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. Stunning handmade leather huarache sandals for the events you have to travel to that require more formal footwear, but you'd rather skip out on the heels (wouldn't we all?). They give you a little height boost and have a miraculous way of perfectly molding to your feet, meaning you'll spend little to no time breaking them in!
Macarena Collection is a small business 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 $46.42 (originally $61.90; available in sizes 5–10 and in more colors via their Etsy shop).
2. Lug-sole Dr. Martens Rometty boots — even if you're the sundress-wearing friend in the group, these babies are sure to give you some edge. With a classic look and a comfy platform, you have the freedom to wear these to breakfast for an early start to the day *and* on a tour of the city.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping contributor Brittany Ross says about them: "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 $97.51+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in two colors).
3. And some absurdly cheap yet cute waterproof Chelsea boots because I think we both know you're way past letting a rainy destination ruin your trip (or your outfit!). These will allow you to you splash around in slushy puddles all you want without any worry of getting a dreadful wet sock.
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 $27.99+ (available in sizes 4–12 and 15 colors).
4. Ultra-comfy Allbirds Tree Pipers I could've used on my breathtaking tour of the Vatican (the one I didn't know would be five. hours. long.) They're made of eucalyptus fiber to keep the insides nice and breathable, and the flexible fabric is designed to move with your feet.
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 10 colors).
5. Or pillowy Adidas running shoes with cloudfoam cushioning that has earned them over 63,000 5-star ratings. They'll be the two lil' clouds your feet need when it comes to a long walking day. And since they're super lightweight, you can also pack them without stress!
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 $39.95+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 34 styles — not all styles available in all sizes).
6. Iconic-for-a-reason Teva sandals if you'll be somewhere warm this season. Whether you'll be trekking through the city, or just walking from your hotel room to the pool, this quick-drying pair will keep you from feeling like you're walking on wet sponges while the strap 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 $29.60+ (available in sizes 5–13 and 10 styles — not all styles available in all sizes).
7. A must-have pair of Birkenstock Arizona sandals, which has a contoured footbed for that extra arch support. Whether you're wearing a classic pair of denim jeans or your favorite flowy dress on your trip, this laid back pair is just the thing you need to complete the look.
Promising review: "This is my second pair of Birkenstock Arizona Slide Sandals. I bought them for a trip that we will be doing a lot of walking. They are so comfortable. I can wear them all day and my feet won't hurt after walking for long periods of time." —EmmaSimm
Get it from DSW for $109.96 (available in sizes 4–11.5, as well as in narrow sizes, and in five colors — not all designs available in all sizes) or Birkenstock for $110 (available in sizes 4–12.5, as well as in narrow sizes, and in three colors).
8. Super supportive Dr. Scholl's kicks — aka the new cushy pair of shoes you'll be reaching for when it's time to go to the airport. Since they're super easy to take on and off, TSA might just stop yelling at you as you try to make your way through security as quickly as possible.
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 $46+ (available in sizes 5–13, including wide sizes, and in 24 styles — not all styles available in all sizes).
9. Beautiful Tory Burch ballet flats because they're an elegant pair of shoes that'll barely take up any room in your luggage — their flexibility lets you fold them up for easy packing! And don't worry about the sharp edge that tends to dig into the back of your foot when wearing flats (the elastic back helps you avoid that from happening).
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 eight colors) or Nordstrom for $136.80+ (available in sizes 4–13 and 13 styles).
10. Or some less splurgy ballet flats, which come in too many wonderful colors and prints for you *not* to stock up on multiple pairs. Reviewers rave about how comfy these suitcase-friendly shoes are!
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 $23.70 (available in sizes 5–15, including wide sizes, and 21 styles).
11. Gorgeous leather slides available in several rich neutrals that would pair wonderfully with oh-so-many outfits. The best part? They're backless, so no need to be carrying around Band-Aids for fear of having your shoe dig into your heel!
Miuccia Studio is a small business 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 36–43, US sizes 6–11, and six colors).
12. A trendy, lightweight pair of New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainers that amazed a reviewer with how well they carried them through a full day at Disneyland — and we all know that's the true test of comfort for any pair of shoes. They're made with minimal interior seaming and are lined with supportive foam inserts so that your feet can kiss those painful blisters and midday discomfort goodbye.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising reviews: "These shoes are super comfortable and supportive. I used to play pickleball 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
"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 $39.91+ (available in sizes 5–12, including narrow and wide sizes, and three styles).
13. Or chunky Fila platform sneakers to give you that extra height boost without sacrificing the comfort you desperately need to carry you through hours of walking. So, no pain in your feet (just in your wallet, as you reach into it after spotting yet another souvenir you just *need* have to have).
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 $38.97+ (available in sizes 5–14 and 66 styles — not all colors/styles available in all sizes).
14. Flexible water shoes that don't scream "water shoes" — they're actually pretty cute! They're quick-drying, anti-slip, and will save your precious feet if you happen to have a rocky beach in your plans for the day.
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 $29.97 (available in sizes 5.5–15, in lace-up and velcro styles, and 45 colors).
