About 5 years ago, a dear friend joined me in Rome for a short trip, and I had already planned a walking plan for the entire day to acquaint him with the city layout.
We, however, didn’t walk long before calling it a day. The Converse high-tops my friend was wearing could be perfect for New York, but the worst choice for Rome. The streets in Rome look very different from those in New York (and elsewhere in America), and people walk way more in Rome.
Why Does Your Choice of Shoes Matter in Italy?
Italy is a country best explored on foot—whether you’re climbing the Duomo in Florence, hiking the Cinque Terre trails, wandering Venice’s bridges, or strolling through Rome’s ancient ruins. The wrong shoes can ruin your day, your feet, and your entire trip. Here’s why footwear matters from the Alps to Sicily.
1. Italy’s Terrain Is Relentlessly Uneven
Italy is not flat. Even in major cities, you will encounter:
- Cobblestones (sampietrini) – Beautiful but brutal on thin soles and heels. They twist ankles and tire feet fast.
- Steep hills – Think Assisi, Orvieto, and Positano. You will climb hundreds of stairs daily.
- Marble and stone – Slippery when wet, especially inside churches and piazzas.
- Rough gravel and trails – Essential for Pompeii, Herculaneum, and the Path of the Gods.
2. You Will Walk More Than You Think
Most Italian cities are compact and walkable, so travelers easily log 10–15 miles per day. Uncomfortable shoes lead to blisters, plantar fasciitis, and ruined afternoons spent nursing sore feet in a hotel room instead of seeing the Sistine Chapel.
3. Church Dress Codes Require Practical Shoes
Many churches (St. Peter’s, Florence Duomo, Venice’s St. Mark’s) enforce strict dress codes. While they don’t ban heels, you will stand for long periods on cold marble. Open-toed sandals are often allowed, but supportive shoes keep you comfortable during hour-long visits.
4. Seasons and Weather Vary Dramatically
- Spring & Fall – Perfect for walking, but sudden rain makes cobblestones treacherous. Waterproof soles matter.
- Summer – Blazing heat makes feet swell. Breathable, cushioned shoes prevent discomfort.
- Winter – Cold, wet, and sometimes icy in northern cities like Milan and Bologna. Insulated, grippy soles are essential.
What Shoes Should You Pack for Italy?
| Do Wear | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Supportive walking shoes or sneakers (neutral colors) | New, unbroken-in shoes |
| Cushioned insoles | Thin flip-flops (except at beaches) |
| Water-resistant leather or technical shoes | High heels or wedges |
| Smart-looking casual shoes (for dinners) | Flat canvas sneakers (no arch support) |
| Hiking shoes (for Dolomites or Cinque Terre trails) | Open-toed sandals for long walking days |
Best Shoes to Buy for Italy – Ultimate Guide
1. Allbirds Tree Runners
A lightweight, breathable sneaker made from renewable materials. The Tree Runners are ideal for summer in Italy because they wick moisture, resist odor, and require no socks (though you can wear no-show socks). The cushioned midsole handles cobblestones surprisingly well, and the machine-washable design is perfect after dusty days in Pompeii or Rome. They also pack flat.
2. Ecco Soft 7 Sneaker
Ecco is a European favorite for a reason. The Soft 7 features premium leather, a removable leather-covered insole, and a flexible, shock-absorbing sole. These shoes look smart enough for nice dinners but feel like athletic shoes. They work beautifully across Italy—from Milan’s fashion district to Venice’s bridge stairs. Break them in for one day, and they are ready.
3. Hoka Transport
If you plan to walk 10+ miles daily (common in Florence, Rome, and Naples), the Hoka Transport is a game-changer. It offers maximum cushioning and a rocker bottom that propels you forward, reducing fatigue. The upper is made from recycled materials, and the sole provides excellent grip on wet marble and slick stone. They are not the most stylish, but your feet will thank you.
4. Vionic Bella Toe Post Sandal
For summer in southern Italy (Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Puglia), you need a supportive sandal. Vionic’s Bella sandal features a podiatrist-designed footbed with deep heel cup and arch support. The toe post is soft and won’t cause blisters, and the leather upper looks elegant enough for daytime sightseeing. Avoid flat sandals like Havaianas—your arches will collapse quickly on cobblestones.
5. Blundstone Original #550
Blundstone chelsea boots are perfect for spring and autumn in Italy. They are slip-on, waterproof, and have a comfortable, shock-absorbing sole. The chunky heel grips uneven terrain, and the leather looks good with jeans, trousers, or casual dresses. Wear them on rainy days in Milan, chilly evenings in Bologna, or hiking trails in Tuscany. No laces, no fuss. Just pull on and go.
6. On Running Cloud 5
The On Cloud 5 is a sleek, Swiss-engineered sneaker with a perforated upper and zero-gravity foam. It is extremely lightweight and breathable, making it excellent for hot Italian summers. The “CloudTec” sole absorbs impact on hard stone surfaces. They also have a speed-lacing system, so you can slip them on and off quickly—useful for airport security and church visits.
7. Merrell Moab 3 (Waterproof)
Reserve this for serious hiking. If you plan to trek the Cinque Terre coastal trails, hike the Dolomites, or explore the Path of the Gods above Amalfi, you need a proper hiking shoe. The Merrell Moab 3 offers Vibram grip, a protective toe cap, and waterproof lining. It is not for city streets, but it is essential for Italy’s rugged natural beauty.
8. Cole Haan GrandPro Topspin
Need a shoe that works from the Colosseum to a nice rooftop bar? The GrandPro Topspin combines a classic leather sneaker upper with a lightweight, cushioned athletic sole. It looks polished but feels like a sneaker. Italian men and women dress well, and this shoe helps you fit in while staying comfortable. Choose black, white, or tan leather.
9. Skechers GO WALK Arch Fit
Skechers is not glamorous, but the GO WALK Arch Fit is brutally practical. It features a podiatrist-certified arch support system and a ultra-cushioned sole. These are ideal for travelers with plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or previous foot injuries. They are also machine washable. Wear them for marathon sightseeing days in Rome, Vatican City, or Naples. No one will compliment them, but you will walk longer than anyone else.
If you have a question or remark, feel free to leave a comment