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Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy

Find the best Hiking & Trekking tour in Italy. There are 145 trips to choose from, that range in length from 3 days up to 13 days. The month with the most departures is September, making it the most popular time for a guided hiking adventure in Italy.

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145 hikes in italy with 1,282 reviews.

• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking in the Dolomites

Great value for money. Good tour guide. Excellent travel company. Some days the hiking was a bit light. Would have given it 5 stars if the hiking was every day. Also tourradar/intrepid could also consider providing a higher cost tour where we stay at different refuges every day. This will reduce the transportation constraints and time and increase the Dolomites amazing experience.

• Coastal Walks
• Christmas & New Year

Walking the Amalfi Coast

Great mild walking tour (<15km per day). Roberta (guide) is awesome! Location is fine, hotel is "ok", but there's almost nothing to do during free time.

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

Amazing weather and great hikes on the trails of the Amalfi Coast. Our guide managed the group very well, he is really dedicated to his job. The dinners at the agriturismo were excellent !

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Mountain Hikes

From Lake Garda to Venice

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• Self Guided Walking Holidays

From Lake Garda to Venice Hike & Charm

Paths of the Amalfi Coast

The Hotel Due Torri is a wonderful family owned hotel. They welcomed us like family, Helped us with our daily itinerary and answered all our questions. The meals were Devine prepared by Giovani who is co owner of the hotel and an amazing Chef. Nicola, Giovani’s brother and co owner made us homemade Pizza and made sure all the guests were happy. Gerardo took care of our every need. The views of the coast from the walk were one of a kind. I highly recommend this tour if you want to take in all the sites of the Amalfi Coast and feel immersed in Italian culture.

Amalfi Coast Walking - Hotel Risorgimento

I had a great time in this active trip called Amalfi Coast Walking - Hotel Risorgimento, and I would have given 5 stars if the description of the hikes were more correctly explained, or if of the difficult hikes were interchangeable with less strenuous days. The first three walks were very difficult, not “leisurely” as described. The Pino Gorge walk to San Lazaro of 5 kilometers, that took about 2 hours was nothing but easy. On our cellulars we recorded over 10,000 steps and 50 flors up. There were an equal number of floors down, and not easy at all. The steps were uneven, really high, broken, slippery and it was dangerous to take your eyes away from them. The afternoon walk was longer, and harder, being described by a fellow traveler as “Stairway to Heaven”. Next day, another walk on the Ancient Republic’s Path. This was more difficult than the day before. We covered 6 kilometers. The description in the itinerary states “a total ascent of 90 meters and a 755 meters decent. The health data on my cellphone showed 21,863 steps and 116 floors up. I regret I don’t have the exact number of floors we descended, but they were astronomical, considering the 755 meters of decent. The following day half of us were afraid to attempt the “Walk in the Ferreire NP” and missed that visit. Scheduling three days in a row long, three difficult walks was a mistake, and describing them as leisurely, or even moderate was not accurate. We are only people, not related to Superman. For the rest of the trip, visiting Ravello, Capri Island, Pompeii, Herculaneum, and ending with the Path of the Gods descent was great, but still not easy. I have to highly recommend the Hotel Risorgimento, were we spent a week. It was really impressive that in a small, not touristic town, to find such high quality place, excellent food, cleanness, present owners. We were treated as family, respected and made welcome. That was an excellent choice.

Food, Hiking and Augmented Reality on the Amalfi Coast, Small Group Tour

• In-depth Cultural
• Food & Culinary

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights (Maximum 8 Guests)

Our tour of Sicily was outstanding. We could not have asked for a better experience. All of the guides we had during our trip were exceptional, knowledgeable, easy to understand, and made us feel very welcome. Tour Radar and Sicily Activities are to be commended for this memorable and enjoyable trip. I will recommend this tour every chance I get. THANKS FOR A GREAT TIME!!

The Royal Trail Gran Paradiso Italy

Hiking the Amalfi Coast, Private Tour

Dolomites Guided Walk

It was a great trip. people were very friendly. Guide paid lot of attention to the safety of the walk. One of the Refugio did not have hot water (should look into it). The other Refugio had too many people in one dormitory. Never the less an excellent trip..

Amazing Dolomites Alps – ITALY

Dolomites of Cortina Explorer - Self-Guided Hike

Salina e Stromboli Trekking

Reviews of italy hiking & trekking tours.

The tour was wonderful for several reasons. Our guide, Veriano, was knowledgeable and fit right in with our group. The size of the group was perfect, ages ranging from 27 to 71 years. Everyone was fit and up for the challenge.

Overall I really enjoyed the Amalfi walking tour. Staying in a small community was a welcome change from the large city tourist experience. The accommodations were as expected, and the Agritourisimo owners were lovely hosts. I especially enjoyed the homemade pasta and desserts. The wine tasting dinner was a lot of fun and the pizza was excellent. I could not have asked for a nicer group of fellow hikers. Our guide, Peter, was very personable, attentive to everyone’s needs and abilities and was knowledgable about the region. I am a 67 year old Canadian woman in excellent health and keep physically very active. I live in a location that is predominantly flat land. I made an effort to climb hills as much as possible to train for the walk but walking on ground is not enough to prepare for all the stone steps on the walks. Stair climbing and descending would be at good training routine. I found going down the steps very hard on the knees, but they felt better after a couple of days of walking on this terrain. I would caution anyone with knee or hip joint problems about choosing this tour. A 76 year old woman in our group had no problems at all. However, after falling on the loose rock the first day, an 85-year-old man from North America was not able to participate in most of the walks. Peter was able to suggest alternate activities for him and his wife and they were still able to enjoy the trip. Anyone older should have excellent balance and be used to walking on uneven terrain and climbing up and down rocky obstacles. I think an upper limit of 85 is overly optimistic for this tour.

Hiking & Trekking Tours

• Mountain Hikes (21)
• Coastal Walks (20)
• Attraction-Based Hikes (12)
• Self Guided Walking Holidays (11)
• Italian Alps (45)
• The Dolomites (20)

Regions in Italy

• South Italy (60)
• Northern Italy (60)
• Trentino Alto-Adige (33)
• South Tyrol (31)
• Campania (27)
• Amalfi Coast (25)
• Sicily (18)
• Prosecco (17)
• Central Italy (15)
• Tuscany (15)
• Italian Lakes District (8)
• Sardinia (7)

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Italy Walking & Hiking Tours

Hike the spectacular Amalfi Coast, where cliffs plunge into turquoise waters. Or climb the lofty peaks of the Dolomites. On a Backroads walking tour in Italy, stroll hilltop villages, traverse dramatic coastal trails, all the while enjoying luxurious hotels and cuisine along the way. Come enjoy  la bella Italia  with Backroads on our Italy hiking tours.

Brenta Dolomites Walking & Hiking Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos

Cinque Terre & Tuscany Easygoing Walking Tour

NEW Families with 20s & Beyond

Cinque Terre & Tuscany Walking & Hiking Tour

NEW Women's Adventures

Families with 20s & Beyond

Croatia Ocean Cruise Multi-Adventure Tour

NEW Couples, Friends & Solos

Dolomites Multi-Adventure Tour

Families with Teens & Kids

Families with Older Teens & 20s

Dolomites to Lake Garda Walking & Hiking Tour

Dolomites Walking & Hiking Tour

Dolomites Hut-to-Hut Hiking Tour

French & Italian Alps Walking & Hiking Tour

French, Italian & Swiss Alps Multi-Adventure Tour

Legendary Mont Blanc, Chamonix & Lake Geneva

Italian Alps & the Matterhorn Walking & Hiking Tour

Italian, French & Swiss Alps Lodge-to-Lodge Hiking Tour

Italy & Slovenia Walking & Hiking Tour

Italy's Amalfi Coast Walking & Hiking Tour

Italy's Lake Como & Bellagio Walking & Hiking Tour

Sardinia & Corsica Multi-Adventure Tour

Sicily & the Aeolian Islands Walking & Hiking Tour

Sicily Multi-Adventure Tour

Sicily Walking & Hiking Tour

Tuscany Active Culinary Walking & Hiking Tour

Hike from Italy's Seaside to Tuscan Villages

Let Italy’s panoramic views enchant you. From vistas spanning the verdant, rolling countryside to scenes of secluded coastal villages. Grab your hiking boots and join us on one of our Italy walking tours! Traverse hut-to-hut in the mighty Alps or venture to Italy’s largest lake, the stunning Lake Garda. With Backroads, our hand-picked routes, local relationships, knowledgeable guides and luxurious accommodations result in an unforgettable hiking tour. We have been leading trips in Italy for decades and our expertly crafted itineraries highlight the best of the region and help you get off the beaten track. And with route options for hikers from easygoing to avid, along with shuttles for when you’re ready to shift gears and explore elsewhere, there’s no better way to discover Italy than on a hiking tour with Backroads. 

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The best hikes in Italy explore Alpine highs and Amalfi skies

Oct 8, 2022 • 10 min read

Traipse along the towering peaks of the Dolomites on Italy's best hikes © piola666 / Getty Images

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.

Here are eight of the best hikes in Italy, with top tips on how to tackle them.

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 – though the window is shorter in the Alps and Dolomites (late June through September).

Most Italians go on vacation in August, so trails are at their most crowded, and rifugi (mountain huts) in Italy's best national parks are usually packed, so you’ll need to book your bed well in advance. Wild camping is a gray area – it's prohibited in theory but sometimes tolerated in practice, providing you avoid tourist hotspots, beaches and protected areas like nature reserves. If you do, go remote, arrive at dusk and leave by dawn.

Most local and regional tourist office websites can give you the inside scoop on walking in their area. The  Italian Parks organization  lists walking trails through each of the country’s 25 national parks. Tabacco produces a decent range of topographic 1:25,000 hiking maps and apps.

Sella-Herbetet Traverse, Gran Paradiso, Piedmont

Best hike in the Italian Alps

20.5 km (13 miles) round trip, 10 hours, challenging

If you’re craving an Alpine challenge, the Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso  i n the Graian Alps is a feast. Snug against the French border in Italy's northwest, this mind-blowing wilderness has piercing blue lakes, deep forests, rushing rivers and some of the country's highest, gnarliest mountains, topping out at its eponymous 4061m (13,323ft) peak.

Starting in Valnontey, this classic one-day loop trail takes you right to its heart. From the town bridge in Valnontey, the Alta Via 2 leads along an old mule trail up to 2588m (8490ft)  Rifugio Sella , a former hunting lodge of King Vittorio Emanuele II. Between here and Casolari dell'Herbetet (a park ranger's base to the south), things get more exposed, with a traverse where you can cling on to a length of chain for protection.

The day's ascent is 1180m (3871ft) and – oh joy! – the trip is virtually downhill all the way back to the village from the casolari .  The views across the valley will make you gasp: spiky peaks, small glaciers glinting on the eastern skyline and the mighty Ghiacciaio Tribolazioni below Gran Paradiso itself. Herds of ibex and chamois graze peacefully on steep patches of grass, and you should also be able to hear and see marmots.

Tackle this one on a clear day; you’ll need to be surefooted and have a head for heights.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Dolomites

Best hike in the Dolomites

9.5km (6 miles) round trip, 4 hours, moderate

Madre Natura sure was generous with Italy in the looks department, but she went the extra mile in the Dolomites , puckering up in the country’s northeast. The cloud-scraping limestone spires, buttresses and towers that punch high above meadows, lakes and spruce forests here offer some of Europe's most compelling walking country. If you're going to do just one day hike here, make it the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Circuit in the Parco Naturale Tre Cime .

Kicking off at Rifugio Auronzo, the trail weaves to Rifugio Lavaredo  and  then clambers up to 2454m (8051ft) Forcella di Lavaredo with pop-up views of the Tre Cime – a trilogy of photogenic peaks shaped like bishops' miters – slowly cracking open, before heading on to Rifugio Locatelli and back to Rifugio Auronzo.

Get an early start to appreciate the trail at its silent best (it can get busy as the day goes on, especially during the summer) and avoid afternoon thunderstorms. 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

True to its name, the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) presents a heavenly canvas of southern Italian landscapes, with sensational views of the rugged, densely wooded Lattari mountains that dive down to the glittering Mediterranean and candy-colored villages tumbling haphazardly down hillsides and distant glimpses of Capri. You can nail it in half a day, but with scenery like this, why on earth rush? Pack a picnic and grab a map of the walk from local tourist offices.

Following an elevated, often rocky mule trail linking postcard-perfect Positano to the ancient fishing village of Praiano , the path unzips some of the area's least-developed countryside with minimal effort and is immediately spectacular. You'll traipse past terraced hillsides, lemon orchards and fragrant macchia (scrub) of rosemary and holm oak. A flight of 1500 steps trips gleefully down to Arienzo, where you can pause for a cooling dip, seafood lunch and cocktail at the beach club. The sunsets here are something else. 

Corno Grande, Abruzzo

Best hike for climbing a mountain

9km (5.6 miles) round trip, 7 hours, moderate to challenging

Presiding over the jagged rockscapes of the Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga (one of Italy's largest national parks), 2192m (7191ft)  Corno Grande ("Big Horn") is the highest peak in the Apennines. Its distinctive craggy profile etches the horizon and is visible all over Abruzzo, right in the heart of Italy.

From the main parking lot at Campo Imperatore, hook onto the via normale (normal route). It's a surprisingly straightforward climb along moraine-streaked slopes to the summit, with 782m (2565ft) of ascent and some easy scrambling on the final leg. At the top, you’ll be gripped by views of rippling mountains and the Adriatic, a distant glimmer on the horizon, as well as tantalizing glimpses of Europe's southernmost glacier, the Calderone.

If you’re an experienced hiker up for more of a challenge, choose the alternative ascent that zigzags directly to the summit, a much tougher climb. In the quiet of the early morning or late afternoon, you might spot a nimble-footed chamois or a royal eagle wheeling overhead.

The best window for this hike is from early June to late September when the mountain is free of snow.

Sentiero Azzurro, Cinque Terre

Best hike for hugging the coast

8.5km (5.2 miles) one way, 4 hours, easy to moderate

Yes, Cinque Terre   really is as jaw-dropping as the photos you’ve seen. The five precariously perched fishing villages painted in ice-cream colors look as though they’ll topple off the cliffside with the merest puff of wind.

The Sentiero Azzurro   (Blue Trail, marked No. 2 on maps) used to string them all together, teetering past vines, olive groves, forests and terraced hillsides, hugging the contour of the coastline cliffs along the sapphire Ligurian Sea. However, because of landslides, some sections of the route are currently inaccessible and are being pieced back together. For the latest updates, visit the website , which details the sections that are open. 

The route is best walked east to west, from Riomaggiore to Monterosso . However, the first section of the trail, Riomaggiore-Manarola, is likely to be closed until 2024, so you'll need to start your hike at vine-wreathed Manarola , where houses cling to the sheer clifftops in a fresco painter’s palette of colors. You need to purchase a Cinque Terre Card (€7.50 for one day), which gives you access to the national park and use of its facilities.

Selvaggio Blu, Sardinia

Best hike for a hardcore multi-day trek

45km (28 miles) one way, 4–7 days, challenging

If other hikes aren’t quite hitting the off-the-radar sweet spot, oh, intrepid one, this epic jaunt along Sardinia ’s ragged east coast never fails. Often hailed as Italy's toughest trek (and you’d better believe it), the Selvaggio Blu , or "Wild Blue," throws you in at the adventure deep end.

Threading its way along the Golfo di Orosei on Sardinia's east coast, this hike is a never-to-be-forgotten, away-from-the-world adventure that requires mountaineering experience. Signs and water are desperately lacking, trail finding is tricky (even with GPS), and the going can be grueling, with abseils of up to 45m (148ft) and UIAA grade IV+ climbs.

But it's worth it. Heading south to north from Pedra Longa to Cala Fuili, the multi-day hike wriggles along one of Italy's wildest and most isolated coastlines, with deep gorges, impenetrable vegetation, cliffs dipping up to 800m (2625ft) and unrivaled views of the Mediterranean. Old shepherds' and charcoal burners' paths weave past silent coves and dramatic overhangs.

By night, you’ll camp under the starriest of night skies at remote beaches and in caves. Unless you are familiar with these parts, you will need a guide, such as mountaineering and climbing pro Corrado Conca .

Stromboli, Aeolian Islands, Sicily

Best hike for a volcano ascent 

7.8km (4.8 miles) round trip, 6 hours, moderate to challenging

There’s no better way to get a handle on the smoldering beauty of Sicily’s Aeolian Islands than by hoofing it up to Stromboli 's perfect pyramid of a volcano. Thrusting above the cobalt sea, it certainly has the wow factor. It's not every day, after all, that you get to trek up to a permanently active cone.

The most captivating of the Aeolian Islands, Stromboli is a whippersnapper in volcanic terms, formed only a mere 40,000 years ago. For nature lovers, the climb to its crater is one of Sicily's not-to-be-missed experiences.

The hike is as diverse as it is exhilarating, with wild capers and Sicilian broom lining the trail. It gives adventurers incredible panoramas over Stromboli town, as well as starker, high-level elevation landscapes that contrast with dramatic sea views.

Go at sunset to witness the crater's fireworks at the 924m (3032ft) summit as day fades to night and then hike back down to town by flashlight in the darkness. Authorities strictly regulate access – you can walk freely to 400m (1312ft), but you'll need a guide (such as the knowledgeable guides at Magmatrek ) to continue any higher.

Remember that this is an active volcano – with a major eruption as recently as July 2019 – meaning this climb, though beautiful, comes with additional risk.

Via Appia Antica, Rome-Brindisi

Best hike for history

12.9km (8 miles) one way, 3 hours, easy to moderate

All roads lead to Rome on the Via Appia Antica   (the Appian Way). The first mighty highway of the Roman Empire, it was built between 312 BCE and 190 BCE to link Rome to the port of Brindisi on the southern Adriatic coast, 483km (300 miles) distant. The arrow-straight path takes its name from the man who laid the first stone: Appius Claudius Caecus.

While much of it is off limits and overgrown these days, this stretch gives you a tantalizing peek of what travel would have been like more than 2000 years ago, as you tread cobblestones polished smooth by millennia of cart wheels, horse hooves and hobnailed Roman caligae (heavy-soled military sandals) and leave the frenetic buzz of Rome behind to slip into peaceful, cypress tree-dotted countryside.

It’s wrong to assume that all of Rome’s cultural big hitters are all in the center. Strike out along this path, and you’ll be amazed by the monuments and milestones that confront you at every turn, fully immersing you in the city’s enthralling past: the romantic ruins of villas where Rome's elite lived, catacombs, above-ground tombs and mausoleums. 

This walk begins at the 5th-century Porta San Sebastiano , the largest of the gates in the Aurelian Walls, and ends at 2nd-century Villa dei Quintili , towering over green fields. En route, factor in stops at tiny Chiesa del Domine Quo Vadis , where St Peter encountered a vision of Jesus; the Catacombe di San Callisto , where 16 popes, dozens of martyrs and thousands upon thousands of Christians lie entombed; and Villa di Massenzio , the 4th-century palace of the emperor Maxentius, where you’ll find Rome’s best-preserved chariot racetrack, the Circo di Massenzio .

This article was first published August 2019 and updated October 2022

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HIKING TOURS IN ITALY

Italy represents the magnum opus of trekking destinations. whether you are traveling through the alpine summits of northern italy, or enjoying coastal walking in the tyrrhenian sea, you will notice the consistent italian commitment to quality..

Commitment to a delicious variety of food, to excellent accommodation – even in the most remote huts in the Alps, and finally a commitment to maintaining one of the world’s largest and most scenic trail systems .

Ryder-Walker offers tours in three major regions of Italy. The Italian Dolomites, our island tours on the Tyrrhenian Island of Capri and the Aeolian islands surrounding Sicily, and finally in the heart of the Italian Alps along the border with Switzerland – where the Mont Blanc and Matterhorn sit proudly.

Italy offers the absolute best in terms of mountain accommodation, set in a breathtaking landscape.Nowhere on earth has a more committed hospitality industry with the Italian Alpine hotels representing some of the absolute best in the world, regardless of whether they are trailside inns or world-class hotels.

Culturally the Italian Dolomites are a unique setting, home to the Ladin culture – a language and lifestyle that harkens back to the Roman empire. The Dolomites also drip with history, with the rugged ridgelines along the Austrian border still bristling with ruined encampments and vertigo-inducing military trails called Via Ferrata, or iron pathways. Ryder-Walker offers three distinct guided tours through the Dolomites. The Via Ladinia takes you through the Ladin heart of the Dolomites, visiting some of the region’s most remote and serene villages. The Dolomiti di Brenta trek explores the unique Brenta Dolomites, an isolated limestone group, home to the famous Via delle Bochette – one of the world’s most impressive Via Ferrata. Finally, our Italian Dolomites Trek is perhaps Ryder-Walker’s most classic offering, visiting only the most tried and true locations in Italy. For our self-guided clients we offer the Italian Dolomites Trek , the Dolomiti di Brenta , the Via Ladinia: Heart of the Italian Dolomites , as well as the Ambiance Italian Dolomites and Via Ladinia Pastorale which are our gentler variations on the the self-guided Italian Dolomites Trek. Finally, the Italian Dolomites Rifugio Trek is a fresh take on the region that spends extra nights high in the mountains in Italy’s magnificent Rifugio system.  

