City marketing in Munich – the most walkable city in the world

Munich now holds the title of the most walkable city in the world, gaining prestige and attention as a result. This title brings recognition and simultaneously creates great potential for a modern, effective marketing strategy. Urban planners, tourism officials, and every full-service marketing agency offering performance marketing recognize this opportunity. They develop strategies to transform this title into a strong and credible brand message—and use it as a powerful impetus for future-oriented city marketing.

Why Munich ranks number one worldwide

An international comparative study by the platform ‘Compare the Market’ shows that Munich outperforms all major metropolises in pedestrian-friendliness. Relevant media such as Travel + Leisure and the Daily Mail also reported on the results of this study. The criteria evaluated included:

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

Munich scored over 5 points in the overall rating, leaving all other cities far behind. Particularly noteworthy: 86% of residents live less than one kilometer from a car-free zone. Additionally, the city offers a dense network of bike and pedestrian paths, significantly improving mobility. Munich also stands out for its high safety and a reliable, efficient public transport system.

The European leader in international comparison

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

What makes Munich the most walkable city in the world

Pedestrian-friendly urban planning since the 1970s

Bereits zur Olympiade 1972 wandelte Munich zentrale Straßen wie die Kaufingerstraße und Neuhauser Straße in autofreie Zonen um. Diese frühe Entscheidung zahlt sich langfristig aus und stärkt die Attraktivität des gesamten Stadtzentrums. Heute bietet das Zentrum ein pulsierendes Areal für Einzelhandel, Gastronomie und Tourismus. Besucher können es vollständig und bequem zu Fuß erschließen.

Umfangreiche Infrastruktur für Fußgänger und Radfahrer

Von der Isarpromenade bis zum Englischen Garten bietet Munich hunderte Kilometer attraktive Wege für Spaziergänger und Radfahrer. Die Wege wirken gepflegt, verlaufen breit und sicher, wodurch sie eine angenehme Nutzung ermöglichen. Außerdem führen sie durch einige der schönsten und beliebtesten Grünflächen Europas.

Sauberkeit, Sicherheit und Verlässlichkeit

Munich zählt zu den sichersten Städten Deutschlands und erreicht international sogar den vierten Platz beim Thema Sicherheit. Gut beleuchtete Straßen, regelmäßige Reinigung und sichtbare Polizeipräsenz stärken das Sicherheitsgefühl der Bevölkerung. Dieser Faktor spielt eine wichtige Rolle für Fußgänger, besonders für Familien und ältere Menschen.

Touristische Hotspots direkt zu Fuß erreichbar

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

How Munich should exploit this potential in its marketing

The award not only provides a reason to celebrate but also offers a clear advantage for strategic city marketing. It also creates an ideal starting point for targeted online marketing with a strong tourist focus. A full-service agency can develop and implement a cross-media campaign based on this. This campaign places Munich at the center, not only as a travel destination but also as an urban experience.

1. Brand messages for communication

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

2. Sample campaign ideas

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

3. Target groups and how to address them

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

4. Channels for the campaign

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

Conclusion: A city worth experiencing

Munich is more than just a city; it offers an urban experience that unfolds step by step. As a full-service agency for digital marketing, we see this award as a great strategic opportunity. With targeted campaigns, thoughtful content strategy, and emotional brand management, we reach new target groups. At the same time, we strengthen tourism and positively and sustainably shape the cityscape.

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. In doing so, we also provide targeted assistance within the framework of effective and sustainable city marketing.

👉 Get in contact now and let’s bring ideas into motion together!

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