Choosing the Best Shoes for Traveling in Europe: Paris, Rome, London & Beyond

From the sun-drenched plazas of Rome to the misty, historic corners of London, Europe is basically one giant invitation to explore. Whether you’re marvelling at the Eiffel Tower, getting lost in the corridors of the British Museum, or—let’s be real—traipsing across the city to find the absolute best Aperol Spritz, your itinerary is going to involve a lot of mileage. That’s why finding the best shoes for traveling Europe is just as important as booking your flight. At Rothy’s, we design comfortable travel shoes that blend seamlessly into the effortless European aesthetic, so you can explore with total confidence and zero "tourist" vibes. Before you start zip-locking your suitcase, be sure to check out our Rothy’s Travel Guide for more expert tips on making your journey a breeze.

How to Choose the Best Shoes for Traveling in Europe

When you’re mapping out a continental adventure, comfort is the undisputed king—though since we’re talking about Europe, style is a very hungry second place. Europe is practically built on history, which is a poetic way of saying it’s full of ancient walkways, intricate (and ankle-testing) cobbled streets, and uneven stone paths. Choosing suitable travel shoes isn’t just a luxury; it’s a survival tactic for anyone planning to spend the day on their feet sightseeing all that Europe has to offer. Whether you opt for a pair of sporty sneakers or more polished and chic travel flats, you need a pair with enough support to carry you through the afternoon, but lightweight enough that you don't feel like you're dragging anchors by sunset.

Finding that "Goldilocks" balance is easy with Rothy’s. We’re firm believers that you shouldn't have to choose between a sensible shoe and a stunning outfit. Our designs blend comfort, durability, and a sleek silhouette, making them the best travel shoes for any European getaway. Because they’re crafted with a flexible, seamless knit, they actually move with you, ensuring the last mile of the day feels just as breezy as the first.

What Types of Shoes Should You Pack for Your Next Europe Trip?

Modern travelers are all about versatility. You want a shoe that can handle a sunrise hike up the steps of Montmartre and still look right at home at a trendy wine bar an hour later. The style forecast for Europe is all about the return of the classic, streamlined silhouette. Ballet flats, Mary Janes and sophisticated loafers are currently dominating the sidewalks from Milan to Paris. These styles deliver that "quiet luxury" aesthetic that is perfect for international travel.

When you’re deciding which shoes will make the final cut for a trip to Europe, consider this curated list of styles that hit the sweet spot of fashion and function:

Sneakers

Sneakers are a great option for a travel shoe that provides comfort and durability, great for long walks, but may not be as suitable for attractions with a more formal dress code. The Rothy’s Original Slip On Sneaker offers comfort and a sleek style, making it ideal for most travel scenarios.

• Best for: All-day sightseeing and airport transit.
• Details: Easily packable and available in styles for women, men, and kids.

Flats & Mary Janes

The ballet flat and Mary Jane are the quintessential "European Girl" staples. They’re incredibly lightweight, taking up virtually zero room in your carry-on, and they transition from a morning at the museum to a midnight cocktail effortlessly.

• Best for: Museums, afternoon tea, cocktails and dinners.
• Details: We also offer adorable Mary Janes for kids so the whole family stays stylish.

Clogs

Clogs have made a massive comeback, loved for their "cool-without-trying" look and incredible ease. They’re the perfect slip-on for travelers who want a shoe that plays well with or without socks and complements almost any outfit in your suitcase.

• Best for: Casual strolls and boutique shopping.
• Details: Explore our assortment of clogs for women, men and kids.

Loafers

Loafers provide a more structured look, perfect for professional or upscale environments. They offer more coverage than a flat while maintaining a sophisticated profile. For this reason, they’re a natural for checking out the Bodleian Library in Oxford, say, or the Rococo wonders of the Mafra Palace Library in Portugal. The Cruiser Loafer and The Men’s Cruiser Loafer would be more than welcome in both these settings, a strong standout for both comfort and style. Of course you can wear your loafers other places than a library, but they certainly feel at home surrounded by tomes of esteemed meaning. 

• Best for: Business travel or exploring historic libraries and universities.
• Details: Available in various colors for women, men and kids.

Sandals

If your itinerary involves a coastal breeze, a pair of women's sandals is a total non-negotiable. Look for secure straps that won't give up on you when you're navigating a rugged coastal path or a seaside boardwalk.

• Best for: Warm weather and beach-adjacent cities.
• Details: Our sandals are designed to be water-friendly and quick-drying (they are machine washable, after all!).

Europe Travel Shoes by Itinerary

Every European city has its own unique personality—and its own specific way of testing your footwear. One minute you’re gracefully navigating the steep escalators of the London Tube, and the next, you’re trying not to twist an ankle on the ancient, sun-baked stones of the Roman Forum. Your shoes shouldn't just keep up; they should match the destination's "vibe."

