We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.
1. Handmade leather huarache sandals so stunning, they'll rival those ancient ruins you traveled across the world to see. The platform design means you'll get a little extra height, but way more comfortably than wearing an actual heel.
Macarena Collection is based in Buena Park, California, and specializes in colorful Mexican shoe and clothing design.
Promising review: "I unexpectedly had to walk five miles in the Florida heat and humidity but I had these shoes on and my feet didn’t hurt at all! Super cute and functional." —Tori Kuhn
Get them from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $41.52 (originally $51.90; available in sizes 5–10 and in more colors via their Etsy shop).
2. Lug-sole Dr. Martens Rometty boots you'll feel so cool in, even if "edgy" is likely the last word anyone would use to describe you. Wear 'em with everything from cropped jeans to dresses, and enjoy feeling just a tad bit taller without fear of toppling over while the locals point and laugh.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
I bought these boots last year and they quickly became the ones I reach for whenever I'm not wearing sneakers. They're SO comfortable (I've worn them walking around both NYC and Europe for hours on end), and that bit of extra height makes 5' tall me feel like I can take on the world. They're also ridiculously cute and worth every cent of what they cost, thanks to their durability and versatility. I've worn them in the rain and never once worried about slipping! Best of all, they look great with a casual jeans look or gussied up with a slip skirt, which I've paired them with on many occasions. I know they'll last me a long time, but I'm already certain I won't hesitate to buy a replacement pair when they finally give out. 10/10, buy them! Oh, and FYI, they run a little big, so consider sizing down!
Promising review: "I have been wearing Docs for years now, and this pair has to take first place for comfort. They're incredibly cute and versatile, can be dressed up or down, and just like any other pair are faithfully durable. Docs always run big so I sized a full size down and still comfortably wear them with thin-thick socks. I brought them on a long trip, wore them in various weather conditions like rain/snow/forest trails, and they worked great." —Stacy Cruz
Get them from Amazon for $118.65+ (available in sizes 5–11).
3. And some absurdly cheap yet cute waterproof Chelsea boots in case your destination is a wetter locale. With these, you won't sacrifice one iota of style while you slosh around in slushy puddles — you're not gonna let a little precipitation ruin your trip!
Promising review: "I live in the desert and noticed our upcoming trip to London had rain in the forecast nearly every day. I didn’t want to walk around in wet tennis shoes, and we were planning a trip with heavy walking. I have problems with plantar fasciitis, so I was skeptical, I usually buy expensive, supportive shoes. But I took a chance. These boots did not disappoint. I ended up wearing them every day in London. They were very comfortable, my feet stayed dry, they were super cute and the best part, ZERO foot pain. We walked a lot, 7–8 miles a day. I will put these in my closet for other rainy-day trips!" —volvomom
Get them from Amazon for $30.99+ (available in sizes 4–12 and 13 colors).
4. Ultra-comfy Allbirds Tree Pipers you can wear on that walking tour you signed up for without realizing it was six hours long. 😬 Their flexible design moves with your feet, and on hot days you'll appreciate that they're made of breathable eucalyptus-fiber.
P.S. They can be tossed in the washing machine when they start to get smelly, and they're made with renewable materials! ♻️
Promising review: "Just spent a week in Paris and these were the most comfortable shoes for hours of sightseeing and trekking around the city every day! My feet were happy, and they looked so cute with jeans and casual skirts, and were easy to keep clean, too. My new favorite shoes!" —Jessica G.
Get them from Allbirds for $105 (available in sizes 5–11 and nine colors).
5. Or pillowy Adidas running shoes with the phrase "Cloudfoam" in their name, so you know they've gotta be worth their 11,000+ 5-star ratings! These softies will hug your feet to provide optimal comfort, and since they're super lightweight, they're an over-packer's *dream*.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "These are really cute, but besides that, the first time I wore these was on a two-day trip to Disneyland. I was really nervous about wearing brand new shoes on such a big trip and brought back up and Bandaids just in case. I walked nearly 20 miles in these over the course of two days and did not have one single ache or pain related to my shoes. Not only that, it was the best my legs and feet had ever felt on a Disney trip (and we’ve done it A LOT). I am absolutely sold. Plus, my husband told me like five times randomly throughout the trip how good they looked. After two solid days of nonstop walking, they look brand new and I jumped on here right away to write a review. Love!" —immjspyt
Get them from Amazon for $49.98+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 37 styles — not all styles available in all sizes).
