So you want to conquer every city you travel in on foot? Well, here’s my ranking of shoes to travel and walk long distances in, from the perspective of a woman who has tested them all while traveling across major European cities like Paris, London, Rome, Vienna, Prague, Stockholm, Barcelona, Madrid, and Venice. Comfort, versatility, and style all played a role in this ranking, as it’s important to look good and feel good while covering miles of cobblestone streets and navigating busy train stations:
1. Hoka One One Bondi
Best for all-day walking with incredible cushioning
- Pros: These shoes feel like walking on clouds, providing support even during 7-10 mile days exploring cities like Rome or Madrid. The cushioning is especially great for tired feet, making them perfect for women who need extra support for long hours.
- Cons: The chunky sole can look a bit too sporty for certain outfits, but the comfort more than makes up for it.
- Best for: Long travel days, heavy walking tours, and women who need extra foot support (works well with custom orthotics).
2. Brooks Ghost 14
Reliable comfort and support for everyday exploring
- Pros: A classic running shoe that doubles as the perfect walking shoe, especially if you’re trekking around Paris or Venice all day. Excellent arch support and cushioning, making it great for cobblestones and uneven surfaces.
- Cons: More suited to casual looks; may not work for dressier outings.
- Best for: Active travelers who want reliable, cushioned shoes that can transition from running to walking.
3. Allbirds Tree Dasher 1
Eco-friendly option with breathable comfort
- Pros: These shoes are lightweight and perfect for warmer cities like Barcelona or Madrid. They’re made of breathable materials, and the cushioned sole provides decent support. Plus, they’re easy to pack and sustainable.
- Cons: Not as much support for women with higher arches or those needing firm structure.
- Best for: Eco-conscious travelers looking for something comfortable, stylish, and versatile.
4. Adidas Ultraboost
For sneaker lovers who want all-day comfort and style
- Pros: The Ultraboost shoes have exceptional cushioning and arch support, making them perfect for all-day sightseeing in cities like Prague and Stockholm. They also offer a sleek look that pairs well with casual chic outfits.
- Cons: Not as breathable in hot weather; takes time to break in.
- Best for: Fashion-forward women who don’t want to compromise on comfort, especially for long days of sightseeing.
5. Ecco Street Lite Retro
Stylish comfort for casual walking and sightseeing
- Pros: These are incredibly comfortable for long hours of walking, yet they maintain a chic and stylish appearance suitable for European city streets. Perfect for walking from the Louvre to a casual café in Paris.
- Cons: Not as cushioned as some of the sportier options, but they hold up well for moderate walking days.
- Best for: Women who want versatile shoes that transition easily from day to night without sacrificing comfort.
6. Vans UltraRange Exo
Casual yet versatile and comfortable for all-day wear
- Pros: UltraRange Exo shoes are comfortable, lightweight, and stylish. They work well for walking and don’t feel bulky, making them a good option for exploring both city streets and outdoor areas. They also transition well from casual sightseeing to casual dinners.
- Cons: Slightly less supportive than other options; not ideal for extremely long walking days.
- Best for: Casual explorers who want a lighter shoe that can handle moderate walking but still looks good.
7. Skechers Arch Fit
Affordable comfort with wider-foot accommodation
- Pros: These shoes are great for women with wider feet who still need good arch support and cushioning. They’re affordable, comfortable, and come in a variety of designs, making them a practical choice for long days of walking in places like Venice or Vienna.
- Cons: Not the most stylish or dressy option.
- Best for: Travelers with wider feet who are looking for budget-friendly, comfortable shoes.
8. Born Shoes
Dressy yet comfortable for stylish travelers
- Pros: Born shoes are perfect if you want something more formal for dinners and cultural events in cities like Vienna, while still being comfortable enough for light walking. These are ideal for women who prefer not to wear sneakers but need supportive footwear.
- Cons: Not as cushioned as athletic shoes; better for light walking than heavy trekking.
- Best for: Women looking for a more polished look without sacrificing too much comfort.
9. Teva Original Universal
Best for warm climates and casual walking
- Pros: Perfect for warm weather cities like Barcelona or Madrid, these sandals are comfortable, breathable, and easy to walk in. They provide decent arch support for a sandal, and the simple design makes them versatile for various outfits.
- Cons: Not suitable for cooler climates or very long walking days.
- Best for: Summer travelers who want a sandal option that still offers support.
10. On Running Cloud Shoes
Lightweight and trendy for active travelers
- Pros: These shoes are super lightweight and provide good cushioning for walking. Their sleek design makes them a good option for a more polished athleisure look, and they’re great for both city walking and active days outdoors.
- Cons: Can run narrow; not as cushioned as some bulkier options.
- Best for: Active travelers who want a lightweight, stylish shoe that can take them from city streets to light hikes.
Final Thoughts
While each of these shoes offers something unique, the Hoka One One Bondi takes the top spot for all-day comfort during intense walking days, followed closely by the Brooks Ghost 14 for their reliability and versatility. If you’re after something lightweight and eco-friendly, the Allbirds Tree Dasher 1 is your go-to. No matter what, make sure to break them in before your trip to avoid any unpleasant surprises!