Another question about shoes for Italy.... sorry
 

I have some questions related to shoes and clothes for my trip to Italy this coming June-July.
1. I already know of the rules regarding clothes for the vatican, but can I wear sandals or flip-flops for the Vatican, or do the shoes have to cover my feet? Also, can I wear a long skirt for the Vatican, or do I need pants?
2. For the cinque terre, can I wear walking sandals like the ECCO brand (my favorites) to walk (climb?)the different towns? or do I need sneakers?
I'm planning to take two pairs of my Ecco walking sandals plus one pair of nice sandals for going out. Any advice, please?

The long skirt will be fine for the Vatican."Modest dress" is required which a long skirt will be. Be sure not to wear a tank top, though, unless you have a sweater or overblouse. Your Ecco's should be fine, after all they are considered walking shoes. My experience in Europe is that most people do not wear sneakers.

I would not want to only have 3 pair of sandals for shoes (if I understand your intention correctly). For a number of reasons when traveling I like one pair to be closed shoes of some sort. I always travel with one pair of sneakers or something like a closed Merrell slipon loafer/moc type shoe. I wear those on the plane because they are the bulkiest.

"My experience in Europe is that most people do not wear sneakers."
Hogwash!
If you plan to do any hiking/walking in CT, I would definitely bring footwear besides sandals and flipflops.

ItalyLove,

I would (and did) wear sneakers for hiking the Cinque Terre. It's a long trail and a bit difficult in spots. I did see a couple of Italian women doing it in spike heels!

Buon viaggio!

You can wear sandals at the Vatican. I'm not a hiker but agree you might want something other than sandals or flip flops for hiking.

We hiked all around the Cinque Terre (my husband is a geologist and was quite excited about the rocks...) I was wearing Wolkys - the version with the open toe but the closed heel. They were great and it was hot so I was happy to not be wearing my running or hiking shoes.