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8 of the world’s best city walking routes

As many countries slowly begin to emerge from lockdown, countless would-be travellers have been exploring their own cities by foot. Here, DK Eyewitness Editor Rachel Laidler rounds up the world’s best city walking routes – so pack a picnic, pull on your trainers and get ready to go.
1

Walk the Thames River Path, London

What better way to explore London than with a walk alongside the meandering heart of the city, the River Thames? Starting in the bucolic countryside of the Cotswolds, this walkway follows the flow of London’s famous river for 294 km (182 miles) as it heads towards the coast, passing by some of London’s most famous attractions along the way. The section between Westminster Bridge and Greenwich is one of our favourite stretches. Not only will you get to see some of the city’s iconic landmarks – from the Gothic Houses of Parliament and futuristic London Eye to the ethereal dome of St Paul’s and historic Tower Bridge – you’ll also end your walk in leafy Greenwich Park, the perfect place to enjoy a well-earned picnic.
 
2

Walk the Seawall, Vancouver

Sandy beaches and emerald-green forests might not be the first thing you’d expect from a city walk – but that’s exactly what you’ll find in Vancouver. Stretching for 22 km (13.6 miles) around the edge of the city, the Seawall is the longest uninterrupted waterfront path in the world. Starting at the striking, foliage-topped Vancouver Convention Centre, you’ll follow this popular path around the edge of verdant Stanley Park – itself criss-crossed with forested walking paths – past buzzing Granville Island to the sandy shores of the ever-popular Kitsilano Beach Park. Take your time, pausing at one of the many beaches found along the way to listen to the lullaby lapping of waves against the shore and enjoy epic views of the North Shore Mountains encircling the city. 
3

Walk Table Mountain, Cape Town

Several routes wind to the top of Table Mountain, from the popular Platteklip Gorge, a zigzagging, staircase-like path that follows an old ravine, to the challenging Kasteelspoort, which leads hikers up past the Twelve Apostles, a series of peaks found at the back of Table Mountain. Whichever route you take, two things that are certain: the hike will be strenuous, but the panorama from the summit will be spectacular – from the top, you can take in views of the sprawling city below, as well as the famed Lion’s Head, historic Robben Island and sparkling Atlantic Ocean. If you don’t fancy hiking all the way to the summit you could always try the Pipe Track, a much gentler 6-km (3.7-mile) route following the bottom of the mountain that still boasts many of the same incredible views.
 
4

Walk the Berlin Wall Trail, Berlin

If you’re looking for a walk with a difference, this is it. Tracing the former location of Berlin’s infamous wall, this 160-km (100-mile) trail is peppered with sights that recall the city’s turbulent Cold War history. As you walk, pass by the poignant Berlin Wall Memorial on Bernauer Strasse, the iconic Checkpoint Charlie and the kaleidoscopically colourful East Side Gallery, the longest art gallery in the world. But it’s not just these historical highlights that make the trail worth a wander – the route eventually makes its way out of the city into picturesque countryside, where you can stroll past crystal-clear lakes and through dense forests, admiring pretty palaces as you go. And if you don’t fancy tackling it all in one go, don’t worry – the trail is split into 14 different sections, making it easy to pick your highlights.
 
5

Walk the Dragon’s Back Trail Hong Kong

This stunning 8-km (5-mile) trail is regarded as one of the world’s best urban hikes. Leaving the frenetic streets of Hong Kong behind, you’ll climb up through bright-green forest before following a foliage-draped, rolling ridgeline towards the 284-m- (932-ft-) high Shek O Peak, the highest point on the walk. From here, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the wonderfully verdant Hong Kong Island and, looking at the pathway winding over the undulating hills, you’ll realise how this trail got its name. Further on, spy the glimmering waters of Tai Tam Bay and, if it’s a clear day, catch a glimpse of laid-back Lamma Island in the distance. The trail finishes at the sugar-sanded shores of Big Wave Bay, where you can end your hike by taking a refreshing dip in the azure waves.
 
6

Walk the Hudson River Greenway, New York City

While it might not be as famous as the High Line or Central Park, the Hudson River Greenway is undoubtedly one of Manhattan’s best strolls. Separated from traffic, this tranquil walking-and-biking path traces the edge of the Hudson River for 21-km (13-miles), starting in leafy Inwood Hill Park and ending with spectacular harbour views in Battery Park. A number of other pretty green spaces line the route, too, including the scenic Riverside Park – best-known for the “Cherry Walk”, which is lined with blossoming cherry trees in spring – and the popular Hudson River Park, whose lush lawns make for great sunbathing spots. There’s plenty to spy as you stroll, too, from the historic Little Red Lighthouse to the striking Freedom Tower. The cherry on top? You’ll end your walk with views of a New York City icon – the awe-inspiring Statue of Liberty.
 
7

Walk Bondi to Coogee, Sydney

After a bit of urban beach hopping? This popular trail – just a stone’s throw from Sydney – has got you covered. Starting at Bondi, Australia’s most famous sweep of sand, the 6-km (3.7-mile) route traces the coastline, meandering along clifftop paths that offer jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean (remember to keep an eye out for dolphins and whales). The beautiful beaches dotted along the way beg to be explored: sink your toes into the red-sand shores of tiny Tamarama, watch experienced surfers tackle the swell from Bronte’s sweeping sands or go snorkelling in Clovell’s cobalt waters. Eventually, the path wends its way towards Coogee Beach, where you can take a dip in its historic ocean baths, have a seaside BBQ or simply sunbathe on its sugary sands.
8

Walk Pico da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro

This magical hike to the top of Pico da Tijuca has everything: lush rainforest, eye-catching wildlife and spectacular views. You’ll begin by ambling along the leaf-strewn paths of Tijuca National Park, one of the world’s largest urban national parks. On either side of the route, cascading waterfalls dot the dense rainforest, home to hooting howler monkeys, scampering lizards and countless species of birds, including bright-billed toucans. 
 
While most of this 3 hour hike isn’t that challenging, be warned: the final section is breathtaking and not just because of the views. To reach the summit – the second highest in Rio at 1,022 meters (3,353 ft) – you’ll need to climb a number of steep steps, bordered by a chain handrail. It’s tough, but the effort is more than worth it – at the top you’ll be greeted to 360-degree views of the city below, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, the space-aged Maracanã Stadium and Rio’s many pointed peaks rolling into the distance.