The Best Shoes to Keep Walking Throughout Europe (2024)

I generally pack a few pairs of shoes when I travel to Europe in the summer, but these inevitably end up being my daily go-to. The simple slide shoe keeps me walking for miles without any agitation, thanks to the brand’s signature cork-latex footbed, and the leather straps never cut into the foot. Since it’s a sandal, it’s generally cooler than a closed-toe option for those 90-plus-degrees days pounding the steamy, cobblestone streets. They are also good to go straight out of the box (no breaking in required), and get even better over time, conforming to your own distinct foot shape. I have never had a blister wearing these! I have style mine with everything from jeans and T-shirts in Helsinki to designer sundresses in Paris.

Sizes: 35–43 EU, in medium and wide

Colors: Black/black, habana leather, and more

Materials: Leather upper and lining/synthetic sole

What customers are saying: “These are my wife’s favorite sandals. She bought her first pair when we were vacationing in Nashville 5 years ago. We were walking a lot and her feet were hurting. We walked into a Birkenstock store and she loved the style, fit and feel, of these sandals, so she bought them. She instantly fell in love with them.”

Hokas are my go-to sneakers in New York, because they offer a bouncy and lightweight feeling, perfect for endless days of walking on the concrete. However, they are also the sneaker I always pack when I travel abroad. They serve as a workout shoe when I want to get my sweat sessions in while traveling, but also easily transition to a full day of exploring a new city or museum-hopping. I like that the upper is made from mesh and very breathable for hotter temps, as well. They also make a great plane shoe for travel days!

Sizes: 5–12, medium and wide

Colors: Black/black, white/white, nimbus cloud/white, and 21 more

Materials: Recycled polyester and rubber outsole

What customers are saying: “Fantastic shoe. Wore them to Rome. Cobblestone streets. 40 miles in 6 days. My feet only hurt from standing in 1 place (lots of museums) never from walking. I was shocked at how good they felt. I survived a trip on cobblestone streets and dozens of flights up and down stairs. And my feet came home and weren't bruised or tender at all. Very impressed. My previous long trip shoes were Brooks and Altras. They didn’t even compare to the Cliftons.”

The second drop of the ongoing Loewe + On collaboration is not to be missed. I love that these two brands—powerhouses in their distinct categories—joined together to create this super-cool shoe. It’s functional, fashionable, and above all else—comfortable (as the name suggests, like walking on a cloud, in fact). This sneaker is also made from recycled fibers, making it a feel-good purchase, in my opinion. I love anything with an eco-friendly design. I plan to wear mine with simple tanks and flowy midi skirts all over Italy this summer.

Sizes: 36–42 EU

Colors: Gray, black, white, and four others

Materials: Recycled-knit and rubber sole

What customers are saying: “⁦Many of our friends have raved about On shoes for a long time. When we saw the Loewe collaboration, we finally pulled the trigger. My wife absolutely loves them! They are definitely worth the hype, and the Loewe collaboration is beautiful. Highly recommend!”

Believe what you’ve heard: Tevas really are a good walking shoe. I fell in love with the Midform Universal a few summers ago, while I was island-hopping in Sicily. They are extremely practical for any trip where there might be water involved—whether it be the sea or just the pool at your hotel—since the straps are made from quick-dry webbing and the sole is waterproof rubber. I like that the EVA midsole is thicker compared to the OG style, offering extra cushion and a little extra height. I wear mine with bikinis and pareos during the day, for those treacherous climbs to the distant rock beaches, or a wide-leg, linen trouser and button-down in the evening for a dinner out.

Sizes: 5–12

Colors: Recycled polyester yarn, EVA midsole, rubber outsole

Materials: Black fabric, folkstone gray, boho birch, and six more

What customers are saying: “I wore these shoes all day one day last week for 14 hrs. I had no soreness or issues while wearing for a long period of time. They are super comfortable and great support on my feet. I highly recommend.”

