Step by step: Why you need a walking vacation and the benefits of exploring cities on foot

Walking is one of the most effective forms of exercise, and what makes it all the more incredible is that it is accessible to everyone. Only 30 minutes of brisk walking per day is enough to improve your cardiovascular health, improve your mood, and strengthen your bones. You don’t need any special equipment or a high fitness level for it either. So, what’s the only thing that’s better than walking? Walking in a brand-new city, of course, because it gives you the opportunity to explore and see places you’ve never seen before as well. In fact, many travel lovers recommend going on foot if you really want to grasp the feeling of a city and understand its authentic rhythm.

Moreover, you might actually discover things that weren’t in your guidebooks or itineraries, where the most common landmarks are the well-known ones that get hundreds and even thousands of visitors every day. Nothing wrong with those places, but there are so many hidden gems out there that it almost seems like a pity to miss out on them.

Getting ready

If you’ve been on hikes or treks, you know that preparation is key. Well, walking around a city will typically not be as demanding, but you should still prepare ahead. Make sure your smartphone is fully charged and consider getting an eSIM before leaving home. What are eSIM cards? They’re devices that many consider to be genuine lifesavers. They are added directly to your device, start working the moment you land, provide you with seamless internet, and eliminate roaming taxes. When you walk around a city, there will most likely be many things you see that you want to capture in a picture.

Having an eSIM gives you the opportunity to do so, as well as share all these images with everybody from back home who couldn’t come along on the trip. Keeping in touch with them will only enrich your experience. When it comes to footwear and clothing, make sure to dress based on the weather conditions and prioritize comfort first and foremost. Socks made of merino wool or synthetic materials will keep your feet dry and reduce friction on long walks. If you know that you’re prone to blisters, you might consider getting some anti-chafing balms or powders and applying them beforehand.

Remember to carry blister kits or bandages just in case as well. Make sure the backpack you carry is light and, if you can, take a crossbody bag instead. Don’t leave your water bottle at home, and make sure you have a reliable map with you. Having an eSIM typically means that you won’t lose connection regardless of where you are, but if you want to be extra safe, you can download some maps on your smartphone as well, for offline use. If you need snacks, high-energy options are the best choice, so pack protein bars, trail mix, sandwiches, dried fruit, or nut butter packets.

Bring a windbreaker if you expect the weather to change, and always apply sunblock ahead of time.

The advantages of walking vacations

To some, walking around during a trip might sound like a preposterous idea. After all, traveling is about lounging and relaxation, right? It’s true that if your ideal vacation is lying on a beach somewhere, listening to the waves, leisurely reading a book, and enjoying an ice-cold beverage, exploring itself is probably not for you. But if you like an adventure and want to discover new spots, walking is the perfect thing to do. First of all, it lets you become immersed in a place unlike anything else. You’ll notice architectural details that would be impossible to see when you’re speeding past them in a car, for instance.

You’ll also get the chance to discover spots that locals enjoy as well, not just tourists. There are many tiny landmarks, such as micro museums, unusual sculptures, and historical relics, you can find right down the road, historic plaque sites commemorating people, events, or turning points from centuries ago that feel all the more special because you just happened to stumble upon them, or picturesque urban sanctuaries, tucked-away fountains, or unique buildings.

If you plan your own routes, it’s much less likely that you’ll become lost as well because you’ll be able to build a better mental map of how the neighborhoods you pass by are connected. If the journey to the destination was stressful, you should know that walking has been proven to reduce cortisol levels, relieving anxiety and allowing you to truly enjoy your surroundings.

In search of authenticity

Finding authentic experiences can seem close to impossible, especially if you’re visiting a busy metropolis that is visited by many people and where tourist attractions are everywhere. However, what you typically need to do is look around a little. Step outside of the major tourist areas and remain willing to get a little lost and move outside of your comfort zone. Wander through local markets and grocery stores to support local businesses and get more in touch with what the local people eat.

It’s also a great way to financially support local establishments and communities, too. Your accommodation hosts, shopkeepers, and taxi drivers can probably recommend some really great locations if you’re looking for affordable and authentic restaurants as well. Walking away from central areas and tourist spots is typically enough to discover hidden neighborhood gems that most tourists are not aware of. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle but still enjoy your trip to the fullest, this is the best thing to do.

If you plan on walking around and exploring in this slower, more relaxed way, you’ll have to spend at least four days at a single destination. A week or even two would be ideal, but make sure that you don’t rush from one city to the next. You won’t get to discover anything, and absorbing the local culture will be close to impossible. And remember that it’s not just the big cities that have plenty of things to offer. Villages and smaller towns hold a lot of traditional beauty and are often home to lesser-known places of interest.

Slow tourism has become increasingly popular over the last few years, and more people are choosing to integrate it into their trips. Having greater personal awareness and getting to soak in the places you visit will help you feel like you’ve truly made the most of the places you visit. And exploring them step by step will feel great for your overall well-being.