6. Iconic-for-a-reason Teva sandals for bringing on any warm weather vacation, even if the only walking you plan on doing is making a beeline for the hotel pool. Their quick-drying material will keep you from sloshing around in wet shoes, while the signature strappy design ensures your feet stay put.
Plus, the rubber soles will come in handy on slippery surfaces!
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "Comfiest shoes on the planet. I bought them for my trip to Thailand, which included a heavy amount of walking and hiking. I now wear them all the time, even for nonadventurous activities. They are so darn comfortable, and have great grip." —Caroline V.
Get them from Amazon for $39.84+ (available in sizes 5–14 and 45 styles — not all styles available in all sizes).
7. And prerequisite Birkenstock Arizona sandals — the most low-maintenance shoes that'll go with everything from denim shorts to flowy dresses. Plus, the contoured footbed provides extra arch support on big walking days.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "I love the Arizona style. They are easy to adjust and easy to slip on and off. I suffered from a heel spur and I was able to walk without pain when I changed over to the Arizona sandals. I took several pairs of shoes on vacation and never once did I switch over to a different pair. I can walk for long periods of time with comfort. They are my first choice of shoes." —Glenn B.
Get them from Amazon for $79.94+ (available in unisex sizes 3–19.5, including narrow sizes, and in dozens of styles — not all styles available in all sizes).
8. Super supportive Dr. Scholl's kicks, which will become your go-to flying shoes once you see how TSA-friendly they are (easy on and off!) and how cushy they feel during your flight. Now if only the toddler behind you would stop screaming...
FYI: These are made from recycled bottles!
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "I bought these shoes to wear on vacation to the Grand Canyon. I did a lot of walking on that trip, and my feet never hurt and I still looked cute. Then a few months later, we went to Durango, Colorado and did a ton of walking and again, my feet never hurt. I washed them and let them air dry several times over the next year and they came out great every time. They soon became my daily shoes to wear around the house. I have already bought a second pair to replace them so I can still look cute and be comfortable and wear the first pair when I water the garden. I would definitely recommend these shoes!" —J. Perkins
Get them from Amazon for $47.99+ (available in sizes 5–13, including wide sizes, and in 29 styles — not all styles available in all sizes).
9. Beautiful Tory Burch ballet flats specifically designed for travel, since they're flexible enough to fold up for easy packing. Plus, the elastic back means you won't have a sharp edge digging into the back of your foot — the worst!
Promising review: "I got these for a trip and love them! Tory's travel ballets are a beautiful soft leather, very comfortable, and will fit anywhere when traveling. I like all the fun colors but got black ones...will be getting another pair!" —lheff
Get them from Amazon for $228 (available in sizes 4–13 and three colors) or Nordstrom for $159.60+ (available in sizes 4–13 and 12 styles).
10. Or some less splurgy ballet flats that come in so many gorgeous colors and prints, you'll probably wanna stock up on several pairs. These suitcase-friendly shoes also fold up, and while the backs don't have that same elastic, reviewers say they're still plenty comfortable.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "I normally cannot wear flats because they give me terrible blisters on the back of my feet. These didn't! Bought these in nude for a city vacation with a lot of walking, but where sandals aren't necessarily worn, and these were perfect! They obviously don't have the support of sneakers, but I am so happy to finally have a cheap pair of flats that don't give me blisters. I did break them in with thin socks on around my house before wearing them out and when possible, I wear them with little sock liners. Also — I was able to fold these in half like Tieks and fit them in a semi-small purse to change into to dance at a wedding! Score!" —Kate
Get them from Amazon for $11.57+ (available in sizes 5–15, including wide sizes, and 33 styles).
11. Gorgeous leather slides for anyone who prefers a backless shoe — hooray for nothing digging into the back of your foot! They're available in an array of rich neutrals, so they'll absolutely go with the *many* outfits you packed.
Miuccia Studio is based in Indonesia and specializes in the *dreamiest* handmade shoes and bags.
Promising review: "Love love love these!! I’ve been looking for the perfect pair of mules for months, I’m so happy I ordered these. They go with everything and super comfy. Shipping was right on time, if not a little early." —Stacie Carlson
Get them from Miuccia Studio on Etsy for $81 (originally $90; available in European sizes 36–41, US sizes 6–11, and six colors).
