Oftentimes, when we think of a holiday in Italy, we think of the incredible food, amazing art museums, history, and rich cultural heritage, but Italy has so much more to offer. Italy, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, offers some of the most spectacular hiking experiences in the world. With vertigo-inducing coastlines, magnificent granite rock formations, lush green Mediterranean scrub and rolling, vine-laden hills, this contrasting land seems like it was made for walking holidays in Italy. In the following guide we will explore some of the best hiking in Italy. So, lace up those boots and let the adventure begin.

Italy’s best hiking trails: the adventure awaits

Try to avoid hiking in the summer heat in Italy and stick to spring and autumn to really get the most out of your adventure. From the Amalfi Coast to Mount Etna in Sicily, let’s explore what adventures await with some of Italy’s best hiking routes:

Amalfi coast walking holiday: Sentiero degli Dei

 Also known as ‘The Path of the God’s’ this hiking trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and connects picturesque coastal villages as it runs 500m above sea level through wild and rocky terrain. This is most definitely a spectacular bit of hiking in Italy and not to be missed.

Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain region

 This is an enormous alpine playground with many different types of hiking trails for all levels. There are some challenging but incredibly rewarding trails, such as the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Expect beautiful nature and breathtaking views. Trekking in the Dolomites is a must for all adventure in Italy seekers.

Tuscany hikes through rolling hills and vineyards

The region of Tuscany offers hiking trails amid postcard-perfect landscapes, such as the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrims' road that is a favourite Tuscan hiking trail. Similarly, The Gaiole area offers dozens of hiking trails through the sweeping green hills of the Chianti countryside.

Cinque Terre, coastal paths connecting five colourful villages

The 48 different hiking trails that span the area make walking holidays in Cinque Terre, Italy an excellent choice, offering spectacular views of the sea and terraced hills. The ancient footpaths connect Monterosso to Riomaggiore and can be walked in both directions. One of the most popular routes is the Sentiero Azzurro that excellently highlights what the area has to offer.

Stromboli hiking: a volcanic adventure in the Aeolian Islands

Home to one of the most active volcanos in the world, this island is perfect for the adventure seeking traveller. Here, you can experience the unique thrill of a night hike on the active volcano with lava explosions lighting up the sky. A unique experience for any seasoned or novice hiker and an excellent option for a walking holiday in Italy.

Gran Paradiso National Park, in the Graian Alps

Widely considered one of the best hiking destinations in Italy, the park offers astounding natural beauty, breathtaking trails in the wilderness, and the possibility of spotting ibexes and marmots. A hiking holiday in this part of Italy won’t disappoint.

Mont Blanc, the white mountain

One of Italy’s most iconic trekking areas, with trails such as the Tour du Mont Blanc, which crosses spectacular Alpine landscapes between Italy, France, and Switzerland. Expect wild rivers, snowy peaks, glaciers, and a deep sense of achievement with some of the best hiking in Italy.

Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park

The oldest national park in Italy and rich in biodiversity, this area is a must for any animal and nature enthusiasts. With trails through lush forests and imposing mountains, this area is also the habitat of the extremely rare Marsican brown bears and Apennine wolves.

Gargano, wild beauty in Puglia

The Gargano National Park offers a unique combination of forests, lakes, seascapes, the Tremiti Islands, and the wetlands of Lago Salso, making this a great family friendly hiking destination in Italy. There are many hiking options to choose from, one is the Sentiero delle Orchidee (Orchid Path), a trail that winds through forests, valleys, and breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.

Mount Etna, epic walking holidays in Sicily

Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe and visitors are allowed to hike just over 2000m alone before the need for a guide. The Serracozzo trail will offer a walk on ancient lava flows, wooded areas, and lava deserts. The effort is all made worthwhile once you see the spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea. This expedition is perfect for the more adventurous traveller wanting to get the best out of hiking in Italy.

Italy has some of the best hiking trails in the world from ancient cliffside pathways to treacherous snowy mountain climbs, and even active volcano adventures. For experienced mountaineers wanting to challenge themselves to families wanting a walking holiday in Italy, there is something for all manner of fitness levels, tastes, and needs.

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