The islands of Italy have no shortage of fame, and all of it deserved. While the Italian coast may be known for its elegant reputation and stylish living, it also offers some of the most relaxed and scenic hiking in the world . In Capri, Ryder-Walker’s self guided Isola di Capri trek explores the island known as the Jewel of the Tyrrhenian. Home to the Azure Grotto, the Villa Jovis which belonged to Emperor Tiberius, and the village of Anacapri situated atop the island’s precipitous summit. Back on the Napol coast self guided clients can explore the colorful Cinque Terre .   The Sicily Aeolian Islands trek, which we offer self guided as well, is a true island-hopping experience, which explores the volcanic archipelago that runs towards the sea from Sicily. If you’re looking for warm water and fresh fish cooked in a traditional Italian style, these trips should be at the top of your list.

The Alps along Italy’s Northwestern border are the most impressive mountains in Western Europe. Giants like the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco) rise up with awe-inspiring relief, and from a much quieter and more forgotten angle than the villages below the same mountains in Switzerland and France . Ryder-Walker’s Tour du Mont Blanc and shorter self guided TMB Vitesse visits all three countries, circumnavigating the truly gigantic Mont Blanc massif. On this world-famous adventure, you will explore legendary mountain towns such as Courmayeur and Chamonix, as well as tackle some of the highest passes in the Alps. The Matterhorn Trek explores both the Italian and Swiss sides of the Matterhorn, visiting Zermatt while contrasting it with the truly sleepy and mysterious mountain towns on the Italian side of the mountain. While you may be visiting to see the Matterhorn, the Monte Rosa might steal the show with its gargantuan glaciated face towering over the Italian valleys below.  

Finally, we offer a couple of new self guided outings: our Italian Lakes District: Como & Bellagio trek explores the hills above the lively and lavish Italian Lakes District. Our Tuscany: A Path Through History hike explores the pastoral landscape and medieval villages surrounding the historic city of Florence.  

GUIDED TRIPS

Self-guided trips.

France, Italy, & Switzerland | Tour Du Mont Blanc

Outside Magazine named Ryder-Walker's Tour du Mont Blanc trek one of the 25 Best Hikes in the World. Hike across the borders of France, Italy and Switzerland during our ten-day Tour du Mont Blanc. Taking advantage of some little-known variations to the standard route, we lead you from the mountain-chic cafés of Chamonix, to remote mountain hamlets en route to...

Guided Tour Date

Self-Guided Tour Date

Italy | Sicily: Aeolian Islands

From across the aquamarine waves, their call can be heard for thousands of leagues. Ulysses surely wasn’t the first to hear their sound as he crossed the Adriatic, Aegean, and Tyrrhenian seas on his Odyssey, but he definitely was a notable visitor – Sicily's Aeolian islands, home of the sirens. When speaking of Sicily, or the Aeolian Islands, it is...

Italy | Dolomiti di Brenta

Unlock the mysteries of the Brenta Dolomites, Italy's westernmost extremity of rugged limestone peaks. Bordered by the Swiss Alps to the west and the Austrian Alps to the north, the Brenta mountains tower above celebrity-studded Lake Garda and its lesser known, but equally spectacular, Lago di Molveno. Similar to the rest of the Dolomites range that stretches across northeastern Italy,...

Italy | Italian Dolomites Trek

Towers of vertical limestone, tinged pink in the evening light, loom above the rolling green meadows and intriguing castles, ruins and onion-domed church steeples of the Alto Adige region in northern Italy. This may be the most beautiful mountain region on earth; regularly attracting photographers and mountain enthusiasts enamored of the incredible light and topography of the range. The Dolomites...

Italy | Via Ladinia: Heart of the Italian Dolomites

The Pusteria Valley on the Italian/Austrian border is where the Alps morph into the Dolomites. The northern flank of the valley is pastoral, with undefined walls of limestone and gentler summits. The southern flank is where the Dolomites find their personality, as jagged summits skyrocket above you. Ryder-Walker’s Via Ladinia begins in the calming town of San Candido. The magnificence...

Italy | Highlights of Italy: Courmayeur, Cogne, Champoluc

The Highlights of Italy Trek was designed to showcase three of our favorite villages in the Val d’Aosta region of Italy, as well as provide exceptional hiking with a broad range of physical challenge. For those who prefer to unpack and stay unpacked for a few days at a time, this trek is for you. We begin our trek in...

Italy & Switzerland | Matterhorn Trek

The highest mountains in Western Europe, the Pennine Alps, offer hikers an opportunity to explore a spectacular alpine world. This hike begins in Italy beneath the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the world. The tour also partially circumnavigates the Monte Rosa, the highest mountain in Switzerland and the second highest peak in Western Europe. The Tour de...

Italian Lakes District | Como, Varenna, Menaggio & Bellagio

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Home » Europe » Italy » Backpacking Guide

The COMPLETE Backpacking Italy Travel Guide | 2024

Italy is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world and a MUST for all backpackers to explore at least once in their lives. 

This incredible mass of land is home to outrageous hiking trails (yes, I’m looking at you Dolomites), endless coastlines that are clearly not PG and some of the best food on the planet. 

Whether you’re up for zooming down the coastal roads on a scooter with a cute Italian you’ve picked up along the way or sipping wine in the Tuscan countryside; there are so many Eat Pray Love moments to be had in Italy. 

With so much going for it, I believe that it is of great personal value to misspend several weeks traversing the heart-rendingly gorgeous alleyways, art galleries, and countryside (dude, you can’t spend the whole time looking at pretty bricks) of this sensational country.

Italy has so much on offer for us backpackers that it can sometimes be overwhelming – where the heck do you even start? But d on’t you worry about a thing! You’ve come to the right place – I’m here to answer all your questions and more. 

I have created this top-tier backpacking guide on backpacking Italy filled with the juiciest of travel tips to help you stay mostly under budget, mostly uninjured, and mostly happy. Italy is absolutely doable on a shoestring (if you’re willing to cut some corners). And I’m here to teach you how! 

So, let’s get into it.

Why Go Backpacking in Italy?

Like visiting a really well put-together family, taking the time to visit Italy will leave you wondering ‘when can I move in?’

Italian cuisine is a world wonder in itself, and the art of dining for hours is something that has been slowly perfected for generations. Combine that with a smattering of stunning semi-archaic homes, amazing places to go , and a collection of UNESCO world heritage sites so large that you’ll start thinking you are one too…

Italy is an amazing country, and well deserving of the international recognition and attention that it receives. However, this also means that you can find yourself on the precipice of leaking buckets from your bank account, wondering is Italy Expensive ?

And whilst tourist destinations can soak up funds, employing sneaky couch-surfing, tinder, or even just real friendship antics can score you an easy bed. It is very possible to do Italy on a budget ! Just don’t be surprised if you have to camp on a beach or in someone’s backyard…

How to Approach Travel in Italy

The best approach to backpacking is always to have a plan, then improvise . As Sun Tzu once said, “In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity”, and never has this been truer than in the depths of Italia.

As my father regrettably discovered one fateful day in Greece, not having a plan can make some people very, very upset. Equally, to be too strict with oneself restricts the enjoyment that you can have, worrying about making it to the next thing. Find the balance! And a great place to stay …

It is my (deep) philosophical belief, that this guide should provide you not with a perfect pre-arranged, travel-agency-style itinerary, but with the bare ‘bones’ of your trip – there to be fleshed out closer to the time. This guide is a beast, but every travel tip here should help you cogitate some excellent plans…

Travel tip 1: Learn some Italian!

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Italy

Below is a list of four travel itineraries for backpacking Italy. They cover the regions of Central Italy , Northern Italy , The South , and Sardinia . They vary from one to three weeks in length and cover the majority of the top things to do in Italy. Whatever you fancy your Italian itinerary to be, the itinerary section is here to give you a few attainable routes!

Backpacking Italy 14-Day Itinerary – Central Italy

See the central Italy and some of its most culturally significant locations! This 14-day itinerary through Italy will take you to Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Cinque Terre, and Bologna .

Start in Rome and experience the magnificence of the “Eternal City.” Save money by jumping on free walking tours – or go yourself. Visiting the Trevi fountain, St. Peter’s Basilica, Colosseum and a ton of other cool old stuff is a great free way to spend your time!

Afterwards, head north through the Tuscan countryside, visiting as many charming villages and rustic vineyards as you can. Eventually, you’ll end up in the capital of Tuscany, Florence . Florence is one of the most important cities in Italy and is full of history. If you’re sick of museums, take a trip to Cinque Terre and get some much-needed beach time.

Finally, cross the Apennine Mountains and experience one of Italy’s hidden gems : Bologna . Bologna has amazing food and some awesome parties – you won’t be disappointed.

Backpacking Italy 10-Day Itinerary – Northern Italy

For a slightly different experience, check out the engine of Italy: the industrialized North. This 10-day itinerary will allow you to see Milan, Turin, Genoa, and Venice. These cities are among the most economically important metropolises in both past and present Italy. This is one of the best ways to see Italy in only 10 days!

Starting in affluent Milan , you’ll be able to see such delights as the grand Duomo and the Last Supper painting. There are lots of incredible things to do in Milan but the surrounding area is impressive too. Taking the time to sink a few days in Lake Como is a great idea!

Next stop is Turin , the “royal” epicenter of Italy. Check out one of the many palaces or visit an industrial museum. The Alps are right there as well so feel free to go hiking, skiing or whatever your outdoor fancy is.

Genoa is a short drive away from Turin and is a bit of a forgotten destination. This doesn’t mean that it isn’t worth visiting though! Spend a few days in this port city and grub on some amazing cuisine.

Wrapping things up, travel east all the way to Venice , the Jewel of the Adriatic. Wander among the canals and bridges and feel the grandeur of one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.

Backpacking Italy 3 week Itinerary – The South

The south of Italy might as well be a different country (and I think that the locals wish that it was).This 3-week itinerary will lead you through some of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes and some of its most well-known cultural anomalies. Along the way, you’ll visit Naples (and its awesome things to do ), the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, and the whole island of Sicily .

Naples is the largest city in the south and is has a fat volcano next to it. Visit one of the many museums or, for a more interactive experience, the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum . When you’re finished here, head to the nearby Amalfi Coast, which is one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Heading south, you’ll arrive in the “heel” of Italy i.e. the region of Puglia . This is one of the most culturally diverse places in Italy and is full of wonderful eccentricities. See the strange trulli huts and then lounge on some fine coastline.

Your final stop is in Sicily , which is a large and wonderfully exciting island. Be sure to visit the bustling capital of Palermo , stay in the city of Catania , and everything in-between. You’ll probably end up spending half your trip here, and that’s ok.

Backpacking Italy 7 Day Itinerary – Sardinia

Many a trip to Italy neglects the islands which is a shame. Sardinia is, without a doubt, one the most spectacular islands in the world – it deserves at least a week to be visited!

This 7-day itinerary through Italy’s own paradise will resemble a loop as it takes you to all of the top destinations of the area. There really are some unbelievable places to stay in Sardinia .

Arrive in Cagliari or Olbia and begin your adventure there. Go trekking in the highlands of Gennargentu and the Gulf of Orosei. Explore the north of the island where most beautiful beaches are located. Spend a day or two in Alghero and be sure to drop by Neptune’s Grotto. No matter which direction you go in Sardinia, beauty awaits.

And if you’re still choosing between Milan and Barcelona , then check out this helpful guide to help you decide.

Best Places to Visit in Italy

Countries are all so unreasonably big, aren’t they? Which is of course, why we love them ;). Anyway, here are some specifics on actual real Italian places…

Backpacking Rome

“All roads lead to Rome.” You’ll find yourself using this expression more than once while backpacking around Italy. For thousands of years, Rome has been one of the most important cities in Europe. It’s the center of all things Italy and, arguably, the entirety of Western Civilization. Your trip to Italy is incomplete without visiting Rome.

A visit to Rome can be quite expensive . Rome is a huge metropolis that contains multiple districts and even a separate state within – the Vatican City. I’ll cover most of the top things to do in Rome. Those who want more accommodation tips should check out our guide on where to stay in Rome .

The majority of Rome’s top attractions are located in the neighborhoods that compose the municipal region of the Historical Center-Prati . There are 21 rioni (districts) in the center – labeled with Roman numerals – and most have several historical sites to visit. You can refer to this map for a better visual.

A great itinerary for Rome would be to walk from Piazza del Popolo ( Campo Marzio – R.XII ) all the way to Aventine Hill ( Testaccio – R.XIX ). This route will require an entire day to complete. If you fancy a guide shouting ungentlemanly Italian at you, I’d recommend joining a free walking tour!

Popular places that you’ll be visiting on this itinerary include the Spanish Steps ( Campo Marzio – R.XII ), Trevi Fountain ( Trevi – R.II ), Piazza Navona ( Parione – R.VI ), the Pantheon ( Pigna – R.IX ), Sant’Ignazio Church, Piazza Venezia ( Campitelli R.X ), the Roman Forum, and the Colosseo.

Those wanting to see the Vatican City and Castel Sant’Angelo ( Borgo – R.XIV ) – located across the Tiber River – should allocate another full day of walking. Must-see places in Vatican City are St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museum.

Deciding between Rome and Venice can be challenging enough, so we’ve helped you out with this guide.

Backpacking Florence

Florence is one of my favorites ! In my opinion, it’s the most romantic destination in the whole country. It’s another must-see on a trip to Italy.

The top places to visit in Florence are mostly located in Santa Croce . Brunelleschi’s Dome, attached to the Cathedral of Santa Maria della Fiore, is the most magnificent sight in Florence. It rises prominently above the surrounding buildings and can’t be missed. You can climb the Dome for a fee or enter the cathedral free of charge. Buying a ticket for the dome will also give you access to the Cathedral’s other sites including the Baptistery and Giotto’s Tower.

No Florentine itinerary would be complete without visiting the Mercato del Porcellino, Palazzo Vecchio, or any of the museums.

The Mercato del Porcellino is known for its brass statue of a boar. Legend has it that you’ll be granted a wish if you rub the swine’s snout and place a coin in its mouth at the same time. Like being able to find a really awesome place to stay in Florence , for example.

Adjacent to the Palazzo Vecchio is Ponte Vecchio, which is one the many covered bridges crossing the Arno that are characteristic of the city. Ponte Vecchio is the most famous bridge, while Ponte Santa Trinita and Ponte alle Grazie are also notable.

Across the Arno River and atop the hill of San Miniato is Piazzale Michelangelo. This is the best view in Florence! Grab a drink from a local vendor and watch the sunset here.

Backpacking Tuscany

The most popular cities in Tuscany are Pisa and Siena . Pisa is (obviously) most known for its Leaning Tower though there are more things to do around the Piazza dei Miracoli.

Siena is a great place to stay ; it’s conveniently located in the center of Tuscany and is a great base to explore the surrounding countryside. The city is still worth exploring as it’s full of gorgeous medieval architecture.

If you’re looking for some beach time, the lesser-known island of Elba features some of the best beaches in Italy, easily comparable to those in Sicily or Sardinia.

The best part about staying in the Tuscany is the little towns though. These picturesque settlements dot the Tuscan landscape here and there – finding them is half the fun. Driving around the countryside, all the way admiring the pastoral beauty of the region, is quite special.

Some of the best Tuscan villages are Volterra, San Gimignano, Montepulciano, Montalcino, Bagni San Filippo, and Chianciano . The wine is exquisite.

Most villages specialize in their own grape varieties. For example, Montalcino has Brunello, and Montepulciano has Vino Nobile.

Distinguished Chianti comes from the region of the same name. Sangiovese is common in all parts of Tuscany.

Backpacking Cinque Terre

Northwest of Florence is one of Italy’s premier destinations: Cinque Terre . Literally meaning “five lands,” Cinque Terre is a series of five coastal villages. Perched romantically upon cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, these are among the most beautiful towns in Italy!

The five villages that compose Cinque Terre are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso . Each town offers a slightly different experience but everyone is sure to knock your socks off. Get ready to meander around quaint seaside haunts and ancient stone walls, whose scale has been compared to the Great Wall of China.

There are several beaches around Cinque Terre. Each village should have its own though they vary in size. Notable beaches outside of the towns include Guvano, Fossola , and Persico .

There are several ways to explore Cinque Terre . Public transport links all the villages via bus or train. Getting around by boat is possible but expensive. Driving your own car is not advised as the roads and parking can be maddeningly busy.

One of the best ways to experience Cinque Terre is by walking! You can hike from village to village and stay in each as long as you like. The area isn’t larger either – you could literally walk the entire route in a half-day. Refer to this guide for more information.

Staying in Cinque Terre can be expensive. There are plenty of hostels around though, and I suggest booking them in advance. The best way to save cash is to use one of the many campgrounds in the area. Most of these camps are all outside of Cinque Terre proper but the area is so small that you could easily make daytrips and see all of the top sights.

Backpacking Bologna

Bologna  is a bit of a local secret and receives far fewer visitors than its Tuscan neighbor.  Staying a few days here should be a welcome change of pace.

The city is most famous for its many portic i and hosting the oldest university in the Western world. Lesser known is Bologna’s thriving gastronomic culture and nightlife – both are some of the best in Italy.

The most popular landmarks inside of Bologna are the Towers of the Asinelli and Garisenda, the Fontana di Nettuno, and Piazza Maggiore.

Piazza Maggiore is a hub that affords access to many of Bologna’s most important buildings including City Hall and the Basilica of San Petronio. This area is a convenient place to walk around and shouldn’t take too long.

The best thing to do in Bologna is walk the Via San Luca . Starting at the Porta Saragozza, this porticoed path leads through one of the longest arcades in the world. The porticos are super photogenic and the final view from San Luca Sanctuary is stunning. Check out this post for even more inspiration on things to do in Bologna. 

The evening is when Bologna truly comes alive. People crowd into eateries to sample some of the finest cuisine in Italy. You can find good food anywhere in Bologna. After dinner, the locals fill the streets and drink copiously. The awesomeness of Bologna’s after-hours has given it a reputation of being one of the best party cities in Italy. The top bars are around Piazza Verdi, Via Pratello , and Via Mascarella .

Backpacking Milan

Milan is Italy’s financial hub and champion of all things chic. The city consistently ranks as one of the most influential international cities in art, sport, fashion, business, you name it. It is also one of the most expensive cities in Europe with a very rich economy and some of the most successful enterprises on the entire continent. Backpackers in Milan will marvel at its extravagance but their wallets will shrivel from its prices.

The most important attraction in Milan is the impressive Duomo di Milano. This cathedral is one of the largest of its kind and one of the must-see places in Italy. Starting in the 14th Century, it took over 600 years to complete the construction of the Duomo. To this day, it is one of the grandest examples of Italian architecture.

Other popular landmarks around Milan are the Castello Sforzesco, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, the Church of Sant’Ambrogio, and the Cimitero Monumentale. Milan also has the honor of hosting one of the most famous paintings in the world: the Last Supper . You can (briefly) view the all-mighty piece at the Santa Maria delle Grazie. Tickets are pricey and highly sought-after.

There are so many art galleries and museums in Milan. It’d take a herculean effort to see them all but it’d be a rewarding quest. Don’t be like most visitors and just breeze through – stay in Milan for more than a couple of nights and really take the time to appreciate the underappreciated.

If you’re wanting to get out of the city, then head to a stylish stay in Lake Como , nestled in the Alps. This is a gorgeous alpine lake that has a Riviera-like vibe to it. You can participate in many activities around the lake including kitesurfing, paragliding, canyoneering, and kayaking.

Backpacking Turin

Located at the base of the Alps, Turin is one Italy’s most culturally and economically significant cities. It was once the capital of the first unified state of Italy and, to this day, still maintains an air of regality. Several prototypical Italian enterprises were started in Turin as well including the making of chocolate, cars, and Italian film.

Following World War II, Turin fell into relative obscurity. In recent years though, the city has undergone a renaissance of sorts and is as glorious as ever.

The most prominent feature in Turin is the Mole Antonelliana. Originally a synagogue, this monumental structure hosts the highest stone tower in Europe. Nowadays, the building is a museum for cinema.

