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Wondering what shoes to wear in Paris in summer or winter? When it comes to choosing shoes for Paris, comfort is top priority! Take a look at these local approved comfortable sightseeing shoes for Paris!
Find out which Parisian shoes we spotted everywhere in Paris in summer while our readers share their favorite options for the cold weather in winter – the styles we saw might not be what you’d expect. Take a look!
What Shoes to Wear in Paris
One of the charms of visiting many European cities is strolling through the authentic streetscapes. Old buildings, narrow alleys, and picturesque towns make for lovely photos, but often come with a pitfall.
One unexpected issue that many travelers discover once they get to Europe are the cobblestone streets.
Travelers may not be used to walking on cobblestones and end up with sore feet, mostly due to wearing cute yet impractical shoes. The key is to try to find a balance: something that is comfortable yet stylish, too.
Locals have much less issues with the streets than tourists and have perfected the art of finding the perfect shoes to walk in Paris and other cities in Europe.
Read about how to choose the best walking shoes for Europe.
These Blondo boots are the most popular shoes for Paris in winter and these Teva sandals are the most popular shoes for Paris in summer. Find out why along with with other recommendations below!
Most travelers agree that three is the magic number when it comes to packing shoes. Learn more about how to create a capsule wardrobe with just three pairs of shoes!
Parisian Shoes for Summer
The trends I spotted during my trip in Paris in summer were:
You’ll notice the majority of the shoes I saw were flats in classic styles with neutral colors, not heels.
Leather Tan Sandals
Tan leather sandals get the whole “daytime chic” look down to a fabulous T. They’re casually classic and versatile enough to wear with a variety of different looks, ranging from flowy maxi dresses to casual linen shorts.
Think of a tan leather as the perfect neutral for summer! Pair these Teva sandals with a floral sundress or boyfriend jeans and a white blouse for an effortlessly stylish daytime ensemble.
Packing cubes make the perfect shoe bags to protect your luggage from dirty shoes.
Clarks Annadel Eirwyn Wedge Sandal
Navy Wedges
Wedges like the Clarks Eirwyn shown above are a fantastic heel option for female travelers, especially when dealing with the tricky cobblestone streets that line much of Europe. They tend to be sturdier, more comfortable, and just as cute as a standard high heel, making them ideal for the style-conscious traveler.
Navy is a classic neutral shade that’s a bit more exciting than black and perfect for the chic, sophisticated streets of Paris.
Check out our curated list of travel-friendly and fashionable wedges!
Taos Footwear Star Fashion Sneaker
White Sneakers
For a shoe option that’s both ultra comfortable and stylish, opt for a classic white sneaker. Rated as a top travel shoe by USA today, the Taos Star has stellar style. With a lace-up closure, rubber outsole, and soft textile lining, you can be sure of having a flexible fit with traction for various landscapes.
They can easily work with jeans and a casual blouse but can also complement a pretty sundress without sacrificing elegance or style.
Check out what our readers recommended as the best white sneakers for travel!
Blondo Villa Waterproof Ankle Bootie
Black Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are by far the most highly recommended shoes to wear in Paris, and we agree. For the most part, locals wore ankle boots while tourists opted for taller boots. Black is the perfect color as it matches with everything.
One reader says, “A pair of beautiful black ankle boots. Either flats or block heels. Easy to walk in during the day and can be glammed up at night.”
Another reader added, “I found that I wear my ankle boots every time I’m in Paris and I always feel comfortable (important) and stylish (equally important)”.
Take a look at the most recommended waterproof leather boots for Europe!
Hush Puppies Chaste Ballet Flat
Black Ballet Flats
Black flats are an easy essential for a summer in Paris. While they probably won’t be your all-day sightseeing shoes, they’re the ideal choice to dress up an outfit.
Whether they’re paired with ankle jeans and a cute top or stored away in your purse as a comfortable backup option if your feet get sore, these packable shoes are a must-have for female travelers!
Find out why black ballet flats may be the best travel shoes for just about any destination, any time of year!
Tan Brogues
For a bit of a menswear-inspired feel, opt for a classy brogue in a tan shade. These stylish shoes can be dressed up or down to you liking and are versatile enough to pair with skirts, dresses and pants.
Pair with a cropped trouser pant and white, loose v-neck shirt for relaxed yet refined day wear.
The shoes shown above are similar options to the footwear trends that were most prevalent on the streets of Paris during my summer trip.
Parisian Shoes for Winter
One of our readers asked, “If you could only pack one pair of shoes for Paris in Winter, what would they be?”
We asked our readers to share their tips on the best shoes to wear in Paris during the cold winter season. We took their advice on our travels, and their tips were spot on!
Unlike summer where there were a variety of shoes seen on the streets of Paris, during winter only one pair of shoes stood out in the crowds of both tourists and locals: black ankle boots.
Black Ankle Boots
Black ankle boots are a bonafide European essential that can make any outfit look more polished in an instant. These are ideal when there’s rain or mixed weather in the forecast. Opt for a flat pair or a chunky heel as opposed to an angular heel that can make you wobble on the cobblestones.
Pair with skinny jeans and a printed blouse for the day and a long sleeve mini dress and evening clutch for the night.
Find out why ankle booties the best shoes for travel to Europe!
However, Ankle boots are ideal for mild days with light showers but bring some mid-calf or tall boots for heavy rain. Parisians wear high quality, solid leather boots throughout autumn and winter.
Find out what are our readers rated as the best womens waterproof leather boots!
