Best Shoes for Europe Travel: The Ultimate Packing List for Female Travelers

What are the best shoes for Europe travel?

After over a decade of travel, specifically to Europe, and living in Spain and Greece, where daily life meant endless walking, I’ve learned that the right pair of shoes can make or break your trip.

Whether I’m walking 20,000+ steps or finding other comfortable shoes besides sneakers, I always rely on a few essential pairs of shoes to keep my feet comfortable.

Since I only travel with a carry-on, I’ve perfected the art of selecting the most essential shoes for Europe on every trip: ones that are stylish, ultra-comfortable, and versatile enough for multiple outfits and occasions.

In this guide, I’ll share some of my tried-and-tested and heavily researched picks for the best walking shoes, dressy options, and sandals for every season in Europe.

I don’t always pack all these shoes in one trip, especially if I only travel with a carry-on. However, I recommend these shoes depending on the different seasons and activities you may be doing on your travels.

Plus, I’ll include tips on what to avoid so you can make the most of your packing space.

So, let’s jump in!

Best Shoes for Europe Travel: The Ultimate Packing List for Female Travelers

Sneakers for City Exploration

The classic white sneaker that goes with everything

A good pair of white sneakers is an absolute must-have for Europe travel. They’re stylish, go with every outfit, and can handle long days of walking.

I learned this the hard way when packing shoes for my first European trip to Greece. I ended up with ~interesting outfits with my only comfortable shoes, chunky blue sneakers.

These white sneakers offer the perfect blend of comfort, support, and effortless European style.

1. Women’s VEJA Campo Sneaker

I love a good minimalist sneaker, and the VEJA Campo is one of the best travel sneakers for Europe if you want a shoe that will go with everything and is great for all day wear. 

Made from durable leather with a supportive rubber sole, these sneakers have a firm but comfortable footbed that molds to your foot over time.

I’ve worn these shoes the most in my travels, from exploring the A Coruña in Spain to walking around Paris and more.

While they require a slight break-in period (make sure to wear them at home), the comfort and timeless style make them worth it in the long run, in my opinion!

👟 BUY Women’s VEJA Campo Sneaker here

2. Adidas Stan Smith Sneakers

Another great white sneaker option is the Adidas Stan Smiths, and for good reason.

They have a padded collar, cushioned sole, and sleek leather exterior. The non-marking rubber outsole also makes them great for slick sidewalks and floors.

. The Adidas Stan Smith sneakers are perfect for looking stylish without sacrificing comfort! You can pair them with dresses, jeans, tailored trousers, and any outfit in your capsule wardrobe.

Many travelers especially love how these shoes handle cobblestone streets without too much wear and tear. They are perfect for all your travels through Europe.

👟 BUY Adidas Stan Smith Sneakers here

3. Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Time Off Sneaker

A sneaker that looks trendy but feels like a walking shoe? Yes, please!

A game-changer for comfort, Dr. Scholl’s Time Off sneaker features a built-in arch support, memory foam insole, and flexible sole to keep your feet comfortable during those endless sightseeing days no matter where you are in Europe.

Plus, they’re lightweight and won’t take up too much space in your carry-on if you pack them in.

👟 BUY Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Time Off Sneaker here

4. New Balance BB550

The New Balance BB550 is a great travel sneaker for those who love a retro vibe with their outfits.

It has a chunkier design but offers great support, like a cushioned sole and extra ankle support. This makes it great for walking all day exploring new cities, specifically cities like Lisbon or Prague, with uphills and tons of cobblestone streets.

Whether you’re heading to hilly cities like Lisbon or other European cities with uneven streets, this sneaker will have your back (and feet).

👟 BUY New Balance BB550 sneakers here

5. OnCloud The ROGER Advantage 2 Sneakers

OnCloud sneakers are popular, and everyone loves them, and for good reasons, including being stylish, supportive, and made with breathable material.

The CloudTec cushioning in these sneakers means you’ll barely feel the pavement, even after a full day exploring, thanks to its ultra-lightweight cloud-like cushioning.

Plus, they’re travel-friendly, so packing them down in a carry-on is easy without adding unnecessary bulk.

