The 8 Best Walking Shoes for Europe that Cruisers Should Consider

Cruising through Europe is a comfortable way to hop from country to country, but knowing what shoes to pack is difficult. Europe is well-known for its varying climates, terrains and local fashion standards, so you want comfortable shoes that don't look like something prescribed by a doctor.

You'd likely rather be strolling along the cobblestone streets in supportive and stylish shoes, feeling the breeze between your toes without sacrificing your fashion sense. We looked at everything from loafers to sandals, slip-ons to sneakers and handpicked the winners that tick the boxes for comfort, style and affordability.

Here are the eight best walking shoes for Europe that cruisers should consider.

1. Dr. Scholl’s Scout Walking Shoe

Look to Dr. Scholl's for foot-friendly shoes that are well-made and attractive. We love the Scout Walking Shoe, a simple slip-on walking sneaker because it's cute, casual and comfy.

While this pair might not be the best option to wear to a luxe Michelin-starred dinner, it's perfect for beach excursions, airport security lines and hours upon hours of walking. These walking shoes come in many colors and styles to match your cruise wardrobe, including pony hair, suede and embossed leather.

2. New Balance 928v3 Walking Shoes

At less than 16 ounces, the New Balance 928v3 walking shoes are lighter and without the bulkiness of other shoes like hiking boots, making them some of the best shoes to pack for European itineraries.

These shoes feature ABZORB technology, giving them lots of bounce and cushioning. They even have an odor-resistant fabric lining which means you won’t have to worry about odors lingering in your dependable walking shoes.

3. Skechers Breathe Easy Mary Jane Flat

These Mary Jane-style flats are cute enough to pair with more formal dress for dinner, but they offer the comfort and breathability you need to get you through all your European adventures sans Band-Aids or smelly feet.

They're part of Skechers' Breathe Easy line of shoes, which features Air Cooled Memory Foam technology and a perforated mesh lining that helps keep feet sweat-free while providing cozy, next-level cushioning. In addition, the shoes' soft fabric straps and outsole promise days of blister-free strolling.

4. Hey Dude Wally Stretch Loafers

Cruisers who want to look less like American tourists and a touch more Continental might find a pair of loafers in lieu of sneakers or hiking boots more fitting.

Hey Dude's Wally Stretch loafers impart a dressier feel than sneakers, but they're just as comfy as their sporty counterparts. A memory foam sole promises comfort on cobblestones, while a stretchy fabric outsole with Oxford cloth lining hugs your feet snugly. Plus, no-tie shoelaces make it a breeze to slip these kicks on and off in the airport security line.

5. Hoka Kawana Sneakers

Hokas have become a status symbol and are a great choice for anyone who puts in extra mileage and wants versatility. Whether hiking up a mountain or wandering through a winery, the shoes offer support and breathability no matter the weather.

Kawana Sneakers are built with new CMEVA foam that offers extra comfort while responding to your every move. Hokas are supportive sneakers and the best walking shoes for travel in Europe for cruisers who want to wander extensively without getting sore feet.

6. Adidas Stan Smith Shoes

Embrace the European lifestyle, fashion and culture with a pair of Adidas. They’re one of the best walking shoes for Europe because they help you "blend in" with the European style while being comfortable enough to walk in for hours.

Adidas’ Stan Smith design is available for everyone and is a streetwear classic in many countries across Europe. They’re chic and are comfortable slipping on and off at airport security or walking across ancient cobblestones on your next cruise.

7. Crocs Santa Cruz Playa Slip-on

Fantastic support, slip-on convenience (perfect for the airport) and a sleek look that doesn't scream orthopedics make the Santa Cruz Playa slip-on from Crocs a top choice for European sailings. Take note that these aren't your not-so-appealing, pockmarked Crocs clogs.

Santa Cruz Playa Slip-ons resemble classic driving loafers and are refined enough to take you to an upscale dinner or cocktail party. Supportive foam outsoles and a stretchy fabric offer a comfortable way to walk for miles in European ports.

8. Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

Classic Birkenstocks are back in style, which is good news for folks who prefer to travel the world in open-toed shoes. These unisex sandals are arguably the best walking shoes to wear in Europe, offering on-point style plus unparalleled comfort with cork footbeds that conform to the shape of your foot. Many local Europeans also favor Birkenstocks and they’re on full display in the summer months in countries like Germany, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands.

They're not the cheapest walking shoes available (most pairs cost more than $100, depending on style), but they're guaranteed to last. Plus, Birkenstock provides specialized repair services at select retailers.