There are many great cities in Europe that are very walkable and family-friendly. Here are some of the most walkable cities in Europe that you might want to consider to your family travel bucket lists:
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is famous for its beautiful canals, bridges, and architecture. It’s a very walkable city and also has an excellent public transportation system, including trams and buses. There are many parks, museums, and other family-friendly attractions to explore.
Amsterdam Walking Tour
This tour will take you through the historic canal district, the Jordaan neighborhood, and the Museumplein.
- Start your walking tour at Dam Square, the central square of Amsterdam. Here, you can see the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the famous Madame Tussauds museum.
- From Dam Square, head to the historic canal district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk along the canals and admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings, including the gabled houses and the famous Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge).
- Next, head to the Jordaan neighborhood, a trendy area filled with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Explore the narrow streets and alleys, and visit the famous Noordermarkt, a weekly market that sells fresh produce, flowers, and crafts.
- After exploring the Jordaan, head to the Museumplein, a large public square that is home to some of the city’s most famous museums. Here, you can visit the Rijksmuseum, which houses a vast collection of Dutch art and history, the Van Gogh Museum, which is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh, and the Stedelijk Museum, which showcases modern and contemporary art.
- Finally, end your walking tour at Vondelpark, the largest park in the city. The park is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, with lakes, gardens, and playgrounds. Relax and enjoy the scenery, or rent a bike and explore the park further.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a vibrant and colorful city with a rich history and culture. The city is home to many beautiful pedestrian-friendly streets, squares, and parks, and there’s a lot to see and do, from visiting the famous Park Guell to strolling along La Rambla.
Barcelona Walking Tour
This walking tour will take you through the Gothic Quarter, La Rambla, and the Born district.
- Start your walking tour at the Gothic Quarter, one of the most historic and beautiful neighborhoods in the city. Begin at the Plaça de Sant Jaume, the political and administrative center of the city, and admire the stunning architecture of the buildings, including the Ajuntament (City Hall) and the Palau de la Generalitat.
- Next, head to the famous Gothic Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 14th century. Explore the cathedral and its cloister, where you can see beautiful examples of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- From the Gothic Quarter, head to La Rambla, one of the most famous streets in the city. La Rambla is a bustling pedestrian street filled with street performers, artists, and cafes. Walk down La Rambla and admire the beautiful buildings, including the famous Liceu Opera House.
- At the end of La Rambla, you’ll reach the Monument a Colom (Christopher Columbus Monument). Take the elevator to the top of the monument for a stunning panoramic view of the city and the sea.
- After admiring the view, head to the Born district, a trendy neighborhood filled with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Visit the famous Mercat del Born, a beautiful covered market that dates back to the 19th century. The market is now home to a fascinating archaeological exhibit that showcases the ruins of a medieval city that was discovered during the market’s renovation.
- Finally, end your walking tour at the Parc de la Ciutadella, a beautiful park in the heart of the city. The park is home to the famous Cascada fountain, designed by Gaudi, as well as the city’s zoo and the Catalan Parliament.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a very bike-friendly city, but it’s also very walkable, with many pedestrian-only streets and squares. The city is home to beautiful architecture, a thriving food scene, and many parks and playgrounds for kids to enjoy.
Copenhagen Walking Tour
This tour will take you through the Nyhavn waterfront, the historic center, and the famous Little Mermaid statue.
- Start your walking tour at Nyhavn, the iconic waterfront district of Copenhagen. Admire the colorful buildings and historic ships docked along the canal, and stop for a coffee or a Danish pastry at one of the many cafes and restaurants.
- From Nyhavn, head to the historic center of the city. Walk along Strøget, the city’s main shopping street, and explore the beautiful squares and parks, including Kongens Nytorv, Amagertorv, and Rosenborg Castle Gardens.
- Next, head to Christiansborg Palace, the seat of the Danish Parliament and the Prime Minister’s office. Explore the beautiful palace and its gardens, and admire the stunning views of the city from the tower.
- After visiting Christiansborg Palace, head to the famous Little Mermaid statue, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The statue is located at Langelinie, a beautiful promenade along the waterfront.
- Finally, end your walking tour at Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. The park is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, with gardens, lakes, and a variety of rides and attractions.
Paris, France
Paris is known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and parks. It’s also a very walkable city, with many pedestrian-only areas, including the famous Champs-Elysees. The city has plenty of family-friendly attractions, from the Eiffel Tower to the Jardin des Plantes.
Paris Walking Tour
This tour will take you through the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Latin Quarter.
- Start your walking tour at the Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Climb to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city, or simply admire its beauty from below.
- From the Eiffel Tower, head to the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world. Walk along the tree-lined boulevard and explore the luxury shops and restaurants. Be sure to visit the Arc de Triomphe, located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées.
- Next, head to the Latin Quarter, a charming neighborhood known for its historic architecture, bookstores, and cafes. Walk along the narrow streets and explore the famous universities, including the Sorbonne and the Collège de France.