Best Walking Shoes for Paris 

Paris is the world capital of "effortless elegance" and, surprisingly, a marathon amount of walking. Between the hallowed halls of the Louvre and a sunset stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries, you want a look that feels entirely intentional. The best walking shoes for Paris are almost always a pair of polished flats or sleek loafers. They let you blend in with the locals at a sidewalk café while giving your feet a fighting chance against those charming (but treacherous) gravel paths and limestone streets.

Walking Shoes for London 

In London, the only thing more famous than the landmarks is the "four seasons in one hour" weather. You need a shoe that laughs in the face of a sudden afternoon drizzle while staying cozy enough for a day of gallery hopping. Our machine-washable sneakers are the ultimate city-dwellers; they’re perfect for London’s gritty urban sprawl and ensure you still look fresh for a post-museum pint, even if you got caught in a West End downpour. The Women’s RS02 Sneaker would fit right in, although you may want to call them “trainers” as the Brits do. And for the men, we’ve got The RSO1 Sneaker. Both supremely comfortable, from your morning bangers and mash to your afternoon tea.

Travel Shoes for Italy 

Italy’s ancient cobblestones are breathtakingly beautiful and notoriously unforgiving. Whether you’re getting lost in the back alleys of Venice or hiking across Rome, your travel shoes for Italy need to prioritize stability without looking like "hiking gear." The Max Square ballet flat is a total powerhouse here—it offers a chic, streamlined profile and serious all-day wearability. It’s the perfect companion for strolling through the Colosseum or finding that hidden trattoria in Trastevere without a single complaint from your arches. And for the men, The Oxford is a great choice for a tailored look that’s as lightweight as it is slick.

The best part? When you find the right pair, you can actually focus on the breathtaking history in front of you instead of counting down the minutes until you can finally kick off your shoes.

How Many Shoes Should You Pack for a Europe Trip?

The golden rule of packing is "less is more," but this is only possible if your shoes are multi-functional. Rothy’s shoes are designed to be durable and stylish, with one pair often serving multiple functions—from navigating the airport to a nice dinner. This makes them the perfect choice to pack for a trip to Europe if you want to save on space without compromising on style.

If you’re going on a romantic getaway, you might prioritize a pair of flats and one pair of comfortable sneakers. For a family trip, durability and washability become the top priorities. By following the 3-shoe rule—one pair on your feet, one walking pair, and one "nice" pair in the bag—you can cover every possible scenario without overstuffing your luggage. This rule is especially helpful when traveling as a family!

How to Style Travel Shoes for Europe Trips

Let’s be honest: Nobody actually wants to look like a "tourist" while sipping an espresso in a Roman piazza. Rothy’s shoes are essentially the secret weapon of a travel capsule wardrobe—they’re designed with that "how does she stay so comfortable?" magic that lets you skip the clunky orthopedic look entirely. To blend in with the locals, aim for that elusive "smart casual" sweet spot. Ballet flats and Mary Janes are having a major moment across the continent. Try pairing them with some high-waisted cropped trousers and a classic trench; it’s a look that says "I live here" even if you’re definitely using a map to find the bakery.

If your itinerary is more "museum marathon" than "sit and sip," sneakers are your best bet. You can style them with a breezy midi dress or some well-tailored denim to hit that airport chic vibe without the post-flight foot ache. Because our palette ranges from gallery-ready neutrals to "look at me" pops of color, these shoes are the ultimate chameleons—they can dress up or down faster than you can say bonjour. By using Rothy’s as your foundation, you’re building a wardrobe that is lightweight, undeniably fashionable, and—most importantly—actually functional. After all, the best accessory for a European vacation isn't a bag; it's the ability to keep exploring.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Choosing Travel Shoes for Europe

One of the most frequent mistakes travelers make is wearing brand-new shoes for the first time on their trip. Even the most comfortable shoes should be worn around the house first to ensure the fit is perfect—especially for children, as blistered feet and the ensuing whining can quickly dampen the vacation spirit.

Another mistake is forgetting about the elements. European streets can be dusty or muddy depending on the season. Always check for styles that are washable in the event of any mishaps. All Rothy’s styles are fully machine washable, which is a game-changer for long trips. You can simply toss them in the wash when you return to your hotel or when you get home, keeping your travel gear looking brand new.

Step Into Your Next European Adventure

Let’s face it: A blister is a terrible souvenir. Finding the best shoes for traveling Europe is essentially the "cheat code" for a successful, pain-free vacation. By prioritizing the holy trinity of comfort, durability and style, you’re making sure you’re just as prepared for the ancient cobblestones of Rome as you are for the impromptu fashion runways of Paris.

Rothy’s has mastered the art of the travel-ready shoe, offering a lineup that’s ready for any itinerary—from sleepy coastal villages to bustling metropolitan centers. We're here to help you stay effortlessly stylish without ever having to miss a single step (or a single photo op). Ready to get moving? Head over to our Rothy’s Travel Guide to explore more travel-ready styles and start planning your most comfortable journey yet.