12. Lightweight yet cushy New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainers lined with foam inserts that'll keep your feet supported all day long. They're also constructed with minimal interior seaming (bye bye, painful blisters!), and the mesh uppers provide extra breathability. Plus, their '90s "dad style" is very on-trend.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "These shoes are super comfortable and supportive. I used to play Pickle Ball on hard court surfaces with tennis shoes with little padding. I developed sore feet which had a term — plantar fasciitis!! These New Balance tennis shoes with thick memory foam inserts saved the day! I can keep playing the game I love and my foot pain is nearly gone! Best tennis shoes ever! And they come in wide too, which makes the fit perfect!!!" —Library
Another promising review: "I love these! They are the perfect dad sneakers and super in style! I love the blue color as well. They’re comfortable, great quality, and they provide a lot of support. They’re true to size as well." —Stephanie Russell
Get them from Amazon for $41.96+ (available in sizes 5–12, including narrow and wide sizes, and five styles).
13. Or chunky Fila platform sneakers for days when you want a little boost of height...but have hours of walking on your itinerary. Never fear, these comfy kicks will take you from one sightseeing excursion to the next, and the only painful thing you'll have to endure is your tour guide's corny jokes.
Promising review: "My new everyday sneaker. I love the design and I love the small platform to give me height! They are so comfortable too, I’ve worn them to the zoo walking for hours and my feet didn't hurt. I love these shoes and am so glad I finally bought them!" —Meredith Johnstone
Get them from Amazon for $61.86+ (available in sizes 5–11 and dozens of styles — not all styles available in all sizes).
14. Flexible water shoes, which — dare I say — are actually attractive?! I know, it doesn't seem possible, but these quick-drying, anti-slip bbs are a far cry from those cringe-y clown shoes you probably wore as a kid (and essential on rocky beaches).
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "These are super comfortable. Bought a pair for every member of my family for vacation at the waterpark. Has just enough cushion to make walking all day comfortable, but light enough that they were not cumbersome. Great price point, too!" —Teresa Howell
Get them from Amazon for $28.97+ (available in sizes 5.5–15, in lace-up and velcro styles, and 44 colors).
15. Splurge-worthy block heel mules that truly have it all: effortless slip-on style, a comfy 2-inch cylinder heel, and a bevy of gorgeous color options to choose from. They'll easily take you from day to night, meaning one less pair of shoes to pack!
Ma'am Shoes is a woman-owned small biz that makes shoes with a focus on comfort, style, and sustainability.
BuzzFeed Shopping's Danielle Healy LOVES these shoes: "Sometimes it feels like my feet are made of paper with how easily they blister. So when a brand markets itself as having a focus on stylish comfort, I am all ears. Fresh out of the box, I wore these red beauties out to dinner (a 20-minute walk each way) and my feet were no worse for wear. So I decided to put them through the ultimate test — a wedding. Even after hours of dancing, my feet felt great and I got loads of compliments. A statement shoe that really does look and feel great? *Big swoon.*"
Get them from Ma’am Shoes for $300+ (available in sizes 4.5–11 and five colors).
16. Beachy slip-ons with faux laces if you like the look of a sneaker, but would prefer to spend time taking in the sights rather than retying your shoes every few minutes. Plus, if your feet are on the wider side, many reviewers said these aren't too narrow. 🙌
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "I purchased these prior to our family beach trip. I found out I was pregnant and needed some type of support when walking around on vacation, rather than flat flip-flops. I read the reviews for these shoes and they were raving. I see why!! These could sell for more money but are reasonably priced. Great quality. There are no laces to tie — elastic bands. I really love these with or without socks. They are roomy but not too big width-wise. This is not a very narrow shoe. I would recommend this shoe for anyone traveling as the go-to shoe. They’re easy to get on and get off. Super stylish." —Nicole_B
Get them from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in sizes 6–11 and dozens of colors).
17. Or some classic slip-on sneaks, which should have the slogan, "Come for the pretty color options, stay for the breathable canvas material and stretchy fit." And hey, while everyone else in your group is arguing about where you should go next, you can admire your cute and comfy shoes.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "I bought these to take on a trip; they arrived and I packed them without breaking them in — no worries, they are so comfortable, I wore them the whole trip. Love, love these shoes! This is my second pair, first have lasted a year and I wear the old ones still. They wash up nicely, too! Highly recommend!!!" —Lori M.
Get them from Amazon for $24.57+ (available in sizes 5.5–12, including select wide sizes, and 22 designs).
18. Snazzy heeled slip-ons, because everyone needs a no-fuss shoe they can take out on the town. Their thick heels will keep you nice and stable while the soft, thick braided straps ensure your feet don't slide all over the place.
