Packing for Paris requires a different approach than packing for most destinations. The city demands walking. It expects polish. It faces unpredictable weather. Your shoe selection needs to account for all of these factors while still fitting in your luggage. This isn't about bringing everything. It's about bringing the right things.

The most common mistake is overpacking—bringing multiple pairs of heels that each work for only one occasion, or bringing shoes that don't account for the city's actual conditions. A thoughtful packing strategy prioritizes versatility over variety, quality over quantity.

The Essential Three

For most trips to Paris, three pairs of shoes are sufficient: one pair of versatile heels, one pair of comfortable flats, and one pair of weather-appropriate options. This combination handles all contexts while keeping luggage manageable.

The versatile heels work for evening and formal occasions. The flats work for extended walking and casual contexts. The weather-appropriate options—boots for cold, sandals for heat—handle conditions that the other two can't.

The Versatile Heels

Your one pair of heels should be neutral in color, moderate in height, and closed-toe. Ankle boots with a two-to-three-inch block heel are the most versatile option. They work with everything, transition from day to night, and provide stability on cobblestones.

The key is condition. These heels need to be in perfect condition—polished, maintained, ready to represent you well across all contexts. One well-chosen pair will serve you better than multiple pairs in questionable condition.

The Comfortable Flats

Paris requires walking. You'll walk from your hotel to the métro, from the métro to the café, from the café to the museum. Your flats need to be comfortable enough for extended periods, but they also need to be polished enough for the city's standards.

Ballet flats, loafers, or elegant sneakers work. The key is choosing flats that are both comfortable and refined. Parisian style doesn't separate these qualities. Neither should your packing list.

Weather Considerations

Paris weather is unpredictable. Spring can bring rain. Summer can bring heat. Fall can bring cold. Your third pair should account for the season you're visiting.

For spring and fall, consider ankle boots that are weather-resistant. For summer, consider sandals that are elegant enough for the city. For winter, consider boots that are both warm and polished.

What to Avoid

Avoid packing heels that only work for one occasion. Avoid packing shoes that are clearly worn or scuffed. Avoid packing shoes that don't account for weather. Avoid packing more than you need.

The goal is efficiency. Every pair you pack should serve multiple functions. Every pair should be in perfect condition. Every pair should account for the city's actual requirements.

Packing Tips

The Minimalist Approach

If you're committed to minimal packing, you can reduce to two pairs: versatile heels and comfortable flats. This works if you're visiting during predictable weather and if you're comfortable wearing the same heels across multiple contexts.

The minimalist approach requires more creativity in styling, but it simplifies decisions and reduces luggage weight. It's a valid choice for shorter trips or for travelers who prioritize efficiency.

Quality Over Quantity

Paris expects polish. This doesn't mean expensive, but it does mean maintained. Packing fewer pairs of higher quality is better than packing many pairs of lower quality. The city notices condition, not quantity.

Invest in shoes that are well-made, that fit properly, and that are in perfect condition. These shoes will serve you better across multiple trips than cheaper options that need frequent replacement.