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“What are the best travel shoes for Italy?” This is always one of the biggest dilemmas for women traveling to Europe! In this post, our readers help you avoid looking like a tourist with their expert tips. Find out their suggestions!
What are the Best Travel Shoes for Italy?
Table Of Contents
Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:
I’m going to Rome for one week. I want to be fashionable, yet I know we will walk a lot! How do I combine comfort and style? It’s supposed to be rainy and getting chilly. What are the best travel shoes for Italy?
Great question! Shoes for Italy need to be incredibly comfortable! Not only do they have to be broken in, but you should be able to walk on them on the cobblestone streets. If you are unsure about how to pack your shoes, packing cubes make the perfect shoe bags to protect your luggage form dirty shoes!
Shoes for Italy should be tailored to how locals dress but also be comfortable for the rigors of stairs, cobblestone streets, and narrow passageways. See these reader recommendations for the best shoes to wear in this popular European country seasonally!
Here are some tips on the best walking shoes for Europe–including on cobblestone streets!
Best Sandals for Italy in Hot Weather
For hot summer days, sandals are quite fashionable in Europe in recent years and are very popular amongst our readers. Flat sandals with cushion are wonderful for sightseeing, but if you’re looking to elevate your travel outfits, wedges are ultra-fashionable and offered in a variety of cute styles, they’re also a great heel option for female travelers and are an ideal choice for Italy and the cobblestone streets. Stay comfortable in the heat and opt for a pair of these comfy, yet chic sandals.
Shop: Amazon
Naot Sabrina
The most comfortable sandals for Italy are the Naot Sabrina, and they’re also a huge TFG favorite. They have a comfortable footbed, easy to wear strap, and are stylish!
Exploring Europe in Naot Sabrina Sandals
Many users say these are lightweight, which is helpful for packing light. Overall, this brand makes comfortable and cute shoes and the Naot Sabrina sandal is excellent for casual or classy scenarios. Buy it here!
Shop: Amazon
Vionic Amber (Wide Sizes Available)
Elevate your Italian wardrobe with a stylish pair of Vionic Amber Sandals! This brand is highly recommended by readers and travelers alike. The American Podiatric Medical Association ((APMA) has given its seal of acceptance for these cushioned, ergonomic sandals that have a sturdy rubber sole to tackle those cobbles with ease.
Users say these fit well, provide support, and are high quality and durable. Not to mention they’re chic enough to pair with dresses, capris, or long shorts. Buy it here!
Earth Origins
The Earth Origins Memory Foam Sandals (similar) have cushioned arch support and the straps are stretchy and soft—no rubbing or friction at all!
Earth Origins Foster Memory Foam Sandals (similar) with H&M Jeans, Wallaroo Sun Hat, and Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody
While this style is not for everyone traveling Europe, some readers do want to stick to a Birkenstock vibe and these are more polished due to the braided leather and sleek buckle. You can walk everywhere with these and feel and look great! Buy them here (similar)!
Shop: Amazon
Birkenstock Daloa
If you want an actual Birkenstock and something more strappy, the Daloa Sandals are the perfect combination of sleek and comfort. The straps are delicate but the footbed is supportive and shock absorbing.
A cute but durable sandal, Birkenstocks are endlessly popular with readers. And these would blend in beautifully with your Italy travel outfits. Buy it here!
Shop: Amazon
Sofft Mirabelle
For a stylish wedge option without discomfort, the Sofft Mirabelle Sandals are not only cute but extremely comfortable and our readers just can’t get enough of them!
We love all the colors and the feminine yet supportive straps. These are the perfect pairing for any European travel wardrobe because they are a combo of comfort on cobblestones and chic style. Buy them here!
Shop: Amazon
Ecco Flowt
For another wedge option, the Ecco Flowt Sandals are not only stylish but functional. You can be confident in these walking for many hours as they offer arch support and are cushioned. A consistently popular sandal, it’s landed on our monthly reader must-haves series!
Ecco Flowt Sandals, Eddie Bauer Departure Long Sleeve Shirt, and Zara Paperbag Shorts
The velcro straps make them easy to remove or put on quickly and they blend in nicely to make a wonderful excursion option or evening shoe for a pasta dinner at a cafe in the town square. Buy it here!
Best Sneakers for Italy in Mild to Hot Weather
For easy and hassle-free footwear, opt for a comfortable pair of slip-ons or lace-up sneakers, depending on what style works for you. With a structure that’s simple and a look that’s stylish, these are a fantastic travel-friendly option to bring along to Italy. These classic sneakers are ideal for summer and moderate weather year-round.
