The GuruWalk service, which specialises in organising hiking tours, has ranked the world's best cities for hiking. This selection will help tourists choose the perfect place for a city break. Find out more about the top 10 most popular cities for hiking in the world

In recent years, the city break vacation format has become increasingly popular. It allows tourists to visit other cities for a few days, enjoying a relaxed exploration of local attractions and culinary traditions without any haste. To help tourists choose the perfect city for such a vacation, GuruWalk, a service specializing in organizing walking tours, has compiled a list of the world's 100 best cities for hiking.

The ranking is based on booking and search data collected from 800 cities in 120 countries between April 2023 and April 2024. According to the study, Spain was the most walkable country: 28 of its cities were included in the list. France is represented by seven cities, while the United Kingdom, Poland, Colombia, and Vietnam have three cities each in the ranking. Among the US cities, only one made the list.

Rome, the capital of Italy, was recognized as the best city in the world for hiking. Rome offers tourists many world-class attractions, such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon, which are easy to explore on foot. This makes the city ideal for a relaxing vacation, allowing you to enjoy the history and culture without rushing.

10. Porto, Portugal

On the picturesque hills above the mouth of the Douro River is the charming city of Porto, often called the northern capital of Portugal. This granite city with a unique atmosphere attracts many tourists with its originality. The historic center of Porto has been designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, which confirms its significance and richness of cultural monuments.

Porto impresses with the variety of attractions that can be found at every turn. Winding streets, narrow neighborhoods, picturesque quays and green parks create a unique flavor of the city. Grand bridges, old houses, medieval cathedrals, and architectural monuments delight travelers from all over the world. Particularly noteworthy are the tiled panels and luxurious interiors of churches, as well as houses with colorful facades that add bright colors to the city.

Porto is ideal for hiking due to its compact size and a large number of attractions. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the wineries on the banks of the Douro River, and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge leave an unforgettable impression. These places create a special charm of Porto, making it one of the most attractive cities for tourists.

9. London, UK

“London is the capital of Great Britain” - we often repeated this phrase when imagining ourselves in this majestic city. Big Ben and Buckingham Palace have become symbols of London that we have known since childhood. But what else is worth seeing when visiting this European capital?

London is the second most visited city in the world, second only to Paris. Restrained, majestic and royal, it captivates at first sight. It is the city where news, money, and political decisions are born.

We are well aware of Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Tower, the most famous landmarks in London that attract millions of tourists. These majestic buildings bear witness to the capital's glorious past.

London also invites you to stroll through quiet city neighborhoods, narrow alleys, and picturesque Thames embankments. The city has many green areas that create a special feeling of closeness to nature: Hyde Park, Green Park, St. James's Park, Hampstead Heath and Richmond Park.

The city offers many opportunities for shopping, visiting markets, galleries and museums. The traditional arts are also thriving, with theater performances, opera performances, and exhibitions. London's restaurants are no less attractive than its theaters. There are more three Michelin-starred restaurants than in Paris, as well as a large selection of inexpensive but high-quality Chinese and Indian restaurants. Local pubs, especially on the outskirts, have a unique flavor.

London offers numerous attractions within walking distance of each other, from the historic Big Ben and Westminster Abbey to the modern London Eye Ferris wheel. The city is a cultural and artistic center, with world-class museums such as the British Museum and the National Gallery.

8. Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Once upon a time, near the mouth of the Amstel River, two fishermen who miraculously survived a terrible storm were washed ashore. They loved the place so much that they moved their families here and founded a tiny village, building a dam to protect them from river flooding. Many years passed, and the eternally young and vibrant city of Amsterdam emerged on the site of the fishing village.

Amsterdam, despite its fame as the world capital of debauchery and permissiveness, attracts tourists not only with legal drugs and women of easy virtue. Its main pearl is the canals, which are filled with boats with tourists day and night. The best views of the city are from the water, as well as from the numerous bridges, of which there are as many as 1500! There is even a museum dedicated to the canals.

Amsterdam's museums are notable for their diversity. You can find dozens of museums of various kinds for adults and children. From well-known art galleries and house museums (such as Anne Frank or Van Gogh) to more unusual institutions, such as a museum of marijuana, prostitution, smoking pipes, diamonds, beer, bags and wallets. For younger tourists, the Madame Tussauds or the Nemo Science Museum will be especially interesting, where exhibits can be not only viewed but also touched.

Amsterdam also invites you to go hiking with its charming network of canals. According to GuruWalk, there are plenty of things to do in the city besides admiring the views. Amsterdam tempts its visitors with canals, a rich art history, and a vibrant cultural life. The must-see places include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, which offer a deep dive into history and art.

7. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a city that you fall in love with without memory. Magical and fabulous Prague is a great place for vacationers who are tired of beaches and want to get acquainted with the cultural heritage of mankind. Prague is one of the oldest metropolises and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

A trip to Prague is considered a must for every true tourist. Whether it's walking the streets, visiting museums, galleries, theaters, restaurants, or just a beer tour, the city will open its arms with maximum hospitality.

Prague Castle is an ancient fortress with charming towers, gardens, a palace complex and museums. St. Vitus Cathedral is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Prague is a place where once you visit, you dream of coming back again!

