Hike Your Way Through Italy’s Historic Sites, Lofty Heights, Rolling Hills and the Famed Cinque Terre
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Italy is one of Europe’s most popular destinations, and for good reason: It’s one of the cultural, culinary and classical centers of the world. Yet the country is much more than Pisa, pasta and ruins – though they all get the blood going, so does a bit of outdoor adventure.
Luckily, the country has a lot in the way of amazing natural beauty, and the best way to take it all in is by lacing up your boots and hitting the nation’s copious trails. And variety is key: for hikers of different difficulties and interests, Italy is a dreamland for anyone looking to explore on foot.
From the rugged Dolomites to the scenic Amalfi Coast, the natural beauty of Italy is well displayed in all its splendor. For nature-loving hikers who also enjoy history, art, architecture and mouthwatering dining, Italy is a land o’plenty.
There’s lots of great (and constantly updated) information about where trails start and end on mapping apps, so your smartphone can be a useful tool when searching for trailheads or to provide some context about beautiful landscapes and other routes. Of course, many trails have dedicated websites (most have English versions as well) so it’s easy to research and plan accordingly prior to flying for 10-plus hours.
Here’s an overview of Italy’s best hiking trails from north to south, featuring panoramic routes, charming towns and the must-see attractions en route.
Northern Italy’s Hiking Heights
Northern Italy is home to some of the most beautiful and challenging hiking trails in the country. From the Dolomites to a truly grand alpine path, hikers can explore a range of landscapes from rugged mountains to serene lakes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a challenge or a more casual walker seeking stunning views, Northern Italy has the perfect path.
The Gran Paradiso “Grand” TourThis lengthy, multi-day trek circles the Gran Paradiso massif, offering stunning alpine scenery and wildlife-spotting opportunities, lucky hikers might even spy an ibex or chamois. It’s best to come prepared – the trek contains both high altitudes and some challenging climbs, but it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who have an appropriate hiking background. Warm gear and trekking poles are essential equipment for the challenging terrain and inclement weather on the Gran Paradiso “Grand” Tour, but the views alone are worth the calorie burn.
Tre Cime de Lavaredo, DolomitesThis hike circles the “Three Peaks of Lavaredo,” some of the most iconic mountain peaks in the Alps. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is topped by three aforementioned peaks, a craggy outcropping overlooking a melange of meadows, forests and rocky trails. The paths make for a moderate-to-challenging trek, and the route can be busy in the summer; however, travelers can also visit in the winter months to get some snowshoeing in and around the beautiful mountains.
Central Italy’s Gorgeous Treks
Some of the most iconic regions in the country are situated in Central Italy, including the famed Cinque Terre. The region’s hiking trails offer a mix of coastal views, mountainous scenery, charming towns and enough stunning photo ops to make everyone back home jealous. Be it the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast or the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, Central Italy’s trails are can’t-miss for any visitor.
The Cinque Terre, LiguriaHugging the Italian Riviera, the national park of Cinque Terre has a network of trails that connect five colorful villages perched on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. The most well-trod path in this park is the Blue Trail, a several-mile-long segment that connects all of the picturesque villages and offers breathtaking views. Best of all? The walking challenge is at most moderate, making it perfect for a scenic day trip without a high need for prep (or sweating).
Via Delgi Dei, TuscanyA path up the spine of North-Central Italy is the first portion of the ancient road used by Etruscans and Romans to commute from Bologna to Florence. The path, which is 80-plus miles long, winds its way among rolling hills and vineyards as it heads northeast. Historical points of interest are as valuable as the beauty of this Tuscan countryside, as the hike provides a real glimpse into the ancient history of the region – one can feel they’re following “God’s Way” (as the trail is so named). Intrepid adventurers can walk the entire path, or visitors can pick and choose parts of the walk, including highlights like ancient earthworks, ruins and delicious foods. For intrepid two-wheelers, the path can also be traversed on a mountain bike.
Coastal Splendor and Volcano Treks in the South
With its wild coastline, rolling hills and villages that seem to pop directly out of storybooks, Southern Italy is a perfect destination for hikers. Walking from the Amalfi Coast to Mount Vesuvius permits a view of a wild variety of landscapes and intimate exposure to the region’s history and culture. These reasons make Southern Italy a diversity of terrains and views not to be missed by any hiking enthusiast.
Sentiero Degli Dei, Amalfi CoastThis aptly-named “Path of the Gods” winds its way along the Amalfi Coast, linking the towns of Agerola with Nocelle. In some ways, this is THE Southern Italian hike – think dramatic panoramas of turquoise-colored waters and charming towns perched upon cliffsides, resplendent with charm. The landscape is a little more challenging – there are some open cliffsides, so you’ll want to be sure on your feet before trekking the four-hour path – however, the views are the kind of sight you’ll seldom find anywhere else on the planet.
Scaling Mount Vesuvius’ SummitThe volcano at Mount Vesuvius is one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks, and hiking to the summit is an experience that no hiker should miss. The trail begins at Mount Vesuvius National Park and takes hikers through all manner of ecosystems, from lush forests to rugged volcanic terrain. It’s a stiff climb to the top, but the effort is rewarded by panoramic views over the Bay of Naples and the surrounding countryside. More experienced walkers can choose one of any number of paths on the hike. The most challenging paths lead hikers into the dormant – but by no means extinct – volcano’s crater.
- AJ Moutra