Turin has a large number of royal palaces to visit. The most popular are the Royal House of Turin, the Palace of Venaria, and the Palazzo Carignano. Notice that the design of many of these places is more Baroque than Italian.

Outside of the city, there are plenty more royal retreats to visit. Head even farther – towards the Alps – and you’ll end up in the Aosta Valley , which is the gateway to the Gran Paradiso region. The skiing and hiking here is some of the best in Italy.

A lot of Italians like to poke fun or even judge Turin: they think it is a cold and depressing place, akin to Detroit or an Easter bloc city.

Turin is an exceptionally underrated cities in my opinion though. The people, although a bit insular, are way more down-to-earth than most Northerners and the city, although gritty, is honestly beautiful to look at. I’d recommend to anyone to stay a few days in Turin , in a heartbeat.

Backpacking Genoa

Like Bologna, Genoa remains pretty low under the radar. Many who are backpacking in Italy never really find a reason to visit this city. Despite its lack of attention, Genoa is one of the most important economic sectors in Italy. Its port is the busiest in the entire country and, historically, was the launching point of many of Italy’s greatest international expeditions.

Admittedly, there isn’t much in the way of tourist attractions in Genoa. There are a number of museums and mansions to visit here like the Palazzo Ducale, Palazzi dei Rolli, and Palazzo Spinola National Gallery. Most of these buildings are humble compared to the decadent residences of other Italian cities. None of this really matters though.

What makes Genoa really worthwhile is the fact that it appears so unabashed. The city maintains its tourism sector but it isn’t overflowing with tourists like Rome or Venice. Buildings are left to grow old, there’s a constant hum of local chatter, and hookers still freely roam the Old City, even. Genoa doesn’t really care about appearances and, for this reason, it feels like a much more authentic destination.

Being spared the mass of tourists, many people like to think that Genoa is one of the most “Italian” cities in the country. Explore the city a little and you’ll quickly discover that all of the staples of good Italian living are present: EXCELLENT food, a strong sense of culture, and a wealth of opportunity ;). For these reasons, Genoa is one of the best cities in Italy to live in.

Staying in Genoa also means you’ll have ready access to many of the aforementioned northern cities, like Cinque Terre, Milan, and Turin.

Backpacking Venice

Locally referred to as La Serenissima (The Most Serene) and the Queen of the Adriatic , Venice is a jewel of a city that should be on everyone’s must-see list.

Venice is, by-now, a household name, known across the entire world for the magnificence of its civil engineering. The city is spread across 118 islands and each one is connected via a complex system of canals and bridges. Visiting Venice will be an utterly unique experience as it is truly one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Getting into Venice is a matter of taking public transport over the singular bridge connecting it to the mainland or by simply taking a boat. The latter is obviously more expensive but it can be way more convenient.

Cars are not allowed in the city. If you have one, you can park it at Tronchetto on the outskirts of Venice but the rates are super expensive. Just park on the mainland and take the bus or train – you’ll be glad you did.

Once you’re in the city of Venice, it’s just a matter of walking or taking an (expensive) gondola. If you want to save some cash, the city’s public aquataxis, locally known as Vaporetto , are more affordable and sometimes more convenient.

There is lots to see and do in Venice . Attractions that can’t be missed are the Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore. Try and visit all of Venice’s most loved bridges including the Bridge of Sighs and the Rialto. Finally, the Grand Canal of Venice probably affords the best views in the entire city.

Accommodation in Venice proper is predictably very expensive. Most people stay across the lagoon in Mestre and then take the train into the old city. This is a perfectly viable way of seeing the city.

It’s often difficult to pick between Florence and Venice if you’re looking for that sweet sweet romance, but Venice when it is quiet is unbeatable. But so is Florence…

…Just go to both 😉

Backpacking Naples

Naples officially marks our entry into Southern Italy. This part of Italy thinks itself very independent from the rest of the country. Seriously, ask the locals – they’ll let you know what they think of their northern comrades in one manner or another. Thankfully, they are still super hospitable, and there are some great places to stay !

Naples is one of the largest metropolises in Italy and is only a few hour’s drive from Rome. The city is well-known for many things like Napolitano pizza, Mount Vesuvius, and endemic crime . Ultimately, Naples is different from most European cities in a lot of ways.

The worthiest attractions in Naples are more towards the edge of the city, particularly in the Chiaia and Vomero districts, and in the area around the Piazza Bellini. Popular sites in Naples include the Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and Castel Sant’Elmo. The views from Sant’Elmo, in particular, are top-notch.

Naples also has some of the most significant museums and galleries in all of Italy. The National Archaeological Museum hosts the largest collection of Roman architecture in the world and the National Gallery of Naples possesses some truly remarkable examples of Renaissance art.

Of course, no trip to Naples would be complete without a visit to the famous ruins of Pompeii and/or Herculaneum . Of legendary notoriety, Pompeii is a former Roman settlement that was decimated when local Mount Vesuvius blew. The blast was so swift and powerful that people were instantly encased in volcanic plaster. Visitors can still view the bodily remains  today.

If you’re up to the challenge you can also climb the still-active Vesuvius! The hike isn’t terribly daunting though as there’s a road that goes up most of the volcano.

Backpacking the Amalfi Coast

South of Naples is the Amalfi Coast . Stretching from Sorrento to Salerno , the Amalfi Coast is some of the finest coastline in the whole of Italy. The grandeur of this region has attracted myriad international celebrities, both real and fictional. Truly, the Amalfi Coast is one of the must-see places in Italy!

The scene on the Amalfi Coast is this: picturesque towns hang upon cliffs that overlook the sapphire water of the Mediterranean Sea. The villages are painted a rainbow of colors and these are punctuated by the occasional hallowed duomo. Italian splendor at its finest.

There are a lot of different places to visit and base oneself on the Amalfi Coast . Each one offers its own unique charm. Furore is known for its fjord and ornate bridge, while Maiori is famous for having the longest beach. The most popular villages are probably Positano and Amalfi itself. Visit each one and discover their inimitable qualities.

Both the Amalfi and Cinque Terre are super similar. You could probably get away with just seeing one or the other. The biggest between the two is that the latter has more hiking opportunities. There are trails in the Amalfi but they’re in the mountains and away from the coast.

Like Cinque, you should visit the Amalfi Coast without a car. Renting a scooter could be a fun and effective means of getting around if you’re a confident driver. Otherwise, buses service most of the villages.

If you REALLY want to put a cherry on top of your visit here, then consider making a day trip out to the islands of Capri and/or Ischia . Both are easily reached by ferry from Sorrento (1hour) and the beauty of both is well worth the hype.

Backpacking Puglia

The “heel of Italy” – Puglia – has been visited by a myriad of civilizations over the last couple of millennia. The Greeks, Byzantines, Turks, and even the vassals of the Holy Roman Empire have settled here. Thus, Puglia is one of the most culturally diverse regions in Italy. The dialects, here, are as varied as they are difficult to understand. The landscape – a combination of long beaches and sun-baked earth – is also drop dead gorgeous.

The capital of the Puglia region is Bari . It’s an important city that serves as the primary launching pad for the region and for the neighboring Adriatic nations. Most the local landmarks, like the Basilica di San Nicola and Palazzo Fizzarotti, can be found around the labyrinthian Bari Vecchia (Old City). If you are headed to the Balkans you can catch the overnight ferry from Bari to Bar in Montengro. Stay in one of Bari’s best hostels if you want to explore the region for a bit longer.

Brindisi is another important port where you can catch a ferry and commence backpacking Greece. The pure, whitewashed buildings of Brindisi are a staple of the region. Ostuni and Monte Sant’Angelo are also prime examples of this style.

The ocean around Puglia is a ridiculous azure hue and the blazing whites of the Pugilian buildings create a gorgeous juxtaposition with the water. The best coastlines in Puglia are around Lecce and Monopli . Polignano a Mare – which is close to Monopli – is one of the most beautiful beach towns in Italy and shouldn’t be missed.

Backpacking Sicily

Sicily is like a furnace in many ways. Its summers can be oppressively hot. The locals have a fiery passion when comes to their heritage. Also, there’s an extremely active volcano – Mt. Etna – present. If I may say, Sicily is a “blast” to visit. (That will be the only pun, I swear.)

The capital of Sicily is bustling Palermo . Staying in Palermo will be a frenetic experience but it will be worth it once you’ve had your first granita: a kind of ice cream that the locals commonly eat in the morning.

Palermo does suffer somewhat from its ongoing conflict with the mafia , who have a very real presence here – just don’t mention this to the locals .

The second most visited Sicilian city is Catania . Catania is home to some stunning Baroque architecture and the busiest university on the island. Catania has some solid beaches – La Plaja being the longest – and is the base for climbing the temperamental Mt. Etna. Most locals will say that Catanese cuisine is the best part of the city though.

Being an arc of ancient culture, Sicily is full of ruins, particularly those of the Greek variety. The most spectacular of archaeological sites are in Agrigento .

There is so much to do in Sicily – the charming Taormina neighborhoods , the Aeolian Islands , the wine cellars of Marsala – that finding a base will be difficult. I suggest staying in one or two places in Sicily and breaking up your trip. It would be very difficult to see the whole island from just one base.

Backpacking Sardinia

Sardinia : the Italian’s idea of an “island paradise.” Sardinia is one of the most beautiful islands in Italy , arguably more than Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast.

Life in Sardinia is pretty slow and there isn’t a lot of nightlife. The locals have a reputation for being pretty insular as well – don’t expect many bubbly personalities here. This island will mostly appeal to lovers of nature and quiet, as well as those looking to embark on an Italian yoga retreat .

The major cities of Sardinia are Cagliari, Olbia, Sassari . The first two are where the majority of the ferries arrive. These settlements serve as prime entryways for the rest of the island.

The most beautiful beaches in Sardinia are located in the north. These are, seriously, some of the best stretches of sand in the whole of Europe. The coast around La Maddalena, Costa Smeralda, Budoni, Santa Teresa di Gallura, Porto Istana, and the Bay of Orosei are all superlative. Other notable sites, like the multicolored village of Castelsardo and elegant Grotte di Nettuno , are also worth visiting.

The best hiking is towards the center of the island around the Gennargentu National Park . You can refer to the Trekking section for more details on trails in this area.

Sardinia can be hugely expensive, especially in the summer. Ferries tickets and lodging in Sardinia are both pricey. Camping will be the only option for many backpackers. Luckily, Sardinia has an extensive campground system.

Off the Beaten Path in Italy

At #5, Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world. You’d think and sometimes depress over the fact that there’s nowhere in the country where you can escape the tourist hordes. You’d be wrong though. There are parts of Italy that, I shit you not, are empty – not a soul in sight. With a little effort, you’ll be off the beaten path in Italy in no time.

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Backpacking Eastern Italy

The East of Italy – composed of Umbria, Marche , and Abruzzo – is eerily devoid of foreigners. Hell, there are only a handful of hostels to be found in those last two regions combined . So what’s the deal?

The east of Italy is one of the least populated and untapped areas in the whole country. The potential that these regions have is astounding. The locals know this, as most of the tourists that visit are usually Italian. Any expat that’s been here either knows someone or has done a lot of digging.

Umbria possesses some very significant sites. Perugia is a lovely medieval town with a booming university that makes it actually really fun. Assisi is the birthplace of one of the greatest minds in history and its basilica is a priceless treasure of medieval art. Umbria is also the site for some the Romans’ greatest engineering accomplishments, like the man-made Cascata delle Marmore.

Marche has all the same characteristics that make Tuscany great – medieval villages, pastoral scenery, and great wine included. Notably, the former has more picturesque mountains – the Sibillini – and a more accessible coastline – the Adriatic. Recanati is one of the finest Italian towns that I’ve ever visited. The Beach of the Two Sisters – near Ancona – could give Sardinia a run for its money as well.

Abruzzo is unspoiled. Some have even described the region as one of “ Italy’s last wilderness (s).” The mountainous parks of Gran Sasso and Maiella are full of hiking opportunities. Sulmona, Chieti, and Scanno are all enchanting medieval villages. The beaches of Abruzzo are no slouch either.

Visit any one these regions for a more intimate Italian experience.

Backpacking Southern Italy

Now we’re really in the middle of nowhere. The regions of Molise, Basilicata, and Calabria are some of the least talked about areas in Italy. Some Italians don’t even know where some of these destinations are.

Molise is the newest and probably most neglected region in Italy. It’s sometimes perceived as totally abject and is usually the butt of “wtf is Molise” jokes . To be honest, the attractions in Molise are pretty sparse.

This doesn’t mean that what Molise offers is shit though. One of Italy’s most beautiful archipelagos is the nearby Tremiti Islands, accessible by ferry from Termoli . This island chain is extraordinary and relatively untouched by mass tourism. Back on the mainland, Bagnoli del Trigno is a unique hilltop village that was actually partially cut out of a cliffside.

South of Molise is Basilicata, which, like the former, is relatively empty. Basilicata has received a little international attention though. The village of Matera was recently named the 2019 Cultural Capital of Europe and was a James Bond filming location on the lastest movie. Abandoned Craco has served as a film set for several movies including the Passion of the Christ.

Other destinations in Basilicata are still hidden from the masses. Castelmezzano is a tiny village built defiantly at the base of the craggy Dolomiti Lucane. Melfi is home to a wonderful Norman castle.

Finally, we arrive at the infamous Calabria, which seems to be every Italian’s favorite holiday spot. Calabria is well known amongst Italians (for good and bad) but it still evades foreign attention. The beaches here are probably the best on the mainland. Popular beach towns include Praia a Mare, Tropea, Capo Vaticano, and Pizzo. Scilla, Soverato,  and Caminia maintain relative anonymity.

Backpacking Lesser Known Cities

There are so many cities in Italy that are worth visiting. Most visitors stick to the crowded favorites, which have been outlined in this guide already. If you’re sick of the endless tourists and want to get a taste of the alternative though, these oft-neglected locations make for a great detour.

Below is a list of some lesser-visited cities in Italy. Most of these are very accessible by public transit so you won’t have to rent a car. Also, note that the majority of these locations have multiple forms of backpacker lodging. I’ve included links to all of the relevant accommodation pages for your convenience.

Top Things to Do in Italy

Italy is home to some of the best things to do in the entirety of backpacking Europe … Let’s see what we got!

1. Tour the canals of Venice

See why Venice is considered one of Italy’s best cities to visit! Walk amongst the canals and discover all the secret nooks that the city hides.

2. Experience the Glory of Rome

Rome may be one of the most historically significant cities in the entire world. A walk in this city, around the monuments and ruins, is unlike any other. A trip to Italy isn’t complete without Rome.

3. Hike in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are some of the most beautiful mountains in Europe. Pack a bag and go for a multi-day trek among these imposing peaks.

4. Party in Bologna

Because of its fantastic cuisine and raucous nightlife, Bologna is one the best cities in Italy! The greatest part: it’s a relative unknown amongst the international crowd.

5. Take a wine tour

Italy produces some of the best wines in the world. Drive around one of the many wine regions – like Tuscany or Marche – and sample as many vintages as you can in winery tours around Italy . When travelling Italy, you must take time to sample the good stuff.

6. Relax in a coastal village

Visiting one of the little seaside towns is one of the quintessential Italian experiences. Go exploring and see if you can find a beach all to yourself.

7. Visit a museum or gallery in Italy

Italy hosts some of the most important pieces of fine art in the world. Seeing the likes of the Last Supper or David is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

8. Climb a volcano

Italy is home to some of the most active volcanoes in Europe. Steel yourself, and climb up to the caldera of Etna or Vesuvius to stare into the smoky void.

9. Visit a less popular city

Italy has its fair share of amazing cities – Rome, Florence, and Venice to name a few. There are way more lesser-known cities that are worth seeing though like Genoa, Parma, and Syracuse.

10. Visit the Italian lakes

As well as classic cities, a gorgeous coast and mega mountains, Italy also has a few epic lakes. The most famous, and best Italian lakes , are Lake Garda and Lake Como which are often frequented by the rich and famous.

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Backpacker Accommodation in Italy

Most of Italy’s major destinations will have several hostels to choose from and all of them are of exceptional quality. You’d have to venture pretty far to find an Italian destination without a backpacker lodge. Just keep in mind that they can get pricey in the tourist season !

There are a number of other accommodation types in Italy though, from quaint bed & breakfasts to rural farm stays and luxurious vacation rentals .

If you’re really trying to travel around Italy on a budget, then couchsurfing will be one of your best options. This is a great way to meet some of the locals and experience a more intimate side of Italy too. Travelling Italy becomes more of adventure too!

Honestly though, the best way of sacking up in Italy is by camping . The Italian campgrounds are very well maintained and the vibes here can be fantastic. loved camping in Italy, and so did my wallet.

To help you find the absolute best places to stay in Italy during your backpacking adventure, check out our in-depth article on the best hostels in Italy . There are some true hostel gems in there so give it a look!

Best Places to Stay in Italy

Italy backpacking costs.

At a first glance, Italy looks spenny as fuck . Your biggest outgoing is likely to be accommodation, and during peak season prices can be unpayable.

If you really want to visit Italy on a budget, balance visiting busy tourist hubs with going super remote (try anywhere in Molise), as places to stay are much cheaper, and so is food! People are kinder to tourists too, which goes a long way!

A comfortable budget for backpacking Italy would be around $50-$60 daily. A restaurant meal will cost on average $15 while a panini or snack will be around $4. Most alcoholic drinks will also be around $5-$8, again, depending on when and where you are.

There are lots of ways of saving some cash if you’re backpacking around Italy. Here are some tips and tricks for saving money.

• Go camping – camping is by far the cheapest way of sleeping.
• Couchsurf – it’s very popular in Europe.
• Cook at home – Italian groceries are cheap and of a high quality.
• Buy your own wine – bottles are usually $5.
• Try ride sharing – most of the time, BlaBlaCar will be your cheapest transportation option.
• Find free stuff – there are plenty of free things to do in the cities. Check this guide out here for a good start.
• Backpack with friends – you’ll end up splitting costs.

Like most tourists hotspots, Italy is subject to substantial seasonal rates. Backpacking in Italy during the summer when every other nation is on vacation will definitely be more expensive. Those that really want to travel to Italy on a budget should visit from October-March when prices will be much lower.

A Daily Budget in Italy

Money in italy.

Italy uses the Euro, which is accepted in over twenty-four European nations. As of February 2023, the Euro’s conversion rate is 1=1.06 US dollars.

ATMs and banks can be found throughout Italy, and you should never have a problem withdrawing cash. Most ATMs charge a fee for converting currency, but getting a zero foreign transaction fee card, like a Quicksilver Visa or a Charles Schwab card can keep the costs down!

Even better, the BrokeBackpacker strongly recommends getting Wise (formally transferwise) to save a bunch of cash when roaming around. Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks. And it’s even better than Western Union …

Travel Tips – Italy on a Budget

• Camp: Whatever your Italy backpacking route, there should be plenty of gorgeous places to camp. Italy can be a great place to camp in the rural areas. While wild camping is illegal in Italy, you can still find some pretty remote places to camp for free. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
• Cook your own food: If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food – I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove.
• Book your transportation early: Both plane and train tickets are much cheaper if you purchase them in advance.
• Couchsurf: Italians are awesome, and I am so grateful I was able to explore its cities with local friends. Check out Couch surfing to make some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals.
• Pack a travel water bottle and save money every day!

Why You Should Travel to Italy with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

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The Best Time to Travel to Italy

The best time to visit Italy is in the spring and autumn, during the shoulder seasons.Italy is subject to two distinct climates: a classic Mediterranean one in the south and a milder subtropical one in the north. Both have similar characteristics though having warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

Summers in Italy can be really, really hot, especially in the south. Many locations, even those as far north as Bologna, can get well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the middle of August. When I was Florence in 2017, it was a season-high 112.

Winters in Italy are pretty mild. Places of a higher elevation, like those near the Alps, Apennine, and various volcanoes do receive a respectable amount of snow still.

Autumn and spring are probably the loveliest times of year to visit Italy. The Italian spring is characterized by gentle rains and a lushness of the landscape. Note that snow still lingers in mountains in spring and won’t clear until June.

Festivals in Italy

Italy has a good mix of religious, cultural, musical, and agricultural festivals. Regardless of the type of celebration though, Italians go all out and the festivities can get absolutely nutty at times! People throwing fruit at each other, neighborhood gangs getting in turf (fist) fights, thousands crowding into streets while dressed like jesters – these are just a few tastes of how Italians celebrate.

If you want to attend an Italian festival, steel yourself and prepare for the ride of your life!

