Munich - City marketing for the most walkable city in the world

Munich now holds the title of the most walkable city in the world, gaining recognition and attention. This title brings prestige while also unlocking great potential for a modern, impactful marketing strategy. Urban planners, tourism officials, and any full-service marketing agency offering performance marketing recognize this opportunity. They develop strategies to turn this title into a strong and credible brand message – and use it as a powerful driver for forward-thinking city marketing.

An international comparative study by the platform ‘Compare the Market’ reveals that Munich outperforms all major cities in terms of walkability. Prominent media outlets such as Travel + Leisure and the Daily Mail have also reported on the study's results. The evaluation was based on criteria such as:

• Number and quality of pedestrian zones
  
• Infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians
  
• Safety in public spaces
  
• Access to health facilities and education
  
• Costs and accessibility of public transportation
  
• Climatic conditions, such as average precipitation

Munich scored over 5 points in the overall evaluation, clearly outperforming all other cities. Particularly noteworthy: 86% of residents live less than one kilometer from a car-free zone. In addition, the city offers a dense network of bike and pedestrian paths, significantly improving mobility. Munich also impresses with high safety standards and a reliable, efficient public transport system.

Munich outperformed cities like Milan, Warsaw, Helsinki, and Paris to secure the top spot. Each of these cities has its own strengths – Milan charms with street cafés, Paris with historic boulevards. However, Munich combines all advantages at once: safety, infrastructure, recreational areas, and walkable attractions.

Pedestrian-friendly urban planning since the 70s

As early as the 1972 Olympics, Munich transformed key streets like Kaufingerstraße and Neuhauser Straße into car-free zones. This early decision pays off in the long run and enhances the appeal of the entire city center. Today, the center offers a vibrant area for retail, gastronomy, and tourism – all of which visitors can easily and fully explore on foot.

Extensive infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists

From the Isar promenade to the English Garden, Munich offers hundreds of kilometers of attractive paths for pedestrians and cyclists. The routes are well-maintained, wide, and safe, providing a pleasant user experience. They also lead through some of the most beautiful and popular green spaces in Europe.

Cleanliness, safety and reliability

Munich is one of the safest cities in Germany and even ranks fourth internationally in terms of safety. Well-lit streets, regular cleaning, and a visible police presence enhance the public’s sense of security. This factor plays an important role for pedestrians, especially for families and elderly people.

Tourist hotspots within walking distance

Whether it’s Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt, or the Residenz – all major attractions in Munich are easily accessible without a car. Tourists benefit from easy navigation and save themselves the hassle of complex route planning. There’s no need to look for parking – they can simply start walking and experience the city right away.

The award is not only a reason to celebrate, but also a clear advantage for strategic city marketing. It also provides an ideal starting point for targeted online marketing with a strong focus on tourism. A full-service agency can turn this into a cross-media campaign. This campaign presents Munich not only as a travel destination but also as an urban experience.

• “Experience Munich – completely car-free.”
  Perfect for tourists who value sustainability and simplicity.
• “Every step an experience.”
  An emotional claim for culturally curious travelers eager to explore history and the present on foot.
• “Safe, green, stress-free.”
  A slogan that appeals to families and older target groups.
• “From park to beer garden – the direct route.”
  With a wink for connoisseurs and Munich enthusiasts.

• “Walk Munich Week”
  A themed week featuring guided walks, challenges, and special promotions from local shops.
• “Step into Munich” – influencer campaign
  A collaboration with travel bloggers who experience Munich car-free and share their journeys.
• Digital experiences
  Interactive maps, walking route planners, and augmented reality tours via app.
• Content strategies with email marketing
  Segmented campaigns for different target groups: families, city explorers, and sustainability-focused tourists. Featuring tips, route suggestions, and hotel offers.

• Young travelers and backpackers
  Focus: “No car – no problem. Discover Munich on a budget.”
• Cultural enthusiasts and connoisseurs
  Focus: “Slow down – experience history and cuisine every step of the way.”
• Families with children
  Focus: “Safe journeys – from park to park, without traffic stress.”
• Sustainability-conscious tourists
  Focus: “CO₂-free through Munich – experience with a clear conscience.”

• Social Media: Instagram & TikTok with hashtags like #WalkMunich or #MunichOnFoot
• Email marketing: Targeted newsletters featuring themed routes and event information
• Performance marketing: Google Ads & display banners targeting city travelers in key markets
• Partnerships: Travel platforms, airlines, Deutsche Bahn, local hotels, and gastronomy

Munich is more than just a city – it offers an urban experience that reveals itself step by step. As a full-service agency for digital marketing, we see this recognition as a major strategic opportunity. With targeted campaigns, well-thought-out content strategies, and emotional brand positioning, we reach new audiences while strengthening tourism and shaping the city’s image in a positive and sustainable way.

Would you like to develop a similar strategy for your city or brand? Then feel free to contact us anytime!

As experts in email marketing, online marketing, and search engine advertising, we support you from start to finish. We also provide targeted assistance within the framework of effective and sustainable city marketing.

👉 Jetzt Contact aufnehmen und gemeinsam Ideen in Bewegung bringen!

Sources:

• travelandleisure.comtravelandleisure.comtravelandleisure.comtravelandleisure.comtravelandleisure.com
• thelocal.dethelocal.de
• polisnetwork.eu
• livemint.com
• travelandtourworld.comtravelandtourworld.comtravelandtourworld.com.
• https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-14686973/European-city-worlds-walkable-cheap-beer.html