👟 BUY the OnCloud The ROGER Advantage 2 sneaker here

Running shoes for extra support on long walking days

If you plan on walking 20,000+ steps a day (which happens more often than not), a proper pair of supportive running shoes is worth packing. These are perfect for walking-intensive cities like London or Rome, where your feet will thank you after hours of sightseeing.

6. OnCloud Cloud 6 Sneakers

If you need a lightweight sneaker that offers serious comfort, the OnCloud Cloud 6 is a fantastic pick.

They’re shock-absorbing, breathable, and lightweight, making them ideal for long sightseeing days without feeling clunky or bulky.

Plus, the quick-lace system makes them easy to slip on and off—ideal for airport security lines.

👟 BUY OnCloud Cloud 6 Sneakers

7. Brooks Ghost Max 2

For travelers who know they’ll be racking up the steps, the Brooks Ghost Max 2 is one of the best walking shoes for Europe.

If you have high arches or need extra support, these are fantastic because the extra cushioning is next-level, which helps with walking on hard pavement all-day

The plush cushioning and arch support make them ideal for destinations with many stairs and uneven streets.

You really can’t go wrong with these!

👟 BUY Brooks Ghost Max 2 here

8. Hoka Kawana 2 Sneakers

Hoka is known for ultra-cushioned running shoes, and the Kawana 2 is no exception.

For travelers who want maximum comfort, these provide excellent shock absorption and cushioned midsoles that relieve pressure on the feet.

These shoes make long days of walking feel effortless, which is a lifesaver when exploring cities all day long.

They’re a bit bulkier than some other options, but if comfort is your top priority, these are a solid choice. You can travel with them on to avoid packing them in your suitcase.

👟 BUY Hoka Kawana 2 sneakers here

Waterproof shoes for rainy destinations

Something to consider before traveling to places like London, Dublin, or Porto—rain is always a possibility! Waterproof shoes save your trip from turning into a soggy, uncomfortable mess. These picks keep your feet dry without sacrificing comfort.

9. The North Face Women’s Ultra 112 Waterproof Shoes

These waterproof shoes are a must-have if you’re traveling to places like Brighton or San Sebastian, where rain is no stranger.

A mix between a sneaker and a hiking shoe, these are perfect for city walking and exploring nearby nature trails.

The Gore-Tex waterproofing keeps feet dry, and the grippy sole is great for walking on slippery cobblestones. The cushioned midsole also works great to ensure all-day comfort.

Unlike clunky hiking boots, these are lightweight and pack-friendly.

👟 BUY Women’s Ultra 112 Waterproof Shoes here

10. OnCloud Cloudwander Waterproof Shoes

Weather can be predictable no matter when you visit Europe, and Cloudwander is one of the most perfect comfortable walking shoes for unexpected rainy days.

The OnCloud Cloudwander Waterproof shoes are for travelers who want a stylish, lightweight, waterproof sneaker that doesn’t look like a bulky hiking shoe.

These waterproof sneakers keep your feet dry without sacrificing breathability, which I absolutely loved because they make sightseeing much more comfortable.

I’ve worn these through rainy days in London and Bilbao, and my feet stayed dry and comfortable the entire time.

They also work great for light hikes, making them versatile travel shoes for exploring nature. I can’t recommend these enough!

👟 BUY OnCloud Cloud Wander hiking shoe here

Stylish waterproof boots for winter travel

Waterproof boots are non-negotiable if you’re traveling to Europe in the winter. The wrong boots can leave your feet freezing and wet, but these keep you warm, dry, and stylish.

11. The North Face Women’s Chilkat V 400 Waterproof Boots

These boots are warm, waterproof, and sturdy for winter trips to colder destinations, whether trekking through snow or slushy weather.

The North Face Chilkat waterproof boots are designed for extreme cold. They are insulated for warmth and have great traction on icy sidewalks.

These are perfect if you’re looking for a go-to boot to wear throughout your European travels, especially during long outdoor sightseeing days.

🥾 BUY The North Face Women’s Chilkat V 400 Waterproof Boots here

12. UGG Women’s Adirondack III Boot

These aren’t your typical UGGs. This model is built for snow, rain, and freezing temps.

