You book the tickets and immediately start daydreaming about your Euro summer. Beyond the delicious food and breathtaking sights, you can’t help but fantasize about your outfits: chic linen pants, breezy sundresses, and stylish camis—and then it hits you: what footwear pairs effortlessly with European looks that transition seamlessly from day to night?
It all comes down to style, versatility, and comfortability—after all, you only have limited space in your carry-on, and you certainly don’t want to lug an extra suitcase of shoes down lop-sided cobblestone streets and uneven pavement.
Our guide breaks down the best shoes for traveling Europe, including key features to look for (and why), popular styles, and how to get the best fit for your trip. Below are a few of our favorite shoes to add to your Europe packing list this summer!
Key Features of Shoes for Traveling Europe
Whether you’re sworn to sneakers or play all day in sandals, finding the right features can make or break your European travel experience. When determining what type of footwear is best for your European trip is crucial, start with the basics. Top features to look for in any comfortable walking shoe include:
- Comfort – Above all, comfort reigns supreme. The old adage, “beauty is pain”? Dismiss it entirely. Whether you’re trekking through the Alps or exploring world-class museums, prioritize comfortable shoes that keep your feet content with excellent arch support.
- Material – The ideal shoe material depends on your activities, whether you’re lounging by the beach or strolling through the city. Opt for natural, breathable materials like leather or canvas, which are perfect for Europe’s summer heat. Additionally, weather-resistant fabrics like nylon and polyester are a bonus when it comes to finding the most comfortable travel shoes for women, as you never know when a Norwegian drizzle might catch you off guard.
- Color – Since you can only bring a few pairs of shoes overseas, be mindful of your color choices. Black or white sneakers are versatile and pair well with many outfits, from trousers and a T-shirt to a casual dress with a jean jacket.
- Style – When putting together your Europe packing list, prioritize versatility over fashion. Think about it: with limited packing space, bringing one to three pairs of shoes (including the ones you wear to the airport) is already quite a bit. Opt for shoe styles that can easily transition from casual to dressy, and that suit various activities throughout your trip. This way, you’ll maximize your outfit options while minimizing the number of shoes to pack for vacation.
Additional Shoe Considerations for Your European Summer Trip
While the features mentioned earlier are crucial for your Euro summer, it’s also important to consider everything from personal preferences to suitcase space. Before you start packing shoes in a suitcase, take into account:
- Baggage weight – Whether you check a bag or live the carry-on-only lifestyle, you have limited space for your clothes, toiletries, and footwear. Choose lightweight but sturdy shoes or sneakers to make room, and wear your bulkiest pair on the plane.
- Terrain – Where are you headed once you arrive in Europe? Lounging by the beach in Greece and trotting through cobblestones in Portugal each require different shoes choices. When packing, think about your major activities and choose a comfortable shoe that works for more than one.
- Convenience – Convenience is key—opt for sneakers, sandals, or boots that are easy to slip on and off. Picture yourself exploring Rome’s cobblestones or spending a day on your feet in Madrid. When you return, the first thing you’ll want to do is kick off your shoes. Choose styles with slip-on designs and minimal laces or straps to simplify your travels and enhance your comfort—trust us, it makes a world of difference.
- You – Yes, your preferences deserve a spot on the list! Whether you prefer how your shoes fit and feel or have a condition like plantar fasciitis, you’ll want to choose footwear that aligns with your needs and keeps you comfortable, no matter where the day takes you.
Top Shoe Styles for European Adventures
Now that you know what to look for in shoes, it’s time to unpack which styles will bring both fashion and comfort to gallivanting across Europe. Popular styles include:
Sneakers
Europeans rock sneakers just like the rest of us. You won’t stick out as a tourist because you’re wearing the best walking shoes for travel in Europe, especially if you choose the right color and style.
Plus, walking sneakers are comfortable, making them the perfect shoes for walking on concrete or spending long days traversing the various terrains in Europe. Walking tours? No problem. Hiking through the mountains? Why not! At Vionic, we make it easy for you to find a comfortable walking shoe that’s both stylish and practical.
Look for a sleek, elevated style like our Walk Max Stretch Lace Up Sneaker. This pair provides the stability you need for your European adventures with lightweight, flexible midsoles that make walking easier. Plus—they’ve got a water-repellent coating that can help keep your feet dry in stormy conditions. If you’re looking for the perfect shoe for standing all day or walking around exploring different cities, the Walk Max Stretch Lace Up Sneaker is an ideal option.
For a more everyday option, opt for the Kearny Platform Lace Up Sneaker. It’s sleek and sophisticated, with a mix of leather, suede, and mesh construction. It also offers enough cushioning and arch support to ensure comfort throughout the day.
Flats or Loafers
Want to elevate your style? Pair ballet flats or loafers with linen paperbag-style pants for a chic and polished look. Look for flats or loafers equipped with cushioned soles and padded footbeds to ensure optimal support and comfort. Rubber outsoles also offer enhanced traction, making them ideal for navigating various surfaces with ease.
