My Favorite Walking Shoes for Paris

 

 

The Best Shoes To Wear in Paris

My favorite way to explore Paris is by foot. My first solo trip to Paris was in 2010, I walked the city without a map, got lost, and enjoyed every minute of it. It is how I learned about the city of Paris and all the hidden streets. The shoes you wear can make or break a trip. Blisters or uncomfortable shoes can really slow you down. I also, prefer to look like a local instead of a tourist. These are the best shoes to wear in Paris all recommended and tested by me on a previous trip.

The Best Sneakers for Paris

Sneakers are trendy right now and perfect for staying comfortable while putting in a few miles while walking around Paris. Pair them with your favorite pair of jeans or trousers. Veja is a popular French brand. You can find them at Nordstrom in the US or if you are in Paris and want to grab some, you can find them at the major department stores such as BHV, Galleries Lafayette, or one of their stores. There are three locations in Paris.

For a budget-friendly option, I love the Madewell Low-Top Sneakers. Sneakers are very trendy in Paris and you will fit right in. I would leave the Nike running sneakers at home and use more modern sneakers for walking around Paris. I always recommend breaking in the Madewell shoes before you leave town. They will mold to your feet well after a few wears. You will thank me later for this. Once you have them broken in, you will never want to take them off. They are great shoes and occasionally, you can find them on sale which makes it even better, and are under $100. 

Other favorite sneakers include these Jack sneakers from Sézane. 

The Best Shoes for Paris

It isn’t uncommon for me to walk 10 miles a day in Paris. I always find a reason to cross the Seine. It is so calming and a great place to watch the sunrise and sunset.

 

 

I have had my fair share of uncomfortable shoes on the streets of Paris and I feel I have learned my painful lesson. I have also been caught in the rain more times than I care to admit and in the end, ruined a few pairs of shoes.

My favorite walking shoes have been the Blondo shoes. They were great for fall and winter because they make various ankle and knee-high boots. I have 5 pairs and counting! They are waterproof, which is so great, and I don’t have to worry about getting caught in the rain and ruining a pair of boots. The price point is between $125 – $200. These will bring new styles at the start of Fall.

I like to wear these socks with my ballet flats and these no-show socks with my sneakers. (which were a reader favorite we sold them out)

 

The Best Ballet Flats for Paris

When it comes to ballet flats, I really love the Margaux Demi flat. I bought them after hearing so many people mention the brand. I purchased the 8.5, and I quickly fell in love with them. After walking miles in them in Paris in both the fall and spring, I can honestly say these are some of the best walking flats. My feet swell after walking a while so I do think the 8.5 was best for me. There is a bow-tie at the top which was a game changer for me in making them tighter and mold to my feet better. 

I get so many questions about these and if they are really comfortable, and the answer is YES! You can see my full review here. I have the Medium width.

Sarah Flint flats are also a great option if you want a different style of flat. These need a little more breaking in, but once you have them formed to your feet, you can walk miles. This is the style I have.

The Best Flat Boots for Paris

For the colder months, I highly recommend a flat boot for walking around Paris. My Blondos are my go-to and one of your favorites too! These tall boots will be in stock in all sizes in the colder months. I will make sure to let you know when they are back in stock. They usually go on sale around Nordstrom’s Anniversary. These go with jeans and dresses and are just all-around great boots for under $250.

Ankle Boots for Paris

Chelsea boots are the trend in Paris right now for ankle boots. I love these from Everlane, which held up to my walking test in Paris. They are also water resistant, which is helpful for rainy days in Paris. They run true to size. I am an 8.5 and come in black and brown.

My Blondo ankle booties were the MVP of my latest Paris trip in April. (P.S. I did find them on Amazon with limited sizes and colors) I almost didn’t pack them but added them to my suitcase. It snowed and was freezing and rained for most of the ten days. Blondos are waterproof, and these held up. Mine are so old and were purchased from Nordstrom over five years ago. Blondo will have more updated styles come fall.

Do you have a favorite walking shoe you can’t live without? Share below!

This post does include affiliate links that help contribute to my coffee and croissant research. merci!

P.S. Don’t miss A Guide to Paris in the Fall and My Favorite Boutique Hotels in Paris