Most Walkable Cities in the World for Explorers

Have you ever felt the thrill of discovering a new city on foot? The excitement of wandering through the winding streets, stumbling upon hidden gems, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere? 

There's something truly special about exploring a city on foot, but not all cities are created equal. Some are a joy to walk around, with wide pavements, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and a safe and welcoming atmosphere. Others are a nightmare, with crowded streets, dangerous crossings, and hostile environments. 

In this article, we've scoured the globe to bring you the top 10 most walkable cities in the world. These cities are the epitome of urban living, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity, all within easy walking distance. 

After reading this, get ready to put on your comfiest shoes, take a deep breath, and get ready to fall in love with these incredible cities!

Copenhagen, Denmark

Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, Denmark. Photo by WDnet Studio - stock.adobe.com

Copenhagen, the beautiful capital city of Denmark, is a true walker's paradise. As you step onto its charming cobblestoned streets, you'll be greeted with a sense of tranquillity and peacefulness that's hard to find in many other cities.

The city is truly alive with a unique blend of history, modernity, and culture that's just waiting to be explored.

The heart of Copenhagen's walkability is its iconic shopping street, Strøget. This impressive pedestrian area stretches over 3,500 feet and is lined with beautiful mediaeval buildings, designer boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants.

Another best place to start your walking tour of Copenhagen is the iconic Nyhavn waterfront. 

This picturesque area is home to brightly coloured houses and a bustling harbour that dates back to the 17th century. Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the stunning views of the city's canals and historic buildings. From there, you can head to the Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the Danish Royal Family. 

Beautiful gardens surround the palace. Thus, it is a wonderful place to take a leisurely walk. If you're lucky, you might even catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily at noon. If you're interested in art and history, make sure to visit the National Museum of Denmark. 

This fascinating museum features exhibits that explore the country's rich cultural heritage, from the Vikings to modern times. It's a great place to spend a few hours and learn more about Danish history.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam's picturesque plaza in the morning. Photo by rh2010 - stock.adobe.com

With speed limits of just 30 km/h, Amsterdam prioritises people and active transport, making it one of the most walkable cities in the world. 

It is a city that has long been synonymous with cycling and also has its fair share of hidden gems that can be explored on foot.

Sure, biking around town might give you an adrenaline rush, but walking allows you to discover parts of the city that you might have missed otherwise.

Start your walk at the Vondelpark, a serene green oasis that's just a stone's throw away from the bustling Canal Belt. The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll to enjoy the peaceful side paths or play with furry friends. 

Walking through Vondelpark is like taking a break from the busy city and getting a glimpse of the real Amsterdam.

Another must-see on your walking tour of Amsterdam is the Brouwersgracht, often voted the most beautiful canal in the city. This short walk is a feast for the eyes, with its colourful houseboats and centuries-old bridges that create a stunning postcard-like view. 

Lastly, let's not forget about Maastricht, another highly walkable city in the Netherlands that's worth exploring. It's a place where you can wander around without a guidebook, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the local culture.

Paris, France

The view of the Eiffel Tower from the Mirabeau Bridge over the River. Photo by ​​Ekaterina Pokrovsky - stock.adobe.com

Paris is a city where walking is not just a mode of transportation. It's an experience. The city's compactness makes it ideal for exploring on foot, and tourists can easily cover all the major attractions on a leisurely stroll.

The city's mayor, Anne Hidalgo, is committed to making Paris more pedestrian-friendly, with plans to pedestrianise some of the city's most famous areas, including the Champs Elysées and the Champs de Mars.

Walking through the streets of Paris is like stepping back in time, as the city is steeped in history and culture. From the Seine banks to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, every step you take is filled with wonder and amazement.

One of the best places to start your walk is on Île de la Cité, the historic cradle of Paris. Here, you'll find some of the city's most beautiful landmarks, including Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Conciergerie.

But don't just stop at the famous cathedral. Take some time to wander around the rest of the small island and admire its historic grandeur and old mansions. You may be surprised at the hidden treasures you'll discover!

And if you're looking for a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, look no further than Île Saint-Louis. This exclusive neighbourhood is one of Paris's most expensive, but it's also one of its most serene. 

With no metro station and only two bus stops, it's a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Stroll along its little lanes, and you'll find plenty of artsy boutiques, gourmet food shops, and wonderful patisseries.

And, of course, no visit to Paris would be complete without a walk through the Jardin des Tuileries. These stunning formal gardens, which link the Place de la Concorde and the Louvre, were landscaped by the famous André Le Nôtre, who also created the gardens at Versailles.

Tokyo, Japan

Narita-san Shinsho-ji Pagoda - a Japanese Temple. Photo by topntp - stock.adobe.com

Tokyo is a city that may seem overwhelming at first, but with each step you take, you'll discover something new and exciting. It's a journey that you'll never forget, filled with unforgettable memories and experiences that will stay with you forever.

One of the best areas for walking in Tokyo is the historic district of Asakusa. This area is home to the famous Senso-ji temple, as well as narrow streets filled with traditional shops and restaurants. The nearby Ueno Park is also a great place for a leisurely stroll, with its cherry blossom trees, museums, and zoo.

Next, make a stop at Asakusa Engei Hall, a hidden gem that has been the home of traditional Japanese comedic storytelling for generations. Admire the colourful flags and lanterns that adorn its exterior, and appreciate the artistry that has gone into nurturing some of Japan's most famous comic stories.

Another popular destination for walkers is the trendy Shibuya neighbourhood. Here, visitors can cross the famous Shibuya Crossing, known as the busiest intersection in the world. The nearby Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park are also worth a visit.

And finally, reach the magnificent Tokyo Skytree, the tallest free-standing radio tower in the world. As you stand in awe of its towering height and modern architecture, you'll realise that this walk has taken you on a journey through time, from the ancient traditions of Asakusa to the cutting-edge technology of Tokyo Skytree.

New York City, USA

New York is the no.1 place to live happy without a car in the US. Photo by ​​Edi Chen - Stock.adobe.com

New York City, the city that never sleeps, is an absolute must-visit for anyone who loves to explore on foot. This is a city that offers endless possibilities for walking and discovering hidde