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The romance of Venice and the elegance of Rome call for lots of walking and exploring. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, check out the best Italy shoes for women that cover every season so you’re fully prepared!
Best Shoes for Italy
Table Of Contents
When traveling in such a stylish country as Italy, you’ll likely want to bring shoes that are polished and look great with all of your outfits. But even more important than style is comfort, as you’ll be on your feet for hours at a time, navigating narrow streets, cobblestones, and staircases.
Should you need help with clothing and local fashion for Italy, read our Rome guide and our full Italy guide.
Luckily, readers have helped us compile this lovely list of the best shoes to wear in Italy, with options that are both cute and comfortable. So take a look!
If you need more suggestions on what shoes to wear in Italy (and the rest of Europe), read these articles:
- Cute and Comfortable Walking Shoes for Europe
- Best Cute and Comfortable Walking Sandals for Europe
- Best White Sneakers for Europe
- Best Ankle Boots for Fall and Spring
- Best Leather Boots for the Autumn and Winter
- Cute and Comfortable Knee High Boots for Europe
- Cute and Comfortable Loafers for Europe
- Most Comfortable Ballet Flats for Europe
Best Boots for Italy
Boots are a European must-have! While they can be seen on locals year-round, they’re particularly common throughout autumn and winter. Comfy leather ankle boots are some of the best women’s walking shoes for Italy, as they’re functional for sightseeing and polished enough to wear on a night out.
Shop: Nordstrom | Backcountry | Bloomingdales
Sorel Joan Now Waterproof Chelsea Boot
An elevated take on a Chelsea boot, these Sorel Joan Now boots have a block heel, a lug sole, and a sleek shape. You can stomp around the city in these beauties during the day and then dress them up for dinner at night with a sweater dress.
They’re amply cushioned on the inside, while the exterior is waterproof and grippy, so they’re really good walking shoes for Italy during the rainy season.
The Emelie waterproof boots are another TFG-approved option from this brand that has a more classic chelsea boot look.
Shop: Nordstrom
Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boot
The Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boot is ideal for traveling in Italy. From strolling Rome’s cobblestone streets to exploring Florence’s piazzas or Milan’s chic districts, these boots combine style, comfort, and practicality for long days on foot.
Crafted from premium leather, they feature elastic side panels for easy on-and-off wear and a cushioned footbed that supports your feet mile after mile. The boots are water-resistant, so they can handle light rain or damp streets but for heavy downpours, a waterproofing spray is recommended.
Pair them with a wool coat and leather backpack for effortless city style that transitions seamlessly from daytime sightseeing to evening dinners.
Blondo Danika Waterproof Bootie
A sleek and simple ankle boot like the Blondo Danika will see you through any travel activity. Its responsive cushioning and non-slip lug sole will tackle any terrain and miles of exploration. From rigorous sightseeing days to leisurely nights out, this boot is both practical and stylish, and it would look stellar with a trench coat and pashmina scarf!
Readers have reported walking all over Europe in this chic pair, so they’re definitely some of the best shoes for walking Italy in cooler weather.
Born Cove Waterproof Chelsea Boots
These Born Cove Chelsea boots have a classic design that’ll look cute whether paired with your favorite travel pants or a dress! They’re decked out with a heavenly foam footbed with arch support on the interior and beautiful, waterproof leather on the exterior. They’re warm and sturdy yet lightweight, with a versatile look that’s ideal for travel.
Best Sneakers for Italy
For mild-weathered days when you’ll be doing hardcore sightseeing, comfortable sneakers are the best shoes for walking around Italy. Aside from being sturdy and protective, athletic sneakers or fashion sneakers are seen all over Italy, paired with everything from skirts and dresses to jeans to trousers.
Shop: Taos
Taos Plim Soul Canvas Sneaker (Wide Sizes Available)
The Taos Plim Soul is the #1 sneaker on the blog and an excellent choice for Italy. With a durable rubber sole, soft lining, and great support, you’ll easily tackle various landscapes, including cobblestones!
White sneakers like these are popular shoes in Italy and will look cute with virtually any outfit especially sundresses! As a bonus, the canvas leather construction makes them easy to keep clean while on the go.
Adidas Samba OG Sneaker
Many readers have recommended the stylish Adidas Sambas, sharing that they’re both a polished addition to any outfit and are great comfortable shoes for Italy. The cushioned footbed and supple leather make for a perfectly snug and supportive fit, and they look great with everything from wide leg pants to travel skirts!
Shop: Nordstrom | New Balance | Dicks Sporting Goods | J.Crew
New Balance 327 Sneakers
The New Balance 327 sneakers are a stylish and comfortable choice for exploring Italy. Their retro-inspired design, combined with a lightweight and flexible sole, makes them perfect for long days of walking through cobblestone streets, piazzas, and museums.
