Hiking in Italy: The 7 Best Trails
Often caught up in the magic of ancient historical landmarks and idyllic countryside, many visitors tend to overlook the fact that Italy is also an excellent trekking destination boasting spectacular and diverse landscapes. Between the dizzying Dolomites in the northeast and miles upon miles of vivid coastline overlooking the Mediterranean, options for best hikes in Italy are plenty and can be incredibly rewarding, while catering to every tourist’s requirements. Below we have listed the 7 best trails for hiking in Italy.
- Catherine Schofield
- From USA
Nestled between the steep hillside and the sparkling sea, this famously scenic trek will take you through Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso, which comprise the quaint region known as Cinque Terre. By taking this breezy, family-friendly hike, you will walk through each of the five colourful settlements of the Ligurian Riviera, framed beautifully with vineyards, olive groves, and the vast blueness of the Mediterranean. The region also offers various options when it comes to choosing hiking trails. It is criminal not to take a trip to Cinque Terre when traveling to Italy.
Highlights
- Explore the majestic Italian villages along the coast
- Choose from several bars and cafés along the way
- Unwind and cool-off with a plunge into the sea
- Stroll down the famous ‘lover’s lane’ on the stretch of the road between Manarola and Riomaggiore
Lowlights
- The villages tend to be crowded during high season
- Temperatures can get extremely high in peak season (July, August)
Trek facts
| Trek difficulty | Easy |
| Trek duration | 5 hours (excluding the stops at the villages) |
| Remoteness | Not remote |
| Maximum altitude | 800 m |
| Permit required? | Yes, you’ll need to purchase the Cinque Terre card to use trekking paths, shuttle buses and wi-fi |
| Fitness level | Suitable for all fitness levels |
| Best season | July and August, although June and September are ideal due to milder weather and smaller crowds |
| Start / end locations | The trail stretches from the northernmost village of Monterosso to Riomaggiore in the south |
Insider tip: Cinque Terre is one of those dreamy places for hikers: mountains, sea, vineyards, and a set of beautiful coastal towns. The trails in Cinque Terre are not exactly for couch potatoes, but they're entirely worth it. Bring comfy shoes, a bottle of water, sunscreen, and — why not —grab a piece of focaccia for a snack. — Bruno from Geeky Explorer
2. Sentiero degli Dei, Amalfi Coast
The name of this trek translates to “Path of the Gods”, which is no surprise when you take into consideration the divine nature surrounding it. Passing halfway up a mountainside, Sentiero degli Dei reveals spectacular views of the azure waters of the Gulf of Naples, as well as remote villages perched on the rugged shoreline and terraced vineyards and lemon orchards. While you are there, this Amalfi coast tour could possibly serve your interest.
Highlights
- Trek takes no longer than 5 hours, even at a slow pace
- Amazing views of the Mediterranean that stretch as far as the island of Capri
- A glimpse into some of the historically least accessible parts of Italy
Lowlights
- The path tends to be narrow in certain sections, so caution is advised
- Due to its layout, this trek is not recommended for persons who suffer from vertigo
Trek facts
| Trek difficulty | Easy to moderate |
| Trek duration | 4 hours |
| Remoteness | Not remote |
| Maximum altitude | 550 m |
| Permit required? | Not required |
| Fitness level | Basic level, visitors are expected to be able to walk 8 km in a day |
| Best season | From April to October, although you should be advised that July and August can get extremely hot |
| Start / end locations | Trek starts in Nocelle (a small village that can be reached from Positano) and ends in Bomerano |
3. Alta Via 1, Dolomites
Dolomites is a popluar destination for hiking and skiing. Among various hiking trails in the Dolomites that it offers, Alta Via 1 is one of the longest trails. It passes through the heart of the Southern Limestone Alps, known for their dramatic cliffs and serene pastoral valleys. Other than the immense natural canvas, on your way you will also be able to encounter traces from World War I battles that were fought in this region between Italian and Austrian forces.
Highlights
- A long and dedicated hike through various kinds of terrain
- Opportunities to see some of the most intriguing rock formations in the Italian Alps
- Enjoy the famous Italian hospitality and local cuisine in the rifugi
Lowlights
- Time-consuming or physically demanding for inexperienced hikers
- The trail only tends to be clear of snow for a couple of months per year, so you should plan your hike accordingly
Trek facts
| Trek difficulty | Moderate to difficult |
| Trek duration | 10 to 15 days |
| Remoteness | Not very remote |
| Maximum altitude | 2,750 m |
| Permit required? | Not required |
| Fitness level | Basic, as this trail entails hiking between 5 and 10 km a day |
| Best season | Between July and September, as this is when there should be little to no snow on the paths |
| Start / end locations | The trek begins in the ski resort of Cortina and ends in Belluno |
4. Lake Garda Trek
The largest body of water in Italy, Lake Garda is a popular getaway for Veronesi and international tourists alike. Tucked away in the foot of the Dolomites, a trek around Lake Garda will allow you to soak up all the wonderful scenery, ancient ruins, historic settlements and more, without pushing yourself too hard. If you are interested we would recommend you try a tour such as this Lake Garda Trek Tour.
