are easily accessible. The friendly locals often offer directions or recommendations to visitors. Riga's green initiatives have created numerous parks and green spaces throughout the city, providing pleasant areas for walking and relaxation.

Best walking routes in Riga:

• The Daugava River promenade passes through the Old Town all the way till the Ķengarags suburb. The promenade offers a mix of urban landscapes and natural beauty, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
• Riga's Art Nouveau district, centered on Alberta Street, boasts over 800 ornate 20th-century buildings. Wide sidewalks, low traffic, and closely-spaced architectural marvels make it ideal for leisurely strolls.
• Mežaparks, Riga's green oasis, boasts a network of scenic trails winding through dense woodlands. This expansive forest park is great for tranquil walks, diverse flora, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

4. Tokyo

📍 Japan

Tokyo redefines urban walkability with its seamless blend of efficiency and exploration. This metropolis invites pedestrians to embark on epic journeys, like the 3-4 hour stroll from bustling Shibuya to historic Ueno. Don't worry about fatigue - metro stations pepper the cityscape every 500 meters, offering quick respites. Tokyo's reputation as one of the world's safest cities ensures peace of mind for wanderers at any hour. Wide, immaculate sidewalks stretch from the harbor to Shinjuku, connecting the city's vibrant extremes in a manageable two-hour trek.

Best walking routes in Tokyo:

• Explore Tokyo's Akihabara, the epicenter of otaku culture, on a guided walking tour. Stroll through vibrant streets lined with electronics shops and stores dedicated to anime, manga, and video games. Experience the unique atmosphere of this geek paradise, from figurine shops to cosplay cafés.
• The Rainbow Bridge Walk offers a unique perspective of Tokyo's skyline. This 1.7km pedestrian walkway connects Shibaura Pier and Odaiba, providing stunning views of Tokyo Bay and the city's futuristic architecture.

5. Taipei

📍 Taiwan

Taipei offers a perfect blend of walkability, affordability, and natural beauty. This budget-friendly city boasts mostly flat terrain, with less than 10% of its streets featuring uphill roads, making it ideal for pedestrians. Taipei is characterized by its charming streets, cute shops, and modern attractions. What sets Taipei apart is its proximity to nature, with trails and parks easily accessible from the city center. Taipei's night markets, like the famous Shilin Night Market, offer vibrant walking experiences filled with local cuisine and culture.

Best walking routes in Taipei:

• For those seeking a more challenging walk, Yangmingshan National Park provides scenic hiking trails with stunning mountain views and hot springs.
• In the city, the Taipei 101 area is a modern urban walking experience, showcasing the city's architectural marvel.
• For a cultural stroll, head to the Dadaocheng area, known for its historic buildings and traditional shops.

7. Amsterdam

📍 Netherlands

Amsterdam is a paragon of urban mobility, excelling in both walkability and bikeability. The city's innovative design prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, after all! Amsterdam's flat terrain and extensive network of dedicated bike lanes make navigation a breeze for walkers, though vigilance around cyclists is advisable. The city's iconic canals, lined with picturesque 17th-century houses, offer enchanting waterside promenades. With over 400,000 trees and numerous parks, Amsterdam boasts more than 50% green space within its urban fabric.

Best walking routes in Amsterdam:

• Vondelpark is a 47-hectare oasis that serves as Amsterdam's green lung. Winding footpaths meander through English-style gardens, past serene ponds, and under centuries-old trees. The park buzzes with activity: joggers circle the perimeter, families picnic on expansive lawns, and musicians often perform at the open-air theater.
• The Canal Ring, a UNESCO World Heritage site, presents a scenic circular route around the city center. This walk takes you past iconic bridges, historic buildings, and quaint houseboats.
• For art enthusiasts, the Museum Quarter walk connects the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum, interspersed with trendy boutiques and cafes.

8. Krakow

📍 Poland

Krakow's compact Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a pedestrian's dream. Its medieval layout features a central market square surrounded by narrow streets, all easily explored on foot. From the historic Wawel Castle to the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz, major attractions are within walking distance. The city's rich history is palpable in its architecture and monuments. Krakow's reputation for safety extends to late-night strolls, with well-lit streets and a friendly atmosphere.

