Hiking in Italy: The Ultimate Trails for Adventurers

Italy is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, from rolling vineyards and ancient ruins to coastal cliffsides. The country's many hiking trails are the perfect way to explore its stunning scenery, whether you’re after a challenging trek or a gentle stroll.

Read on to discover some of the best hiking routes in Italy.

Path of the Gods, Amalfi Coast - Best for a Scenic Stroll

The Sentiero degli Dei or Path of the Gods is a must-do for anyone seeking a leisurely hike with unbelievable views. Stretching over 5 miles, the trail offers an easy to moderate challenge, typically taking around 4.5 hours to complete one way. As you wander along the path, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, with towering cliffs and picturesque villages of the Amalfi Coast below. The hike’s gentle incline and well-maintained paths make it suitable for hikers of all levels.

Along the way, pass by terraced hillsides, lemon orchards and fragrant rosemary bushes. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, the Path of Gods is perfect for those looking for a gentle yet scenic hike.

Stromboli, Sicily – Best for a Volcano Ascent

Stromboli, one of Sicily’s most iconic volcanoes, provides an awe-inspiring hike. The 4.8-mile round trip takes you past rugged terrain, wild capers and fragrant Sicilian broom, leading you to the heart of the volcano, formed just 40,000 years ago. As you ascend the landscape transforms dramatically, with the path offering ever-changing views of the volcanic island, the craggy coastline and the vast Mediterranean beyond. The hike is moderate to challenging, taking around 6 hours to complete, making it perfect for experienced hikers.

While the first part of the trail is relatively accessible, the trail is highly regulated by authorities. Hikers can reach the 400-metre mark on their own, however, to ascend any higher you must be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide due to the sometimes unpredictable environment. As you venture even closer to the summit, you’ll have the chance to witness small gushes of lava and ash erupting, providing a rare, up-close view of Stromboli’s volcanic activity.

The Blue Trail, Cinque Terre – Best for Coastal Views

The Blue Trail, also known as Sentiero Azzurro stretches over 5.2 miles along the stunning Ligurian coast. The trail connects the five charming villages of Cinque Terre, offering breathtaking views of the sparkling sea. The hike is considered easy to moderate in difficulty, making it accessible for most hikers, thought the rugged terrain can be challenging at times. The Blue Trail takes around 4 hours to complete in one direction, with hikers tending to travel from Riomaggiore to Monterosso or vice versa to experience the best of the coast.

As you walk along the trail, you’ll discover panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular. The path meanders through terrace vineyards, olive groves and quaint seaside villages, where you can pause to explore local eateries and shops. Due to landslides, some sections of the route are currently inaccessible and are being pieced back together. Be sure to check the Cinque Terre website for the latest updates and information.

The Greenway, Lake Como – Best for Beginners

The Greenway is a beautiful and accessible route that stretches around 6 miles. This easy trail is suitable for hikers of all abilities, with a typical journey taking around 3.5 hours to complete. Passing through seven villages, the route runs from Colonno to Griante, providing an opportunity to explore the stunning lakeside scenery at a relaxed pace.

As you wander along the Greenway, you’ll pass through picturesque fishing villages that seem frozen in time. You’ll also pass grand historic buildings with classical architecture and gardens, in addition to Romanesque churches dotted along the route. The Greenway might be one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Lake Como.

Camogli to Portofino – Best for a Tranquil Trail

Tucked along the Ligurian coast, the hike from Camogli to Portofino is a breathtaking journey through one of Italy’s most breathtaking landscapes. Starting in the picturesque seaside town of Camogli, known for its pastel-hued houses, this 8-mile trail winds through pine forests and rugged cliffs that offer sweeping views of the coast below. The easy to moderate difficulty makes it suitable for most hikers, however there are some steep inclines at the beginning and end of the trail.

Midway through the trek you’ll discover San Fruttuoso. Here you can find the secluded Abbey of San Fruttuoso, nestled between emerald waters and forested hills. It’s the perfect spot to rest, swim and soak in the tranquillity before continuing your trek to the glamorous town of Portofino, known for its chic cafes and colourful harbourside homes.

Selvaggio Blu, Sardinia – Best for Experienced Hikers

Often hailed as Italy’s toughest trek, this epic trail along Sardinia’s rugged east coast is a challenging yet beautiful multi-day trek along the limestone coast. It’s one for seriously experienced hikers, with its difficult route finding, abseiling and some climbing. The entire trail is 28 miles, threading its way along Golfo di Orosei.

While gruelling, this hardcore trek is well worth it for the scenery. Traverse through Italy’s wildest and most isolated coastlines, with deep gorges, silent coves and dramatic overhangs. As with many of the more challenging hikes in Italy, a guide is recommended due to the difficult terrain.

Are You Ready to Discover the Real Italy?

Ready to explore Italy? Our Italy Experts will create the perfect itinerary for you, whether you’re looking to stroll along the Amalfi cliffsides or take on more challenging treks like Stromboli while in Sicily.

Get in touch with us today and let's start planning your Italian escape!

Suggested Destinations & Trips

/holidays/italy/cities/Italian Cities Holidays

/holidays/italy/lakes/Italian Lakes Holidays

/holidays/italy/campania/Campania Holidays

/holidays/italy/sicily-and-the-aeolian-islands/Sicily and the Aeolian Islands Holidays

/holidays/italy/sardinia/Sardinia Holidays

/holidays/italy/countryside/Italian Countryside Holidays

/holidays/italy/coast-and-islands/Italy's Coast and Island Holidays

Call us today to speak to one of our Italy Experts for further travel advice, hotel recommendations or to begin planning your next Italian holiday.

01293 765055 Or Make an enquiry