Best Shoes for European Travel: Walk in Style & Comfort

Planning an upcoming trip to Europe? One of the smartest things you can do is pick the right pair of shoes before you limp across a piazza with aching arches. I travel almost every month, whether hiking in National Parks, unwinding in Hawaii, or wandering European cities. I suffer from both plantar fasciitis and neuropathy; the wrong shoes can completely derail a trip.

I’ve tested dozens of pairs over the years (so you don’t have to). Whether tackling cobblestone streets, climbing cathedral steps, or strolling along scenic waterfronts, this guide will help you find the best walking shoes for European travel that combine comfort, durability, and just the right amount of style.

This post covers the top picks for shoes that keep you moving pain-free, without sacrificing style or blowing your budget.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links on this blog are affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost, the author may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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1. Best Walking Shoes & Athletic Sneakers for European Travel

If you only pack one pair, make it a walking shoe or athletic sneaker. These are your workhorses—the shoes you’ll wear for sightseeing, museum days, and navigating train stations.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 or 880

This is an excellent choice for anyone prone to foot pain, plantar fasciitis, or long walks on hard surfaces. These shoes are ultra-cushioned with EVA foam, offer excellent shock absorption, and offer wide foot options.

• Top of my foot pain? These have plenty of stretch.
• Comes in half sizes and wide widths.
• Great for athletic shoe lovers with an active lifestyle.
• 💡 Free shipping is often available on New Balance’s site or Amazon.

HOKA Bondi 9 or HOKA Clifton 10

TikTok made them famous—and for good reason. I’ve been wearing Hoka shoes for the past 8 years. These are some of Europe’s most comfortable walking shoes, especially for long days or travelers recovering from foot problems.

• Thick, cushioned insole
• Lightweight but supportive
• Excellent arch support for long distances

Allbirds Wool or Tree Runners

These are eco-conscious, sleek, and super breathable. The knit uppers are made from plastic bottles, and they are great for day wear.

• Lightweight and machine washable
• Great option for travelers who prefer a versatile design
• One of my favorite shoes for warm weather

On Cloud 6 or Cloudnova

With their grippy sole, Swiss design, and athletic sneaker look, On Clouds are a hybrid of running shoes and travel sneakers. They’re perfect for covering rugged trails or walking without looking out of place at dinner.

• Great for narrower soles
• Cloud-like feel with a sporty twist.

Packing tip: Wear your bulkiest pair (usually sneakers) through airport security to save suitcase space.

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2. Travel Flats & Loafers for Shoulder Seasons or Evenings

You don’t need to wear dress shoes to look polished in Europe. A good pair of flats or slip-on loafers is ideal for evenings out, train rides, or museum hopping on lighter days.

Rothy’s The Point

These are some of the most comfortable flats I’ve ever worn, made from recycled water bottles.

• Soft knit upper molds to your foot
• Great for wide feet and bunion-friendly
• Machine washable (yes, really!)
• Pairs well with jeans, skirts, or even a casual dress

Skechers Cleo Bewitch Ballet Flats

A perfect pair of ballet flats for travelers looking for extra padding and support, these are budget-friendly and often available with free shipping.

• Cushioned insole and memory foam
• Easy to pair with just about any outfit
• Runs in half sizes

Dr. Scholl’s Madison Slip-On Sneaker

Technically, it is a hybrid of a flat and a walking shoe, and this is a good option for long travel days when you still want to look chic.

• Suede upper options or vegan leather
• Low profile but comfy
• Great for airport security days

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3. Best Travel Sandals for Warm Weather Trips

Are you headed to Italy in July or Spain in August? Travel sandals are your warm-weather lifesavers, offering breathability and walkability.

Birkenstock Arizona or Mayari

These are classic for a reason. Travelers with plantar fasciitis or arch support need to swear by them. I always wear Birkenstocks, and they are the only shoes I can wear straight out of the box.

• Contoured footbed molds to your stride
• Rubber outsole gives enough traction on slick marble streets
• Perfect for day wear or casual dinners

Taos The Show Sandals or Taos Perfect Sandals

These sandals are a great option for warm-weather travel. Their versatile design pairs well with everything from skirts to shorts.

• Contoured footbed with extra padding for extended wear
• Adjustable straps for a secure fit
• One of the best travel shoes for day wear in hot destinations

Teva Original Universal

One of the most durable and lightweight options on the market. Tevas are built for travelers who want something functional for city sidewalks and rugged trails.

• Quick-drying and water-resistant
• Excellent grip and easy to adjust
• Ideal for beach towns or hiking trails

ECCO Flowt Sandals

These are sleek and supportive if you’re after the best women’s walking shoes in sandal form.

• Soft leather straps and subtle design
• Excellent for warm-weather day trips
• Works well with shorts, dresses, or linen pants

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4. Stylish Waterproof Boots for Cold or Rainy Weather

Boots are your best shoes for travel in shoulder seasons or unpredictable spring/fall weather.

Blondo Villa Waterproof Bootie

This is a rare find: weatherproof + stylish = perfection. These are sleek enough for cities and strong enough for puddles.

• Works well with dresses or jeans
• Waterproof boots with a solid rubber sole
• Popular for travelers heading to cities like Amsterdam, Berlin, or Dublin in fall/winter

Sorel Out N About III

Chic and rugged. These can handle wet cobblestone streets and even light hiking trails.

• Soft materials but strong outer
• Great traction and insulation
• Excellent for cold weather or unexpected rain

Dr. Martens 1460 Pascal Waterproof

Edgy, cool, and weatherproof, these shoes are among the most comfortable walking shoes for city travelers who don’t mind a bit of extra weight once they’re broken in.

