We spend many hours travelling at great speed in planes, trains and automobiles, but sometimes there’s a lot to be said for taking it back to a gentle stroll.
With that in mind, we wanted to present some of the world’s most walkable cities, but let’s just say even a quick online search was a complete schmozzle.
One of the top results was the Uffizi, which, even with my limited knowledge of geography, I’m pretty sure is not a city. Another ‘best of’ list nominated Karachi in Pakistan, so clearly a list that did not take women’s safety into account, and what a surprise! Yes, it was written by a man.
So instead, we took a long look at the list and decided to compile a tourist-friendly list of cities we’d love to visit.
Florence, Italy
One of the most popular walkable cities is Florence. You can walk to some of the world’s best attractions within 10 minutes of each other including the Uffizi, Piazza Della Signoria and the Piazza del Duomo, which translates to Cathedral Square in English. That’s all you need to know, because let’s face it, the Italians love a lavishly decorated cathedral.
Venice, Italy
Venice has to be in here, because, well, it’s difficult to drive a car on a canal.
Known for its stunning architecture, rich history and delicious food.
And while it may be one of the most walkable cities, it’s also one of the most expensive, so bring a fat wallet.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Pack your sturdy walking shoes for Edinburgh because it’s a city that loves a cobblestone laneway. Also pack a sturdy raincoat, because even according to a tourism experts, the city’s weather is mostly rain and wind.
It’s a good idea to take an official walking tour as there’s history at every turn, and because it’s Scotland, a great deal of it is violent.
Also, there are plenty of free galleries and you can finish up your day with a wee dram of some of the world’s finest whisky.
San Francisco, United States
Walkable, but you also have to like steep streets. Great views of the bay, loads of lush parks and you can even walk across the Golden Gate Bridge.
One of the best ‘China Towns’ in the world known for its food, hidden bars, tea houses and shopping.
San Francisco is also a great stopping off point to the many hiking adventures in California. Maybe avoid bushfire season.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Also known as the Paris of South America, Buenos Aires is a massive city that is surprisingly walkable. Start your adventure in the famous La Boca barrio (neighbourhood) with its lively artistic district and the world famous La Bombonera stadium, home to Boca Juniors.
Also known for authentic tango, stunning cathedrals and a lively market.
Find some super cheap guided tours here.
Australia
And as for Australia, well it’s a toss-up between Melbourne and Sydney. However, it only applies for the CBD districts and groovy inner-suburbs. Once you travel to the outer suburbs, walkability drops off rapidly.
Walkable highlights for Melbourne are its hip laneways, Melbourne Aquarium, Royal Botanic Gardens and, of course, the sports district with the MCG, National Tennis Centre and AAMI Park.
And as for Sydney, it’s hard to go past literally any of Sydney Harbour’s many bays and the city beaches. Sydney Opera House and its surrounds are a must and Circular Quay is an ideal place to start exploring the city.
Do you like walking when travelling? What’s your favourite city for walking? Why not share your experience in the comments section below?
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Hoi An township (heritage listed) & Hanoi city, Vietnam are stunning & I loved them. Actually all Vietnam is walkable & beautiful.
Agree, in fact, I loved the WHOLE of Vietnam. Recently went there with my son and even though it was a “cheap package tour”, was one of the best holidays we have ever had. We loved Saigon, Hanoi, Hoi An, as tourist destinations, but mainly found the people really great to get on with (except for the usual “steet sellers!!”). Highly recomend it as a holiday destination.
So true Wendy, I loved Vietnam. I’d love to go back.
My wife and I find that some of the big names are our favourites, London,Paris,Budapest,Prague,Sanfrancisco with The Czech town of Cesky Krumlov and the Christmas shop in Rothenburg is one not to miss.
Enjoy your travels no matter where you go.