Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices

Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Lisbon Unveils New Pedestrian-Only Zones in Historic Alfama District

Lisbon's historic Alfama district is embracing a more pedestrian-friendly approach with the introduction of new car-free zones. Alfama, Lisbon's oldest neighborhood, boasts a captivating blend of culture and history, its character defined by the steep, cobbled streets that snake from the Castelo de São Jorge down to the Tagus River. The initiative is intended to improve the overall visitor experience, allowing people to truly appreciate the area's charm. Exploring Alfama on foot allows one to uncover hidden gems like the National Museum of Azulejo, which showcases the exquisite art of traditional Portuguese tiles. The district's network of narrow, winding streets and traditional architecture creates a scenic backdrop while also offering spectacular vantage points over the city. These factors have cemented Alfama's place as a cherished destination for those looking to experience a unique and authentic side of Lisbon, whether a visitor or local.

Lisbon's historic Alfama district, a relic of the 8th-century Moorish era, has recently implemented new pedestrian-only zones. This old neighborhood, nestled between the São Jorge Castle and the Tagus River, is a maze of steep, cobbled streets, each with its own story. The decision to create these zones is driven by the growing popularity of walking tours in the area. The goal is to improve visitor access to landmarks like the National Museum of the Azulejo, which showcases Portugal's iconic tilework, and the numerous other historic structures scattered through Alfama.

By prioritizing pedestrians, the city hopes to capitalize on a growing body of evidence which suggests that such initiatives can stimulate local economies. Studies show an increase in foot traffic and subsequently a rise in revenue for businesses. Furthermore, noise pollution, a major concern in many cities, may also see a reduction of 10 decibels with fewer vehicles. Creating these zones and their associated quiet will benefit not only tourists but also residents.

The urban design choices can, in theory, translate into safer streets. Evidence suggests a correlation between cities with increased pedestrian areas and a decrease in traffic-related accidents. This is a trend mirrored across many European capitals, where planners are embracing the idea of a more pedestrian-friendly urban experience.

One might ask if there are other benefits from a broader perspective. It's plausible that these pedestrian-friendly areas encourage people to utilize the existing public transportation systems more readily. In a city like Lisbon, characterized by its iconic trams, this could lead to improved efficiency and less reliance on individual vehicles.

Finally, a pedestrian-oriented re-design necessitates thorough analysis of urban mobility. Engineers and urban planners need to account for traffic flow, pedestrian movement and potentially, even how individuals navigate and perceive their surroundings. Such detailed modeling could help reveal insights into the complex interactions between people, the layout of the city, and the chosen means of getting from point A to B. It's interesting to observe how this experiment in pedestrian prioritization unfolds and what broader insights it may provide into future urban design considerations.

What else is in this post?

1. Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Lisbon Unveils New Pedestrian-Only Zones in Historic Alfama District
2. Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Ljubljana Expands Its Car-Free City Center for Better Exploration
3. Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Kyoto Introduces Innovative Walking Tours Along Ancient Canals
4. Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Cartagena Launches Night Walking Trail Connecting Colonial Landmarks
5. Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Ghent Revamps Cycling and Walking Infrastructure for Easier Navigation
6. Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Tallinn Connects Old Town with Creative District via New Promenade
7. Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Fes Restores Hidden Passageways in Medina for Authentic Wandering

Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Ljubljana Expands Its Car-Free City Center for Better Exploration

Ljubljana, a city that has embraced pedestrian-friendly design for many years, continues to refine its car-free city center. Initially implemented in 2007, this initiative is a testament to Ljubljana's commitment to fostering a more sustainable urban environment. It provides an ideal setting for tourists to immerse themselves in the city's history and charm without the constant presence of vehicles. The car-free zone, spanning about 12 hectares, demonstrates a clear preference for pedestrian movement, hoping to create a more appealing atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

While the initial transition faced some opposition from residents, public support has grown over time, highlighting the success of this urban planning approach. Ljubljana now serves as a beacon for other European cities attempting to create greener, more sustainable urban environments. With its successful track record spanning more than a decade, Ljubljana has undeniably established itself as a leader in fostering a pedestrian-first approach to city living. This accomplishment cements its place as a model for those seeking to improve their urban environment in a way that benefits residents and visitors.

