Over the years I’ve been guilty of killing my feet in the name of fashion. I’ve also gone the other direction and bought ugly shoes in the name of comfort. Isn’t there a happy medium? Yup! I’m sharing some of the best walking shoes for travel that are comfortable and stylish — and won’t kill your feet after a few miles. I own shoes from each brand I’ve mentioned below, so consider them my personal recommendations that are perfect for trips with lots of walking. 😉
Best walking shoes for travel (that are stylish and comfortable)
Before we get to the list: A good rule of thumb is to break in your new pair of shoes well before your trip. Wear them out and about a few times so you’re sure that they’re comfy enough to withstand full days of sightseeing. Blisters and vacation don’t mix! OK, let’s get on with my top picks for stylish walking shoes for Europe and beyond.
Clarks
I used to think Clarks were shoes for the 50 and up crowd, but that’s not the case. Plenty of Clarks styles could work for a variety of ages. I got my first pair in college to keep my feet comfy while walking all over New York City and never looked back. Since then, I’ve gone through several more pairs that have traveled with me to New Zealand, Morocco, all over Europe and more.
Aerosoles
Another brand that’s upped its style game over the past couple of years is Aerosoles. Their sandals and casual shoes are affordable and I especially like this Yoyo style for its chain link detailing and feminine style.
TOMS
I bought my first pair of TOMS over the summer and fell in love. Stylish yet comfortable, TOMS Classics are the perfect choice for long days of sightseeing. Not only is there a pattern for every taste, but TOMS will also make you feel good about your purchase because a portion of each sale is donated to someone in need. You can read more about TOMS in my full review of the pair pictured above here.
Birkenstock
Birkenstock has come a long way since their original 2-strap Arizona style that was more associated with hippies than with being fashion forward. One thing Birkenstock has going for them is that their shoes are all about comfort and they’d make stylish walking shoes for Europe for sure.
No matter the style, these shoes will keep your feet happy. I especially like their sandals like these beauties for a warm-weather sejour.
Dansko
I first discovered Dansko clogs when I was 15 and walking everywhere since I didn’t yet have my license. My clogs lasted for years and were probably some of the best quality shoes I’ve ever purchased.
While some models are more geared toward occupational use for people on their feet all day, the brand has branched out and refreshed its style. They make more than just clogs these days and many styles are quite fashionable. If you want to treat your feet right, this is the shoe you need if you want the best walking shoes for travel and just because.
Nike
OK, yes these are gym shoes, but if you get them in black or another neutral color and pair with a less sporty outfit? Well, you have a stylish look and your feet will feel like they’re walking on pillows.
Plus, they double as gym/running shoes if you want to get a quick workout in. My go-to sneakers are Nike Frees and I got these Flyknits pictured on sale a couple of months back. LOVE.
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Check out this blog post for my no BS guide for how to dress in France:
I really like Sketcher Go-Walks. I got a pair just before a trip to NYC, and walked nonstop for four days in them. Like walking on marshmallows. No blisters.
Awesome, I will look them up!
Years ago I owned a pair of Mephisto sandals that I loved and was sorry to say goodbye to. They were similar to Birkenstocks but more stylish (this was before Birkenstock upped its game). Would like to get another pair.
Yup, I’ve heard of that brand and they’re pretty popular in France. I’ve seen stores around but have never bought a pair myself. Will check them out, thank you!
I have a pair of black ankle boots by Rieker with a 1 1/2″ chunky heel. I waterproof them, slip in an insole and can walk all day in them. Took them to France and Germany last month and could wear them with bare legs on the warmer days as well. The model name is Lynn63(i think). I have a pair of strapped Clarks, but I’m still breaking those in a bit more.
Penny
I’m going to look up the Riekers. Thank you!
I always wear Clarks and Aerosoles. Love the cushy feel through out the sole! I wear them everyday, all seasons. I learned the hard way while traveling. It’s also good to bring more than one pair of shoes in case part of your foot tends to get more wear and tear with the one pair if you know what I mean…switching up relieves the pressure!
Yup, I love comfy soles. And great tip about having more than one pair of walking shoes. A backup can really come in handy!
I love Sanitas. I have pretty big feet but they are narrow and Sanitas give me so much support on my arches as I stand all day. For stylish walking. Cole Haan has cushion built in a lot of their shoes.
I’m going to look up Sanitas — not familiar with them. And yes about Cole Haan, I had a pair of dressy boots (the Cole Haan w/Nike technology or whatever it’s called) that lasted for years!
When on holidays and doing a lot of sight seeing I usually like to wear my joggers as I am able to do a lot of walking in them
Yup, very comfortable and no chance of blisters. I feel the same way 😉
Yep, who wants to look like their grandma… not me! I recently purchased a silver leather, white soled and laced pair of Timberland lace up shoes. Very cool AND comfortable, perfect combination.
Yup, when I’m 92 like my grandma, I’ll wear her style. 😉 Glad you found some nice shoes that are comfy too!