ABEO Vista Chelsea

The ABEO Vista Chelsea boots are my secret weapon for looking polished without hurting my feet. They’ve got that classic Chelsea boot style, but with built-in support, that’s a lifesaver if you’ve metatarsal issues like mine.

The insole is cushioned in all the right places, and the arch + metatarsal support make them super comfortable for walking all day. I’ve worn them through airports, rainy city strolls, and even nicer dinners—they hold up and look great.

A quick spray of waterproofing, and they’re ready for fall and winter trips. They’re stylish, supportive, and surprisingly versatile.

Bonus: Consider knee boots for winter in Central or Eastern Europe.

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5. Slip-Ons & Loafers for Airports and Versatile Day Wear

What is your perfect day wear shoe? Something you can slip on at the hotel, wear on a walking tour, and feel great in at lunch.

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6. Best Shoes for Uneven Terrain & Lots of Walking

If your European travel itinerary includes nature walks, rugged trails, or uneven cities (hello, Lisbon!), pack one of these:

Keen Whisper Sandals

If you want the protection of a hiking shoe with the breathability of a sandal, this is it. It is a favorite among travelers tackling uneven paths and rugged trails. I use these sandals all the time when I am on trails with water in the summer months.

• Quick-dry webbing is ideal for water + dirt
• Protective soles and solid rubber soles
• Great for active lifestyle trips

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot

Durable, lightweight, and built for rugged trails, this is great for countryside walking tours or mixed-weather hikes across Europe.

• Waterproof yet breathable
• Thick sole and grippy outsole
• A top pick for travelers who plan to hike, no matter the season

Altra Lone Peak 8

These are made for the Pacific Crest Trail but are also the perfect shoes for hiking the Cinque Terre or exploring rural France.

• Wide toe box and grippy sole
• Excellent for long walks with enough support
• Lightweight enough for packing

Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof

This is a heavy-duty shoe with tons of comfort. It’s perfect for active trips or when you know you’ll be walking 10+ miles a day.

• EVA foam midsole and rubber outsole
• Great in rain, mud, or dirt
• One of the best lightweight walking shoe options with trail durability

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Must-Have Accessories for Shoe Comfort on European Trips

Even with the best shoes for European travel, the little extras can make a huge difference, especially if you have plantar fasciitis, neuropathy, or want to stay blister-free during long sightseeing days.

Here’s what I always pack for happy feet:

Supportive Insoles & Inserts

Swap out basic insoles for better shock absorption, arch alignment, and heel cushioning options.

Top Picks:

• Superfeet Green – Ideal for high arches and long days on your feet
• Powerstep Pinnacle – Great EVA foam base with extra cushioned insole
• Abeo 3D3 Active Orthotics – Orthotics are matched to your specific arch and foot profile for ultimate balance, support, and cushioning.
• Dr. Scholl’s Active Series – Budget-friendly and helpful for athletic sneakers or travel-specific shoes

Pro Tip: Choose insoles based on the shape of your foot, not just your shoe brand.

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Socks That Support Your Feet

Regular socks aren’t enough when walking long distances. Look for ones designed for travel, hiking, or foot pain relief.

Look for:

• Merino wool: Keeps feet dry, warm in cold temps, cool in heat
• Moisture-wicking fabric: Avoids sweaty feet and blisters
• Padded heels and seamless toes: Essential for day wear comfort

Brands I love: Darn Tough, Bombas, Smartwool

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Shoe Care

• The Walking Co. Water Repellent Spray
• ABEO Leather Care Refresher
• The Walking Co. Sneaker Wipes

Blister Prevention & On-the-Go Foot Care

Even the perfect shoe can cause a hot spot if you walk miles in new conditions. These are always in my bag:

Must-Pack Blister Kit:

• Compeed or Band-Aid blister cushions – Game changers
• Moleskin – Cut to size for heels or toes
• Body Glide Foot Balm – Anti-chafe stick to stop rubbing before it starts
• Toe spacers or gel toe caps – Help prevent rubbing in snug shoes
• Small nail clippers & file – For emergency foot fixes (you’d be surprised!)

Traveler’s Tip: Toss these into a small pouch and keep them in your daypack. Trust me, the last thing you want is to hunt for a pharmacy mid-walk in Prague. This is from someone who has been there, done that.

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Pro Packing Tips for Travel Shoes

• Break in your shoes early: Wear them at home before your trip.
• Rotate daily: Never wear the same pair two days in a row—your feet need variety.
• Stuff socks inside shoes: Maximize space and help them keep their shape.
• Use shoe bags: Keep your clothes clean in your suitcase.

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Related Posts to Best Shoes for European Travel

• The Ultimate Men’s Packing List for a Europe Trip in Any Season
• Europe Travel Guide
• Pack Right: Top Travel Items for London Trips
• Cold weather essentials Packing list for winter travel
• The Ultimate Cruise Packing List Everyone Needs
• Cruise Planning Checklist: Your Ultimate Cruise Guide

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Final Thoughts on Shoes for European Travel

Your shoes are the foundation of your adventure. Pick the best travel shoes with enough support, and you’ll breeze through airport security, long walks, and new destinations without pain or emergency shopping.

Whether buying your first pair of walking shoes or upgrading from flip-flops and hoping for less foot pain, this list will help you walk smarter, pack lighter, and travel farther.

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Grab Life & Don’t Forget To Wear Sunscreen! Happy Exploring!