There’s something incredibly freeing about landing in a new city, ditching the car keys, and just setting off on foot.
No parking stress, no GPS shouting at you — just the joy of wandering, exploring, and letting the streets unfold in their own time. Some cities are made for that kind of slow travel, with walkable neighbourhoods, charming public transport, and plenty of tucked-away spots to discover. If you’re looking for a car-free getaway where your feet (and maybe a tram or two) do all the work, these city breaks are worth putting on your list.
1. Edinburgh, Scotland
With its compact city centre, historic charm, and sweeping views, Edinburgh is a walker’s dream. You can wander from the Royal Mile down to the Grassmarket, pop into little cafes and bookshops, and still have energy left to climb Arthur’s Seat if you’re feeling bold. Public transport is easy to use, but honestly, most of the magic comes from exploring on foot. Cobbled streets, hidden closes, and dramatic architecture are best experienced at a slower pace, no car required.
2. Florence, Italy
Florence is basically one open-air museum, and the best way to soak it all in is by walking. The narrow streets, buzzing piazzas, and riverside views invite you to take your time and discover beauty in the smallest corners. Most of the city’s highlights — the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio — are within easy walking distance of each other. It’s a place that was made to be strolled through with gelato in hand.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands
While bikes rule the streets in Amsterdam, walking is just as lovely, especially if you want to take your time and soak in the views along the canals. The city is flat, well-signposted, and built for slow exploring. You can spend hours moving between neighbourhoods like Jordaan, De Pijp, and the Nine Streets without needing any transport at all. And when your legs get tired, the trams are clean, quick, and easy to hop on.
4. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s hilly streets might leave you a bit breathless, but the charm is worth it. Walking around the city means discovering tiled buildings, ocean views, and the kind of neighbourhoods that reward curiosity. With trams, funiculars, and lifts helping you get around when the inclines hit, it’s totally possible to ditch the car and still see everything. The pace of life here makes it easy to slow down and just wander.
5. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Old Town, Castle District, and riverside walks are all incredibly pedestrian-friendly. Once you’re in the city centre, nearly everything worth seeing is just a short walk away, and the scenery along the way makes every step feel worthwhile. From Charles Bridge to hidden courtyards, this is a city where you want to take your time. Plus, the metro and tram systems are excellent if you want to branch out a bit further without getting behind a wheel.
6. Seville, Spain
Seville’s narrow streets, orange trees, and relaxed vibe make it ideal for walking. The old town is full of winding alleys, shaded plazas, and vibrant street life, and a car would only get in the way. You’ll find historic landmarks like the Alcazar and Seville Cathedral right in the heart of the action, all within easy reach by foot. Grab a snack, stop in a courtyard, and let the city guide you instead of your GPS.
7. Copenhagen, Denmark
Compact, well-organised, and beautiful — Copenhagen is a dream for walkers. From Nyhavn’s colourful harbour to the green spaces of Frederiksberg, you can cover a lot without needing transport. If you want to go a bit further, the metro is smooth and efficient. But honestly, with all the cafes, culture spots, and design shops tucked into every neighbourhood, your feet will get you where you need to go.
8. Bath, England
Bath is the kind of place that feels like it was built for wandering. With its Georgian architecture, Roman baths, and cosy streets, you can take it all in at a calm, steady pace. From the train station, you can walk straight into the heart of town. No car is needed to enjoy the main attractions, and half the fun is simply strolling through streets that feel like they belong in a novel.
9. Kyoto, Japan
While Kyoto has a solid bus and train network, much of its charm is best discovered on foot. Small temples, traditional houses, and quiet paths lined with bamboo or cherry blossoms make it perfect for slower travel. The Gion district, Philosopher’s Path, and Nishiki Market are all easy to navigate without a car. It’s a place that gently invites you to slow down, breathe, and let the scenery unfold with each step.
10. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana’s city centre is car-free =, which means you’re free to wander along the river, across bridges, and through markets without traffic getting in the way. It’s small, charming, and totally walkable. You can easily explore the old town, visit the castle, and enjoy open-air cafes all within a short stroll. It’s the kind of city that feels like a breath of fresh air, no car keys necessary.
11. Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux blends elegant boulevards with a laid-back riverside energy, and it’s all very walkable. The old town, wine bars, and galleries are easy to explore without a vehicle. The tram system is excellent if you want to hop around, but you can cover most of the city centre with just a pair of comfy shoes and a bit of curiosity. It’s the kind of place that rewards slow exploration.
12. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik may be the gateway to Iceland’s wild landscapes, but the city itself is compact and very walkable. Colourful houses, quirky shops, and ocean views all make it a lovely place to explore on foot. While you’ll need a car for the countryside, within the capital, you’re better off walking. Everything from cafes to museums is close by, and the calm pace makes it feel more like a town than a capital city.
