This European City Was Just Named the Most Walkable in the World
If you're the kind of traveller who loves to explore a city on foot, there’s one European destination that should go straight to the top of your list. According to a new study, Munich is the most walkable city in the world!
How the Rankings Were Decided
The ranking, released by Compare the Market AU, analysed cities around the globe using a mix of practical, pedestrian-friendly factors—everything from rainfall levels and safety scores to public transport costs, walking trails, and access to car-free zones. And Munich came out ahead of them all.
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Why Munich Took Top Spot
So, what makes Munich so walkable? For starters, it boasts hundreds of miles of bike and walking trails, and a remarkable 86% of the population lives within 1km of a car-free space. That’s more than most cities can claim—and a big win for visitors looking to see the sights without relying on transport.
Despite having one of the pricier public transport systems, Munich ranked high for safety, and also scored well for proximity to essentials: 85% of locals live within a kilometre of healthcare and education facilities
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Europe Leads the Way
The rest of the top 10 reinforces Europe’s reputation for walkable urban design.
Coming in second is Milan, which performed strongly for its walkability and service access, followed by Warsaw, known for its affordability and compact layout. Helsinki, Paris, Madrid, Oslo, Copenhagen, and Amsterdam also made the top 10, showcasing Europe’s continued dominance in pedestrian-friendly cities. Tokyo was the only non-European city to crack the top six.
The Verdict
So if you’re planning your next city break and love nothing more than exploring on foot, this Bavarian gem might just be your perfect option. From the grand Marienplatz and its striking Neo-Gothic town hall to the sprawling greenery of the English Garden—one of the largest urban parks in the world—this city rewards walkers at every turn. Stroll along the Isar River, take in world-class art at the Pinakothek museums, or enjoy a leisurely afternoon in a traditional beer garden.
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