A new study by travel insurance experts at AllClear has unveiled the world’s most and least walkable cities, highlighting significant differences in pedestrian accessibility across global urban landscapes.
According to the research, Amsterdam has emerged as the world’s most walkable city, thanks to its extensive network of pedestrian-friendly streets. The Dutch capital is followed closely by Rotterdam and Venice, which also boast pedestrian zones and minimal elevation changes. These findings underscore the Netherlands as a prime destination for travelers looking to explore on foot.
Conversely, Bolivia’s La Paz has been ranked as the most challenging city for pedestrians, scoring 99.6 out of 100 on AllClear’s Walking Difficulty Score. Its high altitude and steep streets, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Andes Mountains, present unique challenges for those navigating the city on foot. South American cities dominate the top ten of this less desirable list, with Bogotá, Quito, and Cusco also featuring prominently due to their significant elevation changes and mountainous terrains.
AllClear’s study analyzed topographic data from over 240 cities worldwide, evaluating average elevation and elevation range to determine walkability scores. Cities with minimal elevation changes were deemed easier to navigate on foot, while those with steep inclines posed more significant challenges.
Bogotá, Colombia’s high-altitude capital, ranks as the second least walkable city with a score of 94.5. Despite improvements in pedestrian infrastructure, the city’s location in the Eastern Cordillera contributes to its challenging terrain. Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city, follows closely in fifth place with a score of 89.7, influenced by its valley – Valle de Aburrá- and steep mountains.
Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is the third most challenging city to walk in, scoring 94.4. Known as the world’s second-highest capital city, its high altitude and hilly terrain make walking strenuous for both residents and visitors. Cusco, the historic Incan capital in Peru, ranks just behind, with a score of 92.8, where its cobblestone streets and steep inclines can turn a leisurely stroll into a workout.
World’s Most Walkable Cities
In contrast, the most walkable cities feature primarily European locations, with Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Venice leading the pack. Amsterdam, scoring 20.1 on the Walking Difficulty Score, is celebrated for its pedestrian zones and car-free areas, providing a seamless walking experience. Rotterdam and Venice follow with scores of 20.7 and 22.8, respectively.
Asia also features prominently in the top 20, with cities like Kolkata and Chennai in India, Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the UAE, and the capitals of Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Indonesia making the list.
Buenos Aires is the only South American city in the top 20 most walkable cities, ranking 15th. The Argentine capital’s historic neighborhoods, pedestrian zones, and vibrant street culture contribute to its walkability, scoring just 39.7 points in terms of difficulty.
Letitia Smith, head of communications at AllClear, emphasized the importance of understanding a city’s topography for travelers, especially those with mobility issues or health concerns. “Visiting a new destination is exhilarating, but elevation changes can make a stroll more strenuous. Our research identifies cities offering comfortable experiences for sightseers eager to explore without facing significant physical challenges.”
Smith also highlighted the value of comprehensive medical travel insurance, particularly for travelers with pre-existing conditions or mobility concerns, ensuring they can enjoy their destinations without health worries.
For the complete list of the world’s most and least walkable cities visit: https://www.allcleartravel.co.uk/blog/worlds-most-walkable-cities/
