Walkable Cities That Leave You Feeling Inspired 

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Photo Credit: Sotheby's International Realty

Walkable cities that leave you feeling inspired are few and far between. Not too many urban areas tend to be walkers' paradises.

But there are two cities -polar opposites and a world apart, literally- that individually ignite a desire for urban living, daily walking and the receiving of inspiration. Each of these two cities unapologetically exudes its own vibe: New York City is big, bold and brazen; Vienna is subtle, scenic and song-filled. However, both of these walkable cities -with homes just steps from city marvels- reboot a resident's mental and physical well-being, while kindling creativity.

Ready to take a stroll through each of these cities?

New York City

Walkable Cities
Photo Credit: Sotheby's International Realty
New York City consistently ranks one of the most walkable cities in the United States, and one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the world.
Walkable CitiesPhoto Credit: Sotheby's International Realty

Broad sidewalks, wide bike lanes, bike sharing programs and public transportation heavily contribute in making New York City a most enjoyable, walkable city. The famous poet, Walt Whitman, walked the streets of New York City and loafed his way through its streets, reflecting and basking in the city's energy. As a result, Whitman wrote the incomparable Leaves of Grass. Not too bad for a day's walk, eh?

Walkable Cities

Photo Credit: Sotheby's International Realty

Pleasurable walking routes, convenient amenities, and the short block lengths seamlessly lead the way for all who reside in or visit New York City.

Walkable Cities

Photo Credit: Sotheby's International Realty
Being able to walk out your door and be steps from your destination — whether that be your place of work, grocery store, restaurant, gym, coffee shop or park  — is great for your health, inspiration and quality of life. Just ask Whitman.

Vienna

Photo Credit: Sotheby's International Realty

Dubbed the City of Music, Vienna is also known as one of Europe’s top walkable cities. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that remains in first place in terms of quality of life.

Walkable CitiesPhoto Credit: Sotheby's International Realty

Vienna is saturated in the arts, with a long legacy for producing some of the most exceptional classical music.

Beethoven took long, solitary walks through Vienna. He always went for a vigorous walk after lunch, carrying pencil and paper to jot down impromptu musical notes. Vienna simply doesn't get any more inspirational than that, right?

Walkable CitiesPhoto Credit: Sotheby's International Realty

Vienna also has incredible museums and some amazing music venues that are world-class.

Walkable CitiesPhoto Credit: Sotheby's International Realty

Viennese coffee houses are considered cherished -walkable- institutions, loved by locals and tourists alike. They are within-walking-distance destinations that provide a quaint space for people to either discuss monumental events, or merely chit-chat and laugh the day away.

Walkable CitiesPhoto Credit: Sotheby's International Realty

Vienna is a simply great place to live; it's a green city which makes walking that much more enjoyable.

Studies have shown that walking stimulates creativity and helps to produce more innovative ideas. Creative thinking is actually enhanced during walks, as well as immediately thereafter. So, take a walk in your city and tap into your creative genius — and turn your walkable city into your own personal muse. Those creative and entrepreneurial sides of you will thank you.

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Suzanne Dooley
Suzanne Dooley is a freelance writer and essayist who specializes in lifestyle & wellness, real estate, arts & culture, food and travel topics for a variety of digital and printed publications. She is a former attorney who practiced law in Massachusetts, Washington D.C., Connecticut and New York. Suzanne is also an avid traveler and a gourmet food aficionado who currently resides in Manhattan.

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