We spend many hours travelling at great speed in planes, trains and automobiles, but sometimes there’s a lot to be said for taking it back to a gentle stroll.
With that in mind, we wanted to present some of the world’s most walkable cities.
Not surprisingly, many are in Europe, where the cities grew up long before cars.
So instead, we took a long look at the list and decided to compile a tourist-friendly list of cities known for their stunning, walkable lifestyle.
Florence, Italy
One of the most popular walkable cities is Florence.
You can walk to some of the world’s best attractions within 10 minutes of each other including the Uffizi, Piazza Della Signoria and the Piazza del Duomo, which translates to Cathedral Square in English. That’s all you need to know, because, let’s face it, the Italians love a lavishly decorated cathedral.
Find free walking tours here.
Venice, Italy
Venice has to be in here, because, well, it’s difficult to drive a car on a canal.
It’s known for its stunning architecture, rich history and delicious food.
And while it may be one of the most walkable cities, it’s also one of the most expensive, so bring a fat wallet.
Find free walking tours here.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Pack your sturdy walking shoes for Edinburgh because it’s a city that loves a cobblestone laneway. Also pack a sturdy raincoat, because, even according to tourism experts, the city’s weather is mostly rain and wind.
It’s a good idea to take an official walking tour as there’s history at every turn, and because it’s Scotland, a great deal of it is violent.
Also, there are plenty of free galleries and you can finish up your day with a wee dram of some of the world’s finest whisky.
Find free walking tours here.
Munich, Germany
It goes without saying that Munich is a big city with lots to do, but if you want to concentrate on the Old City area it’s all perfectly walkable.
Start at the Marienplatz central square and time your journey’s start with the chimes from the magnificent Glockenspiel.
From here fan out to the area’s many cafes, restaurants, markets and shops. If gardens are your thing, try the sprawling Englischer Garten (English Garden) at 5km long. And try to time your visit for the city’s spectacular Christmas markets.
Find free walking tours here.
San Francisco, United States
It’s walkable, but you also have to like steep streets. Great views of the bay, loads of lush parks and you can even walk across the Golden Gate Bridge.
And it has one of the best ‘China Towns’ in the world known for its food, hidden bars, tea houses and shopping.
San Francisco is also a great stopping off point to the many hiking adventures in California. Maybe avoid bushfire season.
Find free walking tours here.
New York, United States
While it’s a relative baby compared to most European cities, it’s one of the oldest cities in the US and also started its life before cars were invented so is relatively easy to explore on foot.
Quite simply, there is too much to do in New York to take it all in. You are best to concentrate on one area and do it well, then maybe come back to try out another area next time.
Some of the most scenic walks are Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge walk and Brooklyn Bridge Park, side streets in the Soho area and Madison Avenue.
Find free walking tours here.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Also known as the Paris of South America, Buenos Aires is a massive city that is surprisingly walkable. Start your adventure in the famous La Boca barrio (neighbourhood) with its lively artistic district and the world famous La Bombonera stadium, home to Boca Juniors.
Also known for authentic tango, stunning cathedrals and a lively market.
Find some super cheap guided tours here.
Australia
And as for Australia, well it’s a toss-up between Melbourne and Sydney. However, it only applies for the CBD districts and groovy inner suburbs. Once you travel to the outer suburbs, walkability drops off rapidly.
Walkable highlights for Melbourne are its hip laneways, Melbourne Aquarium, Royal Botanic Gardens and, of course, the sports district with the MCG, National Tennis Centre and AAMI Park.
Find free walking tours here.
And as for Sydney, it’s hard to go past literally any of Sydney Harbour’s many bays and the city beaches. Sydney Opera House and its surrounds are a must and Circular Quay is an ideal place to start exploring the city.
Find free walking tours here and here.
Do you like walking when travelling? What’s your favourite city for walking? Why not share your experience in the comments section below?
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Hoi An township (heritage listed) & Hanoi city, Vietnam are stunning & I loved them. Actually all Vietnam is walkable & beautiful.
Agree, in fact, I loved the WHOLE of Vietnam. Recently went there with my son and even though it was a “cheap package tour”, was one of the best holidays we have ever had. We loved Saigon, Hanoi, Hoi An, as tourist destinations, but mainly found the people really great to get on with (except for the usual “steet sellers!!”). Highly recomend it as a holiday destination.
So true Wendy, I loved Vietnam. I’d love to go back.
My wife and I find that some of the big names are our favourites, London,Paris,Budapest,Prague,Sanfrancisco with The Czech town of Cesky Krumlov and the Christmas shop in Rothenburg is one not to miss.
Enjoy your travels no matter where you go.
Many of both cities and villages spread throughout The Netherlands are very walkable and quite scenic. Even more ideal for older people as there are virtually no hills!