Summer has arrived, and while countless holidaymakers head to coastal destinations, city breaks offer equally rewarding experiences. Urban getaways brim with energy and adventure - particularly when the metropolis is designed for walking.

Time Out's 2026 global survey has crowned Seoul in South Korea as the planet's most walkable city. Despite its vast size, Seoul boasts exceptional pedestrian infrastructure featuring nearly 3,000 kilometres of pavements, generously proportioned walkways and well-organised crossing systems. Time Out's research revealed that 93% of Seoul inhabitants rated its walkability as "good" or "amazing" - the survey's highest score.

Seoul's main attractions in the historic district are very close. Walking from Bukchon Hanok Village to Gyeongbokgung Palace takes about 15-20 minutes, while Insadong are just a 10-15 minute walk from each other.

The metropolis features several outstanding walking routes, notably the Cheonggyecheon Stream. This 10 km restored urban waterway features an immaculately kept footpath connecting numerous underground stations and key landmarks, providing an ideal setting for discovering the city.

One visitor described the walk as an "oasis in the city" on Tripadvisor. They wrote: "You can walk along its banks, which are below the main street, watch the ducks in the water and relax. When you get tired, you can also eat at the cafes."

Another person said: "A stroll along the stream starting at Gwanghwamun where the stream emerges is a must do activity in Seoul.

"It is particularly vibrant in the early evening when locals take their evening exercise or simply sit alongside the steam, perhaps reading a book or talking with friends accompanied by the sound of moving water. Located below street level, sounds of the city become quickly muted."

There's also Seoullo 7017, a 1,074-metre elevated park transformed from a disused highway, where visitors can stroll above the urban landscape. According to travellers, the walkway is at its finest after dark when the city illuminates.

One visitor commented on Tripadvisor: "A pleasant walk over the hustle of the city. Markets are sometimes held at the weekend. It has a nice view of Seoul station, especially if you want to watch the sunset over the city.

"It's also nicely lit after dark. Usually, a few people walking about and taking photos, but it never feels too busy."

While Seoul claimed the number one position, another UK city came remarkably close in the rankings.

Scotland's capital Edinburgh secured second place as the world's most walkable city, with virtually identical percentages of respondents rating the city's walkability as "good" or excellent.

Edinburgh missed out on first place by a mere 0.08 percentile points.

Despite its steep inclines and cobbled, meandering lanes, numerous tourists flock to Edinburgh precisely for its walking opportunities. Renowned routes such as Arthur's Seat or Carlton Hill prove popular destinations, though the city proves equally delightful to explore on foot while popping into the countless pubs and cafes dotted throughout.