Flats might not be what you first think of as a walking shoe, but Vivaia is here to change that. The square-toe design on these feels fashion-forward and modern, but the real selling point for me is the cushioned heel, arch support, and comfortable insole (made from Artemisia argyi, an herbal antibacterial and antifungal). Did I mention these are also machine-washable and fold up for smart packing? A win-win in my book.

Sizes: 5–13 US, standard and wide

Colors: Black, navy, cream ivory and black, and 27 more

Materials: Knit upper made from plastic bottles, Artemisia argyi insole, rubber outsole

What customers are saying: “Wanted a stylish pair of ‘ballet type’ flats that were also comfortable! These look great with jeans or dress pants. Cushioning around the back of the shoe prevented blisters you often get with new shoes. Absolutely worth it!”

I tested these in New York at the start of the summer, instantly fell in love, and they came with me to Europe in June. As the name suggests, these were designed with walking in mind, and they actually do hold up. The exaggerated rocker gives every stride a smooth, gliding effect—absorbing the impact of bumpy and unstable surfaces, whether you’re on a quaint street in London or exploring Stockholm for the first time. They pair with a variety of outfits, too, not just athleisure. Take style lessons from the Scandis and wear yours with a full-skirted midi dress and belt bag for a casual-yet-stylish city look.

Sizes: 5–12

Colors: White, black, light silver, and eight others

Materials: Mesh upper and rubber sole

What customers are saying: “I’m usually hesitant to rave about a shoe. I have flat feet and when on my feet for a long duration they tent to cramp and hurt. I go these shoes on vacation in NYC. I wore these throughout the city. They feel as if you’re on a rocking cloud. I love these shoes, so much I got a second pair.”

When it comes to lightweight footwear that will withstand 10-plus miles of daily walking, lean on the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 sneaker. It weighs only 8.56 ounces and will keep you moving without any extra heaviness. Every detail of this shoe has been mindfully considered, as well. The mesh upper is made from FSC-certified Tencel Lyocell (eucalyptus tree fiber), the SweetFoam midsole is derived from sugarcane-based green EVA, and the natural rubber outsole is FSC-certified, too. It’s the smartest shoe on our list.

Sizes: 5–11

Colors: Natural black, medium gray, blizzard, and 11 more

Materials: Textile and Tencel lyocell upper, merino wool and textile lining, rubber and synthetic sole

What customers are saying: “I got these shoes for walking up to 10 miles a day while traveling. They are super stylish and so very comfortable even after being on my feet all day. I plan to get another pair. Following the advice of others, I got a half size larger than what I normally wear, and it’s perfect.”

Emily Ratajkowski, Kendall Jenner, and Bella Hadid are all longtime fans, making the Adidas Samba the fashionable choice for hitting the streets in style, and these are a must-have on my list, as well. I like that they are lightweight and comfortable—I have worn them on day trips to Napoli without issues, where my mileage count was no less than 18,000 steps. One of the best parts, however, is how versatile they are for all-season wear. I can wear them with baggy jeans and a trench in spring, a cashmere pullover and trousers in winter, and cut-offs and a baby tee in the summer.

Sizes: 5–13

Colors: Off white, core black, wonder silver, and 10 more

Materials: Leather and synthetic upper, synthetic lining and rubber sole

What customers are saying: “I love these Adidas. I’m a sneaker head and just wanted to add these to my collection. Adidas shoes vary in fit though. I wear an 8.5 medium women’s shoes and got these in an 8. I can wear a cotton footie comfortably also. I have worn them running errands all day and no blisters or any discomfort and I have small bunions on both feet that can be debilitating at times!”

Lululemon’s foray into footwear shouldn’t be slept on. These were actually designed with a woman's foot first, rather than developed from an already existing men’s style, which is not the norm in the sneaker industry. Although designed for running, these make a great everyday option for getting your miles in all over Europe, thanks to plenty of cushioning and a breathable mesh upper. I like the taupe beige color way, to mix into my usual black and white sneaker choices.

