The Best Walking Shoes for Paris

The Best Walking Shoes for 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. It is how I learned about Paris and all the hidden streets. The shoes you wear can make or break a trip. Blisters or uncomfortable shoes can slow you down. I also prefer to look like a local instead of a tourist. These are the best shoes 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, Bloomingdales, or Anthropologie in the US, or if you are in Paris and want to grab some, you can find them at a major department store such as BHV, Galleries Lafayette, or one of their stores. There are three locations in Paris.

Budget-Friendly Sneakers for Paris

For a budget-friendly option, I love the Madewell Low-Top Sneakers. They are the best white sneakers under $100; you can usually find them on sale. 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. Breaking in the Madewell shoes is a good idea 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. I highly recommend wearing whichever shoes you bring to Paris for a night before you leave town to test your the comfort level. 

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 five pairs and counting! They are waterproof shoes, which is excellent, 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 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 Paris in both the fall and spring, I can honestly say these are some of the best walking flats. My feet swell after walking, so I think the 8.5 was best for me. A bow tie at the top 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 comfortable, and the answer is YES! You can see my full review here. I have the Medium width.

For a ballet flat with memory foam cushioning for a great price. I love both color options.

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! In the colder months, these tall boots will be in stock in all sizes. These are the best shoes and go with jeans and dresses and are all-around great boots for under $250. I always rave about them, and many readers have picked them up. You can easily wear them for long walks in Paris. They fold up easily and roll the suede around the rubber sole when you pack them. The Blondo boots are high quality. I have owned the same pair for four years. They are available at Nordstrom and Tuckernuck.

 

 

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.

Loafers for Paris

I just bought my first pair of loafers. Initially, I passed on them last year, but now I am ready to embrace the trend. Here are a few options.

Remember that your perfect pair of shoes may differ from mine. If you need good arch support or have foot issues such as plantar fasciitis, choose the right shoes for you. Just remember you will be doing a lot of walking in Paris. You will want to pack your most comfortable shoes to avoid sore feet. I hope this post was helpful! If you have any shoe favorites that I didn’t cover. Please comment below and share with the EDP community. 

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