travel shoe (or boot) recommendation if just bringing 1 pair?

I like low profile Merrells and Keens if you want a multipurpose sturdy walking shoe.

You also might consider buying shoes locally (assuming you bring at least one broken in pair). There are some great European brands that are good quality and stylish.

The best one I can think of that would be comfortable in town and somewhat capable on a trail is the Altra Instinct Everyday. Altra makes all their shoes with a wide toe box and has a substantial enough sole for walking over rocks. You can check out some of their other shoes. I have a pair of closed-toe leather sandals that pack really flat that I like to bring on travel as a backup.

Another option is to look at “approach shoes” (search for that term) like the Scarpa Crux. They are made with soft rubber soles and wear out fast but are great on trails.

Crux: http://www.zappos.com/p/scarpa-crux-grey-orange/product/7917495/color/4766?zlfid=191&ref=pd_sims_sp_1

Altra: http://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-instinct-everyday-gray/product/8290683/color/8

I should add that Altra tends to run a little short, so if in doubt order a size up.

Altras are great shoes. And ditto what Magnetron said - order at least 1/2 size up.

I’d suggest a good pair of comfortable athletic shoes with decent tread and maybe pack a pair of sandals (which take less room in your bag). Just make sure they are broken in–so if you have a “favorite” then take those.

H loves Hokas Stinson ATR for traveling in Europe, there are darker ones. Second shoes are black low Merrells for hiking on rocks, etc.

My husband, who almost never wants to buy shoes has bought four pairs if Keen shoes during the past FOUR months. He bought his first pair right before we went to Tokyo in April and wore them out of the box and we walked over 15 miles the first day! He usually needs orthotics to prevent chronic shin splints, but not in Keen. I now call him the Emelda Marco of Keen. They would be suitable for light hiking and lots of walking.

I have a pair of Keen Targhee mids that Idad, a longtime poster, recommended. They are fairly lightweight and very comfortable. Never had a blister, and I like them better than my sneakers.

My second pair when I travel is a pair of Teva sandals. I am all about comfort when it cones to walking long distances.

DH has wide feet and likes Merrells. He tried the Keens because I was so happy with my boots, but felt they were too tight and had too much arch support. OTOH, I have narrow feet and high arches, and I didn’t like the Merrells!

Order a few pairs from Zappos and see what feels good on your feet.

I second the recommendation of Ecco shoes. They’re reasonably priced, but run wide. For narrow feet, I like Mephisto shoes, which are far more expensive but available in several widths. Maybe wait till you get to Europe, lots of walking shoe manufacturers.