Pair these versatile sneakers with comfy jeans, casual dresses, or trendy cargo pants for an effortlessly chic travel look.
Shop: Dr. Scholl’s | Nordstrom | Macy’s | DSW | Kohl’s
Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Platform Sneaker
With anatomical cushioning, flexible construction, and a lightweight feel, Dr. Scholl’s Time Off sneakers are some of the best shoes to walk in Italy, especially if you have a full itinerary and many miles to cover!
Their modern, chunky design is fashionable, and readers say they’re versatile and can be styled just as easily with dresses as with cute wide leg pants and a polished black tee!
Shop: Nordstrom | Sorel | Backcountry
Sorel Out n About Waterproof Sneakers
The Sorel Out N About sneakers combine a sleek leather upper with a hardcore sole, achieving a great balance of looks and functionality. They’re waterproof and grippy, so perfect if rain is in the forecast, and despite their rugged design, they’re impressively lightweight.
Whether hiking around Cinque Terre or meandering through bustling Milan, these sneakers are ready for adventure. They would look amazing with wide-leg ankle jeans and a long-sleeve tee with a white button over for added polish!
Best Slip Ons for Italy
Truly, some of the best shoes to walk around Italy are slip ons! Overall, they’re easy to wear and work well for spring and summer, and modern styles have tons of grip and cushioning to handle the cobblestones. Think of slip ons as a cross between a flat and a sneaker, and you have a very stylish option for your Italian vacation!
Shop: Nordstrom
Ryka Echo Knit Slip-On Sneaker
Readers agree that the Echo Knit Slip-On from Ryka are synonymous with comfort, so they’re the perfect option for a day spent on your feet. These excellent Italy walking shoes are made of a breathable knit, so your feet won’t overheat on a hot day, with high-rebound cushioning to give your feet an energy boost.
While a bit sporty, their minimal, sleek style looks cute with casual dresses and rompers or some long shorts.
Shop: Nordstrom | Dr. Scholl’s | DSW
Dr. Scholl’s Madison Slip On Sneaker
For something more amped in style but equally comfortable, Dr. Scholl’s Madison slip ons have plenty of cushioning and support for days exploring Venice’s charming labyrinth of streets.
They also have a breathable perf upper, so make terrific spring and summer options. These would look amazing with European inspired dresses paired with a sleek sling bag.
Vionic Kearney Platform Slip On (Wide Sizes Available)
For a more on-the-moment look, the adorable Vionic Kearny slip ons are equipped with shock absorbing technology so feet will not feel the impact of cobblestones so much. The grippy sole will keep stability, and the smooth leather upper is chic enough to pair with travel blazer and straight leg pants, or in summertime, wear a cute moisture wicking dress for those sightseeing hours.
Ecco Soft 7 Woven Leather Slip-On
With a stylish woven leather upper, the Ecco Soft 7 slip-on sneakers look fabulous and have a neat dual insole that can be adjusted for a wider fit. The supporitve cushioning and ridged sole allow for hours of exploring very walk-heavy places like picturesque Sorrento.
Readers also love the Ecco Soft 7 lace up sneakers, too, if you’re not a fan of slip on shoes!
Best Sandals for Italy
Stylish sandals are some of the best walking shoes for Italy in the summer! If you’ll be wearing them for sightseeing, look for features like cushioning, sturdy soles, and supportive straps.
Shop: Nordstrom | Macy’s | DSW | Dillard’s
Vionic Cypress Slingback Sandal (Wides Sizes Available)
With such a cute design, you’d never guess that these Vionic sandals have an orthotic footbed and heavenly cushioning to support your feet throughout hours of exploring. That’s why these sandals are a long-time favorite of our readers and are frequently recommended as some of the best shoes for touring Italy!
TFGers also appreciate the adjustable strap and multiple width options to get the perfect fit, as well as the fact that they can be dressed up with sleek linen pants and a polished tee for a nice dinner and a night out!
See our review on why Vionic is one of the best shoe brands for travel!
Naot Kayla Wedge Sandals
Chic and breezy for a summer in the Mediterranean, these Naot Kayla sandals will have you strolling along not only with style but with plenty of comfort. Their contoured cork footbed molds to your foot shape over time, while the three-strap design keeps your feet held in and sturdy on uneven roads. They’re made all the more travel-friendly with their weightless feel!
Pair these beauties with a cute midi dress and a leather crossbody bag!
Taos Trulie Leather Sandals (Wides Sizes Available)
Another consistent pick among TFG readers, the Taos Trulie sandals are loved for their unparalleled comfort and styling versatility. With arch and metatarsal support, your feet will be energized and happy throughout your trip, so they’re commonly mentioned as some of the best shoes for walking in Italy.