• Carnevale (February/March) – Italy’s own carnival. Venice’s version is most famous as everyone dresses in masks and harlequin-like outfits.
• Battle of the Oranges (February/March) – The largest food fight in Italy! Takes place in Ivrea.
• Festa della Sensa (May) – Celebration that commemorates Venice’s relationship with the sea. The waters around Venice are packed with civilian boats that range from dingy to epic in appearance.
• La Corsa dei Ceri (May) – One of the greatest religious processions in Italy. Honors Saint Ubaldo, and is held in Gubbio
• Umbria Jazz (July) – One of the most important jazz festivals in the world. Takes place in  Perugia. There’s also a winter version held in Orvieto.
• Palio di Siena (August/September) – Rival neighborhoods in Siena meet and compete in various competitions, most well-known being horse races. Can be quite energetic.
• Harvest Sagre (October-November) – The autumn harvest and food festivals. Nearly every region holds their own around this time.
• Musica dei Popoli (October/November) – A large festival that showcases alternative and folk Italian music. Held in Florence.
• Club to Club (November) – A large electronic festival held in Turin.

What to Pack for Italy

There isn’t really any social or religious stigma when it comes to dressing up in Italy. People wear comfortable clothes in the summer and dress warmly for the winter just like everywhere else. Packing light clothing in the summer is definitely a good idea as it can be very hot during this time in Italy.

The only requirement for dressing in Italy is that you need to look like you give a shit about your appearance. Fashion in Italy is a fairly serious affair. If an Italian is going to be seen in public, they’re going to make damn sure that they look clean and composed. I’ve even known locals to wear a suit and tie to the fucking doctor; I would usually wear a pair of sweats in this situation.

So in conclusion: wear whatever you feel most comfortable in but just make sure that it’s a decent outfit. If you have ratty-ass backpacker clothing (like the kind I wore after backpacking through Africa) make sure you limit how much you wear it. The locals will be much more receptive to a dapper individual.

If you’re looking for some tips, be sure to check out my full Italian packing list . Otherwise, consider bringing less with you and buying some clothes when you arrive.

Essential Items for Backpacking Italy

On every adventure, there are six things I never go traveling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Staying Safe in Italy

While Italy is generally safe , probably the one hazard that everyone considers when backpacking in Italy is the mafia . Let’s clear a few things up.

Firstly: the term mafia isn’t an encompassing word – the mafia actually just refers to the Sicilian branch, which is officially named Cosa Nostra. Secondly: while organized crime in Italy is a very serious problem, they don’t target tourists all that much. Hell, you’ll probably be interacting with syndicate members regularly, and never know it. Besided, there are several ingenious ways to hide your money .

Like any country with an exaggerated criminal presence, it’s best to just stay out of trouble. The only way that you’ll actually be affected by the Italian gangs is if you consciously get involved with them. So don’t worry too much about being the target of a “hit” or having your car blown-up – that stuff only happens in the movies.

Accidents and ‘wrong-place-wrong-time’ moments do happen, but there are several ways to avoid idiocy whilst attempting to stay safe .

Sex, Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Italy

When it comes to having fun, Italians are a bit nocturnal, much like their Spanish latitude neighbours. Most Italians will take their sweet time before hitting the town – first grabbing an aperitivo, then dinner, then a coffee, and only then will they kick into high gear. By the time they’re ready, it’s already past midnight. Those visiting Italy for the first time may find this process somewhat tedious.

Just because the Italians stay-up late doesn’t mean they necessarily drink more as well. In fact, most Italians are very regimented in their drinking habits. They start with a low-alcoholic drink and then slowly move up the ladder. If someone starts calling for shots though, then it’s serious party business.

Italians also love to drink in public spaces whenever possible. In the wee hours of the night, most of the squares (ironically those adjacent to the churches) will be packed full of people drinking negronis, limoncello, and sambuca. These moments are usually filled with conversation as opposed to drunken disorderliness.

If you find yourself in a social situation where you’re surrounded by merry locals, just be yourself and try not to get too wasted. Italians don’t care for drunks and it’s a quick way to alienate yourself, especially if you’re looking to hook-up. Just be confident and straightforward with them – they’re very receptive to this sort of behavior.

Drugs are dutifully illegal in Italy. If you wanted to score some, you’d best head to clubs. Be careful when soliciting though – many who are looking to buy drugs are taken advantage of and it’s quick to get in touch with the seedy underbelly of the criminal world. So just be careful, and know who you’re buying from.

Travel Insurance for Italy

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How to Get Into Italy

Being a European nation, Italy is very easy to enter and to move within. Customs are a breeze, transportation is efficient, and onward travel options are numerous. When backpacking Italy, you should have no problem knowing where to go next.

Flying into Rome, Naples, Venice, Florence, or Milan is acceptable, and can result in some surprisingly good prices. As always, I recommend jumping on Skyscanner and checking for those low prices baby, low prices …

…mmm.

Italy borders Slovenia, Austria, Switzerland and France. You can get in through any of these very easily as they are all part of the EU (ok, Switzerland isn’t, but for these purposes, it is), and out again too!

You can even take a boat from Sicily to Tunisia or vice versa, but they will make you check in over 2 hours before departure and it is pretty horrific with no cabin (although super doable for the tough cookies out there). Trust.

Entry Requirements for Italy

As part of an attempt to strengthen borders, all members of the 63 previously visa-free countries must register with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) from 2024 onwards. While this is not as tedious as a Visa, it’s an extra step that you should complete before arrival.

An ETIAS authorisation is valid for 3 years.

Those who reside in the Schengen Zone only need an EU ID card to enter a neighbouring country. All other world nations require a passport (and ETIAS authorisation).

Most non-EU nations can qualify for a 90-day visa that is valid in any participating European nation. There are always exceptions though, so be sure to check the official website before you start backpacking in Europe.

See here for a list of all European nations in the Schengen Zone. Remember that not every nation in Europe is a part of this agreement.

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How to Get Around Italy

Italy has a very expansive public transportation system. You can get just about anywhere via bus or train.

Buses are cheap, comfortable, and ubiquitous. You can buy a ticket at a local shop or ticket office but your best bet would be to use an online resource, like Bookaway, Flixbus, or Omio.

Also like the rest of Europe, train travel can be a varied experience with multiple classes and departure options. Regional trains are the most affordable type of locomotive travel and usually take a bit more time. High-speed trains are quicker and more expensive, servicing only extra-city routes like Rome-Milan or Bologna-Florence. Like buses, it’s best to buy a ticket ahead of time, preferably online (you can get a sim card for Italy easily).

Renting a car is a great way to explore Italy at your own pace. You can sort your car rental here in just a few minutes. Booking in advance is the best way to ensure you score the lowest price and your choice of vehicle. Often, you can find the best car rental prices when you pick up the rental from the airport.

Make sure you also purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as tires, windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.

Italian highways are very modern and navigable. Italians drive on the right side of the road. Try to avoid driving in cities where congestion becomes a problem. Some, like Florence and Venice, won’t even allow vehicles in the center.

Note that drivers can be subject to a lot of fees. Toll gates are numerous and almost unavoidable while driving on the main highways. Traffic cameras are also ubiquitous and will ticket you for even the most minor of infractions. Fuel is also quite expensive in Italy by European standards, so much so that many Italians have resorted to driving alternative fuel vehicles that use methane and electricity.

Hitchhiking is very difficult in Italy. Most Italian drivers won’t even bother to stop unless, for some reason, they know you. If you do get a ride, it’s probably because a fellow tourist has taken pity on you.

Campervan Hire in Italy

A great way to backpack Italy is with a van. Campervans are awesome. Few things in life get me as excited as a good road trip in a campervan. Traveling in Italy by campervan is bound to be a fantastic experience. Renting a campervan in Italy is easy too.

There are so many off-the-beaten-path adventures to be had in Italy. Campervan hire is your key to adventure (and comfort)!

Onwards Travel from Italy

Italy shares friendly borders with nearly every country in its vicinity and these can be crossed via plane, train, automobile, ferry, you name it.

Those coming and going from one of the Schengen countries will have the least trouble crossing borders. Buses and trains link Italy directly with France, Switzerland, Austria, and further to Germany, and Spain.

Those who want to go backpacking in Greece afterwards should utilize one of the many convenient ferries that cross the Adriatic Sea. Ferries also link Italy with other non-Schengen Adriatic countries like Croatia, Albania, and Montenegro. Brindisi and Bari are the most obvious (and straightforward) ports.

Really, there are no trains towards eastern Europe, even the stunning Slovenia . However, it’s very possible to grab a bus in this direction, and you can get pretty far, pretty quick like this!

Working in Italy

Trying to be a digital nomad in Rome or Florence will kill your bank account, but Italy can be great if you go off the beaten track, especially in lesser-known regions. There are no special visas available, and cafes are usually without extra plug sockets. That said, data coverage is strong, and there are some awesome places to work from!

If your heart is REALLY set on working in Italy, though, Global Work and Travel may be able to help. With opportunities to Teach English, Au Pair, or Tutor, Global Work and Travel assist you with the VISA process and offer a pretty sweet support system throughout your stay, whatever option you choose.

Volunteering in Italy

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something back. There are loads of different volunteer projects in Italy ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much everything!

Italy is a wealthy and well-developed country, so volunteers from abroad aren’t necessarily in high demand. Most opportunities you’ll find are in hospitality and housekeeping, which usually provide free meals and accommodation in return. You won’t need a specific visa if you plan on volunteering for less than 90 days, but non-EU residents will need to apply for one if they’re staying long-term. 

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Italy, then we recommend that you Signup for Worldpackers –  a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with traveling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10 when you sign up. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Italian Culture

You can’t backpack through Italy and not form some kind of an impression about the people. Italian behavior is, by now, well documented by popular culture. The close-talking, the animated body language, the frankness of the conversation – most of these stereotypes are actually pretty spot-on.

When interacting with an Italian, the first thing that you may notice is that they have little regard for personal space. They will make physical contact quite casually with others e.g. put a hand on your shoulder or kiss a cheek. Keep an eye out for their gestures as well as Italians throw around their arms and hands in an overly excited way sometimes. Don’t feel threatened – it’s just how Italians communicate.

Because of their directness, Italian men may appear overly machismo or degrading when they interact with women. To be honest, most Italian men that I’ve met are actually very respectful of the opposite sex. It’s only a few bad apples that get the attention and, in defence of Italian men, every country has asshole dudes.

At the end of the day, Italians have a pretty good sense of humor when it comes to their idiosyncrasies. Don’t be afraid to talk to them about their behavior as they love to explain themselves.

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Useful Travel Phrases for Italy

Did you know that “certified Italian” is only spoken in the center of Italy – around Rome – and that there are, in fact, 34 other languages and dialects that are officially recognized? Yee, Italy sometimes has problems communicating.

Most Italians will comment on how they can’t understand their neighbors and how frustrating it is. A person from Milan would probably have a lot of difficulty when talking to a Sicilian because their dialects are so different. For those backpacking through Italy, this can make things difficult as a lot of the Italian that they’ve learned will become redundant depending on where they are.

There are, of course, certain staples of the Italian language that will always be universal though. Learning a few of them will be better than knowing nothing at all. Below, I have written the pronunciations for a few helpful Italian phrases with English translations.

If speaking Italian proves to be too difficult, English is still widely spoken in most of the larger cities and by the majority of the youth. Certain regions that share a border with another European nation will also speak more of that particular country’s language. For example, many people from the Valle d’Aosta region speak French while those from Trentino use a local dialect of German.

• Piacere – nice to meet you
• Come va? – how are you?
• Mi può aiutare? – can you help me?
• Quanto costa? – how much does that cost?
• Un caffé, per favore – one coffee, please
• Buon Giorno / Buona sera / Buona notte – good morning/ good evening/ goodnight
• Mi scusi – excuse me
• Nessun sacchetto di plastica – No plastic bag
• Nessuna cannuccia per favore – No straw please
• Nessuna posate di plastica per favore – No plastic cutlery please
• Come ti chiami? – what’s your name?
• mi chiamo… – My name is…
• Tutto bene – all’s well
• Grazie mille – thank you so much

What to Eat in Italy

Most of the Italian food that foreigners eat is pretty generic and bland. Those visiting Italy for the first time will be happy to hear that the authentic stuff is much better and totally worth it; actually, it’s fucking fantastic.

The key to good Italian cooking is using limited ingredients. Don’t call Italian food simple though – it’s really amazing how diverse the cuisine can be with so few parts. Most dishes only have 3-4 components and using anymore is considered overkill. As one Italian put it while they were watching me make a meal with 5+ ingredients: “you’re shitting outside of the toilet.”

Pasta is, of course, one the most popular Italian dishes and it’s classically served for lunch. Pizza is widely adored though some Italians are irritated by tourists’ constant request for them. Here’s a tip to avoid the local’s ire: don’t order pizza at a restaurant; order one at a pizzeria. Italians only eat pizza in pizzerias.

These are only the basic food groups though. There are hundreds (maybe thousands) of Italian dishes hailing from every corner of the country. Each corner of Italy will have its own version as well i.e. pizza in Naples is very different from pizza in Milan.

Cooking is an integral part of Italian identity. One could easily spend their entire journey dedicated to just exploring Italian cuisine and they would be better off than most.

Popular Italian Dishes

For those that are ready to begin their culinary expedition, I’ve created a list of ten of the must-try foods in Italy. Each item is followed by the region that it originated from.

• Tortellini  (Emilia-Romagna)  – pasta dumplings stuffed with ricotta and acacia flower.
• Frico  (Friuli Venezia Giulia)  – baked dish w/ cheese and potatoes.
• Lagane  (Basilicata)  – wide pasta w/ chickpeas, garlic, and oil.
• Pizza Napolitana  (Campania)  – pizza made (specifically) with San Marzano tomatoes and Mozzarella di Bufala.
• Orecchiette  (Puglia)  – pasta that resembles a “small ear.”
• Pilao  (Sardinia)  – rice prepared with various ingredients; similar to pilaf.
• Pasta con sarde  (Sicilia)  – pasta w/ sardines, raisins, pine nuts, fennel, and saffron.
• Risotto  (Milano)  – slow cooked rice w/ butter, saffron, and produce.
• Strudel  (Trentino)  – made w/ apples, pine nuts, raisins, and cinnamon.
• Abbacchio  (Lazio)  – pan-fried meats w/ herbs, olive oil, and white wine.
• Polenta  (Valle d’Aosta)  – boiled cornmeal that is then pressed into blocks.
• Bisi  (Veneto)  – rice and peas.
• Olive all’Ascolana  (Marche)  – fried olives that are stuffed w/ meats.

Books to Read While Backpacking Italy

These are some of my favorite travel reads and books set in Italy, which you should consider picking up before you begin your backpacking adventure…

• Under the Tuscan Sun – One of the original travel novels that promoted Tuscany as a tourist destination.
• I, Claudius – A semi-autobiographical novel concerning one of Rome’s most unlikely emperors, Tiberius Claudius, who witnessed the rise and fall of some the Empire’s most notorious figures.
• Gomorrah – The best-selling novel that seeks to expose the corruption and inner dealings of Naple’s major crime syndicate, the Camorra. Now a hit TV show.
• If on a Winter’s Night a Traveler – Italo Calvino was one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. This novel is a collection of his most regarded short stories.
• My Brilliant Friend – A triumph of Italian literature. The story of two friends as they try to live their lives in post-WWII Naples.

Brief History of Italy

The history of Italy is one of the most impressive sagas in human civilization. Most people know of Italy’s greatest contributions like the Roman Empire and Renaissance. Oddly enough though, the history of modern Italy isn’t discussed much for one reason or another.

The current state of Italy can be traced back to the 19th century when the various Italian states, who had been warring for almost half of a millennia, began to unify. Under a collection of ambitious individuals – including Victor Emmanuel II and Giuseppe Garibaldi – Italy would be whole again for the first time in ages.

Neighboring France played a large role in the Risorgimento (Revival) of a unified Italy thanks to the French Revolution, which inspired many revolutionaries, and to the foreign aid that they provided, which helped Italy overcome costly wars against Austria. When Rome was retaken in 1870, the Risorgimento was complete and the Kingdom of Italy was born.

For the next forty years, Italy would undergo a process of reorganization in an attempt to join the modern world. At the onset of World War I, they had, ultimately, done a very poor job and were extremely ill-equipped. After famously bowing out of the conflict, things got worse for the country.

Fascism rose in the wake of WWI. Benito Mussolini became the most powerful man in the country and quickly allied himself with Adolf Hitler. Long story short: World War II kicked-off, and we all know how that ended up.

Since WWII, Italy has struggled in its attempts to recapture its former glory. There have been moments of great prosperity but these have been tarnished by greater economic hardship, corruption, and political dissonance. At the moment, Italy’s current political state is still a bit of a question mark.

Some Unique Experiences in Italy

You can get up to some absolute antics in Italy, especially if you jump aboard the European spirit of flirting with the outdoors and unexpected interactions…

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Hiking in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are some of the most stunning mountains in the world! A subsection of the Alps, the Dolomites are characterized by their jagged carbonate peaks that often resemble towers, teeth or even talons.

The Dolomites is a mecca for outdoors enthusiasts who want to backpack through Italy. There are thousands of trails crisscrossing this region and hikers can spend weeks in the mountains here.

The Dolomites benefit from an awesome public transport system. You can get to just about any trail with a bus, which eliminates the need for a car. Once you’re in the mountains, you’ll obviously have to hoof it from camp to camp.

Accommodation usually comes in the form of rifugi, which are essentially mountain huts. These huts offer bunk beds and, depending on what you paid, 1-3 meals a day. The food of the rifugi, which is a mix of Italian and German cuisine, is surprisingly delicious.

Rifugi can be expensive at $50-$100/night. Those who want to save some cash can bivvy so long as they do so in an inconspicuous manner. Wilderness backpackers will probably have to pack their own food as well because the rifugi usually have only enough food to feed their guests.

For those who want to learn more about the Dolomites, I suggest picking up this book . It’s one of the most informative ones that I’ve found.

Hiking in the Apennine Mountains

The Apennine Mountains are located in the center of Italy and stretch from Genoa to Calabria. Spread across this mountain chain are several different Italian national parks that offer great hiking opportunities.

The Sibillini Mountains , located in the Marche region, are not as tall as the Alps or as dramatic as the Dolomites – the landscape of the Sibillini is slightly gentler and very pastoral. The wildflowers and meadows here can be spectacular though. The Sibillini is also much, much quieter compared to the Alps. Those interested in walking here can refer to this webpage outlining all the most popular trails in the area.

South of the Sibillini is Gran Sasso in Abruzzo. The highest peak in the area is Como Grande, whose distinct profile is often seen from miles away. Despite having prime conditions for hiking and skiing, the Gran Sasso receives very few visitors. This is very surprising considering that the park is only a few hours drive from Rome.

Hiking in Sicily

Much like Sardinia, Sicily offers some great walks that go from sea to sky, the latter coming in the form of active volcanoes!

The best place to go hiking in Sicily is around the Aeolian Islands where you’ll get a good mix of beach and mountain trails. Stromboli , the local volcano, is the most popular trek here as hikers are afforded the chance of seeing an active crater, noxious fumes and spitting lava included. Those looking for something more pleasant will find plenty of beauty along the coastline outside of Lipari .

More great trails can be found around the Vendicari Reserve, Zingaro Reserve, and Mt Etna . Interested backpackers can head to this website for a brief overview of several Sicilian hikes.

Scuba Dive Italy on a Liveaboard Trip

Love Scuba Diving? Taking a Liveaboard trip in Italy might just be the thing for you.

For diving lovers, there might not be a better way to get the full Italian diving experience than joining a Liveaboard trip.

On a Liveaboard trip you spend your days exploring the best dive sites in any given area. Nights are spent eating tasty food and socializing with fellow dive maniacs.

Be sure that in Italy, Liveaboard trips are not the cheapest endeavors. That said, a Liveaboard trip is the way to go if you are looking to spend a chunk of time diving and exploring.

Joining an Organized Tour in Italy

For most countries, including Italy, solo travel is the name of the game. That said, if you are short on time, energy, or just want to be part of an awesome group of travelers you can opt to join an organized tour. Joining a tour is a great way to see a majority of the country quickly and without the effort that goes into planning a backpacking trip. However—not all tour operators are created equal—that is for sure.

G Adventures  is a solid down-to-earth tour company catering to backpackers just like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You can score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Italy for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.

Check out some of their awesome  itineraries for Italy  here…

FAQs on Backpacking Italy

Here’s what people usually ask us about travelling around Italy.

Is Backpacking through Italy a good idea?

Recognising that as a travel writer, I’m obligated to say yes, it’s still a yes. Backpacking through Italy is a great idea! Be sure to do your research beforehand though, and bring a tent if you are an exceptionally broke backpacker! Oh, and get authorised by ETIAS (starting May 2023).

What are the Best Places to Visit in Italy for Backpackers?