Promising review: "Reaching for these sandals more and more because they’re comfy, cute, and elevate my outfits! They didn’t require any breaking in and I’ve worn them for an entire day out and had no issues with long-term wear. Fit was true to size. Going to get another color since I love them so much!" —Nidhi Patel
Get them from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 6–10, in two heel heights, and six colors, as well as with thinner straps).
19. Super springy Hoka Clifton sneakers so lightweight, you'll feel like you're walking on clouds rather than ancient cobblestone streets. Since they're technically running shoes, they're also a great pick if you're looking to squeeze in a workout or two.
Promising review: "I am a devoted Hoka fan. The Clifton is always my go-to shoe for support and comfort. After almost dying in a near fatal car accident and having 16 surgeries in 13 years, I was directed by my orthopedic foot/ankle surgeon to wear Hokas. This specific model, the Clifton 9, is superb. The colors are awesome, the support in the heel is unbelievable, and the arch support for someone with a high arch (me) and ample toe box room can’t be beat! These are amazing shoes!! I bought the pink and am so pleased. Thank you Hoka for saving my life. These are all I can wear." —Carrie
Get them from Zappos for $144.95 (available in sizes 5–12 and six designs).
20. Sleek leather loafers that'll make you feel like you're at least ~somewhat~ as stylish as the well-dressed locals, even when you throw 'em on with jeans or leggings. And not only that, reviewers say the ~buttery~ leather and non-slip soles make them as comfy as they are cute.
Grecian Leather Goods makes gorgeously crafted leather shoes, sandals, and bags in — you guessed it — Greece! They recommend sizing up if you're between sizes.
Promising review: "These shoes are everything! I’m a chiropractor and am on my feet quite a bit during the day, so I need shoes that are comfortable and durable. But I still want to look cute! And these shoes are just perfect. It’s almost like magic that they look so stylish and are so comfortable at the same time!" —Rachel Aloy
Another promising review: "These shoes are absolutely beautiful. I love the chic yet minimal style. They came from Greece to Everett, WA, in less than a week. Soft leather that is great for bunions. Thanks!" —Carrie Barbee
Get them from Grecian Leather Goods on Etsy for $76.29+ (available in European sizes 35–43, US sizes 5–11, and four colors).
21. Or some soft Clarks wedge loafers with juuust enough extra height to provide some welcome heel support. Plus, their OrthoLite footbeds will keep your feet nice and cushioned during the walking tour your S.O. insisted on.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "I broke the cardinal rule and took new shoes to Europe for vacation, but I relied on the past history I've had with many Clarks I've bought in the past and wasn't disappointed. These shoes were troopers through all the cobblestone streets and climbing an ungodly amount of flights of stairs to visit castles." —cheekymonkey
Get them from Amazon for $64.59+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and in 25 styles).
22. Or (!) very affordable pointy-toed loafers one reviewer said they preferred over their Gucci pair! Another said they don't require breaking in, and their closed-toe, open-top design makes them ideal for those tricky in-between climates.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "I absolutely LOVE these shoes! They are super comfy and adorable! I have a wide foot so I went up a half-size. They fit great! Despite the pointy look, my toes are not squished. The material of the shoe is a soft, suede-like fabric, so it stretches. No need to break-in the shoes." —CSG
Another promising review: "Really love these loafers! They look way more expensive than they are, and are great travel shoes — comfortable in airports and on flights! Would absolutely repurchase!" —Matthew (Julie) LaRoche
Get them from Amazon for $20.70+ (available in sizes 5–15, including wide sizes, and 12 styles).
23. Super pretty Toms canvas cutout sandals I can envision you wearing as you tour the gardens of some famous palace before heading to a waterfront lunch. Oh, and their thick straps and chunky heels will make your feet feel secure and stable the entire time.
Promising review: "I'm obsessed with this shoe! I love that it fits like a bootie. Adorable with skinny jeans/leggings, dresses, etc. Can be dressed up or down — I wore them to a wedding in Greece, and also out and about during the day in Spain. Very comfortable for walking, dancing, whatever!" —jasmineflower
Get them from Amazon for $34+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 12 styles).
24. Crocs flip-flops you'll fall in love with, even if you're just not that into the brand's signature clogs. Not only do these babies have a sleek, modern look, they're also incredibly lightweight with a flexible sole for pool and beachside comfort.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "These are AMAZING. The only flip-flops I’ve ever owned that I can literally walk all day in comfortably! Took them on an eight-day beach vacation and averaged 5.5 miles per day walking! They stick to your feet firmly — very little 'flopping' lol. I also have a wide foot and have issues finding flip-flops and sandals that my feet won’t spill over the sides of. Amazing shoe. And for a Crocs product, not bad-looking!" —S Doeringsfeld
Get them from Amazon for $17.61+ (available in sizes 4–11 and five colors).
