When it comes to exploring new places, many travelers seek out the most walkable cities in the world. This provides a unique opportunity to truly immerse themselves within the locale, experiencing firsthand the sights, sounds, and rhythms of the city.
Skyscanner, a leading global travel agency, has recently published a comprehensive guide to the best walking cities in the world, perfect for those adventurous travelers.
The Most Pedestrian-Friendly Cities in the World
Cordoba, Spain, secured a position among the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the world with its 29 meticulously maintained walking trails. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town and La Mezquita Mosque while encountering the historic Roman Bridge and vibrant Flamenco performances.
Japan claimed two spots in the top rankings. Nagasaki featured 531 attractions accessible by foot, including the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Dejima Island. Hiroshima followed with 771 designated walking paths connecting the Peace Memorial Park and the popular Okonomimura food district.
Mediterranean destinations featured prominently, with Reggio Calabria, Italy, offering coastal promenades where visitors can sample local Fileja Tropeana while viewing the Rabarama statue. Monte Carlo, Monaco, despite its small footprint, provides walkable access to the Oceanographic Museum and panoramic city viewpoints beyond its famous casinos.
The best walkable cities list includes several European gems, such as Tartu, Estonia, with its historic Old Town and Estonian National Museum, which is set in a low-pollution environment. Bursa, Turkey, showcases Ottoman heritage and impressive mosque architecture within comfortable walking distance.
Bolzano, Italy, nestled among vineyards and hills, ranks as the safest city in the study, offering 505 exploratory walking trails. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina, presents 513 unique attractions amid its diverse architectural landscape.
Completing the top ten, Victoria, British Columbia, represents North America with its Victorian architecture, clean air, and Vancouver Island setting.
- Cordoba, Spain
- Nagasaki, Japan
- Hiroshima, Japan
- Reggio Calabria, Italy
- Monte Carlo, Monaco
- Tartu, Estonia
- Bursa, Turkey
- Bolzano, Italy
- Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Victoria, British Columbia
Walkability Factors & Travel Planning
These most walkable cities rank highly in Skyscanner’s lists due to their compact size, accessible public transportation, pedestrian-friendly streets, unique attractions, and overall safety for travelers. Industry data shows increasing traveler preference for destinations that enable car-free exploration.
Embracing the concept of slow travel, this list of the best walking cities provides tourists with the chance to explore at their own pace, enjoy breathtaking sights, and create unforgettable memories.
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