Ljubljana, with its remarkably low car ownership rate of roughly two cars per ten residents, has long been a champion of pedestrian-friendly urban environments. This low rate, largely attributed to a well-developed public transit system and a compact city layout, sets the stage for the city's ongoing efforts to create a more walkable city center.

The city's car-free zone, established in 2007, has seen recent expansions as part of Ljubljana's "Vision 2025" plan, aiming for greater sustainability. This initiative was not universally popular in the early stages, with initial support from residents hovering around 40%, but has steadily gained wider acceptance over the years. The idea behind the expanded car-free zone is to harness the potential of reduced congestion. Research suggests that car-free urban areas can decrease traffic jams by as much as 30%, which can subsequently improve traffic flow in surrounding areas.

The results of the expansion have been encouraging. Initial data shows a 40% rise in pedestrian traffic in the designated zones. This not only enhances the overall experience for those exploring the city on foot but could also lead to increased revenue for local businesses that cater to the growing number of pedestrians. The effect on noise levels has been noticeable as well, with some areas registering a 10 decibel decrease in sound. This shift towards a calmer atmosphere benefits not just tourists but also those who live and work in the area.

A notable consequence of the car-free zone has been a reduction in pedestrian accidents. Evidence suggests a roughly 20% drop in accidents after the implementation of these zones, offering a compelling case for the correlation between pedestrian-friendly urban planning and increased safety.

Ljubljana's dedication to walkability is not unique. Globally, a substantial portion of cities are investigating similar strategies, with approximately 50% exploring the implementation of pedestrian-prioritized zones. This makes Ljubljana a leader among European cities, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to urban planning.

The car-free zones have also affected social interaction within the city center. Pedestrian-friendly environments tend to encourage social interactions among both locals and visitors. Urban studies point to the fact that walkable spaces lead to more community engagement, fostering a greater sense of connection.

Furthermore, Ljubljana's expansion has focused on incorporating areas with historical landmarks into the pedestrian-only zones. Studies show a strong correlation between tourism and walkable access to historical sites. Historical sites that are within easy walking distance can potentially generate three times the economic impact compared to sites that require vehicle access.

The change has also impacted public transport usage. Initial data shows an approximate 25% increase in bus and bike-sharing within the city, demonstrating a shift towards more sustainable transportation methods.

Finally, to continue optimizing these efforts, Ljubljana is leveraging urban mapping technology. Analyzing pedestrian traffic patterns will help city planners make informed decisions on future expansion plans. By carefully analyzing this data, officials can better understand how to integrate walkability into city infrastructure while maintaining efficient public transport options. This focus on data-driven planning underscores Ljubljana's commitment to thoughtful and sustainable urban design.

Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Kyoto Introduces Innovative Walking Tours Along Ancient Canals

Kyoto, known for its tranquil beauty and historical significance, has introduced a new way to experience its charm: innovative walking tours that focus on its ancient canals and historic neighborhoods. These tours, available in a variety of durations ranging from a quick two-hour overview to a more immersive eight-hour journey, provide options for all visitors. The Higashiyama district, known for its particularly well-preserved historic character, is a highlight, with ongoing initiatives to minimize modern intrusions on its traditional streetscape. These carefully curated tours weave through iconic spots like the serene Philosopher's Path, renowned for its cherry blossoms in spring, and past beloved temples like Kiyomizudera, Ginkakuji, and Yasaka Shrine, highlighting a fascinating blend of scenic beauty and cultural depth. Given Kyoto's already strong reputation for walkability, these new guided strolls provide a wonderful avenue to delve deeper into the city's heritage, showcasing both celebrated landmarks and less-explored corners, all while avoiding typical tourist crowds. While not a replacement for individual exploration, the tours offer a unique window into the soul of this historic city.

Kyoto, renowned for its historical significance, has recently introduced a series of innovative walking tours that spotlight its ancient canal network. These canals, initially constructed during the Heian period, played a vital role beyond transportation, serving as irrigation systems that profoundly impacted agricultural practices in the area. It's fascinating to see how these historical irrigation systems influenced subsequent engineering practices and are still relevant to modern water management concepts. The tours, available in various durations ranging from a couple of hours to a full day, cater to diverse visitor interests and time constraints.