Starting from the top! 1. Rome – Obvious, brilliant, and buzzy! 2. Florence – Artsy, mercantile romantic 3. Venice – boats man! 4. Milan – racing, fashion, and better looking people than anywhere else 5. Bologna – underrated, vibey 6. Cinque Terre – seaside, quaint, beautiful; 7. Tuscany – wine region (enough said) 8. Turin – More royal palaces than people 9. Genoa – another underrated gemstone 10. Naples – unbeatable going out scene (and other old stuff)

Where are the Best Places to go Backpacking in Europe?

At the top of the list: Greece, Italy, Spain, Croatia, Portugal, France, and England . Why? You’ve got to start somewhere, and if you’ve never been to Europe, this is it! If you asked me in confidence, however, and for those backpacking Europe with a little more experience, I would send you over to eastern Europe. Stuff gets weird there, and I love it.

What are the Best Things to do in Italy?

In my humble opinion, the best things to do in Italy are: 1. Visit the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the ancient ruins scattered through the streets of Rome 2. Get involved in Naples nightlife (a wild, wild time) 3. Go skiing! Italy has some pretty wicked slopes! 4. Climb up the famous Pompeii volcano (although it might be active, I’m not sure) 5. Take a relaxing break in Cinque Terre, one of the most beautiful parts of Italy.

Final Advice Before Visiting Italy

Italy’s one of those rare countries that live up to their grandiose reputation. Everything here is justifiably hyped – the food is amazing, the people are a riot, the history is vibrant, and the landscape is drop-dead gorgeous. Sounds like the makings of a brilliant trip, right?

Backpacking Italy will be one of the best times of your life. You’ll be able to choose from a myriad of attractions and, at times, face some pretty harrowing prices. Stick with this budget travel guide to Italy though, and you’ll be armed with everything that you could possibly need.

Italy is a relatively open-minded country. Yes, it can be pretty dogmatic and, yes, the locals can appear intimidating at times (because they’re so goddamn stylish). If you treat everyone with respect and dignity though (as you always should) then you’ll be accepted with open arms.

• Backpacking Spain Travel Guide
• Volunteering at Hostels
• Quitting Your Job to Travel the World
• Jobs to Make Money While Travelling

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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PLEASE TELL ME THE TITLE OF YOUR BOOK, THE ISBN # AND WHERE TO GET IT.

MY DAUGHTER IS BACKPACKING THRU ITALY AND COULD DEFINITELY USE YOUR BOOK.

You can sign up here to access it

Dear Mr. Cope, congratulation to this gripping and inspiring travel guide. I am already stoked for an Italy adventure! I’m not a particular history geek but still, in the paragraph regarding the region of Puglia you are mentioning the near by city Gallipoli being an important battlefield in WW1. I belief you confused it with the Turkish peninsular Gallipoli (Dardanells) on which the Entente launched an invasion into Ottoman territory in the so called “Gallipoli campaign”. The battles resulted in a devastating loss for the Allies and severe casualties on both sides.

You’re absolutely right! I don’t know how I managed to confuse the two. The Gallipoli in Italy is much more about the beach than the history to be fair. Absolutely fantastic coastline though if you manage to get down there!

Thanks again for pointing this out.

We’ve always wanted to do Italy but only knew about the bigger tourist attractions so it’s great to hear there are some hidden gems as well. We’ll be saving this for our trip to look back on for advice. Thanks.

Nice and interesting post. Thanks for sharing and keep it up!

This Is Very Usefull For Us Thankyou Sir

Ralph sir, well this was indeed just the blog I needed to read when I’m on the verge of planning a trip to Italy this Spring. The exquisite thing about this blog is its categorization that has been planned and jotted down in just the right way. For they say take the road less travelled and you sure are helping us do that and that too in such an informative way by providing all the possible details a traveller is looking for at that hour. I’ll also make sure to add up on my checklist the things you mentioned to be carried along when on a trip to Italy. I sure am excited much to go to Italy after reading this blog and it’ll be great if you could help me out in planning a trip. P.S- Those dishes are getting my mouth watered already.

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Hiking Tours in Italy

• Complete Europe’s long-distance mountain hike - the Alta Via - in the peaks of the Dolomites
• Hike through Tuscany’s hilltop towns, lush vineyards and old olive groves
• Treasure the ancient footpaths as you meander through the villages of the Cinque Terre
• Revel in the romance of the Italian cities’ artistic and architectural masterpieces
• Explore the Amalfi coastal hike and overnight in handpicked boutique hotels
• Savor the finest seafood, pasta, meats and pizza accompanied by exquisite local wine

Marvel at the dramatic Dolomites, hike amidst vineyards in Tuscany, and meander through the colorful clifftop villages of the Cinque Terre. With Roman ruins and Renaissance masterpieces around every corner, delicate wines and pastas abound, lemon groves on the Amalfi coast, and succulent seafood in Sicily , Italy is a feast for the senses!

Travel on a self-guided hike in Italy with Macs to savor ever step of the ancient footpaths where culture and landscapes are intertwined. Maybe you’ll experience the peaks of the Dolomites on the Alta Via , taking you on mountain trails to authentic Refugios. Or for a different experience, head to the heritage sites along the Cinque Terre or Amalfi coast near Pompeii, for sea views and colorful villages. If you’re a fan of local wines, sip on a tasty red after hiking through vineyards in Tuscany .

For the discerning traveler we offer lesser-known routes, such as the pilgrimage to Rome along the Via Francigena , or a week in the sunflower filled hills of Umbria , ancient culture and Trulli houses in Puglia or a hike through the Piedmont region famous for its sweet Barolo wines. Whichever area you choose you can be assured that your Italy hiking vacation will remain in your heart forever.

Featured Tours - Italy

Walking Portofino and the Cinque Terre

Alta Via 1 (Dolomites)

Hill Towns of Tuscany

Amalfi Coastal Trails

Lake Como Trails

Amalfi In Style

Walking in the Heart of the Dolomites

Trails of Western Sicily

Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort

Discover italy.

1. The Cinque Terre . Coastal hiking linking five beautiful villages. The seafood is incredible. 

2. The Alta Via, Dolomites . Towering spires, mountain huts, turquiose lakes, meadows - one of Europe's finest hiking regions.

3. Hill Towns of Tuscany . Picturesque hills, historic towns, aromatic vineyards producing fine wines.

4. Amalfi In Style . Coastal trails with Mediterranean Sea views, delightful villages, plentiful terraces serving wine and oives.

5. Trails of Sicily . Ancient foothills, archaeological sites, stunning vistas and impregnable hilltop towns.

Curious to know more? Read on in our Blog ‘5 best hiking tours in Italy’

Spaghetti alle Vongole – Spaghetti with freshly-caught clams which can be ordered with tomatoes or without. Best enjoyed on a panoramic terrace with a glass of local wine!

Delizia al Limone – The world’s best lemons grow in the Amalfi region. This dessert is a lemon-scented sponge cake covered with lemon zest and frosting.

Fiori di Latte – Cheesemongers in the tiny mountain hamlet of Agerola produce the famous Fiori di Latte cheese that you can typically find on a Neapolitan Margherita Pizza.

Totani e Patate – A hearty dish of squid and potatoes.

Scialatielli con Gamberi e Zucchine – This is a delightful fresh pasta dish with zucchini and locally-caught fresh shrimp tossed in a rich seafood stock. Many also include mussels, prawns, or clams.

Since the 8th century pilgrims have hiked the famous Via Francigenca , from the Swiss border town of Bourg-Saint-Pierre to Rome. We offer the full 50 day route , and also various individual stages. These are our favorites:

Stage 1 . Hike over the famous St Bernard pass and cross the border into Italy. High mountains and alpine scenery.

Final stage . From the hilltop town of Montefiascone into historic Rome. Follow trails through rural and pristine areas of Italy that many tourists do not visit!

Stage 4 . Through the foothills of the Apennine Mountains to the Tuscan border. The food is amazing!

Stage 6 . Quintessential Tuscany, famous medieval villages, packed full of history, culture, and art.

The Amalfi Coast in Style is part of the beautiful range of active tours were you treat yourself to travel in style.

The Cinque Terre is a delightful part of Italy to walk through, going from UNESCO heritage village to village.  This video gives you some guidance on how to get your Park Card to ride the trains and some top tips to make sure you get every bit of enjoyment from visiting this enchanting part of Italy.  

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Fearlessly Italy

10 Best Hiking Tours in Italy – Book The Adventure Of A Lifetime

An active holiday among the mesmerizing Italian mountain ranges, glacier lakes and picturesque villages sounds like a perfect way to reset from the busy every-day routine. Just imagine yourself breathing that fresh mountain air and savoring the luscious Italian cuisine while sipping the high-quality local wine. This dream-like vacation can become a reality the moment you decide to book one of these fantastic hiking tours in Italy.

When going on these hikes with an experienced guide, your safety is nothing to be worried about because you will always be in the safe hands of someone who passed these trails hundreds of times. Nonetheless, of course, this doesn’t exclude the necessary caution each hiker has to have.

In this article, we offer you an overview of the 12 best hiking tours in Italy that could potentially change your life for the better. From easy gourmet hikes combined with wine tasting to Mont Blanc trekking and volcano exploring – we are confident you will find something that sparks your adventurous spirit.

Table of Contents

Best Guided Walking Holidays In Italy

Walking in tuscany by exodus travels.

The walking tour in Tuscany will take your breath away, so get excited about your upcoming adventure. This might even become your favorite hiking vacation in Italy as you will observe the scenery of the lakeside villages, Italian National parks and Alpi Apuane and Apennine mountain ranges.

The hike starts in Pontecosi and leads through the Orecchiella National Park to the flat summit of Pania di Corfino offering a panoramic view. Alpi Apuane National Park will bring you to astonishing Pania della Croce and the Omo Morto range. Visit the medieval market town Castiglione di Garfagnana and wander through the village of Campocatino. The final destination of the tour is to reach Tuscany’s highest peak of Monte Prado.

This northern Italy tour includes accommodation in the Agriturismo Braccicorti Farmhouse, meals with vegan and vegetarian options and transportation. Also, the hiking guide is always with you during the trek.

After soaking in the beauty and tradition Tuscany is so famous and cherished for, if you can stay a little longer in Italy, try to spend at least 24 hours or even two days in Florence to explore the art and history of this amazing city.

Click here to book

Amalfi Coast: Hike & Kayak By Intrepid Travel

This hike on the Amalfi Coast gives you spectacular landscapes of Mediterranean treasures that you notice every step of the way. Explore the ancient town of Pompei settled near Naples, follow the Path of the Gods, discover the hidden Valley of the Mills and paddle along the remarkable Amalfi Coast.

Start walking in Naples and continue to the Vesuvius, a famous volcano that erupted back in 79 AD. Arrive in Agerola and gaze into the mountains of Cilento National Park. You will get to know the island of Capri in depth, which was known as the holiday destination for the Roman emperors. From your hotel in Amalfi, continue to the Valley of the Dragon up to Ravello, an unavoidable coastal point.

Delicious breakfasts every morning, transportation and accommodation are all included in the tour’s rate. Activities such as kayaking, a boat cruise and a guided hike along Vesuvius’ Crater are also part of the package.

Gastronomic Barolo Self-Guided Walk By Exodus Travels

This 9-day Gastronomic Barolo self-guided hiking tour in Italy brings closer this peaceful Langhe region of Piedmont in the north-western part of Italy. The gastronomical options are countless; enjoy the wine tasting in Grinzane Cavour or La Morra or satisfy your tastebuds with the specialties served in the Michelin-starred restaurants. If you choose to, you can walk to the Monforte D’Alba, where you can even have an overlook of Mont Blanc on a clear sunny day!

Inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list, this region will blow your mind with its countryside full of vines and sunflowers. You can follow a route beside the crystal Tanaro River passing the enchanting oak forest. After crossing the Talloria River, climb up to reach Serralunga d’Alba with its impressive 13th-century castle. In the Talloria Valley, you will find a 16th-century castle of Barolo.

This self-guided tour of Piedmont’s Langhe region offers 8-nights accommodation, transport, meals, route notes and maps. The meals include not just breakfasts but also Italian specialty dishes.

If you can afford some more time in Italy after your tour ends, don’t miss out on the capital of this beautiful region, the royal city of Turin .

Cinque Terre: Hike, Bike & Kayak By Intrepid Travel

The indescribable appeal that Cinque Terre has is undoubtedly best absorbed by hike, bike or kayak – exactly how this Italian tour suggests. The pastel green, yellow, rose, and orange colors radiate from this surreal Italian region, formerly known as the first Italian National Park. It is almost as if the sky dances with the houses’ vivid colors and reflects this beauty to the sea surface.

The first of five villages that make up Cinque Terre is Monterosso, from which you will start your unforgettable hike. Through the famous coastal walk that connects the five villages, you will simply be astonished by the beauty of the vineyard covers combined with occasional forest and citrus groves. When arriving in Portovenere, prepare for the most challenging, yet most rewarding hike of the tour. Hiking in Santa Margherita and kayaking in the Portofino Peninsula come as the cherry on top of this fabulous hiking tour in Italy.

The tour includes breakfast, transport and accommodation, along with many exciting activities.

Italian Lakes: Hike, Bike & Kayak By Intrepid Travel

The northern part of Italy holds precious natural scenery that deserves your full attention. From the clear waters of Lake Como and the surrounding villages to hiking near Lake Garda, this combined tour indeed falls under some of the best hiking tours in Italy. After all the hiking, biking and kayaking, you will probably fancy a real Italian specialty. Your dreams will come true in an instant as you have many high-quality restaurants at your hands.

Absorb the tranquility of the waters surrounding you while you begin your Italian adventure around Lake Como. Try kayaking to arrive at Bellagio, the so-called “pearl of the lake”. The next stop is unspoiled Lake Garda located between the three regions of Lombardia, Veneto and Trentino Alto Adige . During this hike, you can do a bike ride and a boat trip across the lake. Punta Vigilio & Torri del Benaco hike is your next challenge, after which you can relax by the lake.

This guided walk and a favorite bike tour in Italy includes breakfasts, transportation with train, boat, kayak, bicycle and accommodation throughout the trip. Activities like kayaking and boat trips are also part of the price.

Tuscany Walks & Chianti Wine By Exodus Travels

This walking and wine tour combined every gourmet traveler’s favorite activities; hiking and wine tasting, a mix of physical activity and indulgence that is often a favorite by those looking for an adults only vacation . Let Southern Tuscany seduce you with its dreamy landscape, charming sites and flavorsome dishes. On this hiking trip, you will visit the medieval town San Gimignano, Greve’s market in Chianti, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Siena and the majestic city of Florence .

From Castellina in Chianti, explore the hilltop village of Montefioralle. Absorb the relaxing vibe of Tuscany while learning about wines at the Wine School of Siena. Get lost in Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, full of historical sites and attractions. From San Gimignano, visit the Palazzo Comunale, Pinacoteca and Torre Grossa.

Accommodation includes seven nights in a beautiful farmhouse with a panoramic swimming pool. You are also provided with meals, wine tasting, a tour guide, many guided walks and transportation.

Walking in Sardinia By Exodus Travels

A week of dreamlike beaches, inviting crystal clear sea, out-of-this-world cuisine, and rocky mountain views portrays this walking tour in Sardinia. Even only after visualizing these scenes, it becomes apparent why Sardinia is so popular among tourists from all over the world.

Begin the tour of your dreams with a 5-hour hike to Monte Tului, residing at 916m above sea level. See Italy’s deepest canyon, the Gorropu Gorge – also known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe”. Explore the site of the Serra Orrios, one of the most important of the Nuraghe villages. Wander through the archaeological sites of the Dorgali area, after which you will arrive at the still mysterious Nuragic village of Tiscali. Enjoy the Cala Luna, one of the most impressive Mediterranean beaches.

Accommodation, meals with vegan and vegetarian options, transport, and an experienced guide are all part of the tour. The tour also includes treks and many other activities.

Walking in Puglia & Matera By Exodus Travels

Settled between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Puglia and Basilicata illuminate the Mediterranean’s center like real natural pearls. The vineyards and olive groves, traditional dry-wall construction called trulli characteristic of Itria valley, and not to forget the unparalleled local dishes, make this part of Italy a remarkable vacation destination.

Known for its high-quality white wine and local winery, Locorotondo is arguably one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Explore the whitewashed houses in Ostuni and spoil yourself with a gourmet dinner in Masseria. Choose between the charming baroque city of Lecce, called the “Florence of the South”, or the striking town of Polignano a Mare. Your hotel will be located in the heart of Matera Sassi, noted for its cave areas. Enjoy the lively nature with many butterflies, orchids, almond and olive trees surrounding you on your hike to the edges of Matera.

Your guide will follow you along on this guided tour. You also have accommodation, meals and transport with all the activities included.

The Dolomites Walking and Hiking Tour By Caspin Journeys

Reach the northern part of the Italian Alps and start your adventure throughout this striking mountain range. The Dolomites , located in Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto, mostly in the Belluno province, offer an ideal hike full of panoramic views and are some of the best adventurous bucket list destinations . After each day, you can relax with the best local meals and share your experience with fellow hikers.

This tour starts and ends in the beautiful Bolzano and will take you to places such as Alpe di Suisi, the unreal flower-filled Braies Valley and the majestic Lago di Braies, one of the glacial lakes that reflect the stunning mountain ranges on the surface. The unforgettable walk beneath the popular “Three Chimneys”, or “Tre Cime di Lavaredo” awaits on the 5th day of the tour. Enjoy an open-air museum with a memory of the First World War in Monte Piana.

The tour includes meals, accommodation, a trekking guide, local transport, and additional services such as bottles of water and entrance fees.

Trekking Mont Blanc By G Adventures

Trekking Mont Blanc includes hiking through the hypnotizing mountain ranges of the Alps in France, Italy and Switzerland. Prepare yourself to reach the thin air in the mountain peaks so you can fully absorb each moment of this fantastic walking tour.

From your hotel in Chamonix, France, begin your journey to Les Houches and experience a 24km (14 mi) hike through the astonishing Les Contamines. After arriving in the Croix du Bonhomme, take a break and have a nice lunch enjoying the views. From the glacier lakes in Les Chapieux, go down to the wonderful Val Veny Valley. Enjoy your free day in the mountain town of Courmayeur, after which you go on to the Swiss mountain village of La Fouly.

Accommodation in the hotels and mountain refugees, as well as the meals, transportation and the experienced guide, are all part of the package price.

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• Backpacking
• Solo Travel

17 Best Hikes in Italy for your Bucket List

• October 10, 2021 April 4, 2024

Italy is a dream vacation spot for many people who seek beautiful beaches, colorful villages, big cities, historic sites, and also a variety of natural landmarks. Hikes in Italy offer a variety of diverse landscapes from big alpine mountains to short and low walking paths.

On the current list of best hikes in Italy , you will find spectacular trails from north to south, from easy to difficult levels, and from short to long treks.

Disclosure : This article features affiliate links, including Amazon.com. If you decide to buy through one of these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra expense to you. For more details, please see my disclosure policy .

1. Cinque Terre hike

• Location : Italian Riviera, Liguria.
• Distance : 12 km (7.5 mi).
• Duration : 3 hours to 1 day.
• Maximum elevation : 220 m (722 ft).
• Difficulty : Easy.

Cinque Terre in the Italian Riviera is one of the most visited places in the country. The area is attractive due picturesque five villages, surrounding beautiful landscape, and the deep blue Mediterranean Sea. From there you can also find one of the best hikes in Italy.

There are several hiking options around Cinque Terre from short walks to multi day treks. The most busiest and attractive is the Blue Path trail that connects all five fisher villages. The 12 km hiking path is divided into four sections, connecting all the villages.

The Blue Path trail is doable each way, either starting from Monterosso al Mare on the north or Riomaggiore on the south. It’s a relatively easy trail and you don’t need any special hiking experience or training, just a bottle of water and some energy. Also, many people only do some sections, so you don’t need to complete the whole 12 km trail.

Keep in mind that it’s mandatory to wear proper shoes. So leave your flip flops and wear at least some sports shoes. Also on two tracks, you have to pay a small fee to enter the trail.

Hiking in Cinque Terre is extremely scenic all the way. You can wander between the fields of lemon, grapes, and olives. Also, enjoy the views over the steep Cinque Terre National Park, admire the infinite Mediterranean Sea, and these beautiful five villages.

Read more : Hiking in Cinque Terre .

2. Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop hike

Recommended by Jurga from FullSuitcase

• Location : Dolomites, Northern Italy.
• Distance : 10km (6.2 mi).
• Duration : 3 h.
• Maximum elevation : 2,454 m (8,050 ft).
• Difficulty : Moderate.

The three peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo are the symbol of the Italian Dolomites and one of the most visited places in the region. Tre Cime loop hike is also extremely popular, attracting big crowds. So if you are planning to hike here, be sure to arrive as early in the morning as possible.

