If you’re looking for a city break that lets you explore the sights at a leisurely pace, this city has 330 walking trails through stunning parks and gardens
The city has so much to explore(Image: Getty)
Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the prospect of a well-earned break. Yet we all know that sinking feeling of returning home utterly shattered after attempting to squeeze in far too much.
If you’re fed up with needing a holiday to recover from your holiday, it might be time to embrace the concept of slow travel.
One of the finest ways to do this is by opting for destinations that encourage you to unwind and reconnect with nature — and walking holidays are the perfect way to achieve just that.
Dave Mills, Chief Commercial Officer at Iglu Cruise, said: “Walking holidays offer flexibility and adventure, teaching travellers to enjoy the present moment and savour their travel experiences. You can still see the sights, but a more leisurely pace can offer a more rewarding trip.”
To help you pick the ideal destination, travel experts have unveiled the top European city breaks that also boast some truly breathtaking walking trails.
The Havel River walk is a great walk in the city(Image: Getty)
Drawing on data from outdoor app AllTrails, they identified the cities with the greatest number of walking trails within 15 minutes of the city centre. Taking the top spot is Berlin, Germany, reports the Express.
The German capital boasts a staggering 330 trails in and around the city, with the overwhelming majority featuring less than 150m of elevation gain — making them perfectly suited to walkers of all ages and abilities, particularly those aged 60 and over.
One of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks is the remains of the Berlin Wall. While the entire route spans over 99 miles, the central section draws the biggest crowds.
This walk seamlessly blends history with contemporary street culture and covers approximately nine miles. Along the way, you’ll pass the renowned Bernauer Straße Memorial, the best-preserved stretch of the wall, complete with an outdoor museum.
For a glimpse of the city that most tourists tend to overlook, the Panke River Walk is an ideal choice.
Located in northern Berlin, this trail extends for around five miles. A firm favourite amongst locals, it winds through lush public parks and gardens that rarely feature on the tourist trail.
This city is packed with plenty of walking tracks(Image: Getty)
For an even greater dose of the great outdoors, the Havel Heights Trail meanders 7.5 miles through Grunewald Forest. The route follows the banks of the Havel River, rewarding walkers with breathtaking views across the water.
The top 10 best city breaks for walkersBerlin, GermanyVienna, AustriaMunich, GermanyOslo, NorwayPrague, Czech RepublicStockholm, SwedenMadrid, SpainZurich, SwitzerlandDublin, Ireland