The Best Walking Shoes for Travel in Europe

Let’s be honest—walking around Europe is a dream… until your feet betray you. Between cobblestone streets in Rome, endless museum halls in Paris, and those picturesque (but steep) alleyways in Lisbon, the wrong shoes can turn your dream trip into a foot-pounding nightmare. But don’t worry! I’ve done the research, scoured real reviews, and found the best travel shoes to keep your feet happy as you explore Europe’s most beautiful corners.

On Cloud 5 – Lightweight and Versatile

Best for: Wandering through Paris, tackling the Cinque Terre, or chasing trains in Germany.

The On Cloud 5 is ridiculously lightweight, making it a dream for travelers who don’t want to lug around heavy shoes. Laci from RunRepeat raves, “The On Cloud 5 is suitable for all-day wear, making it ideal for exploring European cities.” Whether you’re dodging Vespas in Rome or casually strutting down La Rambla in Barcelona, these will keep you comfy.

Hoka Transport – Cloud-Like Cushioning

Best for: Conquering London on foot, museum marathons, and long train station sprints.

If you’re the type who racks up 20,000 steps a day on vacation, the Hoka Transport is your best friend. It’s basically like walking on a marshmallow (but stylish). “The Hoka Transport offers unparalleled comfort for all-day wear,” says Laci from RunRepeat. Perfect for stomping through the Louvre, exploring the Scottish Highlands, or simply surviving a six-hour Vatican tour.

Nike Motiva – Comfort Meets Style

Best for: Looking effortlessly cool while walking miles in Amsterdam or Venice.

The Nike Motiva is what you wear when you want a sneaker that’s both comfortable and fashionable. Laci from RunRepeat notes, “The Nike Motiva provides excellent support and cushioning, making it suitable for long walks on varied surfaces.” You’ll blend right in with stylish locals in Copenhagen while secretly feeling like you’re wearing slippers.

Allbirds Tree Runners – Eco-Friendly & Lightweight

Best for: Summer strolls through Provence, tapas-hopping in Madrid, or biking in the Netherlands.

Allbirds are the go-to for travelers who care about both comfort and sustainability. These breathable shoes are perfect for warmer climates, so if you’re dreaming of lavender fields in France or Greek island hopping, these won’t let you down. Plus, “These shoes are not only sustainable but also incredibly comfortable,” says Laci from RunRepeat.

Adidas Grand Court 2.0 – Classic & Versatile

Best for: Packing light while looking stylish in Milan or exploring Vienna’s coffeehouses.

If you love a classic white sneaker that goes with everything, the Adidas Grand Court 2.0 is a winner. “White sneakers with a touch of black are such a great staple in anyone’s closet. They’re cute, comfortable, and can be dressed up or down,” says Bow & Tangle. Perfect for those impromptu Instagram shots in front of the Colosseum.

Skechers Ultra Flex Slip-In – Travel-Proof Convenience

Best for: Long airport layovers, breezing through security, and hassle-free adventures.

Even Martha Stewart swears by these (seriously—she wore them in Paris!). If you hate tying and untying shoes at airport security, these slip-on Skechers are a lifesaver. InStyle reports, “Stewart emphasized the practicality and comfort of these shoes, making them suitable for extensive walking adventures.”

Reebok Club C 85 Vintage – Stylish Support

Best for: Strolling through Prague’s Old Town or wine tasting in Tuscany.

Minimalist, chic, and oh-so-comfy, the Reebok Club C 85 Vintage is an excellent choice if you want support without looking like a tourist. EatingWell picked these as “the best overall for their supportive yet comfortable feel and stylish, easy-to-clean leather design.” Win-win!

Hoka Clifton LS – Built for Serious Walking

Best for: Hiking through the Scottish Highlands or tackling Santorini’s infamous steps.

If you’re planning to walk A LOT, these are for you. National Geographic calls them their “top overall pick for travel because of their cushioning and support.” Whether you’re exploring Mont Saint-Michel or climbing the Acropolis, your feet will thank you.

Adidas Samba OG – Timeless Cool

Best for: Effortlessly blending in with stylish locals in Berlin, Stockholm, or Barcelona.

Celebrities love them, fashion lovers swear by them, and travelers appreciate their comfort. The Adidas Samba OG is stylish without sacrificing practicality. EatingWell calls them “a minimalistic yet versatile design, loved by many.” Perfect for wandering around the artsy streets of Paris.

Merrell Walking Shoes – Built for Tough Terrain

Best for: Exploring the Dolomites, hiking in the Swiss Alps, or getting lost in Scotland’s countryside.

For those who love a rugged adventure, Merrells are a safe bet. A user from Rick Steves’ Travel Forum says, “I have awful feet but I’ve found in my trips to Europe my first priority is keeping them comfortable. I’d go with the Merrells.” If you’re hitting uneven terrain, these are your best bet.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Shoe for the Perfect Trip

No matter where you’re heading—from Rome’s cobblestones to Scotland’s cliffs—having the right shoes can make or break your trip. Now, go forth and explore Europe without your feet hating you!