If you’re planning your next vacation and are looking to go hiking, there’s no better place in the world than Italy.
There are hundreds of trails across the country, many of them leading to breathtaking views, historic landmarks and ancient ruins, and all of them able to bring you closer to the natural beauty of this beautiful country. Here’s a list of ten stunning hiking trails in Italy that you shouldn’t miss!
01) Corno Grande
Despite being the highest mountain in the eastern Alps, Corno Grande is actually only 2,758 meters tall. That’s not quite enough elevation to be considered a high peak,
but it still offers some of the best hiking trails in Italy. As you hike up this mountain, you’ll get an amazing view of some of Europe’s most scenic towns and beautiful valleys below. Corno Grande is situated between two valleys: the Valle del Sarca and the Valle d’Ombrone.
The former provides a natural viewing point from its cliffs that are 1500 meters high; if you’re lucky enough to catch a clear day with no fog or clouds, you’ll be able to see both Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa from there too!
2)The Mount Etna
The Mount Etna Trail is one of the most well-known hikes in Sicily. The trail starts at the base of Mt. Etna, where hikers can see how the smoke and lava come out of the volcano’s mouth. From there, you will hike up to 2,000 feet through a variety of landscapes before reaching a beautiful viewpoint that overlooks both the mountain’s crater and Caldera. It is an incredible experience that is sure to provide memories for a lifetime!
3) Cinque Terre – Five Lands Path
Cinque Terre is a coastal region in the Liguria region of Italy. The five villages that make up Cinque Terre are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.
The paths between the five villages are composed of a series of trails that often lead steeply uphill or downhill (or both).
There is no official trail map for Cinque Terre because there are so many different paths to take. One can hike from one village to another by taking a ferry from one village and hiking down the next path or by hiking up the next path and catching a ferry at the top when it crosses over.
4) Via del Mare Trek
Via del Mare Trek is a stunning trek through the coastal mountains of southern Italy, starting near Catanzaro and ending in Reggio Calabria.
It’s possible to do it as an overnight hike, but most people do it as a four-day backpacking trip. The trail is made up of dirt paths, trails, and sometimes roads, so it’s not too hard on your feet.
There are plenty of beaches along the way for camping or just stopping for a swim when you need a break from hiking!
5) Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise
The Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise is a beautiful national park in the mountains of Central Italy. This park is perfect for anyone looking for some refreshing mountain air and lush green scenery.
It’s also home to many species of animals and plants that are not found anywhere else on earth. One can also enjoy other activities such as fishing, horseback riding, skiing, or just relaxing!
6) Foresta Umbra Trekking Trail
The Foresta Umbra Trekking Trail is a 110-kilometer trail that starts from the town of Passo della Consuma and ends at the village of Castel del Rio.
The trail is on an old Roman road, so it passes through many medieval towns and villages that are still inhabited by locals. It also runs through a number of different ecosystems, going up steep mountain peaks and winding down into deep valleys. It’s one of the most beautiful trails in all of Italy!
7) Campo Imperatore Traverse
Campo Imperatore is one of the most popular hiking trails in Europe. It takes hikers through a stunning landscape that spans across three Italian regions:
Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise. The route is best done from late September to early October or during the first few weeks of November when the weather is usually clear and mild.
From Campo Imperatore you’ll enjoy views of Rome, which can be seen on a clear day as far as 30 miles away.
8) Panoramic Mont Blanc – TMB
The Panoramic Mont Blanc hike is one of the most famous hikes in Europe. It’s a must for hikers who want to experience one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. The trail starts at a height of about 2,100 meters and reaches 3,900 meters on the summit. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it’s worth every step you take!
Mont Blanc is an enormous mountain that is part of the Alps mountain range. From its peak, you can see all around you! The view stretches as far as your eyes can see and includes vast forests, glaciers and high peaks that are hundreds of kilometers away from each other.
9) Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop
You’ll find this trekking route about an hour and a half north of Venice. The hike will take you through the Dolomites, a mountain range known for its dramatic peaks and deep valleys.
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop is a challenging, but rewarding hike that takes you up and over three summits, including the namesake Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
The views from the top are unforgettable!
1) From the Malga Ciapela parking lot (1778 meters), proceed east past Lago di Braies (1806 meters), following signs for Valparola.
10) Gran Sasso hike
This hike is a bit more challenging, with an elevation gain of over 4,000 feet. But the views are absolutely worth it.
The trail is open year-round, but may be difficult during snowy months due to its steep incline and lack of shelter. Be sure that you have all the supplies you need before embarking on this hike as there are very few villages nearby.
It’s best for experienced hikers who are not afraid of heights and can handle steep terrain without issue.
This list is by no means exhaustive, but hopefully will inspire you to get out there and explore some new trails this summer!
