Prepare to lace up your hiking boots if Lisbon is on your European travel itinerary! The charming Portuguese capital, renowned for its picturesque hills, has been crowned Europe’s least walkable city, leaving tourists with weary legs and a longing for comfortable transportation.
According to Preply, an online language tutor platform, a trek between Lisbon’s top five tourist attractions – the Oceanarium, Jerónimos Monastery, the historic Alfama region, Praca do Comercio square, and the vibrant Bairro Alto – requires a whopping 31,500 steps, equivalent to 15 hilly miles! This strenuous journey has earned Lisbon the unfortunate title of the ‘City of Seven Hills’ – and not in a flattering way.
Tourists have taken to Tripadvisor to echo the sentiments of Preply’s research. Reviews paint a vivid picture of aching back and legs, with many comparing Lisbon’s hills to the challenging topography of San Francisco. However, even with the uphill battle, the city’s beauty and charm are undeniable. Thankfully, Lisbon offers an array of affordable transport options, including taxis, trams, funiculars, lifts, metro, and buses, making it easier to navigate the city’s hilly landscape.
While Lisbon battles the steep slopes, Seville in Spain emerges as the champion of walkability, boasting five top tourist attractions all within easy walking distance. Visitors can wander through the impressive Plaza de Espana, explore the UNESCO-listed Real Alcazar palace and Seville Cathedral, and immerse themselves in the charming alleys of the Barrio Santa Cruz neighbourhood, all within a leisurely 20-minute stroll.
Venice, Porto, Florence, and Athens also rank among Europe’s most walkable cities, offering enchanting journeys on foot. Other notable contenders include Amsterdam, Milan, Rome, Cologne, Verona, Nice, and, of course, Seville.
As you plan your European adventure, consider these walkability rankings when choosing your destination. If you’re up for a challenge, Lisbon’s stunning views might just be worth the effort. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, Seville and its fellow walkable cities offer a truly delightful experience for those who love to explore on foot.