25. Or some ergonomic FitFlops equipped with air-foam cushioning and impact pillows, which offer so much more support than your flimsy styrofoam sandals ever will. Bring these on your next warm weather getaway and your feet will thank you!
They have the APMA Seal of Acceptance, so you know they're legit!
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "Love these! They look like a classic simple pair of black flip-flops but are sooo comfortable. I wore them my whole European vacation, which included hours spent walking around Venice, Florence, etc. and not a single blister!" —Kerr
Get them from Amazon for $22.69+ (available in sizes 4–11 and 25 colors — not all colors available in all sizes).
26. Popular Everlane Italian leather flats for anyone who refuses to sacrifice style for comfort. They'll go with practically every outfit in your suitcase and make the perfect sophisticated shoe for a day of museum and cafe hopping.
The soft leather adapts to the shape of your foot for the perfect fit, and they even have tiny side vents to keep your feet from sweating during long walks!
Promising review: "The most comfortable flat ever. I love how the shoe conforms to my feet. I can wear them all day long! This is my second pair!" —hanleyfam
Get them from Everlane for $125 (available in sizes 5–11 and 11 colors).
27. Cute and casual Sperry sneakers complete with a removable footbed that'll give your feet added arch support during city jaunts. Plus, those curly-Q laces mean you won't be tying your shoes every five minutes.
FYI — if you plan on wearing them with socks, reviewers recommend no-show socks.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "I LOVE these adorable sneakers. I got three different pairs of sneakers to compare before settling on these. I decided on these because they felt sturdy and comfortable. I want to be able to wear these for a while, and I like that the sole of the shoe is substantial and the canvas on top is sturdy. The style is adorable. These go with anything and make even the most casual outfit feel a little more sophisticated. The insole is a dream. After wearing through two VERY walking-heavy trips, the insoles have held up great and have molded to my feet. They are so, so comfortable. I love the convenience of the slip-on styling. I've walked hundreds of miles in these babies, and they still look great. (They are in need of a wash — but have kept their shape and comfort)." —Lolo
Get them from Amazon for $36.08+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and in dozens of colors — not all colors available in all sizes).
28. Sock-like platform slip-ons made of breathable mesh to keep your feet happy and sweat-free for hours on end. They also weigh just over one pound — see ya, over-capacity luggage fees!
Promising review: "Lightweight, comfortable, and good support. Wore these on a tour vacation where lots of walking happened — including lots of cobblestone. I wore thin cotton footie socks with these and had no issues. These were comfortable from the start with no breaking-in needed. They also clean up very nicely in the washing machine." —StallisChelle
Get them from Amazon for $24.99 (available in narrow and wide sizes 5–12 and 23 designs).
29. Adorable Swedish wooden clogs for anyone who likes a little extra height but doesn't wanna be wobbling down the street. These sturdy shoes have a strap for extra reinforcement, and reviewers say they're surprisingly lightweight!
Based in Poland, Leather World Designs makes quality leather clogs for adults and kids in a wide array of lovely designs.
Promising review: "Finally! A product that actually is EXACTLY what you’d expect from the pictures and description! The shoes are beautifully made, comfortable, and look fabulous on! I do a lot of walking here in New Zealand, and wanted shoes that were comfortable but also looked good dressed up or down. These shoes are perfect. The two-toned pair are especially beautiful with a lovely wide-legged pant." —Mary Jo Ray
Another promising review: "The shoes are absolutely beautiful and arrived even sooner than I thought they would! They are super lightweight and very comfortable. I would love to buy another pair in the future." —Alicia Hollis
Get them from Leather World Designs on Etsy for $101 (available in sizes 5–10 and 22 colors).
30. And last but not least, beautiful Greek gladiator-inspired sandals so airy and chic, you'll wanna show 'em off day and night. They're made of 100% genuine leather, and the lightweight rubber soles will take you from your leisurely lunch to your leisurely dinner in comfort.
Christina Christi makes gorgeous leather creations — from bags and shoes to jewelry — at her home in Athens, Greece!
Promising review: "Lovely and comfortable. Easy to slip on and off. Barely feel the shoe. No 'wearing in,' these are great from day one. Speedy delivery. Great follow up with seller emailing to check sizing to make sure I received the right fit. Great small business practice and service. Thanks." —Nikkiolivia
Get them from Christina Christi on Etsy for $69.66 (available in sizes 5–10.5 and three colors).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.