Sizes: 5–12

Colors: Silverstone, white, black, and two more

Materials: Mesh upper, EVA foam, rubber outsole

What customers are saying: “I like how this shoes provide me with an all day comfort. When I travel, I need to walk a lot and my feet don’t hurt after a whole day [of] walk.”

It only makes sense that one of Salomon’s most popular styles is both road-friendly and hiking-appropriate. Of course, they get plenty of street credit, too, from the Hypebae crowd. The shoe was originally designed in 2013 for harsh conditions, so you know it will hold up while exploring the Highlands in Scotland or through a week of sightseeing in Berlin. They also are designed with Quicklaces—no struggling with constantly untied shoes here.

Sizes: 5–14

Colors: Black, pewter, ghost gray, and five more

Materials: Textile and synthetic upper and lining, rubber sole

What customers are saying: “These are very comfy, lightweight, fashionable, and aggressive shoes. Good to walk around the city/town or hiking/trail running. They fit very well true to size. I have had no issue with wearing them. I do everything in them. If you don’t have these in your shoe rotation I would get them. I highly recommended getting a pair of these shoes. I will be getting another pair for sure.”

Not all my picks are sneakers. Sometimes I need a shoe with a little more polish, so I often bring this lug-sole loafer from G.H.Bass on European adventures in the spring, fall, and winter. They have served me well in a variety of cities, from London to Rome and Paris, and look great paired with cropped jeans and a knit or a structured miniskirt, button-down, and ribbed sock. The loafer has a cushioned insole, so I know I can keep standing (and walking!) for long periods on end.

Sizes: 5–11

Colors: Black, wine, black/white, white

Materials: Leather upper and lining, rubber sole

What customers are saying: “I love the look of the regular Weejuns, but since I live in the city and walk a lot, I wanted the lug sole for a softer step and extra cushioning. The soles are even comfier and bouncier than expected and the footbed is extremely sturdy and artfully form fitting as well.”

The original 990 shoe was crafted in 1982 and this is the modern update to the classic running shoe. Featuring a thick rubber sole that will grip any surface, whether slick or rocky, while an Encap-cushioned insole delivers the ultimate in stability and comfort inside. Take styling tips from the street and don yours with oversize suiting, whether that’s a vest and tailored short set in the summer, or a blazer and trouser in the colder seasons. It’s a chic look that works in any city.

Sizes: 4–11

Colors: Gray, navy, white

Materials: Suede, mesh, leather and rubber sole

What customers are saying: “Walked all over London with these!! On to the next. Very comfortable!! Good support! Love the color a lot!”

This summer, I’ve been making my way through Italy with the Lucca wedge in tow. It’s become my go-to shoe when I need a little break from my sneaker selection on the road. The strap is made from super-soft leather that has worn in beautifully over the past few weeks, and the walkable cork wedge has a padded insole for extra support and ease. These withstood a night out in Rome, from my apartment to drinks, dinner, and a long post-meal walk. Slipdresses and cropped cotton trousers have been my standby styling pieces to wear them with.

Sizes: 35–42 EU

Colors: Navy, ecru, sage

Materials: Italian nappa leather, Sardinian cork

Canvas sneakers are always a summer travel must-have, and this Vans classic sneaker has been in the brand’s collection for decades, for good reason. This pair slips on and off easily (hello, easier TSA check lines!), and the canvas upper is travel and wash-friendly. (They can be thrown in a washer when in need of a refresh.) The rubber waffle outsole provides traction, while the padded collars around the ankle offer stability and won’t create blisters. We recommend the crisp white colorway for endless outfit styling options.

Sizes: 5–17, in regular and wide

Colors: True white, black white checkerboard, black, and 10 more

Materials: Canvas textile upper and lining, rubber sole

What customers are saying: “Great summer travel shoe. Got these to specifically wear on a plane and walking around for a city vacation. The shoes are overall very comfortable and stylish.”

You might already have tried the soft footbed, leather version, but Birkenstock’s EVA version of the classic Arizona sandal is worth grabbing too. It still contours to your distinct foot shape and has the ability to walk for miles, but this one is completely waterproof. This sandal is also available in a variety of fun colors, such as surf green and elemental blue, if you want to mix up your footwear game and lean into something more playful for vacation.