One of the most appealing aspects of the tours is their ability to guide visitors through the exceptionally well-preserved Higashiyama district. The area showcases a conscious effort to minimize modern infrastructure, aiming for a greater sense of historical authenticity. A full-day walking tour through this district includes a curated selection of iconic landmarks, like Kiyomizudera, Ginkakuji, Yasaka Shrine, Heian Shrine, and Nanzenji. These historical sites offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto.

The tours also incorporate the popular Philosopher's Path, a picturesque stone pathway that traces the course of a canal, especially vibrant during the spring cherry blossom season. It’s notable how urban design can capitalize on natural elements to create visually striking and memorable experiences. Moreover, the tours incorporate Shimogamo Shrine, one of Kyoto's oldest Shinto shrines, recognized for its historical and cultural importance, nestled at the confluence of the Kamo River.

This focus on historical paths and cultural sites underscores the initiative's purpose. It's aimed at providing visitors with a deeper and more immersive experience, venturing beyond the common tourist trails. The tours encourage deeper engagement with Kyoto's heritage, highlighting both celebrated and lesser-known locations. Kyoto has long been recognized for its walkability, and the introduction of these walking tours further strengthens its reputation as a destination perfectly suited for exploring on foot.


Ginkakuji Temple, known for its expansive moss gardens, adds to the city’s already considerable cultural appeal. The meticulously planned gardens and the wider historical surroundings of the temple provide a clear illustration of how urban planning in Kyoto has traditionally integrated natural elements with human structures in a harmonious way. In a broader sense, these new walking tours represent a valuable endeavor in promoting historical awareness and environmental appreciation. It will be interesting to see how the success of these tours informs future urban planning efforts in Kyoto and beyond.

Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Cartagena Launches Night Walking Trail Connecting Colonial Landmarks

Cartagena, a city increasingly popular with travelers, has launched a new night walking trail designed to showcase its captivating colonial heritage. This initiative interconnects important historical landmarks, allowing visitors to experience the city's architecture and rich past after dark. While walking tours in Cartagena are already common, with many opting for strolls along the city walls to capture the sunset views, the night walking trail offers a different perspective, highlighting landmarks such as the grand Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, South America's largest fort built in the 16th century, and the San Pedro Claver Church and Convent, both significant historical and cultural centers. Cartagena's reputation as a vibrant destination is further enhanced by its bustling evening outdoor café scene, offering a chance to enjoy local cuisine while immersing in the city's atmosphere. This new trail, alongside other attractions like the Caribbean Naval Museum and the Mercado de Bazurto, caters to a wide array of interests, reinforcing Cartagena's status as a city that is easily explored on foot. While there's much more to explore outside the city, such as the distinctive El Totumo mud baths or the beaches of the Rosario Islands, the night walking trail helps create a new lens through which to appreciate Cartagena's history and character. This emphasis on walkability makes the city a compelling choice for those who enjoy experiencing a destination on foot and provides further evidence of how Cartagena is becoming a hub for visitors who prefer a less hectic way to travel.

Cartagena, a city known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, has introduced a new night walking trail that links various historical landmarks. This initiative aims to offer tourists and locals alike an opportunity to explore the city's rich history and stunning architecture after sunset. Cartagena, with its over 100 structures dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, is a treasure trove of Spanish colonial design, making it a valuable study case for urban planning principles.

The trail itself follows the city's characteristic cobblestone streets. These streets, originally chosen for both aesthetics and practical reasons, have proven to be a clever solution in urban engineering. Studies have shown that cobblestones, for instance, improve drainage and mitigate the urban heat island effect. As a result, they provide a degree of climate resilience, making this aspect of the city's urban infrastructure particularly noteworthy.

Such an initiative may impact the city's air quality. Research suggests that pedestrian-focused zones can cut vehicle emissions by as much as 50%, creating a healthier environment for everyone. Furthermore, integrating the walking trail with the existing public transport network could encourage tourists to use buses and boats more frequently. The observed increase in public transport usage can be as high as 30% in similar projects.

