There’s nothing like leisurely walking around a city to see the sights, stop and admire wherever you want to. Walking in a new city introduces you to unique sights, sounds and smells which you would never experience if you are rushing around in a taxi or tram or train. Some cities are just made for walking than others, however. Here’s a list of the most pedestrian friendly cities of the world:
11 – Most pedestrian friendly cities of the world
1. Florence
Florence is one of the most walkable cities you will ever visit. Those who are not fond of walking are also bound to walk, if they want to visit the historic center of the city, as only those who have permits are allowed to take their vehicles to the center of the city. It is a lovely city, often known as an open air museum. The Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michaelangelo is within walking distance. There are many cafes, restaurants and bars abound, where you can rest. It’s definitely one of the most pedestrian friendly cities of the world.
2. Marrakech
Within Marrakech, is Medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can walk around in Medina and admire the historical site. Most of the historical sites can be explored on foot. The labyrinthine alleys of Marrakech souks are walk-friendly. In fact, the bright babouches, woven rug and exotic spices stores are a little bewildering but the ambience has to be experienced.
Koutoubia Mosque, 16th century El Badi Palace and the Jemaa El-Fnaa Square which has local cuisine and street entertainers will enthrall you. If you want respite from the hustle and bustle, just walk in the relaxing Menara Gardens, an olive garden situated to the west of Marrakech. All these opportunities to walk in Marrakech make it one of the pedestrian friendly cities in the world.
3. New York
New York happens to be the United States’ most walkable city. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll down the famed Fifth Avenue, walk over the Brooklyn Bridge, and walk into Clinton Hill to see the beautiful, artistic brownstones. Central Park has numerous walks through its 843 acres and you can’t miss exploring the Times Square on foot either.
4. San Antonio
This city’s most famous landmarks are close together, so you can see them all on foot. Don’t miss a walk on the River Walk which has many nice restaurants and shops. It is near the Alamo, which is also close to other missions worth seeing. The Pearl Brewery is a place where many locals and tourists throng, as it has a weekend farmers market, seasonal events, dance hall and many cafes and restaurants. It is one of the cities where you can walk around in the world.
5. Paris
Paris has many places you can walk easily, but they’re not all close together. But it’s worth it to saunter around the city, especially the Seine riverside, where you can enjoy the Jardin Des Tuileres, Louvre, Notre Dame and so on.
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at the bistros or bars in the Latin Quarter before visiting the Eiffel Tower, which is about an hour from there, if you walk. The Montmartre has many narrow winding streets, charming restaurants and Sacré-Cœur, which happens to be among the most romantic places in Paris.
6. Munich
Munich is also one of the most pedestrian friendly cities of the world. The city center is pedestrian friendly, where you will see many pretty sights. If you love walking in parks and gardens, you just can’t miss walking through the beautiful English Garden, which is truly delightful.
It is one among the biggest parks of Europe. It has idyllic lakes, beer gardens, historical follies and a charming Japanese teahouse. You can spend hours admiring ornate buildings, Frauenkirche cathedral as well as stroll and do some wonderful window shopping. It might even be the safest to walk in this city, but do try not to walk in isolated areas.
7. Kyoto
Kyoto is an enchanting city with its perfect blend of the old and the new. Japan’s imperial capital for a 1,000 years and more, the city is famous for numerous beautiful temples and tea ceremonies. You may walk into a restaurant or visit a work associate and experience a tea ceremony, something which is truly unforgettable.
Between the many sights you might have to reach by some form of transport, but once there you can walk and explore the area. One of the favorite walking paths is by the Kiyomizu-dera temple, where you can gaze at the beauty of the shrines and enjoy eating at the stalls which sell delicious snacks.
8. Buenos Aires
The capital of Argentina is famed for its European architecture, vibrant cultural scene and diverse neighborhoods. Art lovers can roam around the barrio of La Boca, to absorb the pretty painted houses brought to life by the talented artist Quinquela Martin, and the paintings housed in the gallery Fundacion Proa. Walking in the Recoleta neighborhood will reveal sights such as the beautiful mobile sculpture, Floralis Generica.
9. Bordeaux
Bordeaux is one of the most pedestrian friendly cities and it is just seems made for walking. It’s elegant and graceful walks along the magnificent neoclassical buildings, boulevards, town squares filled with charming fountains reflect the laid back attitude of the city. The ‘miroir d’eau’ which is the world’s biggest reflecting pool, is a must-see. The area is great for walking as well for those who love to zip around in bikes.
10. Perth
Perth’s pristine beaches and easygoing streets are a delight to walk in. The city has lush greenery which makes it wonderful to saunter along the streets.
11. Vancouver
Vancouver is perhaps the best out of all the pedestrian friendly cities. It even has the extremely helpful ‘pedestrian wayfinding maps’ as the city encourages walking by its citizens and tourists. Walk over the Lion’s Gate Bridge to enjoy the fascinating sea and cityscapes. Stanley Park and Lost Lagoon are parks where you can stroll for hours. Don’t miss walking along on the promenade by the False Creek.