Best walking routes in Krakow:

• Krakow's Rynek Glowny Central Square is an expansive medieval square which is also one of Europe's largest. It is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and street performers. From here, follow the Royal Route to Wawel Castle, passing through Florianska Street and notable landmarks like St. Mary's Basilica and the Barbican.
• Planty Park is a lush green ring encircling Krakow's Old Town. It has replaced the medieval fortifications with tranquil pathways. Spanning 4 km, it offers a serene escape from urban bustle, connecting major landmarks while providing picturesque views of the city's architectural heritage.

9. New York City

📍 USA

New York City is a walker's paradise! The iconic grid layout makes navigation a breeze, and you'll find world-famous sights like Times Square and Central Park just steps away. Each neighborhood offers a unique vibe, from Manhattan's bustling streets to Brooklyn's charming brownstones. The city's commitment to walkability shines through its Vision Zero initiative, launched in 2014 to eliminate traffic fatalities. This program has implemented safer street designs, lowered speed limits, and increased enforcement of traffic laws. When you need a break from the urban hustle, expansive green spaces like the High Line, Prospect Park, and Riverside Park provide ample opportunities for leisurely strolls.

Best walking routes in NYC:

• Start a scenic walk in Inwood, Manhattan's northernmost neighborhood, known for its parks and diverse community. Heading south, you'll pass through Washington Heights, rich in Dominican culture, and home to The Cloisters museum. Continue to Hamilton Heights, named after Alexander Hamilton, featuring beautiful brownstones and City College's neo-Gothic campus.
• Stroll through Greenwich Village, known for its bohemian vibe and historic jazz clubs.
• Explore the High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway line. This unique urban greenway offers stunning views of the city and showcases innovative landscaping and public art installations. The High Line also connects several neighborhoods, including the Meatpacking District, Chelsea, and Hudson Yards.

9. Sicily

📍 Italy

Sicily, the Mediterranean's largest island, is a melting pot of cultures woven over millennia. You’ll find Greek temples stand sentinel over sun-drenched olive groves, and Norman castles on hilltops were once ruled by Arab emirs. In Palermo's bustling markets, the aromas of saffron and sea salt mingle with the shouts of vendors, echoing scenes from The Godfather. Sicily is also home to Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano.

Things to do in Sicily

Valley of Temples: This UNESCO World Heritage site near Agrigento showcases some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples outside Greece. The Temple of Concordia, standing proud against the backdrop of the Mediterranean, is particularly awe-inspiring.

Isola Bella: This tiny island off the coast of Taormina is a nature reserve connected to the mainland by a narrow sandbar. The island's small beach is perfect for relaxation, while its rocky coves offer excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Island of Ortigia: This historic center of Syracuse is a maze of narrow streets and baroque piazzas. Wander through the ancient Greek ruins, visit the stunning Duomo built on the site of a 5th-century BC temple to Athena, and enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

10. Bordeaux

📍 France

Bordeaux is a charming city in southern France. Its medium-sized urban core boasts stunning architecture and a car-free city center, making it ideal for exploration on foot. The mild climate and proximity to both the Garonne River and the Atlantic coast provide pleasant backdrops for strolls. Bordeaux's commitment to walkability is evident in its extensive pedestrian zones, particularly along main avenues.

Best walking routes in Bordeaux:

• Bordeaux's city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2007, boasts 18th-century architecture and over 350 protected buildings. The Place de la Bourse, with its iconic Water Mirror, is a must-visit landmark. Stroll along Rue Sainte-Catherine, one of Europe's longest pedestrian shopping streets, or explore the charming Saint-Pierre district.
• Bordeaux's famous wine heritage can be explored on foot through its many vineyards and cellars. The La Cité du Vin museum offers an immersive journey into the world of wine, while the nearby Chartrons district, once the heart of the wine trade, now features trendy boutiques and cafes.

11. Copenhagen

📍 Denmark

Copenhagen, the stylish Danish capital, is tailor-made for exploring on foot, with its flat terrain and abundant green spaces. You'll find yourself effortlessly strolling from one attraction to another, stumbling upon cool cafes, trendy shops, and cultural hotspots along the way. The city's commitment to walkability dates back to the 1960s, inspired by Danish architect Jan Gehl's vision of pedestrian-focused urban design. Don't be surprised if you end up spending entire weekends just ambling around, discovering hidden gems at every turn. From free parks to world-class museums, there's always something to catch your eye. And when you need a break, you're never far from a cozy café to rest your feet. With its extended spring and fall seasons, you'll have plenty of pleasant weather for your urban explorations.

