New research has unveiled the most walkable cities globally, encouraging travellers to explore on foot rather than using public transport, taxis, or bicycles. The study, conducted by travel experience platform Hellotickets, assessed destinations based on pedestrian space, density of accessible sights, ease of car-free exploration, and overall walking pleasure. Here are the top 15 walkable cities and how best to experience each one.
1. Venice, Italy
Venice tops the rankings with a walkability score of 96 out of 100. Its picturesque canals and winding alleyways make every detour feel like a film scene. One-way flights from the UK start at just £17.99 with Wizz Air. For the best experience, start at Rialto, explore the lanes of Cannaregio, visit St Mark's Square, cross random bridges, and end in Dorsoduro by sunset.
2. Pontevedra, Spain
Scoring 94 out of 100, this Galician city offers a calm, historic atmosphere with a well-preserved old town and the Gothic Santa María la Mayor Basilica. Explore the historic centre, lively squares, terraces, markets, and walking routes inspired by the Metrominuto.
3. Helsinki, Finland
Finland's capital ranks third with a score of 88. It features a harbour, market halls, museums, cafés, design districts, parks, and waterfronts all within close proximity. Start at Senate Square, wander along the waterfront and market halls, then explore the Design District and parks with sea views.
4. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto scores 86 and is best explored slowly. It boasts temples, gardens, shrines, and traditional lanes. Highlights include the Geisha district Gion, the historic Higashiyama district, and the Philosopher's Path. Visit Kiyomizu-dera and Arashiyama early to avoid crowds.
5. Madrid, Spain
Madrid rounds out the top five with a score of 84. The city is ideal for walking through squares, museums, markets, and lively neighbourhoods. Explore Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, La Latina, Retiro Park, Paseo del Arte, and Malasaña at night.
6. Paris, France
Paris scores 83 and is packed with iconic monuments, museums, galleries, and cafés. Walk along the Seine riverbanks, visit the Louvre, Le Marais, Saint-Germain, Montmartre, covered passages, and the Luxembourg Gardens.
7. Lyon, France
France's third-largest city boasts centuries of history. Explore the traboules (hidden passageways), Vieux Lyon, the Saône riverbanks, the Presqu'île, Fourvière, and Croix-Rousse.
8. Philadelphia, USA
Philadelphia is described as having the charm of an American city that can be discovered on foot, with public squares, museums, markets, and neighbourhoods. Key areas include Old City, Independence Hall, Rittenhouse Square, Reading Terminal Market, and Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
9. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne offers countless laneways, murals, cafés, arcades, markets, and riverfronts. Walk the CBD laneways, Hosier Lane, Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market, the Yarra River, and neighbourhood cafés.
10. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Argentina's capital is split into 48 neighbourhoods with avenues, cafés, bookshops, theatres, and squares. Explore San Telmo, Recoleta, Palermo Soho, historic cafés, bookshops, and Puerto Madero at sunset.
11. New York, USA
New York offers a cinematic walking experience through Manhattan, Brooklyn, Central Park, and the High Line. Must-see spots include Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, Greenwich Village, SoHo, the High Line, Williamsburg, and Broadway by night.
12. Sète, France
This major port city in southeast France features canals and market halls. Walk through the market halls, port, canals, Mont Saint-Clair, the corniche, quays, and beaches.
13. London, UK
London comprises 32 distinct boroughs with unique features. Explore the South Bank, Westminster, Covent Garden, Soho, Notting Hill, Shoreditch, Camden, and Hyde Park on separate days for full immersion.
14. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is described as a spectacular, sensory world-city with mosques, historic neighbourhoods, and waterfronts. Walk Sultanahmet, the Grand Bazaar, Galata, Karaköy, Istiklal Avenue, Balat, Kadıköy, and the Bosphorus waterfront.
15. San Pedro, Belize
San Pedro offers a relaxed, island-like atmosphere with sea air and landscapes. Enjoy the waterfront, jetties, restaurants, excursion departure points, sunset spots, and Caribbean island vibes.
Prices are correct as of May 27, 2025.
