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A city trip to Paris means inevitably that you’ll be on your feet all day long, and there is no bigger showstopper than uncomfortable shoes. But the question of what are the best walking shoes for Paris can be a tricky one.
Quick Packing Guide – Best Shoes for Paris for every season
Most people associate Paris with fashion. Ok, and the Eiffel Tower. The image of the French fashionista that could be featured in Vogue magazine, just wearing her usual streetwear, is a strong one. So yes, the bar is high, and it is not surprising that many visitors are wondering what are the best shoes to wear in Paris. A trip to Paris always means a lot of walking, and fashion and comfort are often not a good match.
But did you know that Paris is actually a city where most people wear flats and sneakers?
Paris is one of the most walkable cities and most Parisians depend on public transportation in their day-to-day life. Flats and sneakers are the most common shoe choice in Paris. Simply white sneakers like this model from Lacoste are a perfectly solid choice.
The Parisian’s Favorite: Sneakers from the
French Brand VEJA
What are the best walking shoes for Paris? Which shoes should you pack that are appropriate for Paris? What kind of shoes are women wearing in Paris? Read on and know exactly what works in Paris. Know which shoes you need in every season!
What kind of shoes are Parisians wearing?
The Parisian everyday fashion is a combination of (intentional and well-placed) effortless, a lot of class, and comfort. This does not only apply to their clothes but also their shoes. They are an essential part of the overall outfit and are picked accordingly. Check our packing guide for Paris if you require some inspiration on what to pack!
This means sneakers are not only worn because they are comfortable, but also because they complete a look. Be it to dress down a business outfit, to underline an effortless look, or because it fits the occasion. Hence, people are not wearing random sneakers in a random situation, it’s rather the opposite. But rest assured, they are wearing sneakers all the time. It’s a very persistent rumor they wouldn’t.
That sneakers are comfortable is simply a perfect plus.
The best walking shoes for Paris
The good news is, you can leave all your uncomfortable high heels at home. Unless you plan something exceptional or will attend a sublime and festive event, you really don’t need high heels in Paris. Or any uncomfortable shoes, actually. When searching for good walking shoes for Paris, it’s enough to stick to a pair of simple white sneakers (click the link for options).
Most people are commuting and take public transportation every day. Some are even navigating Paris by bike. And maybe this is a surprise, but many are using their car only occasionally, if they own a car in the first place, because it’s quite common to meet someone who’s not even having a driver’s license.
When you are living in Paris, you simply don’t need it. The Metro is very convenient to travel from A to B without much hassle and as the Metro always involves some walking as well, you won’t see many ladies wearing high heels in Paris.
But what are they wearing instead? Let me give you an idea!
The best sneakers for Paris
That’s probably the best news for every Paris tourist: Sneakers are completely fine in Paris. Some years ago, I would have said that only cute fashion sneakers are acceptable, but for a few years, you really see all kinds of them in Paris. Some Hipsters even wear running shoes from the ’80s.
You can wear shoes like Stan Smith or sneakers from the very popular vegan brand Vejawith almost every outfit. I noticed that Veja is especially often worn by women over 35, and by men of all ages.
Generally, all sneakers that I mentioned above are also acceptable in the evening when going to casual bars or restaurants. However, more sporty shoes like running shoes are better just worn during the daytime when exploring Paris. Just think about how you combine them.
Slim jeans and runners? Works fine during the day. A summer dress and running shoes? Rather not.
To give you an idea of what kind of sportive sneakers, Parisians are wearing in their day-to-day, I will link a few below. Those models are also the most popular on the French Zalando site and are also what I am seeing every day when walking in Paris.
Overall, white sneakers are very popular in Paris. With a simple pair of white sneakers, you can’t do anything wrong. Be it a model from Adidas, classic Stan Smith (especially for men), or Nike Airforce1 for younger folks.
New Balance is also a brand that I often see in Paris. Many are wearing sportive models like the one in the picture, but also the New Balance classic sneakers are still popular click here to see the available colors.
The best flats for your Paris trip
There certainly should be a pair of simple flats in your luggage. I suggest bringing a pair of derbies or loafers. You could certainly bring as well ballerinas, however, I noticed lately, that they are not worn so much anymore. It’s still completely ok, but wouldn’t be my first pick anymore.
Classic brogues – the most versatile travel shoes
Brogues or Oxfords are great travel shoes – they can easily be dressed up and down, perfect for a day sightseeing but also for an evening in a fancy restaurant. They can be paired with jeans, slacks, and skirts and are also a safe bet during shoulder seasons. Click here for more models and choices.
