Europe’s Most Walkable Destinations for 2025

 

 

Forget fast travel. In 2025, it’s all about slowing down and soaking up a destination on foot.

 

From scenic promenades to historic cobbled towns, we’ve ranked the top European walking destinations to help you find all the best places to explore at your own pace. These cities and towns combine excellent pedestrian infrastructure with rich local culture, incredible food, and a thoughtful approach to tourism.

 

We know that you want a city that’s easy to visit and navigate, whether you are travelling solo, in a group, or with your family. So, what are the top walking destinations you must visit?

 

Based on a detailed analysis of 30 unique travel characteristics, including pedestrian friendliness, cultural depth, food culture, and over-tourism strategies, these are Europe’s Most Walkable Destinations for 2025.

 

How We Chose the Most Walkable Destinations

To uncover the best walkable destinations in Europe, we assessed 30 standout locations using 30 unique indicators tied to slow and sustainable travel. With more travelers seeking to move at a gentler and slower pace while treading lightly on the planet, we created a scoring system that rates each destination out of 10 to support mindful and immersive exploration.

 

From this analysis, we developed four curated lists to guide your next slow travel adventure. This first edition spotlights Europe’s top walking destinations, but don’t miss our other roundups covering the best nature escapes, hidden cultural capitals, and wellness retreats across the continent.

 

This list not only shows the best walking destinations but also it offers places with rich, local character and thoughtful approaches to managing visitors sustainably.

 

 

 

The Top 10 Walkable Destinations in Europe for 2025

 

 

1. Utrecht, Netherlands – 10/10 for being a Walkable Travel Destination

Why it ranks #1:

Utrecht is a walker's dream. The city is nearly car-free, and full of cycle lanes, pedestrian bridges, and green spaces, making it one of the most sustainable cities in Europe. Add a vibrant café scene and excellent museums, and you’ve got a walkable European destination perfect for a slower-paced trip.

 

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2. Ystad, Sweden – Quiet Charm on the Baltic

What makes it so good:

This coastal Swedish town scores high for its peaceful streets and authentic Nordic character. Museums and historic buildings are just a short walk away. This has made the top two, as there’s no need to rush in a place where time seems to move slower.

 

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3. Rovinj, Croatia – Car-Free Coastal Old Town

How it’s made the top 3:

Rovinj’s winding stone alleys and harbourside promenades mean there’s no need for car travel when exploring this city. Offering many artisanal shops, authentic seafood, and lots of architectural beauty at every turn, what isn’t there to enjoy.

 

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4. Mariánské Lázně, Czech Republic – Luxury at its finest

Why it’s perfect for slow walkers:

This spa town invites you to take your time. Colonnades, fountains, and plenty of countryside and forest trails surround you as you wander between mineral springs and music halls. Scoring well for both wellness and culture without the crowds, Mariánské Lázně is a perfect location for some added luxury to your trip. There is plenty to explore, whether it's a massage in the morning or a long stroll in the afternoon. To know more about some of the top wellness retreats in Europe, find out more today.

 

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5. Galway, Ireland – Compact, Colourful, Cultural

Top highlights:

Galway punches above its weight in both charm and creativity. With street performers, historic pubs, and artisan cafés scattered all around the city, all within easy walking distance of each other, Galway is one of Ireland’s most pedestrian-friendly cities.

 

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6. Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy – Alpine Walks and Authentic Flavours

What’s unique:

Picture alpine trails winding through vineyards and medieval villages. This Italian region blends scenic walking with strong infrastructure and a farm-to-table culinary scene. It’s a walking holiday dream and a perfect spot for more sustainable and pedestrian-friendly travel. So, why not enjoy an authentic Italian region without the hustle and bustle of a busy city and visit this hidden gem at your own pace. Learn more hidden travel destinations in Europe today.

 

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7. Salisbury, England – Medieval and Made for Walking

Why it's on the list:

Salisbury is perfect for people who want to take scenic walks exploring its architecture and culture. You can walk from its iconic cathedral to riverside parks in minutes. Its rich heritage and local food spots make it the perfect stop for more mindful exploration.

 

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8. Lyon, France – A Perfect Pedestrian-Friendly City

What stands out:

Lyon might be a large city, but it feels intimate. Riverside paths, pedestrianised shopping streets, and vibrant bouchons (local restaurants) are all easily reached on foot. Its cultural depth, from museums to murals, adds even more to its slow travel appeal.

 

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9. Isle of Mull, Scotland – Nature at Walking Pace

Why it’s different:

This rugged island offers some of the best wild walking trails, peaceful harbours, and friendly villages in Scotland that can be explored without a car. The Isle of Mull is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. Want to know more about the best nature escapes in Europe? Discover our top nature escape slow travel guide today.

 

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10. Ericeira, Portugal – Coastal Walking with Café Culture

Why walkers love it:

As a laid-back surf town with stunning cliffs and pedestrian-friendly paths, Ericeira also scores highly for local seafood and coffee spots to take scenic breaks while exploring. It’s a place where every walk ends with a view or a pastel de nata. So, with lots to enjoy, it is one of Europe's best coastal walking destinations.

 

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Booking the Best Walking Destinations in Europe

Whether you're craving scenic coastal strolls, want to explore a historic town, or take a leisurely walk down urban promenades, Europe’s most walkable destinations offer something far richer than any typical holiday.

 

These towns and cities aren’t just easy on your feet. They’re perfect for those seeking slow, sustainable travel, where every step connects you with local culture, authentic cuisine, and mindful exploration.

 

From Utrecht’s car-free charm to Ericeira’s ocean-view cafés, this list brings together the best walking holidays in Europe for those who want to move at their own pace and travel deeper, not faster. So leave the itinerary light, pack your walking shoes, and let the journey unfold, one step at a time.

 

Whether you're exploring multiple destinations or immersing yourself in one walkable city, P&O Ferries offers flexible travel options to suit your pace. Book your ferry to Europe today and start planning a slower, more relaxing journey now.