Two Scottish cities named among world's top spots for exploring on foot
If you're after a city best explored step by step, two destinations in Scotland have made their mark on the global stage. Our two biggest settlements have been named among the best in the world when it comes to walkability.
Edinburgh and Glasgow have been included in a top 100 global list by travel platform GuruWalk, thanks to their architecture, culture, and interesting and historical routes.
When it comes to exploring a city, nothing beats discovering it on foot. While open-top bus tours have their charm, the real magic lies in wandering down side streets, past hidden gems and through centuries of history that vehicles can't reach.
Walking not only gives you a closer look but keeps your step count high and your wallet happy.
Travel platform GuruWalk, which connects tourists with local guides offering free walking tours, compiled the list from March 2024 to April 2025, based on page views and booking trends across its global platform.
Edinburgh maintained its impressive 19th-place finish from last year, thanks to its captivating mix of history, architecture and atmosphere.
GuruWalk said: 'Edinburgh enchants with its blend of medieval architecture and contemporary atmosphere. From the Castle to the Royal Mile, the city invites you to explore it at a leisurely pace. Every corner here feels magical!'
Visitors to the capital can take part in free themed walks, including ghosts and mysteries of the Royal Mile, a Mary Queen of Scots tour, a Harry Potter-themed route and even a Trainspotting-inspired walk through Leith.
Further down the list, Glasgow secured 91st place, continuing to charm with its cultural buzz and striking architecture. GuruWalk said: 'Glasgow is renowned for its lively arts, music and cultural scene.
"Strolling through its streets means discovering impressive Victorian buildings, contemporary galleries and an ever-changing culinary scene that reflects its young and dynamic spirit.'
Guided walks in the city include tours along the River Clyde, the old Tollbooth, Buchanan Street, Glasgow Cathedral, and routes exploring the city's darker secrets.
London also made the cut, with GuruWalk praising its mix of past and present. They said: 'With an unrivalled combination of history and modernity, London fascinates travellers from all over the world with places such as Buckingham Palace, Camden Town and Soho, which are ideal for exploring at a leisurely pace on foot.'
Topping the list this year was Rome, followed closely by Budapest and Madrid. GuruWalk said: 'Rome tops this ranking once again. The Eternal City remains a key destination for travellers fascinated by ancient history.
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"The Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Baroque squares make Rome an open-air museum that deserves to be explored thoroughly, step by step.'
On Budapest, they added: 'Known as the 'Pearl of the Danube', Budapest blends imperial architecture with a vibrant cultural scene. The Parliament, the Fisherman's Bastion and the thermal baths are some of the best places to discover on foot.'
And about Madrid, they wrote: 'The Spanish capital offers the perfect combination of art, urban life and iconic parks. Strolling through its streets from the Plaza Mayor to the Retiro is like diving into a lively city full of surprises.'
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