This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The best way to see a city is on foot. Cobbled streets, steep old towns and long seafront promenades are where you find the best cafés, the hidden squares and the views no tour bus will show you.
Some of my favourite trips were almost entirely on foot. The old town and La Concha in San Sebastián, the stairs and whitewashed lanes of Mojácar, the climb up to the old town in Altea and the harbour streets of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Days like that can easily go past 15,000 steps.
The wrong shoes can ruin that in a day. These are the walking shoes I'd recommend for anyone who likes to explore a city on foot, plus who each pair suits best.
Quick Picks
Short on time? Here are my top picks at a glance.
Best overall: HOKA Men's Clifton 10
Best for day-to-dinner: On Men's Cloud 6
Best budget pick: Skechers Men's Go Walk Max
Best for hot cities: Allbirds Men's Tree Runner
What to Look for in a City Walking Shoe
Cushioning. Hard pavements and cobblestones are tough on feet, so more cushioning means less fatigue.
Breathability. Mesh uppers keep feet cooler in hot cities.
A shoe that's easy to slip on and off at airport security.
A look you're happy to wear to dinner, so you can pack one pair instead of two.
1. HOKA Men's Clifton 10
HOKA is known for cushioning, and the Clifton is its best-known everyday shoe. It's light, soft underfoot and designed for long days, which makes it a strong pick if you plan to walk from morning to night.
Best for: Long days on your feet and anyone who wants maximum cushioning.
Good to know: The thick sole is very comfortable but has a sporty look.
2. On Men's Cloud 6
The Cloud 6 is light and stylish enough to wear to dinner, which means one less pair of shoes in your suitcase. A good option if you want comfort without looking like you're about to go for a run.
Best for: Travellers who want one pair for sightseeing and dinner.
Good to know: The cushioning is firmer than HOKA, which some people prefer and others don't.
3. Skechers Men's Go Walk Max
Skechers' Go Walk line is built specifically for walking. They're soft, easy to slip on and off at airport security, and with tens of thousands of reviews, they're a reliable budget choice.
Best for: A comfortable, affordable shoe that's easy to slip on.
Good to know: They're very soft, so they offer less support on long hikes or rough trails.
4. Under Armour Men's Charged Surge 4
A light, breathable trainer at a good price. The mesh upper is a plus in hot cities where your feet tend to overheat by the afternoon.
Best for: Hot cities and anyone on a budget.
Good to know: It's built as a running shoe, so the style is sporty.
5. Allbirds Men's Tree Runner
Made from eucalyptus fibre, the Tree Runners are breathable, light and machine washable, which is handy on longer trips. They have a clean, simple look that works with most outfits.
Best for: Warm weather and travellers who like a clean, simple look.
Good to know: Not waterproof, so pack something else for rainy cities.
At a Glance
HOKA Men's Clifton 10: Long days on your feet and anyone who wants maximum cushioning.
On Men's Cloud 6: Travellers who want one pair for sightseeing and dinner.
Skechers Men's Go Walk Max: A comfortable, affordable shoe that's easy to slip on.
Under Armour Men's Charged Surge 4: Hot cities and anyone on a budget.
Allbirds Men's Tree Runner: Warm weather and travellers who like a clean, simple look.
You Might Also Like
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy walking shoes a size up?
Many people go up half a size because feet swell after a long day of walking. Try them on in the afternoon for the most accurate fit.
How long should I break in new shoes before a trip?
At least a week of normal wear, including one longer walk. Never take brand-new shoes on a walking holiday.
Are running shoes good for walking around a city?
Yes. Most cushioned running shoes are very comfortable for walking, as long as they fit well.
How many pairs of shoes should I pack?
Two is ideal: one main walking pair and one backup, so each pair gets a day to dry out and your feet get a change.
Final Thoughts
My tip: break in new shoes for at least a week before you travel, and pack a second pair so you can switch between days. Your feet will thank you.
Which city has given your feet the hardest workout? Tell me on Instagram, I'm always looking for my next walking trip.
