There is no better way to see a city than on foot, taking in all the sights, sounds, and smells along the way. Have you ever wanted to know which cities are best for walking? This list of the world's most walkable cities is ideal for individuals who prefer to explore new places at their own pace.
Most walkable cities in the world
Munich
Starting strong with the most walkable city in the world, this is a lesson in civil infrastructure! Munich, the Bavarian capital, has earned the title of the world's most walkable city for several reasons. In addition to its extensive network of bike paths, 86% of the local population resides within 1 km of an area designated for pedestrians and cyclists. While Munich's public transportation system is quite expensive, it ranks fourth in terms of safety, an important factor to consider while walking, and it ranks joint second in terms of the percentage of residents who live within one kilometre of medical and educational institutions.
Cape Town
Travellers seeking mountains, beaches, and more will find what they're searching for in Cape Town, the most walkable city in South Africa, with its abundance of distinct walking pathways. Stroll along the welcoming waterfront of the city, and you will see several massive yachts rising majestically from the placid seas, as well as highly acclaimed eateries and lively nightclubs. Put on your most sturdy footwear and ascend the renowned Table Mountain if you're in the mood for a refreshing walk. At an elevation of 3,500 feet, you will find one of the most breathtaking vistas in all of Africa. This is one of the most walkable cities in the world!
London
You may not realise how approachable downtown London is until you start relying on the network of Tube trains zipping below street level. Starting at Big Ben, you may take a leisurely walk down the riverbank to Tower Bridge, Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, and the London Eye, passing by street vendors, musicians, and the London Eye. London is a fantastic city to explore on foot, even if it is renowned for its underground trains and black cabs. Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, located to the east, are popular tourist destinations; while you're there, pause to take in the breathtaking views of Canary Wharf and the City of London skyline. After seeing the Queen at Buckingham Palace, take a stroll through Hyde Park to the west and rest in its verdant gardens. London, of course, is one of the most walkable cities in the world!
Paris
The best way to get to know the city is on foot, and you can walk the length of downtown Paris in about two hours. Everything is laid out on a grid, from the shady benches of Place des Vosges to the fashionable boutiques of the Champs-Élysées and the retail arcades that line rue de Rivoli. The ongoing Paris piétons project is transforming squares all across Paris, and every year, Paris-Plages along the Seine hosts urban beaches and events. Paris is undoubtedly one of the world's most walkable cities!
Marrakech
In Marrakech's crowded medina, where sensory overload can leave you speechless, walking is your only real alternative. In addition to piles of spices and floor-to-ceiling displays of glimmering lanterns, the many leather stores offer an abundance of slippers and satchels. As the sun sets, snake charmers, singers, and henna workers swarm Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main plaza. Take a cab for excursions outside the Medina, such as visiting the beautifully ornamented Bahia Palace or the Jardin Majorelle, but why not explore on foot? Both these places are approximately 30 minutes on foot!
Florence
Architectural magnificence and the city's Renaissance history have made Florence, Italy, famous across the world. Walking the ancient core of Florence, with its winding alleys leading to famous sites like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, is the best way to see the city's many attractions, all of which are within half a mile of one another. Every step you take in this city is a window into its rich history, breathtaking architecture, and artistic treasures.
New York City
New York City defies the trend of driver-centric urban planning in the United States, earning the title of "most walkable city in the US" in 2020 from the group Walk Score. The numbered street grid makes it almost impossible to get disoriented in much of Manhattan. If you want to swap neighbourhoods quickly, ditch the yellow taxi and get on the train. From the bustling pizzerias of Little Italy to the art-deco splendours of Rockefeller Plaza and the Chrysler Building, even a short stroll can provide a wealth of sights and sounds.
Guangzhou
This magnificently expansive Chinese metropolis is surprisingly pedestrian-friendly, and it lies on the Pearl River to the northwest of Hong Kong. It's all down to the revitalisation of its riverbanks, which saw the linking of six routes to form an ecological corridor. This corridor, spanning 60 miles, connects several venues and tourism sites. On the other hand, you may visit the museums, sculptures, and koi ponds of Baomo Garden or the stores and street food vendors of Beijing Road, which are pedestrianised.