It's also worth considering that night walking trails can improve safety and security in cities. A higher pedestrian presence has been shown to deter criminal activity, possibly by reinforcing a sense of community and increased vigilance. This holds implications for both tourists and locals, making the night trail a potentially valuable tool for urban safety. The trail is expected to boost the local economy too. Pedestrian-friendly designs have been observed to increase local business revenue by as much as 40%. It is expected that the walking trail will draw tourists towards the local shops and restaurants, leading to increased foot traffic.


But the trail doesn't only connect physical landmarks, it also interconnects cultural narratives and experiences. The walking tours, when paired with knowledgeable guides, enhance understanding of the city's historical context, enriching the visitors' experience. This, in turn, increases the overall cultural awareness amongst tourists.

Cartagena's efforts mirror a larger trend. A growing number of urban planners, roughly 69%, worldwide are designing and building cities with an emphasis on pedestrian access, suggesting a broader transformation of how urban spaces are conceived. In turn, this trend can also positively influence urban biodiversity. Greener, more walkable areas often create healthier ecosystems and provide better habitats for urban wildlife.

The night trail also uses digital mapping and navigation technologies. Interactive guides and dedicated apps can facilitate a smoother user experience for tourists, bridging the gap between the traditional, tactile exploration and the modern digital tools and technologies we’ve come to expect.


It is definitely worth watching how Cartagena's new walking trail will shape the future of this vibrant city. It represents a clear instance of prioritizing pedestrians and how urban design can be leveraged to create more engaging experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Ghent Revamps Cycling and Walking Infrastructure for Easier Navigation

Ghent, a city in Belgium, has been actively enhancing its cycling and walking infrastructure, creating a network of nearly 400 kilometers of dedicated cycling paths and over 20 streets specifically designed for bicycles. This initiative, spearheaded by the city, aims to provide convenient access to cycling by ensuring bike parking is located within 100 meters of every resident's home. It appears to be having a noticeable effect, with a remarkable 61% of the population opting for sustainable modes of transportation such as walking, cycling, and public transport. The result is a reduction in car use, improving the safety and quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Deputy Mobility Mayor Filip Watteeuw has been instrumental in this shift towards sustainable transport, showcasing how a city can effectively prioritize people over vehicles. The impact of Ghent's approach to mobility is undeniable. It serves as a model for other cities around the world, especially as urban areas seek ways to reduce congestion and environmental impacts. The city has further solidified its position as a pioneer in sustainable mobility by hosting the annual Velocity 2024 summit, which focuses on cycling and urban mobility, bringing together experts from around the globe.

Ghent's ongoing transformation of its cycling and walking infrastructure is an interesting case study in urban design and mobility. With a staggering 400 kilometers of cycling paths, 58 bicycle bridges, and over 20 designated cycling streets, the city has significantly prioritized two-wheeled transport. This dedication is reflected in their policy of ensuring bicycle parking is within 100 meters of every home, further supporting the shift away from individual vehicle use. It's notable that 61% of Ghent's residents already rely on walking, cycling, or public transport, hinting at the success of previous initiatives.

The city's approach has involved a considerable investment. In the last decade, they've built out their cycling infrastructure by 185 kilometers, reaching a total of 411 km. The Deputy Mobility Mayor, Filip Watteeuw, seems to be leading the charge, promoting what can be described as a full-fledged "mobility revolution." This commitment is also evident in Ghent's hosting of the Velocity 2024 summit, a global gathering focused on cycling and urban mobility.

Furthermore, the city's efforts have led to a reduction in car use from 54%, underscoring a palpable change in how residents move around. The sheer volume of daily trips within the city – around 600,000, with 185,000 daily commuters – underscores the importance of having well-planned infrastructure for the various transport modes in use. It is fascinating to observe how this investment benefits different parts of society. Studies have found that improving walkability and cycling infrastructure disproportionately assists low-income and disadvantaged groups, which is a notable element in evaluating the success of these urban changes.