Taos Star (Wide Sizes Available)
The Taos Star is the #1 sneaker on the blog and an excellent choice for Italy travel. With a lace-up closure, durable rubber sole, and soft textile lining, these offer flexibility as well as traction for various landscapes, including cobblestones!
Taos Star Sneakers with H&M Flared Ankle Jeans
These have a removable footbed and are made of canvas leather which makes them easy to maintain and keep clean. Some users say these can run small, so you may want to size up by at least half a size. Overall, the Taos sneakers are cozy and polished. Buy it here!
Skechers Performance Go Walk Slip-On Sneakers
Skechers Go Walk
Skechers Go Walk Sneakers are synonymous with comfort and are made of a breathable knt so your feet won’t overheat. While a little sporty, these would still look fabulous with casual dresses and rompers, or some cute cropped pants.
These also have a generously cushioned footbed and good grip, so your feet stay comfortable and in place while walking narrowly built streets and taking in the majestic historical architecture. Buy it here!
If you want MORE of this brand, check out our post on the best Skechers for all occasions—from boots, sneakers, to sandals!
Allbirds (Merino Wool)
The All Birds Merino Wool Sneakers are super popular with TFG readers because they’re comfy, stylish, and made from merino wool. Therefore, your feet will breathe and not overheat, but the wool keeps your feet insulated.
And bonus, these can be worn for most seasons, though not recommended in the winter amidst snow or heavy rain, opt for wearing on milder days or during the fall. With so many cute color combinations to choose from, it’s not hard to find something that will suit your Italian adventure. Buy it here!
Best Flats for Italy in Mild Weather
Overall, flats are not recommended as extensive sightseeing or walking shoes, but they remain popular for Europe due to their polished versatility. When following the 3-shoe rule, flats could be your “wild card” shoe; the pair that fits with your laid-back or minimal activities, such as grabbing gelato or getting dressed up for dinner.
Hush Puppies Chaste (Narrow, Wide, and Extra Wide Sizes Available)
Go for an easy classic with these Chaste Ballet Flats and conquer Rome!
They have a breathable perforated arch, in addition to a cushioned footbed that means hours of comfort. Your feet breathe and they can move while still being supported, which is why these are so popular!
Choose from over 40 colors and prints to find your Italian style. And bonus, these come in narrow, wide, and extra wide sizes as well. Buy it here!
Vionic Jewel Callisto Ballet Flat
Vionic Jewel Callisto
A simple, yet perfect classic, the Vionic Jewel Flats will go with just about any outfit. Equipped with a sturdy, but flexible rubber sole, they have an EVA footbed to support your feet as you explore the magical streets of Rome or Milan.
These are polished looking shoes with the heart of complete comfort and will last years stylistically. Buy it here!
Skechers Go Walk Lite Ballet Flats
Skechers Go Walk Lite
Skechers is known for their walking reliability and the Go Walk Ballet Flats are a casual-polished way to explore Italy. Dress them up or down and enjoy the good tread, cushion, and total comfort. Buy it here!
Best Boots for Italy in Cold Weather
As if it can’t be recommended enough, boots are a European must-have! Ankle boots are ideal for mild days with light showers but bring some mid-calf or tall boots for heavy rain. Some travelers also suggest stylish galoshes such as Hunter boots. But if you want to dress like the locals, Italians wear high-quality, solid leather boots throughout autumn and winter.
Shopping tip: don’t take them but buy some gorgeous boots there!
Blondo Villa (Waterproof)
The Blondo Villa Boots shown above are beloved by TFG readers and THE most recommended boots for Italy. They look like a regular ankle boot function like rain boot are fully waterproof. On top of it, these are a versatile and reliable option for walking and exploring.
Traversing Europe in Blondo Villa Boots in Black Color
This classic and streamlined boot will add a sleek sheen to all your outfits and they don’t take up too much suitcase space either! Buy it here!
Pikolinos Vicar Zip Up Combat Boots
Pikolinos Vicar Zip Up
Something that’s having a moment is combat boots, and these Pikolinos Side Zip Shoes are edgy and fun—they’ve also been a most bought item by readers in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! Made from super soft leather, they have good arch support with a cushioned insole which is a must for walking.
These are so stylish and go with everything. They feature a lace-up closure with a side zipper, along with a studded detail that makes them stand out. Though not waterproof, they can be treated with waterproofing spray. Buy it here!
Sorel Emelie Waterproof Chelsea Boots
Sorel Emelie (Waterproof)
Italian women definitely love sleek boots and these elegantly crafted Sorel Emelie Ankle Boots are waterproof, comfortable, and eye-catching! It is one of the most popular styles for rain and light snow. They have a rugged sole that offers superior traction keeping you steady on a variety of terrain and weather conditions.