These UGG Adirondack III boots are chic yet functional. They are fully waterproof and have an insulated lining to keep feet warm, even in sub-zero temperatures.

For shoes that offer the warmth they offer, they still look stylish and aren’t as chunky, so you won’t feel like you’re wearing clunky snow boots.

🥾 BUY The UGG Women’s Adirondack III Boot here

13. Columbia Moritza Shield Omni-Heat Boots 

If you want warmth without the bulk, these Columbia boots are a great pick.

The Columbia Moritza boots are a great choice for travelers heading to places like Scandinavia, Germany, or Austria in winter since they have a thermal-reflective lining to keep feet extra warm and dry.

Plus, the waterproof exterior protects against slush and rain, and it is ideal for long walks outdoors, no matter the winter weather.

🥾 BUY the Columbia Mortiza Shiedl Omni-Heat Boots here

>> Read More: A Local’s Guide to the 21 Best Chicago Winter Boots

Best Dress Shoes for Europe Travel – Stylish Yet Comfortable

Loafers & Ballet Flats for fancier outings that don’t hurt after hours of walking and pair well with jeans and dresses

For times when sneakers feel too casual, but heels are out of the question, these loafers and flats are the perfect balance of comfort and style.

14. VIVAIA Square-Toe Mary-Jane Flats

Chic, comfortable, and eco-friendly, these flats are ideal for dressier occasions in Europe.

VIVAIA is a brand that has gathered a lot of hype on social media, especially with the Square-Toe Mary Jane flats, but I think it’s definitely worth it for its super lightweight, cushioned, and machine washable (a game-changer for travel) qualities.

Whether you’re dining in Paris or strolling through Budapest’s historic bridges, these shoes provide the right balance of style and support.

🥿 BUY VIVAIA Square-Toe Mary Jane Flats here

15. VIVAIA Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats

A classic ballet flat but with added support, the VIVAIA pointed-toe ballet flats are a must for travelers looking to add a shoe option for nicer occasions while traveling.

These pointed-toe ballet flats are perfect for packing light since they take up almost no space in your carry-on. Plus, they are also washable, which is such a nice feature, whether traveling or not.

This is the perfect, nicer shoe to consider packing in your suitcase if you plan on going out for a nice dinner while traveling.

🥿 BUY VIVAIA Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats here

16. Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafer

A European travel essential, these loafers add instant sophistication to any outfit while remaining incredibly comfortable.

Whether you want to step up your outfits for a nice lunch or dinner, these loafers won’t hurt your feet as you walk from your hotel to the restaurant and a sweet treat afterward.

The soft leather molds to your feet, and they pair well with jeans, dresses, and everything in between.

🥿 BUY Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafers here

Warm and stylish ankle and tall boots for fall travel

For fall trips to Europe, ankle boots are a must-have. They’re versatile, stylish, and comfortable enough for all-day wear.

17. Blundstone Chelsea Boot

Durable, stylish, and weather-resistant, these are some of the best boots for European travel.

Many travelers mention that they’ve had their Blunderstone boots for YEARS and are still in good shape and as comfortable as ever, so this boot is definitely going to get a lot of wear for the price.

Plus, the slip-on design makes them easy for airport security, and they can handle everything from Parisian rain to cobblestone streets.

👢 BUY Blundstone Chelsea Boots here

18. Dr. Marten’s Faux Fur Lined Chelsea Boots

If you love a bit of edge in your style but also need warmth, these faux fur-lined Dr. Martens are a game-changer.

A warm, cozy, and edgy boot that holds up to cold temperatures while still looking stylish, the Dr. Marten faux fur-lined Chelsea boot is a great boot to pack if you want to step up any winter outfit and add a little something, something since you can only do so much while wearing the same winter jacket/coats.

This shoe is perfect for exploring other stylish cities like Copenhagen in the winter without freezing your toes off.

👢 BUY Dr. Marten’s Faux Fur Lined Chelsea Boots

19. Dr. Marten’s Warmwaire Leather Lace-Up Boots

A lace-up version of the classic Docs, these boots offer extra ankle support and a cozy interior for chillier destinations.

These Dr. Marten Warmwaire lace-up boots are great, especially for travelers who need warmth and good traction for unpredictable weather.