Loafers – comfortable shoes for every situation
Just like brogues, a pair of classic loafers are insanely practical when traveling. They look good casual during the daytime, but also good with a dress or slacks for your evening program. Check here for more ore choice on nice leather loafers
If classic sneakers are not your style, slippers are a great choice as well. they are sporty, yet classy and they assure that you are comfortable. These ones from Dr.Scholl are a great pick if for a trip to Paris.
If I had to pick, I would say that classic ankle boots are the 2nd most favorite shoes of the Parisians – after sneakers. You see them so much on Paris’ streets. Especially in winter and during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, they are a great alternative to loafers.
They are as versatile as loafers and derbies, but more appropriate for colder weather. They look great with slim jeans but also with skirts and dresses.
Waterproof ankle boots for rainy winter days
If you travel to Paris during December, you will be surprised to learn that it’s not the coldest months, but the wettest! Autumn is not much better and waterproof boots can help you a lot to keep your feet dry and warm, when doing sightseeing in Paris. The ones fromBlondo are my favorites, but the Chelsea boots from Sorel are nice as well
If you are traveling to Paris in Winter or early spring, it might get cold, but you really don’t need to worry about snowproof boots. Snow is extremely rare in Paris. I live here for 15 years already, and I experienced serious snow twice.
Chelsea Boots – the indispensable!
With a pair of Chelsea boots, you simply can’t do anything wrong in Paris. They are appropriate for the cobbled stone alleys, they are matching nearly every outfit, and they are comfortable but not as casual as sneakers! Click here for more choice!
What shoes to wear in Paris in Spring (April, May, June)
See our monthly guides for April,May, and June for more detailed information
Spring in Paris is somewhat unpredictable. It can be freezing – or warm, or anything in between. I know, that doesn’t make it easy if you want to know what shoes to wear in Paris, right? If you visit Paris in spring, you best bring a pair of ankle boots or Chelsea boots, or alternatively some derbies and of course a pair of sneakers. But depending on when in spring you come to Paris, something warmer – or summelry may be appropriate.
Shoes for Paris in Spring:
Shoes for Paris in Summer (July, August, September)
See our monthly guide for July, August, and September for more detailed information
Summer is finally time for sandals and open shoes – and people are wearing flats! Everything bling-bling is a no-go in Parisian fashion, and sandals should be as simple and plain as possible. A good example are those slingback sandals from TOMS and these classic flats.
Shoes for Paris in Summer:
But even a pair ofBirkenstock is completely ok for sightseeing! They are actually quite fashionable! I wear mine all summer – it’s not just me, in case you wondered, haha. A few years ago many wore the Gizeh model, but I noticed that since a couple of years it’s rather the Madrid and Arizona Models.
They are definitely good to wear during the day and for casual evenings. Depending on the location, you even can wear them when going to the restaurant.
Shoes in Paris during Fall (October, November, December)
If you’re visiting Paris in the fall, it may be chill and rainy. Streets might be slippery due to the foliage, especially on cobbled stone. However, it can happen as well that you have wonderful Indian summer weather. Either way, it’s not the time for sandals – nor warm winter boots. Like in spring, you are all set with a pair of flats that you can dress up or down and a pair of sneakers.
Shoes for Paris in Autumn:
Best walking shoes for Paris in Winter (January, February, March)
Winter in Paris can be pretty chill. And rainy. There might be even snow. Well, snow in Paris stays usually for a couple of hours before transforming into an ice-cold grayish slush and honestly. Snow is rare and in most winters, there isn’t any at all.
However, as there is not much worse than walking around with wet and cold feet, travel to Paris with some winter shoes. Personally, I like the waterproof shoes from Blondo, the ankle booties are super cute and practical in winter!
Shoes for Paris in Autumn:
It’s still completely appropriate to wear sneakers on most days, though, but I advise you to pack something warmer just to be on the safe side.
What shoes should you not wear in Paris?
We covered what shoes to wear in Paris, but what shoes should you not wear?
Honestly, don’t worry about it! Really. No one cares what you’re wearing, and the best shoes for walking in Paris are the ones you’re comfortable in! I have by no means the intention to tell anyone how to dress in Paris, it’s rather a recommendation on travel shoes that are great for Paris based on my day-to-day observations of what Parisians wear. If you aren’t concerned with this, wear whatever you like and that makes you feel good.