The circular hike starts and ends at Rifugio Auronzo. You can either get here by car or – in high season – by public transport from Cortina d’Ampezzo via Misurina. If driving by car, you’ll have to pay a fee (30 € at the moment of writing), but there are no extra fees for parking or similar.

The views along the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike are phenomenal from start to finish. One of the best hikes in Italy also offers more variation than it looks at first sight – from rocky barren landscapes to streams and mountain lakes surrounded by colorful wildflowers. There are also a few mountain huts along the way, with restaurants serving regional specialties.

And while Tre Cime loop is a moderate hike with some short steeper sections, it’s not too strenuous. A total elevation gain is less than 400 meters. If you take your time, you can easily do this hike with children from about the age of 6 as well.

Good hiking shoes are a must and you should always carry a light sweater and a rain jacket – the weather can change quickly. Please also note that due to elevation, the best season to hike here is between June and September. Furthermore, there’s always a risk of thunderstorms in the afternoon – another good reason to start the hike early.

Read more : Hiking in the Alps .

3. Lagazuoi Circuit hike

Recommended by Dean and Laynni from Routinely Nomadic

• Location : Cortina D’Ampezzo, Dolomites
• Distance : 15 km (9.3 mi).
• Duration : 5-6 h.
• Maximum elevation : 2,800 m (9,200 ft).
• Difficulty : Difficult.

Some of the best and most varied hiking to be found in the Dolomites is around famous Mount Lagazuoi. With a checkered past as the front lines of the fighting in World War I this wildly scenic area offers incredible views, challenging climbs, and fascinating history. Often completed as part of the world-famous Alta Via trek, it is also possible to hit all the best spots on a single day hike.

Starting from Passo Falzarego, just a short drive from popular Cortina D’Ampezzo, take the cable car up to Rifugio Lagazuoi . You can hike the entire way if you choose but with several more big climbs to come, you may want to save your energy. History buffs can explore the Lagazuoi Tunnels before continuing up to Piccolo Lagazuoi, one of the most extraordinary panoramic viewpoints in Italy.

From there it is a long, rocky downhill to reflective little Lago Lagazuoi. Give your legs a short rest before tackling the big climb to Forcella del Lago, a stunning notch in the mountains with fantastic views back toward Lagazuoi. 

Then, after carefully making your way back down, retrace your steps as far as Forcella Lagazuoi (about 150m below the rifugio. Then head east to enjoy pleasant meadows and more great mountain scenery on an easy trail around Col de Bois before starting down direct views of Cinque Torri and Mount Nuvolau looming in front of you the entire way.

This is a strenuous hike over rough terrain with steep, exposed sections so be sure to wear good hikers and pack food and water in case it takes longer than planned. It’s also recommended to take hiking poles to help on the steep slopes.

4. Lake Sorapis hike

Recommended by Caroline from Veggie wayfarer

• Location : Veneto region, Italian Dolomites
• Distance : 14 km (8.7 mi).
• Duration : 4.5 h. 
• Maximum elevation : 1,923 m (6,309 ft).

Lake Sorapis is one of those amazing lakes in the Dolomites the region is known for. Except that to get to witness the beauty of Lake Sorapis, you will need to undertake a 14km hike (roundtrip). Do not let that stop you though, as one of the best hikes in Italy is beautiful and the Sorapis Lake is just the cherry on top of the sundae.

Reaching the starting point for the hike is relatively easy in both car and public transport (bus). Should you be driving, simply put Passo Tre Croci in your GPS. If you are taking the bus, leave from Cortina and take bus number 30, get off at bus stop Passo Tre Croci . There are no toilets or stores on the trail, so your best is to stock up on anything you need at the little restaurant 200 meters from the trailhead.

Time to get started! The first part of the trail will lead you to wind paths in the forest, slowly creeping up. Clamber across a few rivers and a few (slightly rickety) stairs to reach your end goal of Lake Sorapis. You will need to wear proper footwear as the path is unpaved and there is a little climbing involved here and there (minimal). The rocks on the path can get slippery when it has rained, bear that in mind.

For those who suffer from vertigo, this is perhaps a hike you will want to skip. There are more than a few narrow paths and staircases that offer the most majestic views over the valley below, but can be daunting for those who are afraid of heights.

5. Monte Subasio hike

Recommended by Sophie from Just Heading Out

• Location : Assisi to Spello, Umbria.
• Distance : 17.3 km (10.8 mi).
• Duration : 6 h.
• Maximum elevation : 1290 m (4230 ft).

Monte Subasio is a mountain in Umbria, just east of Assisi. The mountain is part of a protected nature reserve called Parco del Monte Subasio and connects to the Apennine Mountain Range.

The mountain is known for its flattened dome shape, making it a popular spot for paragliders and hikers. Some hiking trails connect to the longer Via Francescana, a pilgrimage trail named after the famous St. Francis of Assisi.

A network of trails runs along and up the mountain. The most popular trail, nr. 50, goes over the summit, from Assisi to Spello. The trail is well maintained and marked. It leads you along with several points of interest and viewpoints. The summit of Monte Subasio offers a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, with the Sibillini Mountains on one side and the Valle Umbra on the other.

It’s one of the best hikes in Italy, not too difficult but with an elevation gain of over 1000 meters. The lack of shade at the top makes this hike more strenuous during the hot summer months. Several water points along the trail are turned off during drought and frost, and there is no option to buy food or drinks on the mountain. So be sure to bring plenty of water and food. It gets very windy at the top of the Monte Subasio, so wear good hiking boots and layered clothing.

Both the start and finish points are connected to the local railway system.

6. Portofino to San Fruttuoso hike

Recommended by James Ian at Travel Collecting

• Distance : 4 km (3 mi).
• Duration : About 2 hours one way.
• Maximum elevation : 263 m (863 ft)
• Difficulty : Moderate

One of the great things about this hike is that you can do it one way only. If you are coming from Rapallo, you can take a ferry to Portofino, via Santa Margherita Ligure. The trail ends at San Fruttuoso and you can take a boat back to Rapallo or Portofino directly from there rather than having to hike back.

One of the best hikes in Italy, the trail heads up a steep staircase leading up from the boat dock in Portofino. It passes terraces with tiny patches of olive trees before heading into the hills past wildflowers, lemon groves, and more olive trees. It soon flattens out, and most of the trail is easy, hugging the tops of cliffs with the Mediterranean Sea sparkling in the sunshine far below. 

After the final viewpoint over the Mediterranean, the trail heads down through a forest in a series of steep switchbacks to the hidden cove of San Fruttuoso. The bay can only be accessed on foot or by boat. There are glimpses of the 10th-century abbey at San Fruttuoso before you arrive at the abbey and tiny beach. There are a few restaurants there, so you can spend the day relaxing on the beach before taking the boat back.

Although the trail is steep at the start and end, it is well-maintained and mostly flat, so you don’t need any special equipment for the hike.

7. Path of the Gods hike

Recommended by Terri at Female Solo Trek

• Location : Amalfi Coast, Campania.
• Distance : 8 km (5 mi).
• Duration : 4 h.
• Elevation gain : 291 m (950 ft).

The Sentiero Degli Dei, which is translated as the Path of the Gods, is truly a heavenly walk and of the best hikes in Italy. This cliff top trail leads down from Bomerano (in Agerola) to the magnificent Positano. 

The famous trail is located next to the beautiful Amalfi Coast winding along the Mediterranean Sea. The five-mile hike is considered moderate if the hiker is climbing down the trail, but it might be difficult for the knees when ascending. For the beginner Sunday hiker, it may take 4.5 hours to walk the trail. 

The elevation gain for the trail is 291 meters (950 feet), and it doesn’t stop any hiker from completing the scenic track. During the peak tourist months (April-September), it may be heavily trafficked, as it’s one of the most popular trails in Italy.

On the trail, you can sniff the lemon trees that bloom with fruit and listen to the donkey’s bray. On a clear day, you can also see colorful Capri and the endless Mediterranean Sea. The hike starts in Bomerano, a medium-size town high in the mountains offering restaurants, small hotels, and friendly dogs.

Wear hiking boots and bring a ski jacket if it is cold. There is a steep decline down 1,500 stone steps at the end to reach Positano. So promise yourself an espresso as your reward for completing the trail.

Read more : Best hikes on the Amalfi Coast .

8. Villa Jovis hike

Recommended by Lori at Travlinmad

• Location : Capri, Campania.
• Distance : 4.5 km (2.8 mi).
• Duration : 45 min to 1 h.

Max elevation : 334 m (1095 ft).

Difficulty : Easy to moderate.

One of the most scenic and best scenic hikes in Italy is a trail on the picturesque island of Capri to the palace Villa Jovis (Villa of Jupiter) built by the emperor Tiberius in 27 AD. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Capri and a literal hike back into Roman history.

The palace is in the northeast of the island perched on the second highest peak on the island, Monte Tiberio. To reach the trail follow the signs from the Piazzetta until reaching Via Tiberio. From there it’s a gradual uphill walk to the palace.

Along the way, there are the homes of residents with beautiful gardens, flowers, and vegetables. If you get lucky, there will be enticing aromas coming from kitchens. And there is the inescapable blue of the Mediterranean from every vista along the trail.

The trail is best from around April through September, and light clothing and sturdy footwear are all that is required.

Just before the palace entrance watch for the entrance to Parco Astarita. It’s free and the view from the final terrace is spectacular. You’ll have company. Free roaming Capri mountain goats will accompany you while you’re in the park.

9. via Degli Dei trek

Recommended by Lori at ItalyFoodies

• Location : Bologna to Florence, Tuscany.
• Distance : 135 km (84 mi).
• Elevation gain : 900 m (2,952 ft).
• Duration : 6 or 7 days.

Connecting the cities of Bologna and Florence, Via Degli Dei or “Route of the Gods” is a scenic hiking trail that meanders through the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. The trail follows the 2000-year old Flaminia Military Roman Road between Bologna and Florence, and there are places where that road can still be seen.

Along the way, the trail winds through natural parks and crosses over several mountains – Mount Venus, Monzuno, and Monte Luario.

The trail is well marked and has alternate paths to take if you like. Water fountains are few and far between so be sure to pack sufficient water. You can resupply your food and water in the small towns along the trail, or stay in small hotels and B&Bs.

This is slow travel at its best, a way to enjoy the scenery and absorb the history and culture, and of course, all the amazing Italian food and wine of the Emilia Romagna and Tuscany regions.

One of the best hikes in Italy includes some fairly long inclines and declines on uneven rocky surfaces. Be sure to wear good hiking boots. Spring and Fall are mild so you won’t need heavy clothing. In summer it can get very hot so only light clothing is needed.

10. Monte Cofano Reserve hike

Recommended by Zoe from Together In Transit

• Location : Monte Cofano Reserve, Sicily.
• Distance : 12 km (7.46 mi).
• Duration : 4-5 hours.
• Maximum elevation : 659 m (2162 ft)
• Difficulty : Easy to Moderate

A lovely and one of the best hikes in Italy well worth doing on the island of Sicily is the Monte Cofano reserve loop near San Vito Lo Capo. Located at the North West of the island, the whole area is perfect for hiking, whether route loops like this one to other more adventurous hikes taking you right to the top of the peaks. 

The Monte Cofano reserve is a beautiful nature area that many locals head to for the beach as well as hiking. Starting the hike from the beach area near the Tonnara del Cofano, you can follow a dirt path that first follows the route along the rock edge with the gorgeous blue waters below. This is the prettiest part of the route as you can see the coastline to San Vito Lo Capo.

Further along the route, you arrive on the coast looking towards Cornino. Here it is just as beautiful with the mountains in the distance. If you’re lucky, you will enjoy the hike with some local wild cows that wander the area. They are pretty friendly but keep your dog on a leash for safety if you’re hiking with your four-legged friend. 

From here you can choose to hike to the top of the peak of the Monte Cofano or head over and back down to where you started. Either way, stop here for some beautiful views from both coastlines and to enjoy the nature of wildflowers. 

In total it’s roughly 4 to 5 hours to hike if you have a good level of fitness for the 12-kilometer loop. Always remember to take some snacks and water with you too, as well as dressing appropriately for hiking with good walking shoes. 

11. Hike to Gorropu Gorge

Recommended by Greta from Greta’s Travels

• Location : Province of Nuoro, Sardinia.
• Distance : 10 km (6.21 mi).
• Duration : 5-6 hours.
• Maximum elevation : 1,018 m (3340 ft).

Su Gorropu is a canyon 450 m (1476 ft) tall, it’s the deepest gorge in Italy and amongst the biggest ones in Europe. This alone would make it a must-see on any Italy itinerary , add to that the stunning views, and you have an all round winner.

The start of Gorropu Gorge is deep in the mountains and forests of Sardinia. To reach it, you have to either hike one of the many trails or do a jeep tour starting from the Gorropu Gorge base camp.

It’s recommended to start the trail from Bar Silana. You will start at the top of the mountains and hike down almost 5 km (3.1 mi) for a 700 m (2300 ft) elevation change to reach the entrance of the gorge.

The hike from Bar Silana to the entrance of Gorropu Gorge is amongst one of the best hikes in Italy. You will enjoy stunning views over the Sardinian mountains and cliffs, as well as walking through trees that will give you enchanted forest vibes.

This is all before reaching the actual gorge! Once you reach the gorge it’s up to you how deep you want to walk into Gorropu Gorge. The deeper you go, the wilder the trail becomes and you’ll have to climb over rocks to keep going. Walking into the gorge for about 500 m (1640 ft) is enough to see the majestic canyon sides towering above us.

Once you’re done enjoying Gorropu Gorge, it’s time to hike back up to Bar Silana. The trail is challenging, but well maintained and well marked so it’s easy to follow and hike along. The best time to hike Gorropu Gorge is early morning in spring.

12. Alta Via dei Monzoni hike

Recommended by Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

• Location : Dolomites of Trentino.
• Distance : 13 km (8 mi).
• Duration : 5 h.
• Maximum elevation : 2,528 m (8,294 ft).

Among the best hikes in the Dolomites , the trail of the Alta Via dei Monzoni starts at Seggiovia Costabella, in Passo San Pellegrino, where you can take the chairlift to the starting point to save yourself one hour walking. 

From there, it’s a nice moderate hike that goes along what once were the Italian / Austrian trenches of World War I. On one of the best hikes in Italy, you can admire stunning views of the Cimon del Bocche massif, Lagorai, Latemar, Catinaccio, and Pale di San Martino peaks.

You will need to be appropriately geared for this hike, which is only accessible in the late spring and summer months (it’s all ski-slopes in the winter). Make sure to wear layers and hiking boots. Bring water as there are no fountains along the way, but you can stop for a meal at one of the local “rifugi”. 

For a better experience, you may want to enquire locally with your hotel to book a guide for the tour – this area is of great historical relevance, so you can put together hiking and love of nature with a more cultural experience to learn about the history of WWI. 

13. Cala Luna hike

Recommended by Claudia from Strictly Sardinia

• Location : Sardinia.
• Duration : 10 h.
• Maximum elevation : 141 m (462.5 ft).
• Difficulty : Moderate to difficult.

The hike to Cala Luna is one of the most charming coastal hikes in Sardinia. The gorgeous Cala Luna beach can only be reached by boat or on a hike, so this is an extremely rewarding experience. 

The hike starts in Cala Fuili beach, the last cove you can reach by car from Cala Luna, a seaside village about 30 minutes drive from Dorgali. Once you park your car, you will have to go down some (at times) steep steps to get to the beach where the trail begins.

One of the best hikes in Italy winds along mostly in the shade, but it’s nevertheless best to avoid this hike in the peak summer months as it will be too hot. You will need good hiking shoes, water, and food for the duration of the hike. Make sure to carry your swimsuit and a towel as you will be able to swim once in Cala Luna. 

Should you decide to hike there in May, beginning of June, or September, you can also make use of the boat that will take you back to Cala Gonone, from where you can hop on a shuttle to the parking lot in Cala Fuili – that will save you a good 5 hours of walking and allow you to spend more time at the beach!

14. Mount Etna hike

Recommended by Samantha from The Wandering Wanderluster

• Location : Sicily
• Distance : 5 km (3.1 mi)
• Duration : 5 – 6 h.
• Elevation gain : 1000 m (3280 ft)

Hiking is all about walking and connecting with nature and your surroundings. But what if your surroundings were the most active volcano in Europe? As the largest and most active volcano in Europe, Mount Etna in Sicily is one of the most popular and best hikes in Italy.

There are several hiking options on Mount Etna, some of which can be done independently and with little hiking experience. The most popular independent hike begins at Rifugio Sapienza and ends at Torre del Filosofo at 2,920 meters (9,580 ft), which is currently the endpoint for solo hikers without an experienced guide. 

The trail is of moderate difficulty and is well marked and has a well trodden path to follow. Its moon-like landscape is a sight to behold but hikers should be prepared for unpredictable weather and limited views over the 1000m elevation gain. 

Due to its high altitude, appropriate clothing and footwear should be worn. Layers that provide warmth, wind, and rain protection are advised as the weather changes the higher up you walk, and proper hiking boots are essential. Hiking poles are non-essential but many people benefit from using them especially on the descent. 

Experienced hikers can expect to complete a round trip hike in approximately 5 to 6 hours, or less if they decide to take the cable car back down to the Rifugio instead.

15. Laghi d’Olbe hike

Recommended by Daniel from Urban Abroad

• Location : Sappada, Udine.
• Distance : 18.8 km (11.71 mi).
• Duration : 3h.
• Maximum elevation : 2146 m (7040 ft).
• Difficulty : Medium

There are a few beautiful hikes you can choose from to reach Olbe Lakes from Sappada which are located 130 km (81 miles) north of Venice and are close to the border with Austria. 

The Olbe Lakes are three glacial lakes nestled in the mountains of the Carnic Alps, located on a plateau of karst origins surrounded by some of the most scenic peaks of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Monte Lastroni, and Monte Chiadenis. 

The first option is to start one of the best hikes in Italy from Borgata Granvilla in Sappada (path n. 141). The village road connects to a dirt road that leads to the Monte Ferro Refuge. A little further up, a path leads to the meadows. Keep walking along the moraines of the Righile ridge on the left until you reach the Olbe Lakes (altitude 2146 m).

Alternatively, start from the Rododendro Refuge (path n. 138), reach Pian delle Bombarde, and walk in the woods. After some hairpins, the path gains altitude up to a panoramic ledge and connects to the chair lift Sappada 2000 path. 

The easier option is the one which involves taking the chair lift Sappada 2000 (ticket cost with return: €8 adults, €4 children) and arrive at the Sappada 2000 Refuge. From here, follow path n.135 and in about 1 hour, you can easily reach the first lake.

16. Hike of the 5 falls of Cerveteri

Recommended by Lisa of Travel Connect Experience

• Location : Cerveteri-Bracciano, Rome.
• Distance : 17 km (10.56 mi).
• Maximum elevation : 112 m (367 mi).

The ring-route of the so-called “5 waterfalls of Cerveteri” allows you to discover some underrated naturalistic and archaeological sites about 40 km northwest of Rome. 

The starting point of the trail coincides with the ” Way of the Underworld”, a free and open-access part of the Etruscan Necropolis of Cerveteri , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004 and also the largest necropolis in the Mediterranean area.

For about 300 meters, the path is dug through a wall of tufa rock, and on the right and left, on different levels, hundreds of burial chambers can be visited with a flashlight, dating back to the 7th-4th centuries BC. 

Once past this part of the necropolis, you reach the walls of the ancient Etruscan acropolis of Caere and then you go down in an uncontaminated gorge where you meet 5 waterfalls, the highest of which reaches 25 meters. This walk crosses the territories of Cerveteri and Bracciano. 

Given the distance, adequate equipment including good hiking shoes, food, and water for one day is recommended. It is also necessary to consider that cell phones do not have a signal for most of the route.

There is a small ford to be made across a stream that does not exceed 10 cm in height, many hikers carry fairly thick garbage bags to wear on their shoes, but you won’t need them if your boots are waterproof. Where the water around the waterfalls is high enough it is possible to get wet, so if you visit these places in the summer bring everything you need for swimming.

To reach the starting point to this one of the best hikes in Italy, the best way is to hire a private car. There is a free, big parking space at the entrance of the Necropolis of Cerveteri.

17. Stromboli Volcano hike

Recommended by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

• Location : Aeolian Islands, Sicily.
• Maximum elevation : 400 m (1310 ft).

To get to the island of Stromboli, you need to take a ferry. You can easily get there from the Sicilian port town Milazzo by slow ferry or by speed boat. Hiking Stromboli is not your average hike as it’s one of the best hikes in Italy on an active volcano.

Stromboli is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and one of the three active volcanoes in Italy. It’s been erupting for 2,000 years now and it doesn’t seem it will stop anytime soon. 