Best walking routes in Copenhagen:

• Havnegade Harbour Promenade is a scenic waterfront walk with stunning views of the harbor and iconic landmarks like the Royal Danish Playhouse. The route also takes you past the famous Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale.
• Explore the Nørrebro neighborhood, a diverse and trendy area. Start at Superkilen, a unique public park featuring objects from around the world. Wander through the bustling streets, discovering independent boutiques, cozy coffee shops, and multicultural eateries.
• You can also walk around the charming fishing village of Dragør, located just south of Copenhagen. Stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful 18th-century houses, many adorned with hollyhocks and roses.

12. Munich

📍 Germany

You’ll enjoy walking around in Munich! The city's heart, the Fussgängerzone, has been car-free since the 1972 Olympics. You'll find the famous Englischer Garten, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a refreshing drink. Venture beyond the city center, and you'll discover numerous lakes encircled by walking paths, like Karlsfelder See and Waldschwaigsee. Munich's public transport system is great too, with S-Bahn and U-Bahn networks seamlessly connecting pedestrian-friendly areas.

Best walking routes in Munich:

• For longer jaunts, follow the Isar River north to reach the Englischer Garten. This expansive park offers numerous walking trails, including a picturesque route around the Kleinhesseloher See.
• For a cultural experience, explore the Maxvorstadt district, home to many museums and galleries.
• Grünwald forest, just south of Munich, offers a serene escape with its extensive network of hiking trails.

13. Toronto

📍 Canada

Toronto is another great city for walking enthusiasts. Downtown and North York are especially foot-friendly, with a robust public transit system to boot. You'll find subway lines, streetcars, and buses galore, plus river ravines with walking trails for a nature fix. Braving the cold? No worries - the city’s core boasts a 27km underground pedestrian network.

Best walking routes in Toronto:

• The Waterfront Trail is a scenic walk along Lake Ontario, passing through several parks and providing stunning views of the city skyline and the lake.
• Explore the eclectic Kensington Market neighborhood, wandering through its colorful streets filled with vintage shops, international cuisine, and street art.
• For a nature walk within the city, head to the Don Valley Brick Works. This former quarry-turned public space has walking trails that pass through beautiful parks and wetlands.

14. Barcelona

📍 Spain

Barcelona is as good as your legs are! With flat terrain and easy-to-navigate streets, this city is meant for walking enthusiasts. From the city center, most touristy spots are just a 30-minute stroll away. You'll love the wide, well-marked streets and synchronized traffic lights in central areas. For a quieter walk, skip busy boulevards like Carrer d'Aragó. Need to go further? Hop on the metro or grab a bike. Don't miss the charming Ramblas and paseos. Remember, a walkable city means having everything you need nearby, and Barcelona nails it. You can cross the entire city east to west in about 2 hours, with 90% of the interesting spots even closer together.

Best walking routes in Barcelona:

• The Gothic Quarter is a maze of narrow medieval streets perfect for leisurely exploration. Wander through its winding alleys, discovering hidden plazas and centuries-old architecture like the Barcelona Cathedral and the remains of the Roman city walls.
• Las Ramblas is a pedestrian boulevard that stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to the waterfront. It's bustling with street performers, flower stalls, and cafes, offering a lively atmosphere for a stroll.
• For panoramic city views, hike up Montjuïc hill. The walk takes you past beautiful gardens, museums, and the iconic castle at the summit. The route offers a mix of nature and culture, with stunning vistas of Barcelona and the Mediterranean.
• Park Güell, designed by Antoni Gaudí, provides a whimsical walking experience. Stroll through its unique architectural elements and colorful mosaics while enjoying panoramic views of the city.

15. Budapest

📍 Hungary

Budapest is the place where you can have the best spring walk of your life. You'll find yourself strolling effortlessly through the city, with no massive intersections to navigate. Crossings are always available, either above or below ground. The wide, paved sidewalks make it a breeze to explore iconic spots like the Chain Bridge, Castle Hill, and the Danube Promenade. You'll love the scenic views! Plus, Budapest's public transport is top-notch, ranking in the EU's top 10. Want to dive deeper into the city's rich history and culture? Join one of the many walking tours led by knowledgeable locals.