This being said, there are still some shoes that you won’t see in Paris:
Uggs – it’s just not a thing in Paris. You see them from time to time in Winter, but that’s about it. They are certainly not the best shoes for Paris. Update 2023: I saw them a bit more often this winter, maybe they are becoming hip again
Flip-flops – nope, unless you are at a swimming pool
Spike heels – even though women wear of course high heels in Paris, especially in business areas and fancy locations. But it’s not belonging to a day to day attire. So if you are traveling to Paris, you don’t have to wear uncomfortable shoes to blend in. Just think about all those cobbled stoned roads! Heels are simply not the best shoes for walking in Paris and you can leave them at home without regrets.
Quick Packing Guide – Best Shoes for Paris for every season
Et voilà, my recommendation about what shoes are the best for Paris. I want to insist again on the fact that no one really cares what you are wearing. Wear what you feel comfortable in. My recommendations are only to give you an idea of what works best in Paris. Prioritize your personal comfort and you’re good 🙂
PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris
People wear mostly flats in Paris. Be it sneakers or flat ankle boots, Parisians prioritize comfort. Especially as most use public transportation and walk a lot in their day to day life.
Is it OK to wear sneakers in Paris?
Absolutely. In Paris, almost everyone wears sneakers most of the time. It is a very persistent rumor that Parisians are not wearing sneakers, while in fact, it’s the most worn type of shoe.
What sneakers are popular in Paris?
The most popular sneaker in Paris is Veja. It’s a french vegan brand that is insanely popular and the go to brand for many Parisians. Teens and Tweens are wearing mostly Nikes, Vans and Adidas shoes.
What kinds of shoes are popular in France?
Most people in Paris wear sneakers or Chelsea boots.
Can I wear Vans in Paris?
Absolutely. Vans are very popular in Paris and you see them very often.
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Parisian Women Love Nike Shoes, and if you want to dress like a Parisian, then White Nike Shoes are the best option for you. Nike is known for making high quality running and walking shoes. The Nike Court Vision Low Sneaker is a perfect walking shoe for long distance Paris.
Parisian Women Love Nike Shoes, and if you want to dress like a Parisian, then White Nike Shoes are the best option for you. Nike is known for making high quality running and walking shoes. The Nike Court Vision Low Sneaker is a perfect walking shoe for long distance Paris.
For dressy wear or going out, leather shoes are a must, and every French man would have at least one pair of leather shoes—many would wear leather shoes everyday. "Les mocassins" (loafers) are still very much in fashion, but all kind of leather shoes exist. Ankle leather/suede boots are quite trendy as well.
You might think that sandals are acceptable since heels are not but, you're dead wrong! Most Parisians do not wear sandals on the streets! Instead, you'll see most of them wearing sneakers or boots. So depending, on the weather, carry either a pair of sneakers or boots for roaming around the city.
If you were wondering if French women wear sneakers —and even in the streets of Paris, the answer is: yes, definitely! Sneakers or trainers are an essential shoe style that is found in every French woman's closet. If you went to Paris, you might have seen that uncomfortable high heels are not very “French”.
Canal Saint Martin is the most hipster area of Paris. The neighborhood is named after the canal which runs through the 10th arrondissem*nt of Paris. In this hip area, you'll find lots of artisanal boulangeries, coffee shops, and independent fashion designer boutiques.
To avoid looking like a tourist, you'll want to know what to wear in France. Our advice? Skip the baseball caps, white socks, sneakers, large colorful backpacks, and fanny packs. Instead, opt for dark skinny jeans, plain shirts without logos, and leather shoes.
Gucci is Europe's most popular shoe brand, with 215,000 searches according to research from footwear health experts FootActive. From a list of top ten brands, Gucci was the most popular shoe brand across 31 countries including France, Russia and Spain.
Oxford shoes are classy, elegant dress shoes available in an array of styles to suit any occasion. A pair of Oxfords can dress up or dress down many outfits and are essential footwear for every closet, especially a capsule wardrobe.
Restaurants. For most restaurants and bars, the dress code is dressed-up casual. So, if you do decide to go with a co*cktail dress, the norm is for it to be accompanied by tights and a sweater/light jacket. This isn't because Parisians are against showing skin; it's just not typical for this type of setting.
Bottom Line. It is substantially cheaper to buy luxury products from brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, or Gucci in Paris, their prices being on average between 30% and 40% cheaper in France than in other countries, especially those outside the European Union.