Globally, the idea of walkable cities is being increasingly researched, with factors like access to services, car-free zones, and urban density being major evaluative criteria. Ghent's approach appears to be carefully considered and seems to incorporate these broader elements in urban design, offering a valuable blueprint for other cities looking to achieve similar outcomes. However, the full impact of these changes and their long-term benefits are yet to be fully assessed. It's important to study how these improvements affect citizen behavior and contribute to a more sustainable and desirable urban environment.

Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Tallinn Connects Old Town with Creative District via New Promenade

Tallinn, with its well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts a large number of tourists each year. The city has recently added a new pedestrian promenade which links the Old Town to the Telliskivi Creative City. The Telliskivi district, once an industrial area, has been transformed into a hub of creativity, with art galleries, small businesses and innovative startups. The new walkway makes it easier for visitors to explore this area on foot and see attractions like the Fotografiska Tallinn Photography Museum and the Juhan Kuus Documentary Photo Centre. The transformation of Telliskivi into a creative district is a fascinating example of how a city can successfully revitalize a previously industrial area and introduce more vibrant cultural experiences. It's also worth noting that the city has a variety of historical sites and attractions which tourists can discover through walking, further emphasizing its walkable character. This initiative to encourage pedestrian movement not only connects different parts of the city but seems to reinforce Tallinn's appeal as a city that is easy to get around by foot, enjoying the cobbled streets and its overall charming urban fabric. The new promenade is a testament to Tallinn's efforts to improve urban design, blending its rich historical heritage with contemporary creativity, making the city even more appealing to those who enjoy exploring cities on foot.

Tallinn, with its exceptionally well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts a substantial number of visitors each year, making it a prominent tourist destination within Europe. A recent development in the city aims to further enhance its appeal: a new promenade connecting the Old Town with the Telliskivi Creative City, a vibrant district located in a former industrial area. This promenade represents a modern approach to urban design. It seeks to reimagine old infrastructure, connecting the city’s historical core with an area now known for galleries, boutiques, startups, and various creative ventures.

The promenade appears to be a reflection of the historical trading routes that once made Tallinn a major hub in the Hanseatic League. It underscores the city's ongoing efforts to capitalize on its rich history and foster a contemporary urban environment that values walkability. It aims to boost tourism and visitor experience, encouraging further exploration of the city on foot.

Telliskivi Creative City is characterized by an eclectic mix of creative businesses. Its notable attractions include the Fotografiska Tallinn Photography Museum and the Juhan Kuus Documentary Photo Centre. It’s worth noting that the area around the harbor, the Rotermann Quarter, offers another example of urban transformation. It has transitioned from a collection of factory buildings to a space with a focus on creative endeavors and modern developments, adding another dimension to the overall urban landscape.

The promenade may further incentivize walking tours in Tallinn, drawing attention to existing viewpoints like St. Olav's Church Tower or the Cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin's Tower, which provide panoramic vistas over the city. It might, however, lead to increased pedestrian traffic which can potentially challenge the urban infrastructure, especially during peak tourist seasons.

This effort is not solely about tourism. The design incorporates aspects of smart technology, such as interactive digital maps and information kiosks. This integration could enhance the visitor experience and foster a more interactive engagement with the city. The initiative's careful consideration of pedestrian safety, by potentially reducing accidents and improving urban movement, speaks to a broader shift towards a more pedestrian-friendly urban environment.

The project underscores a growing trend observed in many European cities. The idea seems to be to carefully study how pedestrian-oriented urban spaces affect not only visitor satisfaction and business revenue, but also how the entire urban landscape can benefit in the long term. Moreover, the planning phase has actively sought community feedback. This suggests a holistic view of the project that considers both the economic and social aspects. The integration of public transportation in the plan, aiming to further improve access to the city’s attractions, might result in reduced traffic congestion and encourage greater usage of public transportation.

It remains to be seen how effectively the promenade meets its goals and how it ultimately transforms the interplay between the Old Town and the creative district. But the initiative does provide a clear example of a city using urban design to carefully connect its past with its future, aiming to create a more appealing urban environment for both residents and visitors. There is ample evidence that the city is actively reimagining its space, aiming for a more sustainable future. It’s worth monitoring its progress and the eventual impacts on the city.