Like some shoes on the list, if you get a new pair, make sure to break them in a bit before wearing them for the first time for 15,000+ steps in Europe!

After breaking them in, they’ll definitely become one of your most comfortable pairs of boots, comfortable enough to wear all day.

👢BUY Dr. Marten’s Warmwaire Leather Lace-Up Boots here

Best Sandals for Europe Travel in Summer

Comfortable walking sandals for all-day sightseeing and walking on cobblestone streets

Summer in Europe means scorching heat and endless walking, so the right pair of sandals can make all the difference. These sandals are comfortable and supportive, and perfect for exploring.

20. Teva Women’s Hurricane Drift

Lightweight, waterproof, and incredibly comfortable, these sandals are perfect for long sightseeing days in sunny destinations like Málaga or Positano.

Teva has many different styles of sandals, which is great because you can choose a style that best fits what you’ll be wearing without sacrificing comfort.

The Hurrican Drift style is a lightweight, waterproof sandal ideal for beach towns and casual sightseeing if your plans include that.

🩴 BUY Teva Women’s Hurricane Drift

21. Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed

A tried-and-true classic, the Birkenstock Arizona is one of the best sandals for walking in Europe.

The Arizona soft footbed sandals offer great arch support and all-day comfort, making them perfect for cobblestone streets and long walks.

The contoured footbed provides amazing arch support, and the soft sole version makes them even more comfortable.

They are ideal for exploring everything from Spanish coastal towns to wandering through Copenhagen’s parks.

🩴 BUY Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed here

22. Naot Aisha Sandal

For travelers who want a sandal that feels as supportive as a sneaker, the Naot Aisha is a fantastic choice.

A dressier but still ultra-comfortable walking sandal, the Naot Aisha is ideal for all sorts of fancier events or simply for dressing up your style while traveling to some of the most beautiful European cities.

Plus, the cushioned footbed and elegant design make the sandal a good choice for a shoe that won’t completely kill your feet if you walk a distance in it.

🩴 BUY Naot Aisha Sandal here

Shoes to Avoid for Europe Travel

• Cheap Ballet Flats: No support and will destroy your feet. You don’t want to come back home with plantar fasciitis! 
• Flip-Flops (Unless for the Beach): Not practical for walking or cute.
• Brand-New Shoes: Always break them in before your trip!
• High Heels: European cobblestone streets and heels don’t mix—stick to block heels or wedges if you want something with height.

What to Look for in the Best Shoes for Europe Travel

• All-Day Comfort: No matter where you go in Europe, you’ll walk a lot —think 15,000+ steps a day! So consider this when picking out your shoes.
• Support & Cushioning: Choose shoes with arch support and shock absorption so you can walk longer distances and not get as tired quickly. Also, so your feet aren’t screaming at you on day 1 of your trip!
• Versatile Style: Depending on your style, you’ll want to consider that when picking a shoe style that can match most of your outfits.
• Weather-Appropriate: Consider rain-resistant shoes for London or breathable sandals for Italy in summer.
• Packability: Bulky shoes take up precious suitcase space—stick to lightweight options and wear your heaviest pair while traveling if possible.

Packing Tips – How Many Shoes to Bring for a Europe Trip?

• Carry-On Travelers: I recommend packing no more than 2 pairs and wearing your chunkiest pair while traveling.
• Checked Luggage Travelers: You can add an extra pair for versatility.
• Wear the bulkiest shoes on the plane to save space.
• Use shoe bags to keep your suitcase organized and your dirty shoes from touching your clothes.

The Wrap-Up: Best Shoes For Europe Travel: The Ultimate Packing List for Female Travelers

The best shoes for Europe travel are the ones that fit your personal style while keeping your feet comfortable for hours of walking.

After years of trial and error, I’ve found that a combination of supportive sneakers, stylish flats/boots, and comfy sandals covers all bases, depending on where I’m going.

I’ll be honest, the more I travel, the fewer shoes I bring since I prefer to carry a carry-on.

Of course, that depends on seasonality and activities I’ll be doing on my trip, so this list is the best of what to pack for shoes, in my opinion, based on experience and different travel activities.

Now, it’s your turn—what’s your go-to travel shoe for Europe? Let me know in the comments!

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