The Most and Least Walkable Cities in the World

What Makes a City Walkable?

There are many factors affecting walkability in major metropolitan areas. Determining the walkability of any city truly depends on the opinions of the individual. However, personal safety, city layout, access to public transportation, affordability of public transportation, weather, and more affect the ability to get around– regardless of whether you live in these cities or are simply attempting to visit. 

It’s important to note that all of the cities on this list are worth visiting and traversing, on foot or otherwise. You may just want to confirm how walkable any given city is before visiting! 

With this in mind, here are 10 destinations that vary when it comes to their walkability. 

Warsaw, Poland

Known as Poland’s capital and home to a little over 3 million people, Warsaw is one of the most walkable cities in the world for a few reasons. Despite its large population, Warsaw is a compact and easily navigable city at only 200 square miles. Plus, its public transportation costs consistently rank lower than many other metropolitan areas around the world. 

Johannesburg, South Africa

While technically one of the top 100 largest urban areas in the world, Johannesburg isn’t particularly walkable. Home to nearly 5 million people, Johannesburg has poor public transportation and can be dangerous for the average pedestrian. This makes cars and ride-share services the main modes of transportation.

Milan, Italy

Known for its historical landmarks and luxury brands, Milan is one of the most walkable cities in the world and technically the second-most populated city in Italy. Part of this reputation comes from Milan’s available amenities, both for travelers and its 1.4 million locals alike. You can easily find healthcare facilities as well as dining accommodations on foot. 

Dallas, Texas, USA

The ninth-most populated city in the United States and nearly 400 square miles in size, Dallas, Texas is considered among the least walkable metropolitan areas in the country and world. Not only is it difficult to access daily amenities without a vehicle, it is also a city that fails to prioritize walking or biking trails. 

Munich, Germany

A little over 100 square miles in size, Munich, Germany consistently ranks on lists like this. It is considered one of the best places to live in terms of quality of life, something that includes walkability. While it isn’t necessarily the most affordable city, especially when it comes to public transit, Munich is meant to be walked and explored on foot! 

Manila, Philippines

One of the most densely populated city propers in the world and the second-most populated city in the Philippines itself, Manila is unfortunately difficult to navigate on foot. Public transportation can be difficult in terms of its routes and schedules, and the average rainfall in Manila may make any pedestrian adventures less enjoyable. 

Helsinki, Finland

Much like Munich, Helsinki has incredibly high standards and qualities of living for a densely populated urban area. In fact, it is the capital of Finland and the most populated city in this country, ranking as one of the busiest port cities as well. Despite this, it maintains ample walkability, something that surely benefits its many visitors who choose to arrive by ship. 

Patras, Greece

Gorgeous, full of history, and the third most populated city in Greece, Patras may prove difficult should you choose to traverse its streets on foot. While not impossible, Patras ranks poorly in terms of its walkability because of how this ancient city was built. Stairs separate the upper and lower quadrants of this location, making it particularly tiring to navigate. 

Paris, France

Given its renown and rich history, it’s no wonder that Paris is one of the most walkable cities in the world. The capital of France, Paris has invested a great deal into its transportation options. Not only is the city both walkable and traversable via sustainable public transit choices– you can easily board these transportation options and access more natural areas and forests just outside the city proper.

Houston, Texas, USA

Less than 10% of Houston’s population lives within walking distance of a hospital or school. This earns it a spot among the least walkable cities in the world. Much like neighboring Dallas, Houston has a large population– approximately the sixth-most populous city in North America. However, the population living in this particular city likely needs a car to get anywhere worth visiting.