Germany is a country of car drivers – or so the cliché goes. But life is also made easy for pedestrians, especially in one city: Munich. No less than the Bavarian capital has earned itself a new title. A recent study has named Munich the most pedestrian-friendly city in the world!
The study by the comparison portal “Compare the Market” evaluated 53 cities worldwide based on eight criteria. These included the number of car-free zones, the cycle path network, safety, accessibility of health and educational facilities and the cost of public transport.
City of short distances and green oases
Munich stands out among all these criteria and in a global comparison. A full 86 percent of Munich’s population live less than one kilometer from a car-free zone. Parks, forests and traffic-calmed areas are therefore within easy walking distance for most residents. The provision of important facilities in Munich is also exemplary: 85 percent of residents have healthcare and educational facilities within walking distance.
Munich also boasts one of the world’s longest networks of cycle paths. With over 1.46 million kilometers of cycle paths, the Bavarian capital also occupies a top position here. Despite comparatively high ticket prices for local public transport, the city scores with a very high level of safety, which makes walking particularly attractive.
In an international comparison, Milan and Warsaw follow in second and third place. Overall, nine of the ten most pedestrian-friendly cities in Europe are metropolitan areas, including Helsinki, Paris, Oslo, Copenhagen and Amsterdam. Tokyo is the only non-European city to make it into the top ten.
Munich plans further improvements
The city of Munich is delighted with its title as the most pedestrian-friendly city in the world – but it is not resting on its laurels:The city will continue to be rebuilt and the quality of life is set to improve even further. Wider sidewalks and even more pedestrian-friendly traffic lights are planned. This will further promote walking in Munich.
Munich is an impressive example of how well thought-out urban planning and investment in infrastructure can improve life for pedestrians and cyclists. The Bavarian metropolis is therefore not only an attractive destination for all locals, but also for tourists – and sets global standards for sustainable, liveable urban development.