The 13 Most Beautiful Walkable Cities in the World
There is no better way to appreciate the beauty of a city and explore its towns, structures, shops, and landmarks than walking. Walking around a city allows you to take in the sights at an enjoyable pace, plus, it is considered a great form of exercise!
While not every city might be great for walking, some are just begging to be explored on foot with artful tile-work, and accessible streets. Here are 13 of the most beautiful and walkable cities you should definitely consider touring on foot.
Venice, Italy
There is no other city like Venice, with its enchanting canals and narrow alleys, making it a pedestrian’s paradise. The best way to get around this floating city, without cars, is on foot, and from there, you can soak up the city’s Renaissance architecture, charming piazzas, and energetic atmosphere. Picnic in the maze-like streets, and admire the pretty bridges, quaint shops, and inviting cafes around every corner.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is a place of traditional beauty and modern charm for people who like walking. The best way to explore the city’s well-preserved temples, serene gardens, and historic districts is on foot. Kyoto’s streets are tranquil, from thousands of torii gates at iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine to leisured walks along the serene Philosopher’s Path.
Paris, France
Paris is a walking dream and well known as the city of light. There are boutique hotels everywhere you turn, from the romantic Seine river promenades to the busy streets of Le Marais. Most visitors thoroughly enjoy a leisurely walk along the Champs-Élysées, strolling down one of Montmartre’s quaint alleyways, or uncovering one of Paris’s hidden courtyards.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is known for more than just its iconic canals and vibrant tulip fields. With its compact design and pedestrian-friendly streets, the city offers a wonderfully walkable experience. The Jordaan district is trendy with young people filling its street. They like to wander the streets among the pretty shops and cafes of this old part of town and explore the old Jewish Quarter in the east of the city.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona offers a delightful blend of Gothic architecture, modernist monuments, and vibrant neighborhoods. Walking through the city, you can immerse yourself in Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces up close, from the famous Sagrada Família to the colorful Park Güell. La Rambla is pedestrian-friendly, and the streets of the Gothic Quarter are charming to wander by.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague boasts stunning castles, medieval bridges, and cobblestone streets. This beautiful yet compact city allows you to explore its wonderful scenery on foot. Walk across the Charles Bridge at sunrise or stroll through Old Town Square and you’ll fall in love with this City.
Florence, Italy
Renaissance art and architecture are a treasure trove in Florence, and there’s no better way to take it all in than walking. Iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery are packed within the city’s compact center. Wandering among its friendly streets will throw you back in time, surrounded by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and more.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a fantastic city to see on foot. Its historic charm and natural beauty are a sight for sore eyes. The effortless way to do this is to walk through the Old Town and up the Royal Mile for a great insight into the city’s ancient history or to hike up Arthur’s Seat for some stunning panoramic views of the city and beyond. You get a true blend of natural and urban beauty.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
The well-preserved medieval walls and picturesque old town of Dubrovnik make for a walker’s paradise. The walls provide one of the best strolls for stunning views of the Adriatic and red-tiled roofs below. Every step promises a new discovery, with the old town’s narrow streets filled with historic landmarks, quaint shops, cozy cafes, and more.
Vienna, Austria
The best way to appreciate Vienna’s grandeur is to walk the boulevards and squares on foot. Visit well-preserved architecture from the imperial past, from Hofburg Palace to the awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Vienna is so rich in cultural heritage that you can walk into some of the gardens of Schönbrunn Palace or stroll along the Ringstrasse and feel like a part of it.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s hills, colorful tiles, and incredible views make this city charming. Walking is the best way to discover the secret alleys of Alfama, the lively squares of Bairro Alto, and some of the city landmarks. So every walk is an adventure finding the city’s trams and scenic viewpoints, such as Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
San Francisco, USA
The city’s iconic hills and oddball neighborhoods keep San Francisco a great walking city. You can walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, explore historic Chinatown streets, stroll through the colorful streets of the Mission District, and get a taste of the city’s one-of-a-kind character. There’s a bohemian vibe to Haight-Ashbury, and upscale shops in Union Square to explore.
Istanbul, Turkey
The best thing to do in Istanbul is explore its rich history and cultural diversity on foot. Its mix of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, lively bazaars, and historic mosques gives it a truly unique atmosphere. Simply walking through the historic Sultanahmet district, visiting the Hagia Sophia, or exploring any one of the vibrant streets of Beyoğlu puts you into the city’s energetic rhythm and lays bare its incredible history.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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