Can You Walk from One Country to Another? These 10 Borders Say Yes

We tend to think of crossing country borders as something that involves customs booths, immigration stamps, or maybe even a little anxiety. But what if you could simply… walk across?

It turns out, in many parts of the world, you can—and it's perfectly legal.

From iconic bridges to sleepy mountain paths, there are dozens of international borders that allow pedestrians to cross from one country to another with nothing more than a passport, a pair of sneakers, and a curious spirit.

Some are marked by signs. Others are wide open fields. A few even have cafés that sit on the line itself.

Let’s explore ten real places where you can legally and easily walk across a border—and yes, your steps count in both countries.

1. France to Spain via the Pyrenees

The Pyrenees Mountains separate France and Spain, but dozens of walking paths zigzag across the border.

Popular route: From the French village of Banyuls-sur-Mer to Spain’s Portbou via the GR10 and GR11 trails
Distance: ~9 miles
Fun fact: During WWII, this path was used by refugees fleeing Nazi-occupied France

2. Argentina to Brazil (Iguazu Falls)

Want a passport stamp with your waterfall selfie?

Walkable crossing: From Puerto Iguazú, Argentina to Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
Required: Passport
Highlight: You’ll see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World while changing countries

3. Germany to Poland (Görlitz–Zgorzelec)

A lovely footbridge crosses the river between the German town of Görlitz and its Polish twin, Zgorzelec.

No passport checks
Walk across in 2 minutes
Popular with cyclists and joggers

4. USA to Mexico (San Ysidro Pedestrian Bridge)

Yes, you can walk from the United States to Mexico legally.

Location: San Diego, CA → Tijuana, Mexico
Crossing: PedWest or PedEast
What to bring: Valid ID and passport

5. Slovakia to Austria to Hungary (Bratislava Border Triangle)

Near the Danube, you can walk from Slovakia into Austria and then Hungary within an hour.

Start: Bratislava
Trail: EuroVelo 6
Perks: No checkpoints within the Schengen Zone

6. India to Nepal (Sunauli Border)

While this one involves customs, it’s a favorite for backpackers.

Location: Sunauli (India) to Bhairahawa (Nepal)
Walkable: Yes
Visa required for Nepal entry

7. Belgium to the Netherlands (Baarle-Hertog/Baarle-Nassau)

Baarle is divided into 22 Belgian enclaves inside the Netherlands.

Reality: You can cross the international border several times per block
Shops and homes: Some have front doors in one country and kitchens in the other

8. Vatican City to Italy

Yes, Vatican City is its own country—and yes, you can walk into it without a visa.

From: Rome (Italy)
To: Vatican City
Checkpoint: None

9. Norway to Sweden (Arctic Border Trail)

This border is remote and breathtaking.

Path: From Narvik, Norway to Abisko, Sweden
Trail: Arctic Trail
No checkpoints (both in Schengen Zone)

10. Switzerland to France (Geneva Airport Exit)

One of the quirkiest international foot crossings.

Location: Geneva Airport
Walk from: Swiss side of the terminal to the French side

There’s even a French Sector inside the airport where you can exit straight into France.

Tips for Walking Across Borders

- Bring your passport
- Research ahead
- Wear good shoes
- Use apps like Maps.me or AllTrails
- Know the border status

Can You Just Walk Across Any Border?

No. While many borders are open, others are tightly controlled.

Countries with strictly guarded borders:
- North Korea
- Russia
- Belarus
- Saudi Arabia
- Some non-EU Balkan states

Attempting to cross borders illegally is dangerous and can result in detention or fines.

Real Traveler Stories

“We walked from Slovakia to Hungary, and didn’t even realize it until we saw the signs change. Zero fanfare—just a different language on the gas station menu.” – Marta, Poland

“Crossing into Nepal on foot was wild. It felt like entering a new world. The smells, sounds, everything changed instantly.” – Josh, UK

“Baarle was insane. I crossed countries seven times on one walk to get coffee. My GPS had a meltdown.” – Aimee, Netherlands

Final Thoughts

Absolutely. You can walk across international borders legally in many parts of the world. Just do your homework, carry ID, and enjoy the novelty of straddling two countries on foot.