6 Stroller-Friendly Cities in Europe

Families traveling with young children learn to be creative in getting strollers into seemingly impossible places. Some cities confound even the most determined parents: Innumerable bridges with steps are a challenge in Venice, and Lisbon’s hills seem insurmountable. Narrow or rough stone-paved streets are not stroller-friendly, either. Save those cities for another year and consider these instead.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Renowned for its near-sea level terrain, Amsterdam is flat, and its gently arched bridges don’t have stairs. Because bicycles are such an important way for locals to get around, streets are well-designed for wheels. Metros are fully accessible with ramps and elevators or escalators, and canal tours are accessed by ramps.

Munich, Germany
Another city that’s largely flat, Munich also has wide sidewalks and smooth paving through much of the city. Buses, subways and trams have spaces reserved for strollers. The English Garden, Nymphenburg Palace gardens and Munich Zoo are all stroller-friendly attractions.

London, United Kingdom
Always popular with families, London is not only level, but its sidewalks are also usually smooth. The city is filled with parks and pedestrian paths (the Thames Path follows the entire length of the river through the city). London buses are easy to board with a stroller, and have a designated place for them near the door. Best to avoid the Tube (subway), as most stations have steps with no alternatives, and doors close with often-terrifying speed.

Copenhagen, Denmark
Often cited as Europe’s most child-friendly city, Copenhagen is also easy to get around while pushing a stroller. Pavements are smooth, crossings have ramped curbs and public transport is stroller-friendly. Cafés and many restaurants welcome strollers, and charming playgrounds will delight toddlers (and parents) with colorful play equipment. The city’s top family attraction, Tivoli, is easy to visit, with wide, smooth paths and plenty of colorful sights to keep small children engaged.

Stockholm, Sweden
Another Scandinavian city that loves families, Stockholm welcomes toddlers from the moment of arrival, with a bank of strollers waiting as you leave the plane. No more trying to balance a child, hand baggage and your passports in the immigration line. Sidewalks are wide and smooth, and most restaurants have highchairs.