ECCO Footwear Soft VII Fashion Sneaker
Leather Sneakers
Black or white leather sneakers, are commonly seen on locals in Paris. Right now, Adidas Stan Smiths are particularly popular and trendy. The ECCO Soft VII is a great casual white leather sneaker that’s comfortable, making it perfect for walking around shopping and visiting popular sites.
One reader says, “Boots would be more fashionable, but with all the walking I did in Paris my ECCO Soft VII were perfect!”
Here are some comfortable fashion sneakers for women that are actually adorable!
Lace Up Boots
Boots are the best shoes to wear in Paris in winter. Depending on the length of your trip or your preferences, you may want to take more than just one pair of black ankle boots. Or, if you’re not a fan of black ankle boots, many readers recommended lace up boots.
Several readers say they rely on their Naot lace up boots for a fashionable yet functional option. For the ultimate comfortable fit, these shoes feature padding, technical lining for comfort, warmth, and moisture absorption.
One reader says, “I would take a pair of Naot lace up boots. Gorgeous. In fact, I did take a pair of Naot lace up boots!” Another reader added, “They’re amazing boots. No breaking in at all.”
Here are some tips on the best walking shoes for Europe–including on cobblestone streets!
Black Oxfords
Oxfords are some of the best shoes to wear in Paris if you need comfort and stability but still want to look stylish. These Cole Haan oxfords were recommended by a few readers, with one sharing, “I’ve been wearing them all weekend and they are amazing.”
Crafted from soft suede, the EVA midsole and rubber soles are carefully constructed with a focus on flexibility and reduced weight. These customer favorites are a casual styling game changer.
What to Wear in Paris Year Round
Plan your clothing using this Paris packing list and then choose the best Parisian shoes-inspired styles to complement your travel outfits. Remember, 3 pairs of shoes is the magic number to pack when it comes to travel!
If you need help with your clothing choices, read the 10 Step Guide to Packing for Paris.
Don’t let your shoes ruin the trip of a lifetime! Click the below articles for more suggestions on what shoes to wear in Paris (and the rest of Europe):
- 10 Cute and Comfortable Ballet Flats
- Ankle Booties are the Best Shoes for Europe in Spring
- What Shoes to Pack for a Trip to Italy
- Should I Pack Heels for Europe?
- Cute and Comfortable Walking Shoes for Europe
- The Unexpected Travel Shoe that’s Perfect for Europe
Read our ultimate guide on how to choose the best travel shoes to any destination!
What are your tips on what shoes to wear in Paris? Comment below!
For more tips on travel shoes for Europe, please read:
- What Shoes to Pack for a Trip to Italy
- Should I Pack Heels for Europe?
- Cute and Comfortable Walking Shoes for Europe
- The Unexpected Travel Shoe that’s Perfect for Europe
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So my most comfortable walking shoes are my hiking boots. They are not high fashion, but so comfortable and even waterproof. I’m going for 2 weeks to Paris, Dordonge, and San Sebastián, Spain. I want to sightsee and do some trail hiking – while also hitting a wedding in Dordonge. Will I be out of place pairing my casual hiking skirts with hiking boots in Paris? I have some good ankle boots, but no where near as comfortable as my hikers. (Other pairs include a neutral but dressy wedge sandal and hiking flip flop.)
Hi Lori, to get you the best advice for your question, I have gone ahead and scheduled it to appear on TFG’s facebook page. Our readers are the best at answering questions like yours so please keep your eyes out for their replies from Friday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/. You may also find this article helpful for suggestions for what to pack for Paris: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-paris-packing-list-and-capsule-wardrobe-ideas/ Hope this helps. Have an incredible trip! 🙂
Hi Lori, here are our readers replies in response to your question which I posted on TFG’s facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/posts/2303415506348771 Hope this helps!
Is it appropriate to wear tall black suede boots in the evening during spring season in Paris?
Hi Michelle, have a look at our 10 step guide to Pairs for ideas for what shoes to pack for your trip: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guide-for-paris/ If you need any more wardrobe tips, we recently created a brand new ebook for Paris:
https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/paris-ebook/ Hope this helps. Have an awesome trip! 😃
Planning a trip this Sept 2018..
Advise on shoes and clothes please.
Hi Premi, thank you for your question. Have a look at these articles on what to wear in Paris: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-paris-packing-list-and-capsule-wardrobe-ideas/ https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/things-to-see-in-paris-outfits/ These may be a good place to start planning. Safe travels! 🙂
Two years ago I vacationed in Ireland. I wore a mint color rain jacket and stuck out like a sore thumb as most of the people wore dark colors. I plan to vacation in Italy in mid September. What colors should I wear.
Hi Eileen, thank you for your question! We have a variety of articles featuring travel advise about Italy. Take a look at these posts:
https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-italy/
https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-italy-dress-like-a-local/
https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-dress-in-italy/
Hope this helps. Have a great trip 🙂
Hi Alex! This post has been super helpful, thank you! Quick questions: I know it’s been a few years since this post, but do you happen to know if white superga’s are still popular? (I’m traveling in April, rain predicted, and wondering if a dark color would be better.) And I’m sure you’ve been asked this a million times, but would I totally stick out as a tourist with low-profile black sneakers (like Nike Experience RN 5)?
Currently they are very popular everywhere
Hi Alex, not planning a trip to Paris this summer but I’ll see if I can find someone that is 🙂
Just wondering but which shoes do you find to be the most squishy on the bottom/ comfortable to stand/walk on?
The items shown are shoes similar to what I saw not wore personally but my choice would be the sandals for comfort – my feet get swollen in the heat