10 greenest cities in the world built for walking, not cars
Which cities are the greenest and most walkable in the world (photo: Getty Images)
Cities around the world are gradually moving away from car-centric development models. Walkability, green spaces, and compact urban planning are coming to the forefront — factors that directly affect quality of life, public health, and the environment.
Here is the list of cities where pedestrian comfort is a strategic priority and parks, waterfronts, and public spaces are part of everyday life.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is widely considered a benchmark for pedestrian-friendly cities in Europe. Central districts are almost entirely adapted for car-free movement, with wide sidewalks, convenient crossings, and thoughtfully designed public spaces.
Green areas are evenly distributed across residential neighborhoods, and most residents have a park or waterfront within walking distance.
Copenhagen (photo: Wikipedia)
Singapore
Singapore combines dense urban development with large-scale greenery. The city systematically integrates parks, rooftop gardens, green facades, and pedestrian routes into its urban infrastructure.
Even in business districts, people can walk through green corridors without leaving a comfortable city environment.
Singapore Botanic Gardens (photo: Wikipedia)
Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich consistently ranks among cities with the highest quality of life. Its compact layout, developed public transport, and smart zoning allow residents to handle most daily tasks on foot.
Urban parks, lakes, and green streets are organically woven into residential areas.
Main building of the University of Zurich (photo: Wikipedia)
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is a city where nature literally enters the urban core. Green spaces occupy a significant share of the city, while pedestrian routes run along the water, through parks, and historic districts. Car traffic is actively restricted, expanding space for people.
Nordic Museum (photo: Wikipedia)
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is known for its proximity to nature and a high level of environmental responsibility. Coastlines, parks, and pedestrian waterfronts are key elements of city life.
The city center is designed so residents can walk or cycle without relying on a car.
Stanley Park (photo: Wikipedia)
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Although often associated with cycling, Amsterdam is also one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities. The historic center, canals, squares, and parks create an environment where walking is the norm, not the exception. Green spaces are preserved even in densely built-up areas.
Amsterdam canals (photo: Wikipedia)
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is actively transforming its urban space by reducing car traffic and creating pedestrian neighborhoods. The concept of so-called "superblocks" allows streets to be turned into green public spaces where people, not vehicles, dominate.
Barcelona (photo: Wikipedia)
Munich, Germany
Munich combines classic European architecture with a large number of parks and green areas. Most neighborhoods offer convenient pedestrian routes, while access to services and public transport does not require a car. Urban gardens and green avenues are an integral part of city planning.
Königsplatz (photo: Wikipedia)
Madrid, Spain
Madrid is actively expanding pedestrian zones in the city center, investing in greenery, and reducing car traffic. Large parks, including those in historic districts, have become key hubs of urban life and everyday recreation.
Alcalá Gate (photo: Wikipedia)
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is regularly ranked among the world's most livable cities. It combines convenient pedestrian routes, large green areas, and efficient public transport.
The urban environment is designed so people can live, work, and relax within short walking distances.
Hundertwasser House (photo: Wikipedia)
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Sources: Earth.org, Wikipedia, Walk Score.