Wearers say these have excellent grip (for those cobblestones!) and they are so versatile with leggings or slacks. Buy it here!
Teva Anaya Waterproof Long Boots
Teva Anaya (Waterproof and Wide Calf Option)
We love tall boots because they can act as both a stylish shoe option and something that keeps you dry during any unexpected rainfall during your Italy vacay. These Teva Anaya waterproof boots are a triple threat of waterproof, style, and comfort!
Made of burnished leather, they have a cushioned footbed and rubber sole that won’t slip on wet streets. And they come in half sizes, along with a roomy opening of 15”, so it can fit wider calves. These are so luxe for something so practical!
Pair these with a skirt or some slim jeans and a cute, polished raincoat. Buy it here!
Tip: Most travelers agree that three is the magic number when it comes to packing shoes! Learn more about how to create a travel capsule wardrobe with just three pairs of shoes!
Read this Rome packing list for more tips on what to wear on your trip!
Best Shoes for Italy Product Comparison Chart
Here’s a quick guide summary of the best travel shoes for Italy:
| BRAND/NAME | FEATURES | RATINGS/PRICE |
|---|---|---|
| Best Sandals for Italy in Hot Weather | ||
|
Naot Sabrina Sandals |
The most comfortable sandals for Italy are the Naot Sabrina, and they’re also a huge TFG favorite. They have a comfortable footbed, easy to wear strap, and are stylish! | Check Price |
|
Vionic Amber (Wide Sizes Available) |
This brand is highly recommended by readers and travelers alike. The American Podiatric Medical Association ((APMA) has given its seal of acceptance for these cushioned, ergonomic sandals that have a sturdy rubber sole to tackle those cobbles with ease. | Check Price |
|
Earth Origins Orno Foster Memory Foam Sandals |
The Earth Origins Memory Foam Sandals have cushioned arch support and the straps are stretchy and soft—no rubbing or friction at all! | Check Price |
|
Birkenstock Daloa Ankle Strap Sandals |
If you want an actual Birkenstock and something more strappy, the Daloa Sandals are the perfect combination of sleek and comfort. The straps are delicate but the footbed is supportive and shock absorbing. | Check Price |
|
Sofft Mirabelle Wedge Sandals |
For a stylish wedge option without discomfort, the Sofft Mirabelle Sandals are not only cute but extremely comfortable and our readers just can’t get enough of them! | Check Price |
|
Ecco Flowt Wedge Sandals |
For another wedge option, the Ecco Flowt Sandals are not only stylish but functional. You can be confident in these walking for many hours as they offer arch support and are cushioned. A consistently popular sandal, it’s landed on our monthly reader must-haves series! | Check Price |
| Best Sneakers for Italy in Mild to Hot Weather | ||
|
Taos Star (Wide Sizes Available) |
The Taos Star is the #1 sneaker on the blog and an excellent choice for Italy travel. With a lace-up closure, durable rubber sole, and soft textile lining, these offer flexibility as well as traction for various landscapes, including cobblestones! | Check Price |
|
Skechers Performance Go Walk Slip-On Sneakers |
Skechers Go Walk Sneakers are synonymous with comfort and are made of a breathable knt so your feet won’t overheat. While a little sporty, these would still look fabulous with casual dresses and rompers, or some cute cropped pants. | Check Price |
|
Allbirds Wool Sneakers |
The All Birds Merino Wool Sneakers are super popular with TFG readers because they’re comfy, stylish, and made from merino wool. Therefore, your feet will breathe and not overheat, but the wool keeps your feet insulated. | Check Price |
| Best Flats for Italy in Mild Weather | ||
|
Hush Puppies Chaste (Narrow, Wide, and Extra Wide Sizes Available) |
They have a breathable perforated arch, in addition to a cushioned footbed that means hours of comfort. Your feet breathe and they can move while still being supported, which is why these are so popular! | Check Price |
|
Vionic Jewel Callisto Ballet Flat |
A simple, yet perfect classic, the Vionic Jewel Flats will go with just about any outfit. Equipped with a sturdy, but flexible rubber sole, they have an EVA footbed to support your feet as you explore the magical streets of Rome or Milan. | Check Price |
|
Skechers Go Walk Lite Ballet Flats |
Skechers is known for their walking reliability and the Go Walk Ballet Flats are a casual-polished way to explore Italy. Dress them up or down and enjoy the good tread, cushion, and total comfort. Buy it here! | Check Price |
| Best Boots for Italy in Cold Weather | ||
|
Blondo Villa Waterproof Boots |
The Blondo Villa Boots shown above are beloved by TFG readers and THE most recommended boots for Italy. They look like a regular ankle boot function like rain boot are fully waterproof. On top of it, these are a versatile and reliable option for walking and exploring. | Check Price |
|
Pikolinos Vicar Zip Up Combat Boots |