15. Splurge-worthy block heel mules because they'll ensure you're walking in both comfort *and* style from your first sip of latte in the morning to the moment you fall back onto your hotel bed in the evening. They have a supportive 2-inch cylinder heel, an effortless slip-on style, and an array of stunning colors to choose from.
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 $150+ (originally $300; available in sizes 4.5–11 and five colors).
16. Beachy slip-ons that'll let you avoid having to awkwardly stop in the middle of a walkway to crouch down and tie your shoe *again*. With these you can keep the cute sneaker look, sans the laces! Plus, many reviewers say they're super comfy — even if your feet are on the wider side!
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 $21.43+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 81 colors/styles).
17. Or some classic slip-on sneaks — the pretty color options will catch your eye, but the breathable canvas material, padded insole, and stretchy fit are what will capture your heart. 😍 Reviewers also rave about how surprisingly easy they are to pack!
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 $12.95+ (available in sizes 5.5–12, including select wide sizes, and 17 designs).
18. Snazzy heeled slip-ons if you want something you can easily slip on for a snazzy dinner after taking a much-needed nap at the hotel. These babies have a thick heel for stability as well as soft, thick braided straps to keep your feet in place (because having them slide all over the place can be so annoying!).
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 17 colors).
19. Super springy Hoka Clifton sneakers — whether you're roaming a European city or just looking to squeeze in some cardio, their foam footbed and light, plush design will make you feel like you're floating instead of letting your poor little feet feel the effects of the long miles you've walked so far (and it's only noon!).
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 14 designs).
20. Sleek leather loafers that reviewers rave about for their ~buttery~ leather and non-slip soles. They are so classically simple, you have the freedom to dress them up with a cute dress for dinner or dress them down with your fave pair of jeans for a touristy day with the fam!
Grecian Leather Goods is a small business that 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 $68.11+ (originally $83.54+; available in European sizes 35–43, US sizes 5–11, and four colors).
21. Or some soft Clarks wedge loafers with the *chef's kiss* perfect amount of added height to offer some glorious heel support. And bonus! Their OrthoLite footbeds will keep your feet super happy as the rest of your tired group decides which landmark to hit next.
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 $33.46+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and in 16 styles).
22. Or!! Very affordable pointy-toed loafers that reviewers are loving because they don't require breaking in. And if you're in an unpredictable "hot, then cold, then hot again" climate, their closed-toe, open-top design makes them extra ideal. One reviewer even said they preferred these over their Gucci pair!
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising reviews: "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
"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 $22.80 (available in sizes 5–15, including wide sizes, and 13 styles).
23. Super pretty Toms canvas cutout sandals, because in a world where security and stability are rare a find, you should at least own shoes that give you *both*. This pair's thick straps and chunky heels will keep your feet in place, and will look oh-so-cute on you as you walk from that locals' favorite café to a stroll in the park.
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 $41.58+ (available in sizes 5–12 and eight styles).
24. A pair of sleek Crocs flip-flops — they're a perfect, modern alternative to the brand's signature clogs if you still want to experience the glorious comfort that Crocs provide. Plus, they're lightweight and have a flexible sole that will make them a staple in your pool or beach bag!
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 $12.19+ (available in sizes 4–11 and 13 colors).
25. Popular Everlane Italian leather flats because they're so sophisticated and comfy, you'll wish you could magically teleport to Paris to café hop and roam through the Louvre every time you wear them.
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 $135 (available in sizes 5–11 and 12 colors).
26. Or some pointed-toe knit ballet flats that I can envision you wearing with cute linen shorts and a fitted tee while enjoying some gelato in Italy. They have heel rebound, arch support, and are made of breathable fabric that feels like a second skin (they're even machine-washable!).
Vivaia is a small shoe brand founded in 2020 with the mission to create stylish and high-quality footwear. Many of the brand's shoes are made from recycled water bottles, and they've implemented a production process that actively works to reduce waste.
Promising review: "Aria 5° flats are the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn! Love the design, the sustainability, and the quick delivery" —Jac***
Get it from Vivaia for $79+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in 33 styles).
27. Cute and casual Sperry sneakers with curly-Q laces to keep you from having to tie your shoes every five minutes and a removable footbed for lightweight comfort and glorious arch support. Plus, it has an elastic back for a secure, slip-on fit!
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 $29.97+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and in 46 colors — not all colors available in all sizes).
28. Sock-like platform slip-ons because they weigh just over one pound (buh-bye luggage weight fees👋) and are made of breathable mesh that'll keep your precious feet cool and sweat-free. Basically, if you want to combine the freedom of being barefoot with the support of a cushy sole, these are the shoes for you!
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 $19.99+ (available in narrow and wide sizes 5–12 and 26 designs).
29. Adorable Swedish wooden clogs that you'll fall *head over heels* for. But don't worry, you won't actually fall — this super lightweight pair gives you a little extra height, but also has a sturdy strap for that extra support!
Based in Poland, Leather World Designs is a small business that 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 $86.40 (originally $106; available in sizes 5–10 and 22 colors).
30. Beautiful Greek gladiator-inspired sandals, which are made of 100% genuine leather and have a lightweight sole that'll allow you many more miles of strolling than your typical sandal.
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 $65.56 (originally $85.77; available in sizes 5–10.5 and three colors).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.