The most popular hike on Stromboli is hiking to its craters as close as possible. The hike should start at 4:00 pm before sunset from Piazza San Vincenzo.

The highest crater of Stromboli is situated at 926 meters high above sea level. Today, due to the powerful volcanic explosions and molten lava flows, you can only hike up to 290 meters without a guide, and up to 400 meters above sea level with a tour guide.

Once you are up there, you will have the chance to sit down and admire the beautiful sunset over the island and witness its fiery explosions.

You will see a couple of short and energetic bursts. They are a few hundred meters high and contain ash, incandescent lava fragments, and small-sized stones.

It’s a spine-chilling experience to hike a volcano constantly making noises similar to thunderstorms, smoking, and generating small avalanches. This experience is a hike you should not miss.

As it is an easy hike, there is no special equipment needed but hikers on Stromboli use a helmet for safety reasons and a headlamp for lighting the path in front of you at night.

More about Italy

• Tips for Traveling Italy on a Budget
• Naples – Travel Guide
• Castelmezzano – Travel Guide
• Cinque Terre – Travel Guide
• 12 Lesser Known Villages in Italy

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Hiking In Italy – 8 Best Hikes In Italy

I've been fortunate to spend a lot of time in Italy - mainly eating and enjoying the cultural heritage - but also hiking in the Dolomites and along the many awesome mountain and coastal trails in Italy.

Here is my round-up of the best hikes in Italy .

I've tried to categorise them into different terrains, including mountain hikes like the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites to coastal trails like the Sentiero degli Dei and Cinque Terre. I've also included a few trails in Sicily and Sardinia.

Let's jump in.

Note : I haven't included famous hikes like the Tour du Mont Blanc and Walkers Haute route , even though these pass through Italy.

Best Hikes In Italy

Tre cime di lavaredo.

View of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Photo by Theo Crazzolara

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is a spectacular trail in the Dolomites.

It is probably my favourite day hike in Italy as it is relatively easy and accessible, and offers incredible views.

The most famous is of course the iconic three mountain peaks. The circular route covers 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and takes about 4 hours to complete, depending on pace.

Ideal hiking months are from June to September, with July and August offering the best weather conditions. The trail is suitable for most hikers with a moderate fitness level, as it features well-maintained paths and moderate inclines.

The Alta Via 2 hike, also known as the "High Route 2," is my favourite long-distance hiking trail in Italy. Stretching over 160 kilometers (100 miles), the trail sojourns through the Dolomites and typically takes 10 to 14 days to complete.

Most hikes stay overnight in mountain huts, but there are also campsites.

The best time to hike the Alta Via 2 is from June to September, when the weather is favourable, and trails are mostly clear of snow. July and August tend to be the busiest months, so I recommend avoiding these months, especially if you want to stay in the huts.

The Alta Via 2 is a challenging trek, and I would say it is only suitable for experienced hikers with a good fitness level, as it includes steep ascents, descents, and exposed sections.

Also Read: Dolomites Alta Via 1 Trekking Guide

Hikes in the Gran Paradiso

The view from Ceresole Reale's dam. Photo by Fulvio Spada .

Gran Paradiso National Park , nestled in the Italian Alps, offers loads of hiking opportunities - far too many for me to mention all of them.

To give you a flavour though,  a popular day hike is the Lago di Ceresole route, which covers 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and takes around 4 to 5 hours to complete.

If you're looking for a longer hike the the Alta Via 4 trail is a great option. This Gran Paradiso hike stretches 75 kilometers (46.6 miles), takes around 7 to 9 days to complete, with overnight stays in mountain huts.

The ideal hiking season in Gran Paradiso is from June to September, with July and August being the warmest months. However, these months can also be crowded, so consider visiting in June or September for a quieter experience.

Sentiero degli Dei

Path of the Gods. Photo by Ken Mayer .

The Sentiero degli Dei, or the "Path of the Gods," is an beautiful hiking trail situated on the picturesque Amalfi Coast in southern Italy.

This scenic trail stretches approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) and offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline. The average hiking time for this moderately challenging trek is about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the pace and experience of the hiker. It is suitable for most people with a moderate level of physical fitness

The trail begins in the quaint village of Bomerano (Agerola) and ends in Nocelle, a small hamlet near Positano.

The best time to embark on the Sentiero degli Dei is during the spring and autumn months, specifically from April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is generally mild, and the trail is less crowded, making for a more enjoyable hiking experience.

Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre hike is a stunning coastal trail in northwest Italy, connecting five charming villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Spanning 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), the hike takes around 5 to 6 hours to complete, depending on pace and stops.

You can hike the Cinque Terre in any direction, but I recommend taking the Blue Trail from Riomaggiore going north instead of from Monterosso heading south.

The best time to visit is from April to October, with May and September offering mild weather and fewer crowds. The trail comprises various difficulty levels, making it suitable for most hikers with moderate fitness.

It's essential to wear proper footwear and carry water. Enjoy panoramic sea views, colorful villages, and terraced vineyards while exploring this captivating region.

Hike the Corno Grande

Corno Grande in the background. Photo by Rino Peroni .

Corno Grande is the highest peak in the Gran Sasso mountain range in Italy's Apennine Mountains. I was lucky enough to hike it a few Summers back and it is a great experience.

I took the Direttissima route, which is the most popular trail and spans approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) with an elevation gain of 1,000 meters (3,280 feet). The hike takes about 4 to 5 hours round trip, depending on pace and experience.

The ideal time to hike Corno Grande is from June to September, with July and August providing the most stable weather conditions.

I found the hike pretty easy, but for some people it may be challenging and only suitable for hikers with a good fitness level, as it includes steep inclines, scree slopes, and a short scramble near the summit.

Hikes around Mount Etna

The magical landscape on Mount Etna. Photo by Dean Hochman .

Mount Etna in Sicily is Europe's highest and most active volcano.

For many people, hiking around an active volcano is crazy!

But to be honest this hike was one of my favourite in Italy as you get to explore lava fields and craters, all while enjoying stunning views of the Mediterranean.

There are a number of trails on Mount Etna. Popular routes include the Sartorius Craters trail, a 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) loop taking about 2 hours, and the Schiena dell'Asino trail, a 12-kilometer (7.5 miles) hike taking approximately 5 hours. For a more challenging trek, the summit ascent spans 18 kilometers (11.2 miles) and takes around 7 hours, including a cable car and 4x4 bus ride. I did the latter, and it's a tough day out, but well worth it!

Sella del Diavolo hike

View of Sella del Diavolo (Devil's Saddle). Photo by Alistair Young .

The Sella del Diavolo hike in Sardinia is my top pick if you decide to visit this Italian island.  "Sella del Diavolo" translates to "Devil's Saddle," referring to the saddle-shaped rock formation at the peak.

It's a relatively short hike that spans approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The trail begins just outside the city of Cagliari and is well-marked.

Hikes in Italy FAQ

1. what is the 5 town hike in italy.

The 5-town hike in Italy refers to the Cinque Terre hike, which connects five picturesque coastal villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

2. Is Lake Como good for hiking?

Yes, Lake Como is excellent for hiking, offering various trails with stunning lake views, lush landscapes, and charming villages.

3. What is a famous hike on the Amalfi Coast called?

A famous hike on the Amalfi Coast is the Sentiero degli Dei, also known as the "Path of the Gods," offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.

4. Is Sorrento good for hiking?

Sorrento itself is not a prime hiking destination; however, it serves as a great base for exploring nearby hikes on the Amalfi Coast and in the Monti Lattari Regional Park.

5. What is the most famous hike in Italy?

There isn't one single most famous hike in Italy, as the country boasts numerous renowned hikes such as the Cinque Terre, the Dolomites' Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and the Amalfi Coast's Sentiero degli Dei, each famous for their unique landscapes and experiences.

See more hikes in Europe ...

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About the author 

Mila Whitman

Mila has been to 5 continents, visited over 40 countries and hiked across some of the most famous mountain ranges including the Andes and the Atlas Mountains. As an AMS sufferer she learned a few techniques to reduce the symptoms and the effects on her hiking adventures.

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Hiking in Italy

Planning walks in Italy sends many a seasoned hiker into the throes of bliss whether they’ve set foot on the country’s trails or not. The boot-shaped nation is famous for world-class hiking after all. 

With so much on offer, it’s challenging to decide which region to explore. The breathtaking Dolomites with their snow capped mountains and rolling, chocolate-box valleys? How about the extraordinary trails that wind through majestic Tuscany? Or, perhaps the dramatic cliffs above the Amalfi coast are calling?

Italy has a fantastic array of footpaths and trails all over the country from its long-distance mountainous hikes to its rural rambles along the back of grapevine terraces. You can base yourself in a quintessentially Calabrian town and do day hikes or backpack through the Apennines for weeks. 

Hikes in Italy take you through fantastic landscapes with plenty of pasta to keep you going, no matter how far you have to go. 

The best walks and hikes in Italy

Tre cime di lavaredo con il rifugio antonio locatelli — giro ad anello, panoramarunde um den puflatsch - seiser alm.

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Malga casnago e il gruppo delle odle dal rifugio zannes − giro ad anello, lungo il sentiero panoramico bussate tempesta, giro del lago di ledro, dal passo tre croci al lago sorapis, escursione attorno a sasso putia − giro ad anello, langkofelumrundung, drei zinnen umrundung, gran tour del sas putia con ascesa in vetta, more information, from the mountains to the mediterranean.

Italy has three major mountain ranges, each worthy of their own dedicated adventures. The Dolomites and the Italian Alps dominate the northern border and provide world-class hiking throughout the year. Walks in Italy’s northern mountains include multiple long-distance trails as well as day hikes. One thing is always the same; the views are unbelievable. 

The northern ranges are immensely popular for their picture-perfect valleys, rugged peaks and exquisite lakes but the Apennines have even more variation in character. This north-south running mountain range stretches the entire length of the mainland and has many different sections. Heavily forested with summer pastures and snow on the highest peaks, you’ll find some of the best hiking trails in Italy within the range. 

Italy’s coastline is vast and it has two large islands, Sicily and Sardinia, not to mention the many smaller islands. Italy’s coastal hikes have everything from the quaint colourful villages of the Cinque Terre and Amalfi to the jagged volcanic shores of Sicily. The Mediterranean is as much a part of Italy’s culture as the land itself and it offers a refreshing dip to cool off on a hot day. 

The best seasons for hiking in Italy

Choosing when to explore Italy’s hikes is just as important as where you go. Italy is blessed with some fairly incredible weather but that also means hot summers. Inland and in the south, summer temperatures can exceed 30 ℃ (86 ℉), making hiking a challenge in all but the highest places. 

Popular hiking spots can be very busy during the peak season. However, Italy still has plenty of fantastic options to escape the crowds. The northern mountains have ideal summer temperatures for walking and a huge variety of paths. Think green valleys, floral meadows and blissful mountain views. 

Spring and autumn are wonderful for hiking adventures all over the country. The mountain temperatures are still great for hiking and the warmer regions are cool enough for comfortable treks. No matter which season you hike in, there are always wonderful views and accessible routes.

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• Area Marina Protetta Regno di Nettuno
• Campo Nell'Elba
• Riserva Isole dello Stagnone di Marsala
• Aeolian Islands
• Natural Park of Porto Conte
• Costa Otranto - Santa Maria di Leuca e Bosco di Tricase Natural Park
• Parco regionale dei Campi Flegrei
• Aosta Valley
• Parco Nazionale Dell' Asinara
• Posthudorra/Porto Torres
• Portoferraio
• Friuli Venezia Giulia
• Parco Archeologico Sommerso Di Baia
• Riserva Naturale Orientata Isola Bella
• Area Marina Protetta Secche della Meloria
• Fondali Capo Mele - Alassio
• Apennine Mountains
• Isola di Sant'Andrea e litorale di Punta Pizzo Natural Park
• Area Naturale Marina Protetta Capo Gallo - Isola delle Femmine
• Lampedusa E Linosa
• Zona Di Protezione Speciale Capo Carbonara
• Emilia-Romagna
• Area Marina Protetta di Torre Guaceto - Zona C (riserva parziale)
• Amp "Capo Gallo - Isola Delle Femmine" Zona C
• Fondali Loano - Albenga
• Area marina protetta Isole Pelagie
• Riserva Naturale Di Ponza
• Area Naturale Marina Protetta delle Cinque Terre
• Area Marina Protetta Isole Ciclopi
• South Tyrol
• Arcipelago Toscano National Park

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Hiking in Italy

Looking for the best places to go hiking in Italy? From the craggy peaks of the Dolomites to the plunging cliffs of the Amalfi coast, Italy boasts some of the best walking trails in Europe. The Italian Alps, slightly wilder and more rugged than their Swiss and Austrian neighbors, provide some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, while further south, you’ll find delightful coastal trails, towering volcanoes, and sun-kissed hills just perfect for scrambling.

The best way to experience this beautiful country is to pull on your walking boots and get out onto the trails, and the sheer diversity of terrain means you’ll be spoilt for choice! Whether you want to scale the dizzying heights of the Dolomites or wander through the picture-perfect villages of Cinque Terre, there’s something here for everyone.

To help you find the best hikes in Italy, we’ve put together all the information you’ll need to plan your trip. So pack your bags, grab your hiking gear, and get ready to explore the trails of this fabulous hiking destination!

Types Of Hiking In Italy

Italy offers something for all walkers, whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for an easy stroll. The Alpi Marittime Natural Park, the Dolomites, and the Amalfi Coast regularly attract seasoned hikers and climbers and offer some challenging routes set in spectacular scenery.

However, if you’re looking for a relaxing walking holiday, there are plenty of less strenuous options! The green rolling hills of Lombardy offer some wonderful low-elevation walks, and Tuscany provides the best opportunity to combine hiking with a vineyard tour or a visit to some of Italy’s charming villages and towns. Whether you’re traveling with the family, or simply looking for some peace and quiet, Italy is the perfect destination for a hiking holiday!

Easy Hikes In Italy

• Enfola Peninsula Hike : There are plenty of easy hikes in Italy - perfect if you’re a beginner, or just looking for a leisurely day out. For picturesque coastal views, head to Tuscany and the infamous island of Elba, where Napoleon Bonaparte spent a period of exile in 1814. Some might say that Napoleon had it lucky – Elba boasts stunning sea views, white sandy beaches, and green hills. What’s more, this easy Enfola Peninsula hike will take you right over Mount Enfola, and offers some of the best views on the island.
• Lago di Carezza Hike : If you’re looking for a really spectacular bucket list hike that isn’t too demanding, try the stunning route around Lago di Carezza. You’ll find emerald waters surrounded by green spruce forests, all set against a backdrop of jagged, grey mountains. This 3.5km hike will take you through the forest and around the lake, where you can admire the wonderful scenery of the Dolomites with ease.
• Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike : If you’re heading to the Dolomites, don’t miss this wonderful Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike. The route passes by several rifugios that offer fabulous food, and the scenery is simply stunning. For those looking for an easy beginner hike, this is an excellent option, as the route can be shortened and you’ll still experience the best that the Dolomites have to offer! Alternatively, if you’d like to take it slow, why not stay the night at one of the several rifugios along the way and enjoy a spectacular sunset in the mountains?

Family Hikes In Italy

• Valnontey River Trail Hike : Finding good family hikes in Italy is easy – there are plenty of accessible routes with lots to see and do along the way. The Valnontey River Trail hike is a firm favorite with children, and one of the best family hikes in Italy. It’s an easy route that follows the Valnontey River along the valley, passing by waterfalls, glaciers, and towering mountains. Don’t miss the breathtaking icefalls at the end of the route!
• Valle Dei Mulini Hike : Kids are also sure to love this Valle Dei Mulini hike close to the Amalfi Coast, a region that oozes history and culture. This route will take you inland from the sea, passing through lush greenery, bubbling waterfalls, and ruined paper mills, a remnant of the region’s rich medieval past.
• Lago di Braies Hike : The Lago di Braies is one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes, and this easy hike is a wonderful day out in the Dolomites for families. According to legend, the intense turquoise waters of the lake are caused by lost treasures and jewels, lurking in the mud at the bottom. Although it’s usually too cold for swimming, it’s possible to hire a boat in the summer months and row out on to the water for a wonderful view of the lake and mountains. A fabulous day out for the whole family!

Day Hikes In Italy

• Lago di Loie Hike : The circular route of the Lago di Loie hike is one of the best day hikes in Italy and a good challenge for more adventurous walkers. The peaceful, crystal waters of the lake are simply stunning, and this epic trail offers some of the best views of Mont Blanc that you’ll find in Italy.
• Sassopiatto and Sassolungo Hike : If you’re looking for a breathtaking hike high in the Dolomites, this is the trail for you. You’ll need plenty of energy to complete the 16km route, but the incredible vista of the Dolomites will provide ample reward for your exertions. Listen out for the whistle of the local marmots – if you’re lucky you may even see one scurrying up the mountain!

Challenging Hikes In Italy

• Nuvolau Hike : For the very best of the Dolomites, and a real physical challenge, try the spectacular Nuvolau hike. Nuvolau offers an incomparable panorama, taking in the craggy peaks of the Dolomites and boasting 360-degree views across the mountains. This gorgeous spectacle is your fitting reward after a steep climb to the top!
• Rifugio Pagari Hike : One of the most challenging hikes in Italy is this Rifugio Pagari hike, deep in the heart of the Alpi Marittime Natural Park. This is the highest accessible Rifugio in the park, and offers plenty of activities for lovers of nature and hiking. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the local ibex and alpine rock ptarmigan!

Best Hikes In Italy

• Cinque Terre Hike : The Cinque Terre hike is, without doubt, one of the best hikes in Italy. This stunning trail winds its way through a series of picture-perfect villages on the coast of Liguria, passing by quaint and colorful fishing harbors and terraced vineyards. You can choose to hike a couple of shorter sections or take in the whole route in one day. Either way, you won’t be disappointed!
• "Path of the Gods" Hike : The "Path of the Gods" hike is not only one of the most famous hikes on the Amalfi Coast, it’s also one of the best hikes in Italy. Its reputation is certainly well deserved – prepare for stunning coastal views, vertiginous cliffs, and terraced hillsides. You may be walking along humble, ancient mule trails, but you’ll feel on top of the world.
• Vallone Argentera Hike : The Argentera is the tallest peak in the Alpi Marittime Park, and this hike is the best way to get up-close-and-personal with the mountain. Although it’s a stiff climb, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views in the Italian Alps (and that’s saying something)!
• Lago di Sorapiss Hike : The walk to Lago di Sorapiss is one of Italy’s finest hikes, taking you through picturesque scenery all the way to one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The intense blue color of the Lago di Sorapiss is the main draw, but the route itself is a joy to walk, passing by forests and caves, with fabulous views of the Dolomites.
• Monte Croce From Palagnana Hike : Tuscany’s beautiful scenery makes it a paradise for walkers, and this hike up Monte Croce from Palagnana is one of the region’s best. This hike is short but sweet, and is usually quiet, making it the perfect place for some peaceful contemplation. We’ve offered two options: a circular route, or a more straightforward out-and-back trail. The choice is yours!
• Punta Campanella Hike : Step back in time on this Punta Campanella hike! This moderately easy trail will guide you past the ruins of ancient Roman and Greek temples, not to mention the Saracen tower that dates back to the 14th century. This part of the Sorrentine Peninsula is said to be the place where Odysseus met the Sirens, and it’s been enchanting visitors since antiquity. We’re sure you’ll be captivated too!
• Laghi Arbergh Hike : For sheer variety, you can’t do better than the Laghi Arbergh hike. Deep in the heart of the Alpi Marittime Natural Park, the Arbergh Valley offers lush greenery, tall beech forests, colorful sandstone rocks, and an incredible range of biodiversity. This is a thrilling day hike through some of Italy’s finest scenery.
• Radda Loop Hike : It goes without saying that Italy is a paradise for wine lovers, and Tuscany’s picturesque vineyards are a lovely place for a stroll and a glass of wine. The Radda Loop hike offers the possibility to combine your walk with a visit to a vineyard, where you can sample some of Italy’s finest produce!
• Lago Pellaud via the Grand Ru Ring Trail : Located just on the border of the Gran Paradiso National Park, the Lago Pellaud via the Grand Ru Ring trail is one of the most beautiful hikes in Italy. You’ll walk through the beautiful Rhemes-Notre-Dame Valley, where you can see snow-capped mountains, tumbling waterfalls, and historic villages. The perfect hike to get away from it all.
• Viel del Pal Marmolada Hike : If you want to get a great view of the Dolomites, but aren’t quite ready to take on a grueling climb, the Viel del Pal Marmolada hike is an excellent option! This moderately challenging hike is accessible for most people, and gives wonderful views of Marmolada and the rest of the Dolomites. The route was once used by flour and bread merchants to move between the valleys, so you’ll be stepping back in time to walk in their footsteps.