Something that’s having a moment is combat boots, and these Pikolinos Side Zip Shoes are edgy and fun—they’ve also been a most bought item by readers in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! Made from super soft leather, they have good arch support with a cushioned insole which is a must for walking. | Check Price |
|
Sorel Emelie Waterproof Chelsea Boots |
Italian women definitely love sleek boots and these elegantly crafted Sorel Emelie Ankle Boots are waterproof, comfortable, and eye-catching! | Check Price |
|
Teva Anaya (Waterproof and Wide Calf Option) |
We love tall boots because they can act as both a stylish shoe option and something that keeps you dry during any unexpected rainfall during your Italy vacay. These Teva Anaya waterproof boots are a triple threat of waterproof, style, and comfort! | Check Price |
Don’t let your shoes ruin the trip of a lifetime! Click the below articles for more suggestions on the best travel shoes for Italy (and the rest of Europe):
- 10 Cute and Comfortable Ballet Flats
- Ankle Booties are the Best Travel Shoes for Europe in Spring and Fall
- What Shoes to Wear in Paris
- Should I Pack Heels for Europe?
- Cute and Comfortable Walking Shoes for Europe
Read our ultimate guide on how to choose the best shoes for travel to any destination!
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Just back from beautiful Italia! From Venezia to Positano and many stops in between, the #1 shoe, regardless of the outfit was by far, THE WHITE SNEAKER!! Even in the most beautiful silk dress, mini skirt, monochromatic gorgeous sets, flared trousers, etc., the white sneaker was on every woman and man, young and old!
The dates were: Sep 20 – Oct 12 2023. The only exception to the rule was spending time on the beaches of Positano, Capri, etc. ,where an open toe (I had a dressy Clarks wedge) or any nice sandal was prolific. And/ or short walks to restaurants where there were a few who would throw on a taller heel vs their “white” tennis shoe. 🙂
Thank you for reporting back and sharing your on the ground fashion observations with us!!! Hope you had an incredible time Tina!
I just got back from Italy last Saturday and for sure comfort is KEY! I wore the same shoes the entire time, comfort sandals from Clark’s. It was very hot each day and the cobblestones are a challenge. But knowing that I had good grip and comfort was reassuring.
I loved these suggestions! I went to Italy this summer and used the Naot sandals! They are so comfy and great for all the walking-thanks for these suggestions!
Your suggestions and recommendations made our trip to Rome, Florence and Venice so easy. Thank you!
Thank you! Leaving this week and got a pair of Ecco sandals and they’re so comfy.
Very helpful, and I’m about to dive into a whole lot of other articles on this site to help sort out my packing for my trip to Italy next month. Doing my best to pack as light as possible but still have a bit of style!
Hey! What is your opinion of Sorel wedges for Italy first week of April? I have gray laced and Camel slipon Joan’s. I like the wedge and wear easily 12 hours a day. I’m a hairstylist so I’m on my feet a lot! I think they are really comfy…but those Italian cobblestone roads… I worry both about seasonal fashion and function. What do you think?
Hi Melani, they sound like a fantastic pair of shoes, very stylish. The best advice I can give you is to ensure that you pack shoes which you find comfortable and can stand to wear for the hours of sightseeing you are bound to do. We recommend that you pack no more than three pairs of shoes, so you could pack your Sorel wedges and then another pair of flat shoes in case you find your wedges uncomfortable for the cobblestone roads. Also the best tip is to monitor the forecast for your specific trip dates to ensure that you have the most appropriate footwear for the weather, if it is raining or cooler you may want to think about choosing an alternative style to your wedges. Hope this helps answer your question. Have the most incredible trip!! 🙂
Hi! My husband and I are traveling to Italy in early April for our 10th wedding anniversary. His grandparents were from there. We will be spending 3 days in Vemice, 3 in Tuscany, and 3 in Rome. Any tips on what to wear? Will skechers go walk shoes be too touristy?
Hi Ashley, this ten step guide to packing for Italy may be great place to start planning: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-italy/ You should be fine wearing your sketchers shoes, ensure you pack shoes which are comfortable. Also it entirely depends on the weather forecast. It’s important to research the weather now and closer to your travels for the most accurate indication on what shoes to bring. Hope this helps. Happy anniversary, have an incredible trip!! 🙂
Weather is so important! I’d recommend at least one pair of nonslippery waterproof shoes for navigating cobblestone streets. Check out shoes in the rain prior to making the trip.
