In travel, although it is convenient to rely on taxis or subways, it makes it difficult for us to truly immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of the city-the hustle and bustle of the streets and lanes, the traces of life left by generations, and the unique temperature and stories of the city.
More and more in-depth travelers are planning dedicatedCitywalkItinerary. This way of travel, which originated in London, allows us to taste the temperament of the city by walking and feel the pulse of the city with our footsteps in a big city where history and humanities are intertwined.
In this issue, we select the ten most suitable cities in Europe for strolling for you. Let’s read the outline of a city while stopping and going. Feel the gentle night of a city in freedom and leisure.
1. Florence, Italy
Florence is a famous Renaissance city with a long history and the cradle of European culture and opera. The city has completely preserved the street pattern and medieval architecture of ancient Rome, and has more than 40 museums, art galleries, and many universities and libraries.
The best way to visit is to stroll through narrow streets and alleys, admire the magnificent medieval architecture and feel the ubiquitous artistic atmosphere.
Recommended Walking Highlights:
– Piazza Michelangelo: Excellent location overlooking the panoramic view of Florence
– Bardini Gardens: An oasis of tranquility where wisteria blooms in spring
– Ponte Vecchio: The oldest and only bridge in the city that survived the flames of World War II
– Cathedral of Notre Dame des Fleurs: World cultural heritage, Gothic clock tower is of great artistic value
– Central Market: Taste local food and feel the fireworks in the market
2. Venice, Italy
Venice, Italy
Venice is a romantic city built on the canal, with the double reputation of “water city” and “bridge city”. There are 177 waterways and 401 bridges in the city, and there are no cars. Walking and boating are the best ways to explore it.
Recommended walking routes:
– Along the Grand Canal: Pass through four main bridges and enjoy the splendid architecture on both sides of the strait
– St. Mark Square: Venice Center, known as “the most beautiful living room in Europe”
– Bridge of Sighs: Baroque covered bridge connecting palace and prison
– Golden Palace: The most outstanding Gothic building in Venice, now a gallery
3. Riga, Latvia
Riga is known as the “heart of the Baltic Sea”. The old city has completely preserved the medieval style, and the red tile roof sets off the ancient church. The new urban area is full of modern buildings and sculptures, and full of green.
Walk Highlights:
– St. Peter’s Church: Ascend the tower overlooking the ocean of red roofs throughout the city
– Riga Central Market: The largest market in Europe, feel the breath of local life
– Historic district: Strolling among the alleys of the old city surrounded by canals
4. Athens, Greece
Athens is the cradle of western civilization and preserves many historical sites. From the Acropolis Parthenon to the ruins of the ancient bazaar, the whole city is like an open-air museum.
Recommended walking areas:
– Around the Acropolis: Looking up at the Parthenon, overlooking panoramic Athens
– Plaka Old Town: Labyrinth of streets filled with neoclassical buildings and small shops
– Syntagma Square to Ancient Angola: Crossing the historical axis of ancient and modern times
5. Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg is an important seaport in Germany and a famous “water city” in Europe, with more than 2,400 bridges. Walking along canals and lakes, you can fully feel the openness and vitality of this city.
Walking recommendations:
– Ulster Loch Circle: The inner lake is bustling, the outer lake is quiet, suitable for jogging and walking
– Warehouse City and Port District: A unique landscape interwoven with red brick buildings and modern bridges
– Town Hall and Michel Church: Area with concentrated historical buildings, panoramic views from climbing the tower
6. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a World Heritage City of Literature, where the medieval streets of the old town coexist harmoniously with the Georgian architecture of the new town, and almost all major attractions are within walking distance.
Classic walking routes:
– Royal Mile Avenue: The historical axis connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace
– Carlton Hill: The best place to see the city and sunset
– George Street, New Town: Appreciate neoclassical architecture and elegant squares
7. Madrid, Spain
Madrid is full of vitality and artistic atmosphere, with modern architecture and historical sites complementing each other. From the magnificent palace to the Lichi Park in full of green, the whole city is suitable for exploring with your footsteps.
Walk Highlights:
– Palace to Puerta del Sol: A classic route through the historic center
– Retiro Park: Stroll and relax in the huge gardens in the city center
– Avenue des Arts: Prado Museum and other art institutions are concentrated
8. Porto, Portugal
Porto is a wine capital surrounded by mountains and rivers, and the old city and wine-producing areas are listed as World Heritage Sites. Stroll along the Douro River and enjoy the colorful houses and ancient wine cellars on both sides.
Recommended walking experience:
– Louis I Bridge: Across the Douro River and enjoy the red roof view on both sides
– Old town alleys: Explore thousand-year-old streets and squares
– Riverside promenade: From Ribera District to Gaya New Town, feel the fragrance of wine and river breeze
9. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn is the only city in Northern Europe that has completely preserved its medieval style. The fairy-tale spire church and city wall make people feel like they have traveled back to the Hanseatic League period.
Walking Focus:
– Old City Walls and Towers: Walk around the medieval city walls, climb the tower and look out
– City Hall Square: Historic center, often hosting markets and cultural events
– Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: The iconic onion-topped Orthodox church
10.Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm consists of 14 islands and is known as the “Venice of the North”. The old town retains medieval streets, while the new town is full of modern design. The whole city is clean, quiet and full of culture.
Walking recommendations:
– Old Town (Gamla Stan): Walk through narrow cobblestone streets, visit palaces and churches
– Surroundings of City Hall: Admire the red brick buildings and views of Lake Mälaren
– Ship Island to Zoo Island: Cross many bridges and feel the charm of the water city
Only by slowing down can you hear the heartbeat of the city. On your next trip, try to really get to know a city by walking.
