15 Least Walkable Cities in the World

When planning a trip, many travelers prioritize walkability as a key factor in choosing a destination. Picture this: you’re eager to explore a new city, imagining yourself strolling through charming streets and stumbling upon hidden gems. But what if your dream destination turns out to be a pedestrian’s nightmare? From sprawling metropolises to car-centric urban jungles, some cities around the world seem to have forgotten the simple joy of walking.

Don’t let the lack of sidewalks discourage you, though! These cities still have plenty to offer – you’ll just need to get creative with your transportation. Whether it’s mastering the art of hailing a taxi, becoming best friends with the local bus driver, or embracing the thrill of a rental car adventure, there’s always a way to uncover the unique treasures these destinations hold. So lace up your comfiest shoes (you might need them for the occasional mad dash across a busy intersection) and join us as we explore the world’s most challenging cities for pedestrians.

Orlando, Florida

Orlando, Florida, known for its world-famous theme parks, is a city where visitors may struggle to get around on foot. Despite the walkability within individual parks, traveling between attractions often requires a car or public transit, as distances can be significant.

A study by Florida Today shows that exploring Orlando’s top five attractions would require covering at least 31 miles, making walking a challenging choice. For visitors with limited time, renting a car is often essential to fully experience everything the city has to offer.

Munich, Germany

Oh, Munich! You’d think a city famous for its beer gardens and Oktoberfest would be a walker’s paradise, right? Well, surprise, surprise! This Bavarian beauty is actually one of the least walkable cities out there. Who would’ve guessed?

Sure, you might burn off those pretzels and beer calories, but at what cost? Trekking over 10 miles just to hit the top spots? That’s like a mini-marathon! And let’s be honest, after a few steins at the Hofbräuhaus, the last thing you want is a long hike back to your hotel. So, pack your comfiest shoes or better yet, befriend the local transit system. Your feet will thank you!

Patras, Greece

Patras! The Greek city that’ll make you wish you had wings instead of feet. This charming coastal gem might be Greece’s third-largest city, but when it comes to walkability, it’s bringing up the rear. Imagine trying to stroll between attractions and ending up feeling like you’ve participated in a Greek marathon!

But don’t let that scare you off, my adventurous friend! Patras is still a treasure trove of history and fun. Just think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure game: Will you brave the streets on foot, master the art of local bus-hopping, or rent a car and zoom around like a modern-day Hermes? Whatever you choose, those ancient ruins, sunny beaches, and that killer carnival aren’t going to explore themselves!

Lisbon, Portugal

Ever dreamed of combining a city tour with an intense leg workout? Welcome to Lisbon! This stunning Portuguese capital might as well be sponsored by thigh masters and calf raises. With its San Francisco-esque hills and spread-out attractions, you’ll be feeling the burn in places you didn’t know existed.

But don’t let the inclines intimidate you! Lisbon’s charm is worth every bead of sweat. Between gasping for air, you’ll be gasping at the beautiful views. And when your legs finally wave the white flag, hop on one of those adorable yellow trams. They’re not just for tourists; they’re for survivors of Lisbon’s urban mountain climbing experience. Remember, what goes up must come down… eventually.