This Paris street is known as the prettiest street in Paris. Start your stroll at the famous La Maison Rose and continue down the cobbled road towards the Statue of Dalida. This offers the best view of the Sacré-Coeur in the distance.
What is the best area to stay in Paris for a first-time visitor? The best place to stay in Paris for first-time visitors is the Louvre and Bourse neighbourhoods. These are the city's most central districts. You'll be within a walking distance of many historic sights, boat cruises and plenty of restaurants.
The eighth arrondissem*nt is exceptionally elegant. From the exquisite Pont Alexandre III bridge leading into it from the south, along the famed Champs-Élysées avenue, all the way to the magnificent Parc Monceau, this is one of the finest parts of Paris.
In general, French women dress less casually day-to-day than Americans, but also less over-the-top in the evening. Overtly sexy isn't the look in Paris. French women leave something to the imagination, so leave your tube tops, short shorts and bandage dresses at home.
Loose clothes are the way to go in Parisian summer if comfort is a priority for you. Light and neutral-colored shirts or tee shirts paired with trousers should be enough for a sightseeing trip outdoors. A light jacket must be with you through the summer in case the weather forecast is bad. An umbrella would also do.
Jeans are definitely one of the staples of the French wardrobe. It's that kind of basic that flatters most body types, can be worn all year long, pared down or dressed up, and can be worn for every occasion while offering maximum comfort.
Jeans are fine! Try to make sure they're in very good condition and not super loose, and don't wear them to a nice restaurant. Even better, try some actual grown-up pants that are made of something other than denim and leave the jeans at home.
The “Nike Air Force 1 comes out on top in every single state as the most popular and searched for iconic sneaker in 2021,” according to eBay. It come in women's, men's and kids; high-tops, medium and low-tops; and a variety of colors.
The Glass Slipper is a fictional shoe belonging to Cinderella, first used in the 1950 film of the same name. It was created through the use of magic by her Fairy Godmother in order for her to attend the royal ball.
A court shoe (British English), or pump (American English), is a shoe with a low-cut front, or vamp, with either a shoe buckle or a black bow as ostensible fastening.
Pair your favorite jeans with any sneaker for an effortlessly elegant look that'll never go out of style. Sneakers look their best when they're adding to the aesthetic of the outfit they're paired with. Having a monochromatic look with a matching pair of sneakers makes you look put together, but not plain and simple.
Glossy red hues took over the Fall 2023 runways ranging from Sandy Liang and PatBo to Tory Burch and Wiederhoeft. Think: Juicy reds with vibrant orange undertones that would look just as good in head-to-toe looks (see: a pantsuit) as accent accessory pieces (shoes, handbags, jewelry, etc.).
If you want to dress like the locals in Paris, stay close to neutral colors, black, grey, beige, navy, (olive green if you're feeling adventurous) - during the winter season that is. Brighter colors tend to only make an appearence during the warmer months.
U.S. dollars are not accepted in most establishments, though some hotels, shops, and restaurants may accept U.S. dollars at an agreed upon exchange rate. Coins: 2€/1€/50 cents/20c/10c/5c/2c/1c The Euro is divided into 100 cents, or centimes.
Yes, Parisians are slightly more casual than their reputation suggests, but their sideways glances at flip-flops will absolutely make any sandal-wearer realize they have crossed a line. Flip-flops in France are reserved for beaches or for wearing around the house; everywhere else is a faux pas for sure.
Along with short shorts, leggings are equally banished to the back of a French closet. There is a reason that Lululemons are not big in France. Leggings are and should only be worn at the gym. And I mean at the gym, not on the way to the gym!
Parisians love neutral colors and adhere to the “No more than 3 colors” rule. To avoid standing out as a tourist on the Parisian streets, avoid items like original UGG boots, clunky tennis shoes, flip flops, and sweatpants.
In Paris, there are two distinct service times: Lunch is typically from around 12 until 2:30, and dinner around 7:30-11 p.m. If you are hungry in between, you can always step into a patisserie or boulangerie.
So, the good news is you can wear your jeans in Paris, but make sure you uphold the Paris Insiders Ideal by only wearing jeans that are stylish and well-fitted.
You won't need to calculate a tip. Not a major one, anyway. As opposed to the U.S., where most waiters make their living from tips, servers in Paris are paid a living wage. And since service is already included in the price, no one is expecting you to tack on an additional 20 to 25 percent at the end of the meal.