Sizes: 35–41 EU

Colors: Black, eggshell, surf green, elemental blue, fondant pink

Materials: Synthetic upper, lining and sole

What customers are saying: “The new rubber-like Arizona style Birkenstocks are comfortable and true to size (compared to the traditional cork style). I first purchased the blue ones and I liked them so much that I later bought the red ones with the white buckle. They actually look pretty stylish and I get lots of compliments when I wear them. I brought them along on a recent trip to Colorado where I did a lot of walking and found them to be quite comfortable.”

Although designed for post-workout recovery, this extra-comfy sneaker from Alo also satisfies shoppers’ travel shoe needs. The beauty is in the high-rebound foam insole, which supports balance and alleviates pressure points all day—so that walking tour of Lisbon you just had to book won’t have you crying at the end of the day from knee or back pain. They are stylish to boot, too, and can be paired with a sporty fit as easily as with something more polished.

Sizes: 5–16½

Colors: Natural white/gum, gravel/white, black/white, and three more

Materials: Vegan leather and recycled components, rubber sole

What customers are saying: “Bought these for a trip to Spain. I knew we’d be walking a ton. These were so amazingly comfortable and stylish. I was able to wear these everyday and dress them up or down. I have plantar fasciitis and was very concerned about my feet cramping. Not one time did my feet hurt or were sore the entire trip! I’ve recommended these to everyone I know!”

If a boot is more what you have in mind, I have worn this Chelsea style from Dr. Martens for over a decade. I own it in black, brown, and even a faux-fur-lined option! I’ve taken it with me on spring trips to Madrid, winter trips to Milan, and autumn wanderings through Paris. Pro tip: I find that this style runs a half size big on me, so I always buy the coordinating insole, too. The insole adds even more cushion and bounce for a marathon day of shopping, gallery-hopping, and cafè coffees.

Sizes: 5–12

Colors: Black smooth, dark brown crazy horse, white smooth

Materials: Leather, elastic gussets, Good Year welted upper and sole

What customers are saying: “Great boot. Fun, functional, comfortable, dress up or down. Wore them walking all over New Orleans.”

You can always count on Vionic to offer an engineered shoe that has loads of smart features designed for comfort. The Winny sneaker is a low-top with oomph. The footbed cushions, supports, stabilizes, and provides flexibility with every step. It also looks just as good as some of the leather designer options out there, without the hefty price tag. Extra bonus: This style is available in half sizes, too.

Sizes: 5–13, medium and wide

Colors: White, gold

Materials: Leather upper, textile and synthetic lining, rubber sole

What customers are saying: “Super comfy and love the fact that you can purchase the wide width. I did have to size down from 8.5 to 8 in the wide. Great arch support. Comfortable straight out of the box. Great to pack for a vacation where you’ll be walking lots! Profile looks great with pants or dresses.”

You might be sleeping under a rock if you haven’t noticed that Mary Jane ballet flats are very much back. If you want to take this style on all your European destination outings—but don’t want to kill your feet in the process—we recommend taking a look at this version from Dr. Scholl’s. Built with the brand’s signature orthopedic-friendly insole and anti-odor technology, these will protect you from sunup to sundown on a full-day excursion.

Sizes: 6–11, medium and wide

Colors: Black, charcoal, silver, wine

Materials: Synthetic or textile upper, textile lining, synthetic sole

Don’t knock ’em until you try ’em. The level of comfort that Crocs offer is unparalleled, and with designer collaborations from high-end houses like Balenciaga to London-based Simone Rocha, the brand has some serious fashion pull these days, as well. However, you can’t go wrong with its classic clog, for a budget-friendly option that will keep you walking tall wherever your travels take you.

Sizes: 4–11

Colors: Black, white, plaster, and four more

Materials: Synthetic upper, lining, and sole

What customers are saying: “I’m on my feet all day at work. I love how comfy it feels.”