difference between 歩く and 散歩します

Question

I was wondering the difference between the two words since both mean to walk.

When to use verb 歩きます and when to use 散歩します。

Answer 1

The verb 散歩する is equivalent to the English term "take a walk". That is, 散歩 is more of a recreational activity, as opposed to it simply being a means to get from one place to another. 歩く is a general term for walking.

From dictionary.goo.co.jp:

気晴らしや健康などのために、ぶらぶら歩くこと。散策。「公園を―する」
To leisurely walk for recreation or for health. A stroll. "_ through the park"

Answer 2

The 散 of 散歩 is also a clue as to how it's different:

散る・散らす
散らかる・散らかす
⇒　ばらばらになる・する　⇒　ぶらぶら（と）歩く　≒　当てもなく歩く