- After exploring the Latin Quarter, head to the Louvre Museum, one of the largest and most famous museums in the world. Admire stunning art collections, including the famous Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
- Finally, end your walking tour at Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the most famous churches in the world. Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and the beautiful stained glass windows.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a charming and historic city that’s easy to explore on foot. The city has many beautiful pedestrian-only streets and squares, as well as plenty of parks and playgrounds for kids. Vienna is also home to many museums, theaters, and other cultural attractions.
Vienna Walking Tour
This tour will take you through the historic center, the Ringstrasse, and the Naschmarkt.
- Start your walking tour at Stephansplatz, the central square of Vienna. Admire the beautiful St. Stephen’s Cathedral, one of the most important Gothic structures in Austria.
- From Stephansplatz, head to the historic center of the city. Walk along the pedestrianized streets and explore the beautiful squares, including the Hofburg Palace, the Spanish Riding School, and the Mozart statue.
- Next, head to the Ringstrasse, a beautiful boulevard that encircles the historic center of Vienna. Walk along the Ringstrasse and admire the stunning architecture of the buildings, including the State Opera House, the Parliament, and the City Hall.
- After exploring the Ringstrasse, head to the Naschmarkt, one of the largest outdoor markets in Vienna. Sample the delicious foods and drinks, including the famous Viennese coffee, and browse the many stalls selling fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs.
- Finally, end your walking tour at Schönbrunn Palace, one of the most famous landmarks in Vienna. Explore the beautiful gardens and fountains, and admire the stunning Baroque architecture of the palace.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a beautiful and historic city with many pedestrian-only areas, including the famous Royal Mile. The city is also home to many parks and playgrounds, as well as the famous Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh Walking Tour
This tour will take you through the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the Grassmarket.
- Start your walking tour at the Royal Mile, the historic street that runs through the heart of Edinburgh. Explore the beautiful architecture and visit some of the many attractions, including St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Museum of Edinburgh.
- Next, head to Edinburgh Castle, one of the most famous landmarks in Scotland. Explore the historic fortress and learn about its fascinating history, including the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.
- After visiting Edinburgh Castle, head to the Grassmarket, a lively square with many shops, restaurants, and pubs. Learn about the area’s history as a marketplace and execution site, and enjoy some traditional Scottish food and drink.
- From the Grassmarket, head to the National Museum of Scotland, one of the best museums in the country. Explore the many exhibits, including the natural history, science and technology, and Scottish history galleries.
- Finally, end your walking tour at Arthur’s Seat, a stunning hill located in Holyrood Park. Hike to the top of the hill for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is a stunning coastal city with a rich history and culture. The city’s Old Town is pedestrian-only, and there are many beautiful streets, squares, and landmarks to explore. The city also has many parks and beaches for kids to enjoy.
Dubrovnik Walking Tour
This tour will take you through the Old Town, the City Walls, and the Stradun.
- Start your walking tour at the Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town of Dubrovnik. Walk along the Stradun, the city’s main street, and admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings.
- Next, head to the Rector’s Palace, a beautiful Gothic-Renaissance palace that was once the seat of power in Dubrovnik. Explore the many rooms and learn about the city’s fascinating history.
- After visiting the Rector’s Palace, head to the City Walls, one of the most iconic landmarks in Dubrovnik. Walk along the walls and admire the stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
- From the City Walls, head to the Franciscan Monastery, a beautiful complex that includes a church, a cloister, and a pharmacy museum. Learn about the history of the monastery and admire the beautiful art and architecture.
- Finally, end your walking tour at the Lovrijenac Fortress, a stunning fortress located on a rocky outcrop above the sea. Admire the beautiful views of the city and the sea, and learn about the fortress’s history as a defensive stronghold.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is a beautiful city with many pedestrian-friendly streets and squares. The city is home to many museums, parks, and playgrounds, as well as the famous Vasa Museum, which houses a 17th-century warship.
Stockholm Walking Tour
This tour will take you through Gamla Stan (the Old Town), the Royal Palace, and Djurgården Island.
- Start your walking tour at Gamla Stan, the historic heart of Stockholm. Stroll along the winding cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings. Visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Swedish royal family, and explore the many rooms and exhibitions.
- Next, head to Stortorget, the main square of Gamla Stan. Admire the colorful buildings and the statue of St. George and the Dragon, and learn about the history of the square.
- From Gamla Stan, cross the bridge to the island of Djurgården, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of Stockholm. Visit the Vasa Museum, a fascinating museum dedicated to the famous Vasa ship, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was salvaged in the 1960s.
- After visiting the Vasa Museum, head to Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum. Explore the many historic buildings and learn about traditional Swedish culture and customs.
- Finally, end your walking tour at Fjällgatan, a stunning viewpoint that offers panoramic views of Stockholm and the archipelago. Admire the beautiful views and take some memorable photos.
These are just a few of the most walkable cities in Europe to visit with family. Each city has its unique charms and attractions, so you’re sure to find the perfect destination for your next family vacation.