Some of the most popular brands that will be cheaper in Paris include, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, Balmain, Christian Louboutin, Pierre Cardin, Yves Saint Laurent (YSL), Roger Vivier, Thierry Mugler, Dior, Jean Paul Gaultier, Hermès, Lanvin, Chloé, Rochas, and Céline.
The best way to get around Paris is on foot and by metro. The elegant arrondissem*nts are practically made for pedestrians. Still, Paris is very big, so you should take the efficient metro to travel long distances.
One of our favourite ways to get around any city if we can is on foot. Paris is a fairly walkable city for the most part, with plenty of sidewalks and features that make walking in the city safe and enjoyable for pedestrians in most areas of central Paris.
You may be able to get away with a sneaker in Paris at some restaurants but if you have time to change before dinner I would. They definitely should be smart and clean if you do wear sneakers but personally I would recommend changing into a different shoe for dinner.
It's a relatively compact city, so combining your own two feet with low-cost public transportation is the best way of of getting around in Paris. In fact, it's one of the best walking cities in the world, and it also has one of the best public transportation systems. Have a Metro map with you and you'll never be lost.
Take a Walk along the World's Most Famous Avenue. A short walk along the Champs-Elysées shows you exactly why it is referred to as “the most beautiful avenue in the world”. Yet, even though the avenue is famed for its attractiveness, there's far more to do than simply marvel at the sights.
We have estimated that the walk will take three hours in total, 2.5 if we were to do it without stopping, but we tend to investigate interesting things so 3hrs seemed more reasonable. The route may change, but it should look a lot like this. Yes, right by the river, the Marais, and the Eiffel Tower at sunset.
Plan for 90 minutes on an easy-going walk, or several hours if you'd like to take the opportunity to visit the Petit or Grand Palais, shop along the Champs-Elysées, sit in a café, or stop for lunch.
It is polite to tip your waiter/waitress. However, bills in France include a service charge, and any extra is discretionary. The staff doesn't rely as heavily on tips as they do in the US, for example.
To avoid looking like a tourist, you'll want to know what to wear in France. Our advice? Skip the baseball caps, white socks, sneakers, large colorful backpacks, and fanny packs. Instead, opt for dark skinny jeans, plain shirts without logos, and leather shoes.
Jeans (besides dark or black-wash) are usually safest to avoid. I'd recommend a skirt, tights, and a nice blouse—paired with either boots or heels. If you're ever unsure of what would be allowed, opt for semi-formal attire: a dress or skirt (always with tights) or slacks.
If the brand is made in Europe, it will be less expensive. If the brand is made in America and you are buying it in Paris, you'll have to pay the import Tax, thus making it more expensive.
Men must not wear extremely short shorts, chunky sports shoes, sweatpants, graphic tees, and clothes with bright and bold words on them when in Paris. Women should avoid wearing stilettos, brightly colored dresses, clunky accessories, and beachwear when in Paris.
The Métro is the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to get around Paris. ...
Metros start running every day – including public holidays – at around 6am and stop at around 12.45am (from Sunday to Thursday) or at 1.45am (on Friday and Saturday).
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Paris is one of the most walkable cities and most Parisians depend on public transportation in their day-to-day life. Flats and sneakers are the most common shoe choice in Paris. Simply white sneakers like this model from Lacoste are a perfectly solid choice.
You can wear shoes like Stan Smith
or sneakers from the very popular vegan brand Veja with almost every outfit. I noticed that Veja is especially often worn by women over 35, and by men of all ages.
New Balance is also a brand that I often see in Paris. Many are wearing sportive models like the one in the picture, but also the New Balance classic sneakers are still popular click here to see the available colors.
Brogues or Oxfords are great travel shoes – they can easily be dressed up and down, perfect for a day sightseeing but also for an evening in a fancy restaurant. They can be paired with jeans, slacks, and skirts and are also a safe bet during shoulder seasons. Click here for more models and choices.
Just like brogues, a pair of classic loafers are insanely practical when traveling. They look good casual during the daytime, but also good with a dress or slacks for your evening program. Check here for more ore choice on nice leather loafers
If you travel to Paris during December, you will be surprised to learn that it’s not the coldest months, but the wettest! Autumn is not much better and waterproof boots can help you a lot to keep your feet dry and warm, when doing sightseeing in Paris. The ones from Blondo are my favorites, but the Chelsea boots from Sorel are nice as well
With a pair of Chelsea boots, you simply can’t do anything wrong in Paris. They are appropriate for the cobbled stone alleys, they are matching nearly every outfit, and they are comfortable but not as casual as sneakers! Click here for more choice!
