Last summer, I embarked on a walking tour across Europe with one mission: find the perfect sandals. After testing dozens of pairs through cobblestone streets and coastal paths, I’ve discovered the holy grail of footwear. These 20 sandals not only prevented painful blisters but also attracted compliments from fellow travelers everywhere I went.
1. Birkenstock Arizona EVA
Lightweight champions for urban explorers! Made from waterproof EVA foam, these classics weigh practically nothing while providing that famous Birkenstock support.
I splashed through surprise rain showers in Prague without a second thought. My feet stayed comfortable even after 8-hour sightseeing days.
2. Teva Tirra Women’s Sandals
Adventure-ready strappy wonders with adjustable velcro that stayed put during my hike along the Amalfi Coast. The cushioned footbed absorbed shock on rocky terrain.
When other tourists switched to sneakers, I kept these on from sunrise to sunset. The quick-dry straps prevented any uncomfortable rubbing.
3. Chaco Z/Cloud X2
Sturdy workhorses with adjustable straps that wrap around your foot like a supportive hug. The antimicrobial treatment kept odors away even during sweaty Barcelona afternoons.
Fellow travelers constantly asked about them as I navigated through crowded marketplaces. The traction handled slippery marble steps with confidence.
4. Keen Newport H2
Toe-protecting champions that conquered Amsterdam’s bicycle-friendly streets. The closed front prevented stubbed toes while navigating crowded areas.
I waded through shallow streams during countryside walks without hesitation. The quick-dry material meant I could transition from water to land adventures seamlessly.
5. Ecco Yucatan Offroad
Premium comfort meets Scandinavian design in these surprisingly stylish hiking sandals. The neoprene lining prevented any rubbing while exploring Stockholm’s cobblestone streets.
My feet never felt fatigued thanks to the exceptional arch support. I even wore them to a casual dinner without feeling underdressed!
6. Naot Sabrina
Elegant leather beauties that transitioned from daytime walking to evening dining in Paris. The cork footbed molded to my feet after just two days of wear.
The metallic finish attracted compliments from fashionable locals. I danced in them during an impromptu street festival without a single uncomfortable moment.
7. Merrell Hydro Moc
Futuristic foam wonders that became my go-to for coastal exploration in Greece. Weighing almost nothing, these quirky-looking shoes proved perfect for rocky beaches and boat trips.
Sand and water drained instantly through the perforated design. I could go from swimming to walking without changing footwear or dealing with soggy steps.
8. OluKai Ohana
Hawaiian-inspired flip flops with unexpected support that survived two weeks of Mediterranean coastline exploration. The compression-molded footbed prevented fatigue during long walks.
Water-resistant materials meant beach-to-town transitions were seamless. I received knowing nods from other travelers who recognized these cult favorites.
9. Vionic Kirra
Podiatrist-designed treasures with hidden orthotic support that made museum marathons in Florence completely painless. The sleek leather straps attracted compliments from fashion-conscious Italians.
Despite their elegant appearance, these tackled uneven Renaissance-era streets with ease. The microfiber footbed prevented sweaty discomfort during hot summer days.
10. Crocs LiteRide Stretch Sandals
Surprisingly sophisticated Crocs that demolished my prejudice against the brand. The LiteRide foam insoles felt like walking on clouds through Berlin’s urban landscape.
The stretchy straps accommodated my feet as they swelled during hot afternoons. I could walk for hours without that pinched feeling that usually comes with new shoes.
11. Salt Water Originals
Vintage-inspired leather classics that survived unexpected downpours in London without damage. The rust-proof brass buckles maintained their shine despite challenging weather conditions.
These nostalgic sandals broke in quickly, conforming perfectly to my feet. I splashed through puddles without worry, knowing they’re designed to handle water.
12. Hoka One One Hopara
Athletic powerhouses that handled Vienna’s mix of urban parks and city streets with equal expertise. The chunky sole provided cloud-like cushioning that prevented foot fatigue.
Quick-drying materials meant unexpected fountain splashes weren’t a problem. The closed toe design protected against accidental bumps while navigating crowded tourist spots.
13. Reef Cushion Bounce Vista
Beach-ready beauties that surprised me with their city-walking capabilities through Lisbon’s hilly streets. The anatomical arch support prevented the usual aches from steep inclines.
The soft, padded straps never created friction points. I appreciated the subtle styling that worked with both casual sundresses and shorts throughout my Portuguese adventures.
14. Mephisto Helen
French-crafted luxury that justified their higher price tag during long walks through Budapest. The soft leather straps felt buttery against my skin from the first wear.
The cork footbed provided surprising stability on historic cobblestones. Several older locals pointed at my feet with knowing nods—apparently these are beloved by Europeans who know their walking shoes!
15. FitFlop Lulu
Biomechanically engineered flip flops that made Madrid’s grand boulevards feel like walking on marshmallows. The microwobbleboard midsoles absorbed shock while providing subtle muscle activation.
Despite their flip-flop design, these never slapped against my heels or caused toe strain. The leather upper added an elegant touch that worked for casual evening tapas.
16. Sanuk Yoga Sling 2
Yoga mat footbeds that cradled my feet through Copenhagen’s design district. The soft fabric straps, made from recycled yoga mats, never caused a single hot spot.
These packable wonders took up minimal suitcase space. The lightweight design made them perfect for days when I needed to carry them in my backpack after switching to dressier options.
17. Dansko Sophie
Professional-grade comfort that survived Rome’s ancient pathways without complaint. The contoured footbed supported my arches through 7-hour days exploring ruins and museums.
The adjustable ankle strap prevented sliding on marble surfaces. I received compliments from a tour guide who recognized them as her personal favorite for leading daily walking tours!
18. Earth Origins Tessa
Budget-friendly gems that performed like luxury sandals during my walks through Munich’s English Garden. The multi-density cushioning prevented the usual foot fatigue.
The perforated leather upper provided unexpected breathability during hot days. These became my reliable go-to for days when I knew I’d be covering serious ground without sacrificing style.
19. Skechers On-The-Go 600
Sporty yet stylish companions that conquered Brussels’ mix of modern and historic districts. The responsive 5Gen cushioning technology made each step bouncy rather than jarring.
The soft fabric straps never rubbed, even in humid conditions. I especially appreciated how quickly they dried after an unexpected summer shower caught me far from my hotel.
20. Clarks Arla Jacory
Cloud-like comfort with a wedge heel that brought me through Edinburgh’s Royal Mile without a single complaint. The Cloudsteppers cushioning lived up to its heavenly name.
The slight elevation helped navigate puddles after Scottish rain showers. Despite the wedge design, I maintained stability on the city’s notoriously uneven surfaces and steep inclines.