All you commenters sound pretty young-any suggestions for an old lady (77) who can only wear flat shoe and whose legs get tired when walking
Hi Pat, thank you for your comment. We have a variety of articles specifically targeted for women over 40: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/over-40-fashion/ Take a look. You may also find this article helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/fashion-for-women-over-60-shoes-for-older-women/ Hope this helps! 🙂
I am in my 50s with young children and wear 1. Nike RN sneakers (lightweight, good cushioning), 2. Kork Ease gold (important to get this color due to leather softness) platform sandals in the lowest height, and 3. Birkenstock Mayari. I can walk 16 miles a day comfortably in the Birkenstocks. We walk a LOT in Italy, and I have taken this trio of shoes on a few trips to both northern Italy and southern Italy. Spring and summer. Enjoy!
Wow. Thank you for making this. I plan to visit Italy soon for vacation.
Enjoy!
I’m going to Sicily this June. Any tips on.what to bring in terms of outfits and shoes?
Hi Jessica, read this guide for full details: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-italy/
Ballet flats for walking around Rome? Don’t do it! You will surely regret it. Wear some of the other fine suggestions for daytime walking and save the flats for dinner.
I have walked all day long in Paris and all over Italy in what I’ve found to be the most comfortable sandals: KorkEase one inch Myrna wedges and Eileen Fisher sport sandals. Both still look cute. No blisters and supported cushioning.
Great suggestion Lynda, thanks!
I’m used to wear Loriblu summer sneakers instead… great for walking and sooo stylish!!!
sound good, will take a look at them!
Hi Fashion Girl, your link to the slip on loafer does not go to the orange slip on featured in the picture. Can you tell me the brand and name of the orange slip on loafer?
Jenny
Hi Jenny, the items get sold out instantly so unfortunately, we link to the categories so our readers can search for available products instead 🙂
I walked 2 weeks through Euope…City sneakers are the best…cute and comfortable!!
I used Ralph Lauren Black City leather slip on sneakers.
Thanks for the recommendation Anna!!
All Birds – these are woollen sneakers and are trully the most comfortable shoes ever made. Wearing them feels like you sre just wearing a pair of thick, woolly socks!!
Wow those sound incredible!! I’ll have to look into them, thanks for the recommendation Georgina!
I wore ballet flats to Europe and got shin splints!!!!! My feet and legs ached until I purchased a pair of comfortable sneakers there. If you plan to do a lot of walking get shoes that support the sides of your feet and ankles-like Converse sneakers or Mephisto sandals. Both give a lot of support when walking on sand, cobble stones and hard surfaces. Your feet will thank you! Happy Travels!
Great tip! Shoes are certainly the most important part of your travel wardrobe!
I still haven’t found the best walking shoes…Skechers actually hurt my feet because I have wide feet – and wide sizes are often too wide in the heel. Also, memory foam tends to make my toes go numb. I love shoes, but times like these I really hate my feet! I want to be comfortable and not look clunky, and I don’t know if it’s possible. I’m going to Italy in early November, and we will be walking a lot, so I’m still trying to track down one good fit!
Oh man! It is really tough finding the right shoes! This post may help you out more: https://travelfashiongirl.com/20-comfortable-and-cute-walking-shoes-for-travel/
We recently came back from Rome for 11 days. I had a pedometer so on average we walked 20,000 steps a day or 8 to 12 miles! Most in my life and I am 42 years old! Anyway, forget looking cute, I wore my Skechers Go Walk 2 shoes in beige. So comfortable it was incredible.
I’ve been wondering about the Go Walk Skechers shoes, Good to know they’re a great walking shoe! Thanks for sharing!
I was thinking about Sketchers to wear to Italy, but not sure about the arch support. They are super comfy, but they do get hot and do not have a lot of arch support.
Your Skechers might be really heaven to put on at the END of the day when your feet need a treat. That’s what I did in London. Boy were my feet tired at the end of those days!?
I like wearing cute Birkenstocks (they have a vast array of styles and colors) and also Mephistos sandals (super comfortable). I also pack a pair of New Balance retro trainers and this year I am taking a pair of 1 3/4″ Swedish Hasbeens sandals… will see how those work out. 😀
I love how the current fashion trends are working perfectly for travel shoes too 🙂 Let me know how the 3/4″ Swedish Hasbeens sandals work out! Thanks 🙂