Best walking routes in Budapest:

• Explore the Jewish Quarter, known for its vibrant street art, trendy ruin bars, and historic synagogues. Wander through narrow streets and hidden courtyards, discovering the area's unique blend of old-world charm and modern urban culture.
• Take the Buda Castle Walk, starting from the Chain Bridge. Climb up to the historic castle district, passing by the funicular and Matthias Church. Enjoy panoramic views of Pest across the Danube. This route combines stunning architecture with breathtaking views.
• Stroll along Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This elegant boulevard is lined with neo-Renaissance mansions and trendy cafes.

16. Vienna

📍 Austria

Vienna is the kind of city where you can wander aimlessly, stopping at cute little cafes for coffee and dessert along the way. It's the perfect city to get lost in - charming, beautiful, and always with something new around the corner. You'll find parks, gardens, and recreational areas scattered all over, perfect for leisurely strolls or active jaunts. The city's so committed to getting you on your feet that they even launched a ‘Year of Walking’ campaign. As you wander, you'll stumble upon art stops everywhere. And the public spaces? You've got it all here, from the fancy, gilded imperial city center to cozy parks and world-class museums.

Best walking routes in Vienna:

• Old Vienna Walk is a classic route through the historic city center. Start at St. Stephen's Cathedral, wander through narrow medieval streets, and pass by iconic landmarks like the Hofburg Palace and the Spanish Riding School.
• Prater Park offers a more nature-oriented experience. This large public park features wide avenues perfect for strolling, jogging, or cycling. Don't miss the iconic Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel for panoramic city views.

17. Paris

📍 France

What makes Paris truly special for walkers is its human scale. Picture an ocean of 5-7 story buildings lining narrow streets. It's easy to lose yourself in a maze of tiny alleyways, only to stumble upon a hidden square with charming cafés. These unexpected discoveries are what make walking in Paris so magical. Paris’ layout is perfect for exploring on foot - most of the top attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame are within just 4km of each other. But don't limit yourself to the tourist hotspots. In Paris, you can pretty much walk anywhere you want. Feeling ambitious? Follow the Seine from one end of the city to the other - it's a 12km (7.45 mile) journey that takes about 2.5 hours.

Best walking routes in Paris:

• The Canal Saint-Martin walk is a local favorite. Start at Rue Faubourg du Temple and stroll along the picturesque waterway, passing charming iron footbridges and tree-lined quays. As you head north, you'll encounter trendy cafés, boutiques, and street art. The route takes you past Jardin Villemin, a peaceful green space perfect for a quick rest.
• You can literally go anywhere along the Seine! Begin at Notre Dame Cathedral and follow the river westward. You'll pass iconic landmarks like the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, and the Eiffel Tower. Don't miss the charming bouquinistes, the green book stalls lining the riverbanks.
• Le Marais is a historic district in Paris that offers a delightful walking experience. This area is known for its well-preserved pre-revolutionary buildings and vibrant Jewish quarter. Don't miss the Musée Carnavalet, which showcases the history of Paris, or the Maison de Victor Hugo, where the famous author once lived.

18. Sofia

📍 Bulgaria

Sofia is Bulgaria's treasure trove of beautiful architecture. You'll be amazed by the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the charming Russian Church, both must-sees. What's great about Sofia is that it's also budget-friendly. You'll find accommodation, food, and activities all easy on the wallet. The city is constantly improving its walkability, too, with new traffic lights and expanded pedestrian spaces popping up regularly.

Best walking routes in Sofia:

• Explore the Christian churches and the fascinating catacombs under St. Sofia Basilica - it's a must-visit! The National Archaeological Museum is another gem, housed in a beautiful building that was once the city's largest Ottoman-era mosque.
• For a breath of fresh air, head to Borisova Garden, Sofia's largest park. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The park features beautiful flower gardens, lakes, and sports facilities.
• For a different vibe, explore the area around Dom na kinoto towards Rakovska Street. This vibrant district features trendy cafes, theaters, and nightlife spots. It's a stark contrast to Sofia's more traditional sights, showcasing the city's contemporary cultural scene.