Italy’s beaches and art-rammed cities often steal the limelight, but it isn’t until you strike out into the wild mountains and trek along vertiginous coastlines that you can even come close to understanding how ravishing this country really is.
From the cliff-hanging trails of Amalfi to the colossal granite spires of the Dolomites, volcano climbs in Sicily to hikes deep into the heart of the flower-freckled Apennines, Italy is a boot made for walking.
What You Need to Know About Hiking in Italy
The best seasons for hiking in Italy are spring and early fall, avoiding the scorching heat of mid-summer; however, the window is shorter in the Alps and Dolomites (late June through September). Moreover, most Italians go on vacation in August, so trails may be crowded.
Wild camping is a gray area—it’s prohibited in theory but sometimes tolerated in practice if you avoid tourist hotspots, beaches, and protected areas. If you decide to go remote, it’s best to arrive at dusk and leave by dawn.
When planning your adventure, check local and regional tourist office websites for the inside scoop on walking trails. The Italian Parks organization lists walking trails through each of the country’s 25 national parks, while Tabacco produces quality topographic hiking maps and apps.
Sella-Herbetet Traverse, Gran Paradiso, Piedmont
Best hike in the Italian Alps
20.5km (13 miles) round trip, 10 hours, challenging
If you’re craving an Alpine challenge, the Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso in the Graian Alps offers stunning wilderness. This striking area has piercing blue lakes, deep forests, rushing rivers, and some of Italy’s highest mountains, peaking at 4061m (13,323ft).
The classic one-day loop trail starts in Valnontey, offering exceptional views across the valley with spiky peaks and silly glaciers. Keep an eye out for herds of ibex and chamois grazing peacefully on steep patches of grass.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Dolomites
Best hike in the Dolomites
9.5km (6 miles) round trip, 4 hours, moderate
The Dolomites boast some of Europe’s most compelling walking landscapes. If you’re going to do just one day hike here, make it the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Circuit. Starting at Rifugio Auronzo, the trail leads to scenes that will take your breath away.
Starting early can allow you to experience the tranquility of the trail before the crowds arrive, especially during the summer. Access the route via the toll road from Misurina (€30).
Sentiero degli Dei, Amalfi Coast
Best hike for a sun-kissed stroll
8km (5 miles) one way, 4.5 hours, easy to moderate
The Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) provides a breathtaking view of southern Italian landscapes with sensational sights of the rugged mountains and colorful villages cascading down the hillsides.
This trail links beautiful towns with minimal effort while offering incredible views of terraced hillsides and lemon orchards. Make sure to take your time and enjoy a picnic surrounded by stunning scenery.
Corno Grande, Abruzzo
Best hike for climbing a mountain
9km (5.6 miles) round trip, 7 hours, moderate to challenging
Hosting the highest peak in the Apennines, Corno Grande invites adventurers for a climb with varying terrains. From the parking lot at Campo Imperatore, the approach serves up stunning vistas of the surrounding mountainous landscape.
Whether you prefer the normal route or the more challenging ascent, the hike promises a rewarding experience with views of the Adriatic coastline and Europe’s southernmost glacier, the Calderone.
Sentiero Azzurro, Cinque Terre
Best hike for hugging the coast
8.5km (5.2 miles) one way, 4 hours, easy to moderate
The Cinque Terre is as jaw-dropping as the photos you’ve seen. The five vibrant fishing villages look precariously perched on cliffs overlooking azure waves.
The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) connects these stunning towns, passing through beautiful landscapes. Although some sections are currently inaccessible due to landslides, you should still explore the open routes.
Selvaggio Blu, Sardinia
Best hike for a hardcore multi-day trek
45km (28 miles) one way, 4–7 days, challenging
This epic trek along Sardinia’s east coast is recognized as Italy’s most difficult hike. The Selvaggio Blu, or “Wild Blue,” offers an unforgettable adventure requiring prior mountaineering experience.
Winding along isolated coastlines, expect to navigate deep gorges and steep cliffs. With stunning views and camping under starry skies, this challenging trek rewards those who venture out.
Stromboli, Aeolian Islands, Sicily
Best hike for a volcano ascent
7.8km (4.8 miles) round trip, 6 hours, moderate to challenging
The hike up to Stromboli’s prominent volcano offers breathtaking perspectives over the cobalt sea. This tranquil island hides a thrilling experience and is a must for nature lovers.
Try to go at sunset to witness stunning views as the crater comes alive at dusk. Access is controlled; thus, it’s wise to book a knowledgeable guide for safety and ease.
Via Appia Antica, Rome-Brindisi
Best hike for history
12.9km (8 miles) one way, 3 hours, easy to moderate
The Via Appia Antica (Appian Way) connects Rome to the port of Brindisi, offering a glimpse into ancient Roman civilization. As you walk along this historic route, you’ll encounter ancient ruins and stunning countryside.
Explore remnants of villas, catacombs, and monuments that provide a deep dive into the city’s vibrant past. A serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle awaits those who embark on this historic trail.
