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When you picture your trip to Europe, you're probably not imagining sore feet or a suitcase full of shoes you never wear.

BUT TRUST ME WHEN I TELL YOU THAT PACKING THE RIGHT SHOES FOR EUROPE CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOUR TRIP.

European travel days are long.

I routinely walk more than 20,000 steps in a typical travel day, and that includes uneven surfaces like cobblestoned streets.

Add in things like standing in lines for gelator or the occasional sprint through a train station and you can understand why sore feet are a common byproduct of travel.

BUT I ALSO WANT TO LOOK GOOD WHILE I’M STROLLING THROUGH MADRID, VENICE, OR LISBON, AND I BET YOU FEEL THE SAME WAY.

So how can you pack a limited selection of shoes that will keep your feet comfortable while also adding to the fashion quotient of your outfits?

Read on for my recommendations on the types of shoes you should pack for a trip to Europe — from a reliable pair of travel sneakers to fashionable flats and even, yes, heels.

For each category, I’ve also included the most popular shoe models in case you’re looking to add a new pair to your collection.

The Best Shoes To Pack For Long Europe Travel Days

A Great Pair of Walking Shoes Is Non-Negotiable

If you only pack one pair of shoes, make it a comfortable, stylish travel sneaker that can survive a 20,000-step day.

Europe’s charming cobblestone streets are beautiful, but brutal on unsupported feet.

THAT’S WHY ATHLETIC SNEAKERS AND SUPPORTIVE LIFESTYLE SHOES ARE A MUST.

Prioritize arch support, cushioning, and a wide-enough toe box.

The Best Travel Sneakers That Blend Comfort and Style

New Balance 327 – My current obsession. Retro styling meets all-day wearability. I especially love these for cities like Berlin or Lisbon where the vibe is sporty but cool.
Adidas Gazelle – Iconic street style, and better support than you’d expect. Size up if you have wider feet.
Veja Campo – Sustainably made leather sneakers that look amazing with everything. Just note: they take a few wears to break in.
On Running Cloudnova – If you want the feel of a running shoe but the look of a fashion sneaker, this Swiss brand nails it.
Ecco Soft 7 – Understated leather sneakers with podiatrist-approved support. A favorite among travelers who value both comfort and versatility.

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Fashionable Flats That Actually Feel Good on Your Feet

There will be days you want to look more pulled together, whether that’s for a nice dinner reservation, a luxury shopping spree, or just because you’re in Paris and it feels wrong not to look your best.

THIS IS WHERE A COMFORTABLE PAIR OF FLAT SHOES COMES IN.

Flats take up less space in your suitcase, and you can easily dress them up or down.

I especially love point toe flats and leather loafers for that polished look, but ballet flats are also a great choice.

And if you’re traveling in the middle of summer, breathable sandals with cushioned soles may be the best choice.

Comfortable Flat Shoes for Women

Rothy’s The Flat or The Point – Made from recycled water bottles, these come in every color imaginable and are machine washable. The Point is my favorite and looks especially chic with dresses.
Margaux The Demi or The Point – Luxe leather flats with memory foam insoles. They mold to your foot over time.
Everlane Day Glove – Buttery soft leather and a walkable, molded sole. I wore these all over Madrid.
M.Gemi The Sacca Donna – Handcrafted Italian loafers that feel more supportive than ballet flats.
Birkenstock Arizona or Madrid Big Buckle – A true Euro original, the comfort on these German-made sandals can’t be beat. Try the EVA version for beach or rain days.
Teva Leather Sandals – These aren’t your dad’s hiking sandals anymore. Teva’s newer leather lines are stylish and supportive.

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You Can Pack Heels — Just Be Smart About It

Here’s the truth: you don’t need heels for Europe.

But if you like to dress up, or you have a special dinner or event planned, it’s okay to bring a pair.

JUST MAKE SURE IT’S THE RIGHT PAIR.

Think low block heels, wedges, or dressy ankle boots.

The key is choosing shoes that work with multiple outfits and won’t destroy your feet after 20 minutes.

Best Heels for Travel

Castañer Carina Espadrilles – A French-girl favorite that pairs perfectly with summer dresses. The ankle tie is surprisingly stable.
Vivaia Pointed-Toe Block Heels – Sleek, sustainable, and made from recycled materials. These have a cushioned insole and a stable block heel that works for walking and dressing up.
Vionic Kennewick Wedge – Stylish and orthotic-friendly, with arch support you can actually feel.
Dr. Martens 2976 Chelsea Boot – The classic Docs silhouette as a sleek pull-on boot, made of durable leather and a cushioned sole.Great for fall or winter trips when you want a little edge with your outfit.
Margaux City Sandal – Sleek design, padded footbed, and a sturdy block heel.

When it comes to heels, you’ll want to skip stilettos with skinny heels, anything over 3 inches, or shoes you haven’t broken in yet.

Conclusion

The best shoes for Europe travel are comfortable and confidence-boosting.

A great pair of sneakers, a stylish flat, and a just-in-case heel will give you the flexibility to dress for anything on your itinerary, without overstuffing your suitcase.

Pick styles you’ve already broken in, and opt for neutral colors that will pair well with multiple outfits.

Your feet, and your future self, will thank you.

Until next time,

Angela

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