Top 7 Most Walkable Tourist Cities Beyond the Obvious Choices - Fes Restores Hidden Passageways in Medina for Authentic Wandering

Fez, home to the world's oldest and largest car-free urban area, the Medina, is undergoing a revitalization project that brings hidden passageways back to life. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, a labyrinth of narrow streets, traditional shops, and bustling souks, gains even more allure through these restoration efforts. Exploring the Medina on foot offers a chance to admire architectural gems like the Bou Inania Madrasa, while the newly accessible pathways promise an even more authentic experience of wandering. Beyond historical sites, the Medina provides oases of calm, such as Jardin Jnan Sbil, a tranquil spot that contrasts with the lively atmosphere. With these improvements to the Medina, Fez further cements its standing as a prime location for travelers who enjoy exploring cities by foot, allowing them to immerse themselves in the city's unique heritage. It's worth seeing how these changes reshape the experience for both visitors and locals alike.

### Fes Restores Hidden Passageways in Medina for Authentic Wandering


The Medina of Fes, the oldest and largest car-free urban zone globally, is a fascinating example of urban design and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Recent restoration efforts have focused on opening up previously hidden passageways, enhancing the experience for those who choose to wander its intricate network of alleyways. This project is an attempt to reclaim a more authentic experience of the Medina. It is a challenge to the typical approach to tourism that seeks out new and modern attractions.

Fes's Medina is a complex maze of over 9,000 streets. It’s no wonder that researchers find that walking through such a system can stimulate our spatial reasoning skills. It presents us with the challenges that humans faced for centuries before the invention of GPS and other navigation devices. The labyrinthine nature of the Medina also presents the visitor with the challenge of uncovering hidden souks, or markets, that have been operating since the 9th century. While historically significant, such spaces pose a considerable challenge for modern planners and researchers who aim to improve their accessibility while preserving their rich historical fabric. Research suggests that these markets significantly impact the local economy and can contribute as much as 30% of retail sales in dense urban areas.

The restoration project emphasizes Fes’ architectural diversity, with influences drawn from Islamic, Moorish, and Andalusian traditions. This creates a varied and captivating aesthetic that underscores Fes’ rich historical fabric. There is substantial research that suggests exposure to diverse architectural styles can increase the aesthetic experience for tourists and locals alike. The urban layout was conceived long before modern sanitation systems or efficient infrastructure. Therefore, restoration also has to account for aspects of the historical design which are not immediately apparent, such as the ingenious system of water channels used for irrigation and waste disposal.

One cannot consider these restoration efforts without considering the locals who live in the Medina. While improving the experience for tourists is part of the initiative, the project also needs to account for the residents who have resided in the Medina for centuries. Evidence from urban sociology shows that pedestrian areas foster social interactions and tend to enhance a sense of community among residents. Improved walking paths can lead to better safety and security outcomes. It appears that pedestrian areas can reduce crime rates due to a more visible presence of people. This can deter vandalism and other forms of petty crime.

Fes’s urban restoration effort exemplifies a trend seen globally. Many cities are working to reduce traffic and vehicle dependency, creating a less congested and healthier urban environment. Pedestrian-only zones can reduce car traffic by roughly 30%. It’s plausible to assume this can lead to improvements in public health. Furthermore, in the historical Medina, where the streets are often narrow and buildings close together, it’s likely that the restored narrow passageways can reduce temperatures. The shadows cast by the buildings may provide a degree of relief from the hot Moroccan sun. These efforts also tie into the promotion of guided walking tours that can lead to greater cultural engagement and longer visitor stays.

The restoration project is about much more than merely creating a picturesque pedestrian zone. It aims to improve local infrastructure and encourage more walking in a complex, historic area, potentially reducing vehicle congestion, improving local air quality and creating a more comfortable urban climate. By enhancing pedestrian movement through the restoration of ancient pathways, the project can foster deeper engagement with Fes’ cultural heritage, improve urban safety, and increase visitor satisfaction and local cohesion. This makes Fes a prime example of how heritage preservation and a city’s development can benefit from thoughtful planning and execution. The project, in theory, can lead to a more resilient, culturally vibrant, and sustainable urban environment. It will be interesting to see how these efforts affect the future of Fes.