What footwear for Italian city sightseeing!

[Mw19]

I go to Italy next week and I'm having a panic about suitable footwear. We're doing Milan, Florence, and Rome so we'll be walking a lot and travelling a lot. We've booked several tours and will be standing for long periods.

I already struggle with my feet and would prefer to wear something with good support but what will look fashionable without being too hot!?

Buying new leather sandals would be madness - a fast track to blisters galore. And Saltwaters are flat as a pancake. No good if you have PF.

They are the perfect holiday sandal for sure, but only if you have a well worn pair that you trust not to rub.

God no to Saltwaters - far too flat.

If you had a bit longer, I'd say Stan Smiths but they take a day or two breaking in before being super comfortable.

I still think New Balance worth trying on.

Honestly I'd get some proper non fahionable but supportive trainers - I have Mizunas I got from a running shop and they have changed my life. Save fashion trainers for evenings put. Honestly nobody cares and it's better to be comfy.

Seriously the vionics are superb. My orthopaedic insole wearing neice and daughter both get away with them in summer (you cant put insoles in sandals). I have a pair that are properly strapped like a walking sandal ie velcro-ed round the ankle and front. Walk like a teva look like a black fashion sandal.

Currently in Milan and our feet have take a battering!!! I only have sandals which look beautiful with my wafty cotton dresses but wholly wish I had my trainers with me…! Bring your trainers!!!

Birkenstocks. It's light, comfy in the heat. Assuming in the summer, by no means wear trainers or ballet pumps.

I slogged my way around the cobbles of Rome in June and, despite having my incredibly comfortable teva sandals with me, and my usually comfortable birkenstocks, was pining for trainers by half way through the week. So, I think the answer is to take several pairs including sandals and trainers so you can swop them around as much as possible.

Another vote for Skechers - like wearing comfortable slippers, but give support. And yes, do agree that comfort is the main thing - not fashion. I’ve had a few holidays in Italy, and have made the mistake in the past of packing comfy shoes for daytime walking, and a few more elegant shoes with slight heels ‘for the evening’! Never wore them at all! Part of the pleasure of staying in the cities you mention is going for a walk after supper, and exploring at night, particularly in summer. Have a wonderful time!