Have you ever longed to move about a metropolis using nothing more than your two feet alone? We love this method to travel about cities, especially in Europe, where there is so much to see above ground.
Yes, it would help if you made an effort in Moscow, the city of Russia, and St. Petersburg, the previous capital, as each of these cities’ metro stations is an artistic creation in and of itself. However, it is better to explore these cities on foot, stopping at landmarks, cafes, and stores along the way.
Salzburg, Austria
We’ve always been open about the fact that Salzburg is one of our favorite European cities, and even in deep snow, it’s a beautiful place to stroll around. So although it was well below zero when we arrived in Salzburg in the shocking European Cold Wave of 2012, the city was nonetheless beautiful to hike through. In the summer, the town comes to life, but this is also when hordes of visitors, particularly those on day trips from Vienna, start to arrive.
Spending a few nights in Salzburg is the best option for exploring the city alone in the early morning and the hour before dusk. Be careful to navigate the Mirabell Gardens and the endless maze of alleys of the Old Town. If you wish to go outside the city, you must take a Sound of Music Tour.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
We’re no different from many other travelers because we love visiting Amsterdam! While walking is not the best way to view this city, it is nevertheless very well adapted to walkers and cyclists should you rent a bike and follow the locals’ lead!
This city is rather big, but you can easily walk across it in a few days since it is mostly level. Kindly bring a map with you if you wind yourself somewhere other than where you expected to be, but don’t be afraid to get lost occasionally, especially in picturesque neighborhoods` like Jordaan.
Oxford, England
Oxford is easy to get to from London by car, bus, or train and can be seen in a single day if you like walking around new places. This city brims with mystery since it has much to offer regarding history, architecture, and the great scholars who once lived here.
Enthusiasts of Harry Potter should immediately go to Christ College, while Lewis Carroll fans will find many exciting places to visit all across the city. Overall, this is a terrific place to explore on foot because there is so much to see at every turn and the inner city is relatively tiny.
Venice, Italy
Walking is the best way to experience Venice. Of course, the best way to see and experience Venice is to meander around the narrow streets and see where you wind up, but taking a gondola ride is a must-do for visitors. Don’t worry if you get lost; you’ll ultimately find your way back.
Be prepared to get lost since some of Venice’s best attractions may be hidden deep into the city’s neighborhoods, away from the main tourist attractions.
Brugge, Belgium
Brugge, a more-of-a-town-than-a-city in Belgium, is one of my all-time favorite cities. It is gorgeous, incredibly picturesque, and more of a town than a city. Small and level, this city is simple to navigate on foot. However, beware of the chilly winters!
If traveling outside of the summer months, pack lots of clothing because the weather in northern Belgium can quickly become somewhat harsh. Since Brugge’s entire Historic Centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll encounter admiration everywhere.
Paris, France
With a few metro stops, walking is still the most excellent way to see Paris! It would help if you were given a whole day to explore each, even though it’s a vast city with many little nooks to navigate.
A few neighborhoods in Paris are worth spending at least a full day in each, but since Paris is so large, we wouldn’t recommend attempting to see it all on foot (unless you have several weeks to wander about). However, even if this list can go on forever, St. Germain des Prés, Montmartre, and the Latin Quarter are worthwhile destinations.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague has never inspired affection in anybody we’ve ever met who has visited. Prague is another beautiful European city to explore on foot, despite the steep walk to the top of the castle (but the views of the city make it worthwhile!).
Be careful to visit both the lesser town and the old town center since there is much more to see in Prague than the major tourist sites. It’s almost immediately obvious as you leave the main streets.
Florence, Italy
Florence instantly captures the hearts of everyone who arrives. Florence, unquestionably the most attractive city in Italy, is vibrant and alive wherever you look. In a few days, you can walk the whole town of Florence, but plan enough time for many pits stops at gelato shops to refuel.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre has swiftly established itself as a must-see destination for travelers to Italy. Small towns can easily be reached on foot in the area, but because you’ll be traveling along the Italian coastline, be prepared for some steep inclines. Also, remember that walking is necessary because there need to be more accessible roadways within the towns.
Edinburgh, Scotland
We can’t even begin to tell you how much we adore Edinburgh, one of our favorite cities in the UK. Edinburgh is a lovely city to explore year-round if you don’t mind the occasional downpour; the winters are gloomy with an eerie beauty. Overall, walking is the most excellent way to experience Edinburgh. However, there will be some inclines to obtain the city’s best views.
Conclusion
Europe is home to many cities renowned for being highly walkable. Top contenders include cities with well-connected pedestrian networks, lots of green space, and bustling street life, like Vienna, Copenhagen, and Amsterdam. Berlin, Paris, and Barcelona are three more European cities that are pretty walkable and provide a distinctive fusion of old and new architecture, cultural attractions, and various food and shopping alternatives. Overall, Europe’s walkable cities offer something for everyone, from history buffs to urban explorers, making them a terrific destination for people who like to travel on foot.
