Top 5 Hiking Destinations in Italy for an Unforgettable Adventure
Italy is a sight for sore eyes. The undulating hills of Tuscany, the grey crags of the Dolomites, and the coastal colours of Cinque Terre — all form pieces of a beautiful puzzle. For US travellers flying to Europe, Italy remains an absolute highlight, especially when chasing unforgettable hikes.
Photo by Ben Guernsey on Unsplash
No matter your fitness level or time frame, Italy has routes to wow. These are the top five hiking destinations for an unforgettable adventure.
1. The Dolomites – Alpine Beauty at Its Peak
Who hasn’t heard of the Dolomites? These alpine mountains sit in Northern Italy, with slightly cooler temperatures that attract throngs of domestic and international travellers alike. When the snow melts and ski gear is set aside, out come the walking boots — cementing the Dolomites’ title as one of Italy’s best hiking destinations. Summer and early fall are perfect seasons for walking.
The dramatic peaks are best for experienced hikers without fear of exposed scrambles. The region is also known for its Via Ferrata routes (precarious metal infrastructure anchored into rockface to enable brave but easier climbing).
The dramatic peaks are best for experienced hikers without fear of exposed scrambles. The region is also known for its Via Ferrata routes (precarious metal infrastructure anchored into rockface to enable brave but easier climbing).
2. Cinque Terre – Coastal Trails With Breathtaking Views
When in doubt? Head to the coastline. Cinque Terre is UNESCO-protected and looped together by the Sentiero Azzurro trail, which connects the five main villages and treats hikers to expansive sea views. The brightly colored buildings on teetering cliff sides are perfect spots for refreshment breaks. As an 11km route, hikers can complete this walk in five or six hours. That leaves plenty of time for an afternoon dip in the sea or a strategic wine tasting in the evening.
3. Amalfi Coast – Where Hiking Meets the Mediterranean
Think of hiking trips in Italy, and your mind doesn’t immediately spring to the Amalfi Coast. This stretch of golden coastline is mainly associated with freshly squeezed lemon juice and a glitzy lifestyle. Yet it has some not-so-hidden secrets that justify packing hiking boots, too.
For one, the Path of the Gods is another short but sweet addition to an Italy-based hiking itinerary. This 7km route hugs the cliff tops and peers down on the beautiful beaches, some 600m below.
For one, the Path of the Gods is another short but sweet addition to an Italy-based hiking itinerary. This 7km route hugs the cliff tops and peers down on the beautiful beaches, some 600m below.
4. Tuscany – Rolling Hills, Vineyards and Scenic Villages
Tuscany needs no introduction. The region is beautiful: a gentle mix of rolling hills, vineyards, and historic stone villages. Hiking is a cultural immersion here — plus an opportunity to dabble in world-quality wine.
Choose from hilltop strolls, medieval village trundles, or adventurous mountain routes (like the forested ridges of the Casentino). The region also contains an important section of the Via Francigena, a religious pilgrimage trail from Northern Europe to the Vatican in Rome.
Choose from hilltop strolls, medieval village trundles, or adventurous mountain routes (like the forested ridges of the Casentino). The region also contains an important section of the Via Francigena, a religious pilgrimage trail from Northern Europe to the Vatican in Rome.
5. Gran Paradiso National Park – Wildlife and Wilderness
Gran Paradiso National Park is special: Italy’s oldest national park. Situated in the Aosta Valley in Northern Italy, this park is known for its high-altitude trails and mountain hut stays. The sort of snow-capped mountains where you might just spot a marmot.
Between its coastlines, mountains, and countryside, it’s easy to see why Italy is so popular among hikers. For US travellers with an affinity for trails, rest assured it’s worth the trip.
Between its coastlines, mountains, and countryside, it’s easy to see why Italy is so popular among hikers. For US travellers with an affinity for trails, rest assured it’s worth the trip.
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