4 Best Shoes to Pack for Lima: Skip Overpacking Or Sacrificing Style

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One of the trickiest decisions I face when planning a trip to Lima?

What shoes to pack…

I’m not someone who can get away with cheap or uncomfortable shoes. My feet will revolt. And while I always try to stick to carry-on only, let’s be honest—by the time I’m heading home, I’m usually dancing on the edge of the baggage weight limit and a stylish meltdown.

But after many trips (and more than a few missteps, pun totally intended), I’ve finally landed on the perfect shoe formula for Lima: equal parts comfortable, versatile, and chic. Read on for my top recommendations on shoes to pack for Lima.

The Style Vibe in Lima

Lima isn’t a particularly formal or fancy city, which works in our favor. The overall aesthetic is creative, casual, and cool. You want shoes that are stylish but unfussy, practical without sacrificing personality. I like to walk that fine line between “orthotic old lady” and “effortlessly stylish traveler”—and honestly? I think I’ve nailed it.

The Only Four Pairs of Shoes to Pack for Lima

There’s a lot of walking in Lima; I routinely hit 15k steps a day, which means comfortable sneakers are non-negotiable. Start there, and build around the weather and your itinerary.

1. Shell Toe Superstar Adidas

Classic, sporty, and timeless. The Shell Toe Superstar Adidas are my go-to for long days of exploring. They look great with dresses, cropped pants, or shorts—and they never make me feel like a tourist.

2. New Balance 327s

Comfort meets edge. With great support and a bit of chunky style, New Balance 327s are perfect for navigating Lima’s uneven streets. They add a fun, modern touch to flowy dresses and pair well with wide-leg trousers.

3. Platform Boots or Wedge Booties

Depending on the season—remember, it’s the Southern Hemisphere, so seasons are reversed—I go for a lightweight platform boot or a wedge bootie. My Birkenstock wedge boots are the MVP: they give me height without sacrificing comfort (or twisting an ankle on Barranco’s cobblestones). Perfect for dressing up an outfit or going from daytime to dinner with zero effort.

4. Birkenstocks or Stylish Sandals

For warm days, beach moments, or just giving your feet a break, you need a supportive sandal. I love that Birkenstocks have had a style renaissance, but if I were building a dream shoe wardrobe, I’d go for the Chloé x Teva collab. In reality, L’Amour des Pieds and Cole Haan offer chic, walkable options that won’t kill the vibe—or your arches.

And the best part? You’ll still have room in your suitcase for that handmade textile or alpaca sweater you definitely didn’t plan on buying.

But What if You Forgot the Shoes? Lima’s Got You Covered.

If you land in Lima and realize your footwear situation is less than ideal—don’t panic. One of the most surprising (and delightful) discoveries I’ve made is just how many elevated international shoe brands you can find right here in the city.

Jockey Plaza, one of Lima’s biggest and most beautifully designed malls, is home to a surprisingly extensive selection of footwear stores. Whether you forgot your favorite pair or your luggage took an unexpected detour, you can easily pick up something stylish and functional without skipping a beat.

Here are a few favorites worth browsing:

• Birkenstock – Always reliable, especially for long days and warm weather.
• New Balance – Great for replacing your walking shoes with something cute and cushiony.
• Merrell – More sporty/outdoorsy, but solid if you’re heading to the Sacred Valley next.
• Geox – No longer in the U.S., but I love their breathable tech and sleek European style.
• Hush Puppies – Not my usual go-to, but good in a pinch for comfort.
• Melissa – Adorable Brazilian brand (though they can get a bit sweaty—just saying).
• Steven Madden & Kenneth Cole – Trendy and hit-or-miss, but worth a browse.
• Ferragamo – If you’re feeling fancy.
• Aldo – Not my personal fave, but handy if you need something quick.
• Buttrich – My personal favorite for heels. Not the most comfortable…but gorgeous enough to suffer through.

So yes, pack smart—but if your perfect shoe lineup doesn’t make it into your carry-on, Lima’s got your back (or at least your feet).

Final Thoughts

So whether you’re the type who meticulously plans every outfit—or the kind who lands in Lima and realizes your sandals are still at home—you’re covered. From suitcase staples to stylish surprises waiting at Jockey Plaza, you’ve got options.

And now you’ve got the formula to stay comfortable, chic, and just the right amount of prepared!