After visiting Paris multiple times over the years, one of the questions I’m asked most often is: What are the best shoes to pack for Paris? It’s a fair question, because while Paris might be the fashion capital of the world, it’s also a city that’s best discovered by foot.
Whether you’re taking in the view of the Eiffel Tower or walking the hilly neighborhood of charming Montmartre, the key to the perfect shoes to wear in Paris is this: comfortable ones that don’t sacrifice style.
I always make sure to pack a few of my favorite walking shoes that work with a range of outfits and keep my feet happy while I explore Paris. If you’re planning a trip to Paris and want to blend in with the locals, feel confident in your looks, and avoid sore feet at the end of the day, this guide will help you choose the best shoes for your trip—stylish, versatile, and made for lots of walking.
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The Best Shoes to Wear in Paris
It’s important to pack shoes that match the pace and rhythm of Parisian life. Comfortable soles, arch support, and high-quality construction all play important factors in choosing the right pair.
And as someone who also lives part-time in New York City, trust me when I say that investing in high-quality shoes when you’re on your feet all day will be a major game-changer when you’re out and about exploring. Sore feet can really make or break your vacation!
Here are a few extra helpful tips:
- Regardless of your personal style, it’s always a good idea to break in any new shoes you purchase for your trip to Paris.
- Be sure to pack band-aids or foot cushions if you’re prone to blisters or sore feet.
- While I don’t shy away from wearing suede shoes in Paris, I like to always pack one pair of shoes in my suitcase that I’m comfortable getting wet. Even in the summer, Paris is prone to a random rainstorm despite a clear forecast. Don’t forget a travel umbrella, either!
Is Paris a Walking City?
Paris is an incredibly walkable city, and walking is one of the easiest and quickest ways to get immersed in the culture and get your bearings on directions.
Whether you’re sightseeing, shopping, or simply strolling from café to café, you’ll likely be on your feet far more than you expect. On any given day in Paris, I easily clock at least 15,000 steps. Even when you take the Metro, there’s usually a good amount of walking involved between stations, transfers, and stairs.
The styles of shoes in this guide are all ones I’ve worn and tested walking the city streets of Paris.
Shoes to Wear in Paris By Season
Best Shoes for Paris in Spring and Summer
- Sneakers
- Ballet Flats
- Ankle Boots for early spring
- Loafers
- Espadrilles
- Flat Sandals
- Block Heels
Best Shoes for Paris in Fall and Winter
- Sneakers
- Ballet Flats
- Ankle Boots
- Loafers
- Block Heels
- Knee High Boots
What Shoes to Wear in Paris
Sneakers
A pair of sneakers is a must when visiting any walking city. These are always my most worn and most comfortable shoes every time I’m in Paris. Regardless of season, these are always on my packing list.
French women (and French men!) wear athletic sneakers only when exercising, unless they are an intentional, street-style pair like chunky New Balance sneakers or a similar style of that nature. Be sure to bring a pair of everyday lifestyle sneakers that work with a variety of your outfits. When in doubt, white sneakers are always a great option since they’ll match with everything you pack.
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Shop this look here.
Adidas Sambas are some of my favorite sneakers that I wear constantly, even when I’m not in Pairs. I own several pairs and colors, and they’re a sneaker that can be styled with just about everything thanks to their streamlined, elongated silhouette. Adidas Gazelle and Spezial styles also achieve the same look. My favorite way to style these sneakers is with wide leg pants for an elevated casual look.
Another sneaker brand I love is Veja. They are a French brand, so you’ll see many French girls sporting these with their Paris outfits. Last, but not least, don’t underestimate the classic simplicity of Converse All Star sneakers.
Ballet Flats
If there is one shoe that’s synonymous with French style, it’s probably the ballet flat. Just like sneakers, ballet flats are versatile, comfortable shoes that work with dresses, skirts, jeans, and wide leg pants.
You can opt for the traditional ballet flat style, try a cute Mary Jane, or even a flat slingback. When you’re shopping, look for classic and timeless styles and neutral colors that reflect the ethos of French fashion.
I love my Chanel slingbacks; find a more affordable option here.
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Loafers
If you’re looking for something a little less feminine than ballet flats, don’t sleep on loafers. Loafers are a great option when you’re looking for comfortable walking shoes that aren’t sneakers. I love loafers and have several pairs. Two of my most worn loafers are this pair (wearing above) and this pair, and they’re both from the French brand Sezane. I wear my loafers with black pants, jeans, and even skirts on warmer days. During colder months when it’s not quite boot season, add a pair of crew socks to your look to keep your ankles and feet warm while walking the streets of Paris.
Espadrilles
Espadrilles are a classic French summer shoe, and the canvas fabric allows your feet to breathe. I love pairing my Castaner wedge espadrilles with a midi dress to give myself height without sacrificing comfort. Plus, your heel won’t stuck in the cobblestone streets.
Block Heels
If you’re heading to Paris for the first time, I highly encourage you to leave your high heels at home unless you plan on taking a car everywhere. If you’re looking for a dressy heeled shoe, go for block heel options instead. Parisian streets are made from large cobblestones and they’re often uneven, so for me it’s not even worth the stress of packing high heels.
For warmer months, my Parisian go-to dressy shoes of choice are these block heel sandals. I have them in gold (pictured above) and although they’re metallic, they’re a great neutral that matches everything.
For cold weather, these heeled ankle boots are my top pick. They have great arch support, and they’re also one of my most-worn shoes I wear in New York City.
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Flat Sandals
If you’re visiting Paris in the summer, be sure to pack a comfortable sandal. I personally prefer sandals that have ankle straps, especially if I’ll be doing a lot of walking or taking the train, just so that they don’t accidentally slip off my feet.
To avoid overpacking extra pairs of shoes, focus on a neutral, elevated style that can work with most of your clothing you packed for your trip, as well as for the evening.
Ankle Boots
In fall and winter (and even in early spring), be sure to pack comfortable ankle boots that you can wear all day while you explore Paris. Grab the pair I’m wearing in the photo above here.
A low or barely-there heel is ideal for daytime. You really can’t go wrong with a classic ankle boot like these. If you prefer something higher for the evening, you can transition to a low heel style.
Paris can have several rainy days between fall and spring, so a waterproof boot in leather will be your best friend when out and about in the City of Light.
Knee High Boots
If you have extra room in your suitcase and you’re looking for a pair of boots to keep your legs warm during fall and winter months, knee-high boots are a timeless option.
I absolutely love my black Loeffler Randall boots. They’re very easy to walk in and I wear them with longer dresses and skirts as well as with jeans. They also make a slightly higher version called the Goldy Boot that I own in brown. I’ve had those boots for several years and love and wear them often as well.
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