Highlights
- Easy half-day trek, ideal for novice hikers and families
- Walk through the idyllic town of Bardolino and find out more about the history of the Verona region
- Due to the mild climate, the hike won’t be too strenuous even in high season
Lowlights
- Lake Garda tends to be packed with tourists during the summer months
- This trail might be underwhelming for mountaineers who prefer more adventurous hikes
Trek facts
| Trek difficulty | Easy |
| Trek duration | 6 hours |
| Remoteness | Not remote |
| Maximum altitude | 500 m |
| Permit required? | Not required |
| Fitness level | Suitable for all fitness levels |
| Best season | Spring and early summer are optimal times due to favourable weather and lack of crowds. However, the tourist season in Lake Garda runs until mid-September |
| Start / end locations | One-day hikes usually set off from Verona, from which it takes 20 minutes to reach Lake Garda by bus |
5. Selvaggio Blu, Sardinia
One of the most challenging hikes in the country, the Selvaggio Blu trek stretches for 25km along the rugged coast of Golfo di Orosei in east Sardinia. Between extreme cliffs, deep gorges and mysterious caves, the “wild blue” is the ultimate adventure into the Mediterranean wilderness.
Highlights
- Jaw-dropping panoramas of the Mediterranean
- Stunning view to remote beaches of Sardinia
- Challenging even for seasoned hikers
Lowlights
- Highly demanding and not suited for people with little mountaineering experience
- Due to Sardinia’s high temperatures in the summer, it is not advisable to trek Selvaggio Blu in peak season
Trek facts
| Trek difficulty | Demanding |
| Trek duration | 4–6 days (depending on the route) |
| Remoteness | Somewhat remote |
| Maximum altitude | 800 m |
| Permit required? | Not required to hike or camp in Selvaggio Blu |
| Fitness level | Intended for experienced hikers, as it includes walking on rough terrain, as well as some scrambling and rappelling |
| Best season | Ideal months to trek are April, May, early June, late September and October |
| Start / end locations | The entire route runs from Pedra Longa to Cala Luna |
6. Stromboli Volcano, Sicily
Relatively short, yet thoroughly rewarding, the hike to Stromboli will allow you to witness the explosions produced by one of the most active volcanoes in the world. This track will take you through otherworldly scenery made up of black sand and volcanic pebbles characteristic of this Aeolian island. If you are open to experiencing an adrenaline rush while on a family tour, the Sicily adventures we have available might be for you.
Highlights
- Witnessing lava gushing from one of Italy’s three remaining active volcanos
- You can time your hike so you arrive at the crater at night, which makes the volcanic activity all the more spectacular
Lowlights
- Despite being short, this trek might be challenging to some hikers due to steep and unpredictable terrain
- Not recommended for people with known heart conditions and respiratory problems
Trek facts
| Trek difficulty | Moderate |
| Trek duration | 6–8 hours |
| Remoteness | Not very remote |
| Maximum altitude | 750 m |
| Permit required? | Not required |
| Fitness level |
Not recommended for people who suffer from asthma, known heart conditions or vertigo |
| Best season |
Excursions to Stromboli run from March to October, with May and September being the most favourable months for hiking |
| Start / end locations |
Villages of Ginostra or San Vincenzo, depending on the path |
7. The Renaissance Ring, Tuscany
This historic 170-kilometer trail that circles around the town of Florence is split into 13 stages, making it convenient for travellers who like to customize their hikes. Passing through lush forests and enchanting countryside, you will encounter monasteries, Roman ruins and medieval castles, always guided by the dome of the Florence Cathedral looming in the distance.
Highlights
- Easy-going trek, suited both for hiking and mountain biking
- A plethora of historical treasure troves dotted along the way
- Each section is serviced by public transport, so you can make it as long or as short as you like it
Lowlights
- Not ideal for hikers who prefer remote or challenging routes
- Due to the sheer length of the trek, the Renaissance Ring may be tiring or time-consuming to hike in its entirety
Trek facts
| Trek difficulty | Easy |
| Trek duration | This trek can be completed in two weeks, depends on which portion of the trail you plan on hiking |
| Remoteness | Not remote |
| Maximum altitude | 800 m |
| Permit required? | Not required |
| Fitness level | Suitable for all fitness levels |
| Best season | From April to October, when the weather is dry and sunny |
| Start / end locations | The path starts at Castle di Calenzano in Florence |
It is clear why the European cradle of culture is considered one of the most desirable destinations for trekking. Whether you are looking for a physical challenge, a historical treasure trail or just to get lost in gorgeous, unspoiled nature, hiking is one of the most satisfying ways to spend your time when you're on an Italy tour. This is definitely time worth investing while in Italy.
These hiking trails can be added as a part of your customized tour to Italy with the help of our local travel experts in the country. For more information on the perfect duration, read our travel article on how many days to spend in Italy.
