Buying Shoes For Europe

The 6 Types of Shoes You'll Need in Europe

4/26/2023

Looking for the perfect walking shoes for a trip to Europe? Look no further! I've rounded up the 6 types of shoes you'll need on a trip to Europe.

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Looking for the perfect shoes for your trip to Europe?

No item you'll pack for your trip to Europe will matter even half as much as, you guessed it, your shoes. Selecting shoes for a trip to Europe can be difficult, but it doesn't have to be. Below, I'll walk you through the 6 types of shoes you'll need for a trip to Europe. Before we get started, a few principles to keep in mind.

Selecting shoes for a trip to Europe

You don't have to break the bank

Price doesn't guarantee durability or comfort. What matters most is that the shoes are comfortable and can support you walking 20,000 steps/day.

Break them in

Don't even think about wasting time in Europe sitting on a bench with terribly sore feet because you broke the cardinal rule and wore new shoes on vacation!

Bring a mix of old and new

While all your shoes should be broken in, I like to also bring a mix of old and new. If you have a comfortable older pair that's reaching the end of its life, consider bringing it and leaving it behind to make room in your suitcase for souvenirs.

Shoes for Europe

Walking Shoes: Casual Loafers

My secret weapon to looking and feeling good on my trips to Europe is a good pair of loafers. On my first trip to Paris, I broke my cardinal rule and wore this Sam Edelman loafer for the first time on my first full-day exploring Paris. Not a blister in sight. Loafers take you from morning coffee, to lunch time, tourists attractions, and even through dinner and after-dinner cocktails, without running afoul of dress codes.

A Second Pair of Walking Shoes: Sneakers

No matter how comfortable your first pair of walking shoes, be sure to bring a second, to give your feet a change of pace. With the loafer being my go-to, I like to bring a casual sneaker for my "full-on" tourist days (The Tower of London, The Roman Forum, etc.) when you are pretty sure you won't be hitting the fanciest restaurant in town for dinner.

White sneakers for Europe travel

FAQ: Can I wear sneakers in Europe?
Yes! While "white sneakers" in Europe has been the "look there goes an American" signal for decades, things have changed. Sneakers are very trendy. If Kate Middleton can wear them so can we. Just make sure they're on-trend, clean, and in good condition.

Waterproof Boots for Rainy Days

On any trip to Europe, unfortunately there will be at least one day that's a complete "wash out," and if you're in the UK, you'll probably have a couple more than one...Be sure to bring some waterproof boots or booties that can handle a rainy slog. If possible, I like to bring an old pair that I can thank for their service and put to rest at the end of the trip. Just make sure they're comfortable enough to walk for miles and miles. I would strongly recommend against rubber "Wellington" or "rain" boots. They'll kill your feet.

Sandals / NOT BEACH FLIP FLOPS

Unless it's the dead of winter, I like to bring at least one pair of sandals, for evenings out and, sensing a trend? to give my feet a break in the evenings. People in Europe don't wear "Old Navy pool flip flops" in public, so make sure you're selecting actual sandals, unless you're literally going to be at the pool.

Evening Appropriate Shoes

No matter your evening plans, be sure to bring one pair of shoes that are appropriate for a "smart" hotel, cocktails, or seeing a show.

Getting comfortable in the hotel: Slippers

Obviously not mandatory, but I do like to bring slippers for evenings at the hotel. NO matter your destination, hotel floors are filthy.

Thanks for stopping by!

While you're here, check out all of my tips on packing for a trip to Europe!

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