Vionic flats and loafers move with you, allowing you to focus on exploring museums, beaches, and nature without any discomfort or foot pain. Check out these iconic styles from our collection:
- Stylish Loafer – If you want the comfort of a sneaker with the versatile style of a loafer, look no further than the Uptown Loafer. Available in a range of colors, such as classic black or sand, you can effortlessly match them with any outfit. What’s more, these shoes are collapsible, ensuring convenient packing and saving space in your suitcase.
- Sleek flats – Pair our Uptown Knit Skimmer Flats with anything from your favorite sundress to jeans and a floral cami. These slip-on shoes have shock-absorbing cushioning and arch support to make walking an absolute breeze.
Sandals
Sandals are other good travel shoes for Europe, and they are ideal for leisurely activities, whether you’re taking a scenic ocean cruise in Malta or indulging in a hearty dinner in Italy. They’re easy to put on and take off, too, and their breathability is ideal for those hot summer days. Plus, sandals are generally versatile enough to pair with almost any outfit.
The Bella Toe Post Sandal offers arch support and cushioning to help your feet feel their best all day. Their lightweight flexibility allows them to pack easily in your bag—plus, the little bow on the toe post adds a feminine touch to your attire.
Or, slide into the Carmela Strappy Slide Sandal, a leather option that comes in three colors: black, tan, and oatmeal and arch-supporting design.
Espadrilles
An alternative to sandals is the espadrille, a comfortable shoe with rope wrapped around the sole. The Mar Strappy Platform Sandal is interlaced with leather and a synthetic outsole that provides style and comfort.
What’s unique about an espadrille is that it comes in several forms, including:
- Sandals
- Flats
- Slingbacks
- Mules
- Slip ons
And since espadrilles originated in Spain—they fit right into the European style.
Boots
Boots can perfectly accentuate summer outfits, especially dresses. They can be dressy or casual, making them an ideal option for wearing more than once. Plus, boots can keep your feet dry if you travel through cooler or rainy European cities during the summer.
Opt for ankle boots for a more casual, summery look. Backpackers, remember to bring comfortable hiking boots for trekking through the mountains.
Mules
If you’re looking for a cross between flats and sandals, you might need a mule—the shoe, that is! Mules like the Willa Flat Mule add elegance and sophistication to your look, perfect for dining out or leisurely activities.
These shoes are easy to slip on, making them an optimal choice for changing into for an evening out on the town. Additionally, they provide coverage and protection for your toes, a feature appreciated by many.
Oxfords
Oxfords are stylish leather-studded footwear available in both men’s and women’s styles. With their closed laces and refined appearance, they resemble dress shoes and have a timeless appeal originating from Europe. This makes them a distinctive and fashionable choice for any travel wardrobe.
Oxfords can be an appropriate all-day shoe if you find the right pair. In general, save them for shorter excursions or more relaxed adventures.
Clogs
While flip-flops may be a casual option alongside their more sophisticated cousin, sandals, consider opting for clogs on those ultra-steamy days. Clogs are available in various styles and colors, some with back straps for added security.
For summer trips, look for flexible clogs like the Wave RX Recovery Clog, made from rubber-like plastic, featuring ventilation holes and a sturdy footbed for comfort and durability.
How to Ensure the Perfect Fit for All-Day Comfort
We’ve all been there—bought a pair of shoes because they looked stunning in the pictures—and then they hurt. A lot. Is there a way to ensure an almost perfect fit every time? Try these tips to ensure a better travel experience:
- Measure your shoe size at the end of the day because that’s when your feet should be the biggest.
- Choose footwear with round or square toe boxes instead of pointed ones to give your toes more room.
- Consider wide-toe box shoes, especially if you have conditions like bunions.
- Walk around in the footwear before bringing it on your trip to ensure they feel comfortable when you walk.
While shoe styles and brands vary, following these guidelines can help ensure you find the best shoes for Europe travel.
Elevate Your Comfort and Style for Your European Trip With Vionic
Prepare for your European summer vacation with chic, comfortable shoes from Vionic. Our on-trend designs are ideal for on-the-go activities, like exploring museums, wandering the city, or enjoying the seaside.
Toss our lightweight loafers or walking sneakers into your bag for the TLC your feet will crave after a long day exploring European cities. Vionic shoes support stability, flexibility, and arches and have appropriate cushioning for the ultimate comfort.
Find the best walking shoes for European travel by shopping our full selection of women’s and men’s shoes today.
Sources:
University Health Center by Nebraska Medicine. 7 tips for choosing the perfect shoes for your feet. https://health.unl.edu/7-tips-choosing-perfect-shoes-your-feet
Renew Foot & Ankle. How to Choose the Right Shoes for Your Feet. https://www.renewfootandankle.org/post/how-to-choose-the-right-shoes-for-your-feet
Alliance Foot and Ankle Specialists. Grapevine Podiatrists Reveal Must-Know Foot Safety Tips for Vacationers. https://www.footdoc.org/blog/must-know-vacation-safety-tips-for-your-feet-grapevine-podiatrist.cfm
Vionic. WHAT ARE ESPADRILLES? https://www.vionicshoes.com/blog/what-are-espadrilles/
Esquire. The Revolutionary History of Espadrilles. https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/news/a57038/espadrilles-history-revolution-basque-stylish/
OrthoInfo. Shoes: Finding the Right Fit. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/staying-healthy/shoes-finding-the-right-fit/
Leave a Reply