They’re quite stylish, too, featuring woven leather straps and a slight wedge. Wear these cuties with an easy jumpsuit for sightseeing days and a maxi dress fun nights out! They’re offered in wide sizes, too.
Shop: Nordstrom | Toms | Macy’s | DSW | Dillards
Toms Diana Platform Wedge
If you’re looking for a dressier sandal with some height, go for a sturdy wedge like these cute wedge sandals by Toms. This platformed pair will keep you feeling solid on cobblestone roads, with a plush footbed and soft straps adding to the comfort.
To style, wear a linen skirt with a dressy tank top and statement jewelry to create a stylish outfit for the perfect dinner. This shoe is equally suitable for leisurely evening strolls!
Shop: Nordstrom | Ecco | Dillards
Ecco Flowt 2 Strap Sandals
For another wedge option, the Ecco Flowt 2 sandals have a modern look and functional features to keep you feeling confident as you traverse Italy’s charming cities. They’ll provide plenty of cushioning and anatomical support, and they’re quite lightweight, too. A consistently popular sandal, it’s even landed on our monthly reader must-haves series!
Wear a linen dress with these sandals and a cute convertible backpack for sightseeing days.
Best Flats or Loafers for Italy
Though flats aren’t recommended for extensive sightseeing or walking, they’re a great “wild card” shoe for Italy – the pair to wear on a laid-back stroll to grab some gelato or when getting dressed up for dinner.
Shop: Nordstrom | Vionic | DSW | Famous Footwear
Vionic Uptown Hybrid Loafer
The Uptown loafers from Vionic offer cushioning, stability, and arch support, so a long walk to dinner on cobblestone streets will be a breeze. Chunky loafers like these are forever chic and easy to style, whether with slip dresses, trousers, or even jeans and a tee!
It’s offered in a wide width, too!
Shop: Rothy’s
Rothy’s The Max Square Mary Jane
Mary Jane shoes area a timeless style that’s particularly popular with readers right now, especially for travels to Europe. The Square Mary Jane from Rothy’s is a travel-friendly pair that readers say is both featherlight and flexible yet sturdy and great on cobblestones. These fabulous flats are breathable, machine-washable, and so stylish, too!
For the same features in a classic ballet flat style, check out The Flat.
Shop: Dr. Scholl’s | Macy’s | DSW
Dr. Scholl’s Hello Penny Loafer
The Dr. Scholl’s Hello Loafers are a sleek and versatile choice for Italy, combining a classic design with all-day comfort. They feature a cushioned insole and flexible construction, making them supportive enough for sightseeing or casual strolls. The faux-leather finish gives them a polished look that pairs easily with sleek ponte pants and a cashmere sweater for some chilly weather
Perfect for travel, these loafers are stylish yet practical, ensuring you stay comfortable while exploring Italy’s cobblestone streets and charming piazzas.
Shop: Nordstrom | Sam Edelman
Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafer
Supremely chic and sophisticated, the best-selling Sam Edelman Loraine loafers are a perfect match for an Italian getaway. The streamlined leather exterior and bit of hardware make them look extra luxe, while the sturdy outsole and cushioned footbed keep them functional and comfy. Multiple users have shared that they’ve been able to comfortably do some light walking in them, too!
Wear these more classic pair with wrinkle free pants or midi skirts.
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!
What do you think are the best shoes for Italy? Share your picks in the comments!
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Great Article – I’m always looking for better shoes for walking.
I love the look of the Sorel Joan Now (Waterproof). Thanks for the fantastic list of options!!
I wore toms wedge sandals Italy and they are so comfortable and white olukai sneakers. Highly recommend
This list of shoes is so helpful. I also enjoyed using your UK/British Isles packing list last year/ a lifesaver for a newb! The suggestion of waterproof boots is interesting. I’ll have to warm up to the thought as a southern gal!
I just came back from Italy and Vionic sandals worked great for my two week trip. Definitely recommend!
Love all of the great recommendations for travel shoes. I am heading to Italy 2025 and will definitely check some of these out.
Very helpful!! Going to Europe and I will be looking for shoes that I can walk all those steps!
I am in Italy now and my Taos sandals are perfect! We have walked everywhere-hills, stairs, wet cobblestones and no blisters.
Which Taos did you bring? There are so many different kinds 🙂
Thank you for all of the suggestions! It is nice to have a starting point when looking for comfy shoes!
Thanks for all the details! I ended up with New Balance Fresh Foam Roav sneakers after trying many of the white sneakers I saw on this site and they were amazing for 2 weeks in Italy!
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!
This is so helpful! I just bought a pair of white Brooks glycerin tennis shoes for taking to Italy. They are my go to shoe for a few years. I have them in other colors. They might be a bit bulkier than I was thinking, but comfort is key. Glad to know your Clark’s looked great too. Another one of the brands I stick with. Dankos and Tevas are my other shoes!
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 🙂