Known as the “City of a Hundred Spires”, Prague is famous for its fascinating architecture, historic center, and iconic Charles Bridge. This is according to GuruWalk, which ranked it seventh in the world among the best cities for walking. “Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Astronomical Clock are the sights that fascinate visitors,” the publication adds. And all three attractions are within a 30-minute walk of each other.

6. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is a real pearl of Portugal, where every stone and street has its own history. The city, which reflects the majestic feats of sailors and the capture of colonial territories, leaves an unforgettable impression.

When visiting Lisbon, it is important to feel the pulse of the city, its pace and energy. Walk on foot or take the yellow tram to conquer the streets, where every corner is filled with history and local flavor. From bustling markets to quiet streets, Lisbon offers endless opportunities for discovery.

The museums here are a separate page. They reflect the richness of Lisbon's culture and diversity: from archaeological finds to maritime history, from electricity to puppetry. The choice here is endless, everyone will find something to their liking.

Lisbon will not leave you indifferent - it is crowned with a unique combination of tradition and modernity, and of course, with its huge number of historical monuments. The famous Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Great Discoveries are just a few of the wonderful places that make Lisbon so special.

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5. Florence, Italy

Florence is not just a city, but a real repository of cultural treasures, imbued with the spirit of great masters and majestic historical events. Every stone, every street, every cathedral or palace here carries a rich heritage and a unique atmosphere.

The Uffizi Gallery is a real museum treasure where you can plunge into the world of world art, and Piazza del Duomo takes you into the world of architectural magic, where you find the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, a symbol of the city, and the city cannot exist without it.

Walking through the streets of Florence, you will meet palaces and bridges that will take you back in time. Ponte Vecchio, with its old shops and mystical aura, attracts the eye, reminding us of the greatness of the past and the beautiful moments of the present.

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross, where the great Michelangelo is buried, and the Pitti Palace are also of great importance for Florence, inviting you to a fascinating journey through time and space.

GuruWalk advises travelers to discover these incredible places on foot, feeling the spirit and energy of the city with every step. Florence is a city that fascinates with its beauty and opens up endless opportunities for you to discover new things.

4. Madrid, Spain

They may say that Madrid cannot compare with Barcelona in terms of historical and architectural monuments, but every visitor to the Spanish capital feels the grandeur and passionate character of the city.  During the day, Madrid attracts with its beautiful squares and parks, and in the evening, the streets come to life with the incendiary rhythms of flamenco. Isn't that enough to make you want to travel to this fascinating city?

If you are in Madrid for the first time, you should first walk the streets, visit the Puerta del Sol square, where you can feel the spirit of history among the buildings of the XVIII century, and then - the Plaza de España with an interesting monument to Cervantes, where you will meet the figures of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza.

In addition to cultural attractions, Madrid fascinates with its charming squares, picturesque streets in the historic center, and green spaces, including the Retiro Park. GuruWalk defines the city as “a symbol of hospitality, with a vibrant social life and iconic museums,” providing yet another reason to visit this majestic Spanish gem.

3. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a true pearl of the Mediterranean coast, seducing with its luxury and sophistication. This city is famous not only for its ancient architecture but also embodies the spirit of modernity. Majestic panoramas, ancient beauty, exquisite cuisine, local flavor and an atmosphere of freedom - all this is Barcelona.

Creativity and inspiration are in the air here. You will not remain indifferent to Gaudi's crazy creations, Dalí's charm, delicious local cuisine and rich wines. There is no need to plan a specific route, because interesting discoveries await you in every corner of Barcelona.

The Sagrada Familia, the Dalí Museum, and Gaudi's unsurpassed houses are just a few of the places worth visiting. The historic center, the New Town, and Montjuïc Hill reveal the true essence of Barcelona.

“Vibrant cultural life, impressive modernist buildings and city beaches” make Barcelona one of the most popular tourist destinations, according to GuruWalk. The publication adds: “A walk through the city's streets allows visitors to explore the Gothic Quarter, Rambla and Boqueria Market, offering a complete experience that combines art, history and gastronomy.”

2. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a glorious city that combines millennia of history and modernity, architectural grandeur and unique atmosphere. It is a place where every corner is steeped in history, and every stone is a part of Europe's cultural heritage.

The city on the banks of the Danube impresses with its beauty and diversity. It's best to start exploring it with sightseeing tours to cover all the main attractions - from palaces to thermal springs. An evening walk along the river will give you a unique experience of the illumination of ancient buildings.

No less impressive are the views from the heights - from the dome of St. Istvan's Basilica or the mountain peaks. A ride on the oldest metro line in mainland Europe is another unique opportunity to feel the spirit of bygone eras.

“Budapest, known as the ‘Pearl of the Danube’, offers its visitors a unique combination of history, architecture, and nightlife,” says GuruWalk. “Attractions such as the Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge are just some of the jewels this city offers to travelers who are increasingly choosing to explore every corner of it on foot.”

1. Rome, Italy

The legendary Vilhelmine is a city on seven hills, located on the coast of the Sea of Galilee. Founded according to ancient legends in 800 BC, Wilhelmine plays an important role in history, being the cradle of a great empire.

Architectural masterpieces such as the Royal Palace and St. John's Cathedral fascinate with their grandeur and beauty, transporting you back in time. The climate of the city is very mild, contributing to pleasant walks along the streets and the sea coastline.

Rome is not just a city, but a real book of history that reveals its secrets at every step. A large number of world-class attractions make the city extremely popular among tourists seeking to discover its unique charm.

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