When Is The Best Time To Hike In Italy?

Italy offers hikes for all seasons, and even in the depths of winter you can find places where it’s possible to do some great walking. However, most visitors choose to head for the hills in one of the ‘shoulder seasons’ on either side of the hot Italian summer.

April-May and September-October are the perfect times to go hiking in the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, Liguria, Sardinia, and Sicily, when you’ll find warm, sunny weather but the temperatures remain pleasant. It’s possible to hike here between November and March when the scenery can be spectacular, although many businesses will be closed and the weather may be wet and cool.

If you must come in summer, head for the higher regions of the Alps and the Dolomites, where you’ll find some respite from the scorching heat. The season for hiking in the Alps is from mid-June to the end of September, although the season may be slightly longer if the snows melt early and the weather stays warm until late October. If you’re looking for some winter walking, grab your snowshoes and visit the Dolomites or Mount Etna in January and February.

Unless you’re an experienced hiker, it’s a good idea to hire a licensed guide to show you around – check out our recommended tours in Italy for more inspiration!

Best Regions For Hiking In Italy

Italy’s diverse landscape provides some spectacular possibilities for hiking, but how do you choose which region to visit first? From Liguria to the Alps, Italy offers so much varied terrain and so many fabulous trails it can be difficult to pick a favorite. To help you decide, we’ve put together guides to the Dolomites , the Amalfi Coast , Liguria , the Gran Paradiso National Park , Tuscany , and of course, the Alps - Alpi Marittime Natural Park . The choice is yours!

How To Plan A Trip To Italy

If all this has got you reaching for your hiking boots, then start planning your trip to Italy today! We’ve got guides to all of Italy’s best hiking regions, including the Amalfi Coast Guide , the Alpi Marittime Natural Park guide , and the Dolomites guide , with everything you need to know to prepare for your hiking trip.

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Hiking regions in Italy

• Alpi Marittime Natural Park (10)
• Amalfi Coast (10)
• Dolomites (10)
• Gran Paradiso National Park (10)
• Liguria (1)
• Tuscany (10)

Best Hikes in Italy

Volterra loop.

The Volterra Loop is a beautiful Tuscan walk through the countryside around Volterra. Taking you through the slow rolling hills and beautiful villages of the countryside, the Volterra Loop is a great way to visit this area of Italy.

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The Alpe Money Hike is a beautiful trail in Gran Paradiso National Park. It takes you right up to the Gran Paradiso Mountain range and offers probably the best views of the highest mountain in the national park and the stunning Money and Tribolazione Glaciers under it, without having to climb it. A beautiful valley surrounded by Herbetet, Gran Paradiso, Testa della Tribolazione and Roccia Viva peaks takes you to the land of waterfalls and has some of the best views in whole Italian Alps.

Lago di Sorapis

We love the hike to Lago di Sorapis (Lake Sorapis). This beautiful hike takes in all the scenery one expects when walking in the Dolomites, but the reward is entirely unique. The colour of Lago Sorapis is a stunning baby blue. There are some cables along this trail, which can be tough to traverse if you have a fear of heights.

Path of the Gods

Without a doubt, the Path of The Gods, known to locals as the Sentiero Degli Dei, is the most famous hiking trail in all of the Amalfi Coast. Stunning views along the entire route make this hike a must for anyone in the area.

Cinque Terre

Hiking the Sentiero Azzurro trail linking the stunning villages that make up Cinque Terre is on most hikers’ bucket list for good reason. The colourful seaside villages and stunning views from the cliffside, looking over terraced vineyards and fishing harbors makes for a perfect day out in Italy.

Lagarot di Lourousa

As you hike through the larch forest, the trail will switchback an awful lot, although it isn’t steep. The path was built at the end of the nineteenth century to allow King Vittorio Emanuele II to ride on horseback while hunting chamois and ibex.

Enfola Peninsula

A trip to the Island of Elba is a must-do on a holiday in Tuscany. Forget the rolling hills you normally associate with Tuscany, this walk takes you over Monte Enfola on a very pretty peninsula, all the way to Capo D’Enfola.

Lago di Carezza

The Lago di Carezza hike (also known as Karersee) should be on everybody’s bucket list for the Dolomites. The beautiful colours of the lake, the forest, and the mountains that surround it, make the walk feel utterly magical.

Giro del Valasco

If the Valle Gesso were to have a flagship hike, it would be the Giro del Valasco. From the King’s Valasco hunting lodge, the walk rises to the military tracks, built by the Alpine army in the 30s. They served to replenish the “Vallo Alpino” war system, which today is a monument to man’s talent and abilities, as well as to the stupidity of war. Overall, it’s a very popular trail.

Punta Campanella

This hike is like a walk back into an ancient time. Along the trail there are remnants of old temples where ancient Greeks and Romans worshiped the Goddess Athena / Minerva. Have we mentioned the unforgettable views of Capri Island and the Bay of Ieranto?

Rifugio Vittorio Sella

Rifugio Vittorio Sella is one of the most scenic hikes in Gran Paradiso National Park. The trail rewards you with amazing views of snowy mountains and spectacular glaciers. At the end of the hike, you can enjoy traditional food and refreshments from the Rifugio Vittorio Sella mountain chalet in the high valley of Alpe Lauson.

Lago Scaffaiolo and Corno Alle Scale

The hike to Lago Scaffaiolo and Corno alle Scale is a surprising Tuscan treat. This hike is a great way to see another part of Tuscany. Hiking through the beautiful Appennino Tosco-Emiliano range is quite a treat as the mountains tend to look more like hills and create an easy and undulating walk to Lago Scaffaiolo and Corno alle Scale.

Valnontey River Trail

The Valnontey River trail in Gran Paradiso National Park is an easy trail that takes you through a beautiful valley along the Valnontey River. You will see stunning mountains, amazing glaciers, and waterfalls rushing down the distant steep mountain slopes. At the end of this trail, you will see the breathtaking ice falls - waterfalls, rushing down the glaciers.

Vallone Argentera

The mountain views on this hike are spectacular, which is saying something when every walk in this region takes place in the Alps. The Argentera is the highest mountain in the Alpes-Marittime. Climbing into the valley of the same name and up to Rifugio Bozano, allows admiration of this majestic mountain.

Bay of Ieranto

Although this is an easier walk, this is one of the most beautiful trails you can hike on the Coast. You won’t want to miss sitting on the little Capitiello beach with a privileged view of Capri and its Faraglioni (wave-carved rocks in the bay) in front of you.

Viel del Pan Marmolada

The Viel del Pan hike treks over a historic path used by the flour and bread merchants to get from one valley to another. Linking Passo Fedaia with Passo Pordoi, this walk has amazing Dolomite landscapes, especially of Marmolada! This is one of the most accessible ways to see big mountain views in the Dolomites.

Valle dei Mulini

This is one of the easiest hikes of the Amalfi Coast, yet it’s still full of nature and history. Thanks to its short distance, this is a great trail to walk with the entire family.

Monte Croce from Palagnana

The hike up Monte Croce is a stunner! This is another Tuscan hike that doesn’t feel like Tuscany. The route goes via Palagnana, and is a short but beautiful hike. It starts high in the mountain region and provides spectacular views without much of the crowd found in other areas. Note that there are some chains to use on this hike, but the hike isn’t particularly challenging.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo Circuit (also known as the Drei Zinnen) is a must-do trail for hikers in the Dolomites. Tre Cime is one of the best-known massifs in the Dolomites, and this walk gives stunning and varied views. Along the way, you will pass by Rifugio Auronzo, Rifugio Lavaredo and Rifugio Locatelli. You’ll enjoy great views and great food!

Lago di Loie

The Lago di Loie hike takes you on a circular route to the peaceful and crystal-clear Lake Loie. It offers amazing scenery of snowy peaks and the beautiful Bardoney Valley, where you can see the curious marmots. Amongst many scenic views the hike offers, Mont Blanc (or Monte Bianco) is the most desired view of this trail.

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The Best Hiking Trails in Italy

Italy is not just famous for food, history and art, it’s also got diverse hiking options perfect for discovering its stunning natural landscapes. With mountain trails in the north and volcano climbing in Sicily, the best time to come is spring and early autumn. Here’s our guide to the coolest destinations for hiking in Italy.

You can enjoy a hiking tour along the Mediterranean coast and cliffs of the Cinque Terre National Park on Culture Trip’s specially curated 10-day Northern Italy trip .

1. Cinque Terre, Liguria

Natural Feature

Cinque Terre is an iconic coastal region in Liguria, on the west coast of Italy. The five oceanside fishing villages perched on the cliffs in pastel colours look exactly like the photos: idyllic buildings, crystalline waters and breathtaking views. The perfect way to visit all five is to hike the Sentiero Azzurro (the blue path) from Monterosso to Corniglia, strolling through the picturesque hamlets and admiring the coastal landscape.

2. Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Dolomites

Nothing beats the Dolomites when it comes to hiking in Italy, and these amazing mountains are much less visited than the comparable Swiss or French Alps. They have it all: cloud-scraping mountains, idyllic lakes, limestone peaks and pristine forests. This area is full of trails and one of the best circuits is Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti di Sesto. Don’t forget your camera, as the mountain range is highly photogenic.

3. Alta Via 1, Dolomites

Hiking Trail, Natural Feature

The best-known hiking trail in the Dolomites is Alta Via 1, a 120km (75mi) high trail over some of the finest scenery in the eastern Dolomites. This mountain range, a Unesco World Heritage site, is one of the most beautiful landscapes thanks to its vertical walls, deep valleys and sheer peaks that run from the enchanting Lake Braies (or Pragser Wildsee) to the city of Belluno.

4. Il Sentiero degli Dei, Amalfi Coast

Natural Feature, Hiking Trail

The Sentiero degli Dei, or Path of the Gods, is a must-visit destination in Campania, with terrific views of the rugged Lattari Mountains and island of Capri. The path links Positano with Praiano and winds through terraced hillsides and lemon plantations, with views over the mediterranean.

5. Selvaggio Blu, Sardinia

Sardinia is one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean. The Selvaggio Blu (Wild Blue) hiking trail is recommended for those with mountaineering experience, but this epic route threading the cliffs by the Gulf of Orosei on Sardinia’s east coast is definitely worth the effort. Trek along one of Italy’s wildest, most isolated coastlines with terrific gorges, cliffs, vegetation and stunning views of the sea.

6. Valtellina, Lombardy

Valtellina extends 200km (125mi) in the northern region of Lombardy, smack in the middle of the Alps. Though often overshadowed by the Dolomites, it’s worth a trip to its parks and natural reserves that make up more than a third of the region. Popular hiking trails include the Alta Via della Valmalenco, Gran Via delle Orobie, Sentiero della Pace and Via Alpina in Valtellina.

7. Stromboli, Aeolian Islands, Sicily

In one of the most remote areas of Italy, Stromboli is the jewel of the Aeolian Islands. For nature-lovers the climb to the crater is not to be missed, but beware: this island contains one of three active volcanoes in Italy, so it’s not possible to hike here every day. The contrast of the volcanic landscape with the turquoise sea is one of the most enchanting panoramas in Sicily.

8. Monte Bianco and Monte Rosa, Aosta Valley

Valle d’Aosta, bordering France and Switzerland, is known for its sublime mountains, including Monte Bianco, Monte Rosa, Monte Cervino and Gran Paradiso. Monte Bianco (Mont Blanc) is the highest mountain in the Alps, and world-famous. The tour of the ‘White Mountain’, which is considered one of the classic trails in Europe, starts from Courmayeur at the foot of the mountain. Monte Rosa is the second highest mountain in the Alps and its name ‘rosa’ (meaning pink) has nothing to do with the colour, but derives from the local word for glacier, rouése .

9. Italian Lakes

If you’re planning a hiking trip in the spring or autumn, come to the Italian Lakes. The breeze off the water keeps hikers cool, and it’s also possible to swim or take out a boat. Lake Como is the ideal spot if you want to explore scenic towns such as Bellagio, Tremezzo or Varenna, while Lake Maggiore is off the beaten track. Lake Garda has fantastic hiking trails for mountain lovers, in addition to cosy towns with local flavour.

Sicily is a wonderful hiking destination. If you don’t feel like taking a ferry to Stromboli, a great alternative is to climb the mountainous areas of Mount Etna: the Madonie and Nebrodi Mountains. Perfect for hikers who prefer forested trails, both have park trails running through them. One of the prettiest is the Vendicari Nature Reserve which runs along the coast and is relatively flat. The nearby Pantalica Gorge is an archaeological site in addition to its beautiful trails. Explore more of this enigmatic island with the help of our Local Insider on our 10-day adventure to Sicily .

11. Tuscany

Tuscany is home to Italy’s greatest art cities but only a few people know it’s possible to spend time here hiking as well. Three of the best trails include the Renaissance Ring circling Florence, the Chianti Trail (perfect for a wine-themed itinerary between vineyards and medieval villages) and the hiking trails of Val d’Orcia, through Crete Senesi.

12. Corno Grande, Abruzzo

Dominating the rocky landscape of the Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso – one of the largest national parks in Italy – is Corno Grande, the highest peak in the Apennines. Abruzzo is not the most visited destination in Italy, but it contains authentic treasures like this mountain. Via normale is the route that will provide you with views of the mountain and Adriatic, as well as Europe’s southernmost glacier, the Calderone.

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10 Best Hiking Trails in Italy

By: Author Gabi Ancarola

Posted on Last updated: October 28, 2023

The mountainous landscapes of Italy offer endless hiking adventures for those travelers eager to venture and explore remote destinations in nature. The Italian peninsula features extremely interesting walking paths surrounded by unspoiled nature, including a variety of routes and hiking destinations catering to first-timers as well as more challenging trails, perfect for experienced hikers.

The country has so much more to offer other than pretty cities, ancient ruins, and gorgeous seaside towns . And no matter how much experience you have worn into those hiking boots, these are some of the most impressive hiking adventures in Italy that you will enjoy discovering during your time in the country. Let’s see some of the best ones…

Hiking in Italy (10 Best Trails)

Cinque terre trail, the blue path.

One of the most popular hiking trails in Italy is the one that spreads along the coast of the Ligurian Sea, where high cliffs plunge into the blue of the sea giving the Liguria region its unique character.

This trail takes you along the five seaside towns that create the picturesque region of the Cinque Terre (or five lands).

It can take from one to two days to complete the whole path walking along the vineyards that adorn the dreamy landscape taking travelers from one village to the other.

Once you reach some of the settlements, it is possible to spend some time resting by the sea, enjoying a fresh swim, or tasting the spectacular dishes of the Italian cuisine.

And if you’re worried about long walks under the sun then rest assured that the adventure can turn into a much easier experience by taking advantage of the Blue Trail pass that allows you to jump on a train and reach the next destination in total comfort while giving a break to your tired feet.

LEARN MORE: 35 Famous Landmarks in Italy

You can begin or finish your Cinque Terre hike from Riomaggiore

Gran Paradiso Grand Tour

Nestled between the Val d’Aosta and the region of Piedmont, close to the heights of the stunning Mont Blanc and Matterhorn (known as Monte Cervo in Italy) this is a gorgeous trekking path with a demanding difficulty, perfect for experienced hikers, and oftentimes better done with a knowledgeable local guide for further safety.

The landscape offers a glimpse of the rich natural flora and fauna, spanning from impressive Alpine Lakes to high cliffs, and ancient glaciers.

If you’re planning to accept the challenge of this 5-day adventure that’s more than 55 kilometers in length, it is a good idea to visit the Gran Paradiso National Park website (Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso) for further details and more information when planning the visit.

Path of the Gods

Locally known as the Sentiero degli Dei (which translates as the road or the path of the Gods), this heavenly trail spreads along one more popular Italian destination, the Amalfi Coast in the Campania region, not far from Naples. 

Although this can be deemed as a fairly easy walk, its impressive beauty makes it a must-walk trail even for more experienced hikers.

The trail is about 8 kilometers long and offers some of the most romantic views of the Mediterranean and the Sorrento Gulf, including the spectacular island of Capri.

The hike can take from three to four hours and is one of the most amazing experiences you can live when spending your holidays in the area.

LEARN MORE: What Are The Most Beautiful Cities in Italy?

On the Amalfi Coast the views from Path of the Gods are heavenly

High Routes of the Dolomites

Located between the regions of Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto, on the northeastern tip of Italy, there are different high hiking itineraries that will take walkers from one mountain refuge to another one, soaring to heights of up to about 3000 meters.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the country with impressive places to visit.

One of the most magnificent trails, the so-called Three Peaks of Lavaredo (Tre Cime di Lavaredo) is an easy to moderate hike, perfect for those giving their first steps on mountain trails.

Despite its easier conditions, the landscapes do not disappoint.

For a more challenging experience, the trail known as Alta Via (High Path), also in the region of the Dolomites, is often considered one of the most amazing trails in the area.

The path begins at the biggest lake in the area, Braies Lake, extending for more than 150 kilometers through some seriously impressive peaks and glacial formations.

The long trail might take from 10 to 12 days to complete, ending in the mountain village of Belluno.

From here, it is easy to catch a train that can take you back to Venice , Milan , or other northern city in just a couple of hours.

If mountains are what you want to see while hiking in Italy head to the Dolomites in summer

Green Way, Lake Como

If you’re looking for a short, panoramic walk, easy and suitable for all seasons and all kinds of hikers, then don’t miss this gorgeous path located on the western bank of the famous Como Lake in the north of the Italian peninsula.

The route takes you from the villages of Colonno to the settlement of Griante, spreading in different paths along the way passing near imposing historic villas and picturesque and modest fishing villages.

This unique disposition gives you the opportunity to choose between walking the entire trail or just a few parts of it.

The whole trail is about 10 kilometers in length and it takes from 3 to 4 hours to complete.

Beautiful Lake Como is a popular vacation destination in Italy

Via degli Dei

This incredible itinerary that crosses the fascinating regions of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna takes travelers from Bologna to Florence , two of the most important cities in central Italy.

A perfect itinerary for those who love to explore historical trails, the path has ancient Etruscan roots and it was a remarkable military road during the times of the Roman Empire.

The path is about 130 kilometers in length and there are 5 different sections to it crossing the beautiful Apennines Mountain range from the Tuscany to the Emilia regions.

These 5 sections can be divided into 4 to 6 legs or stages, depending on the level of experience and stamina of hikers.

Considered a path of medium difficulty, it can take from 4 to 6 days to cross. Many travelers also enjoy biking along this path thus shortening the experience.

Regional Park of Portofino, Liguria region

This beautiful trail is located in the region of Genoa, spanning from the charming fishing town of Camogli to the gorgeous and wealthy seaside resort of Portofino.

Along the way the trail crosses the Promontory of Portofino, which is part of the Natural Park of Portofino, a regional natural reserve in the heart of the Mediterranean scrub. 

Along the way, you will also pass steps from the famous Sant Fruttuoso Abbey, a perfect stop to rest before continuing to Portofino.

The trail is about 13 kilometers long and it represents a good adventure for first-timers since it is a pleasant, not very demanding walk that can take from 4 to 5 hours to complete.

LEARN MORE: 15 Beautiful Beach Towns in Italy

Gorgeous coastal town Comagli

Big Horn or Corno Grande is the highest peak in the Apennine range, standing at 2,192 meters above the sea level.

The ascent to the summit can be as challenging as you wish since there are several different paths for you to choose from according to your experience and fitness level.

There are some impressive, very direct routes considered faster but also steeper and a bit more dangerous.

It is always a good idea to contact the local trained guides in order to take up this impressive challenge.

The most common route to the peak is known as the Normal route, which starts on the side facing the city of L’Aquila, on this route, the path proceeds quietly, between rocky peaks with just a few steep sections.

The Normal path can take about 2-5 hours (it’s a bit less than 5 kilometers long), with a total ascent of about 750 meters.

Along the way, impressive views of the Adriatic Coast and beautiful wildlife, including green woods, pines trees, and eagles.

The trail is located in the central region of Abruzzo and is part of the Grand Sasso Massif.

The Big Horn is the second highest mountain in the country outside of the Alps, second only to Mount Etna on the island of Sicily .

Mount Vesuvius, Campania

Have you ever thought about hiking a volcano?

In Italy, you can! One of the most impressive mountains in the country, responsible for the disappearance of the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculanum, Mount Vesuvius stands high on the Neapolitan landscape with its menacing shadow over the city.

Although the hike can be quite direct, the mountain is a popular tourist destination in the country, so it tends to be crowded all year round.

However, once at the top, you will not only get impressive views of the Mediterranean, but you will certainly understand how tragic it would be if the mountain exploded again given that the underlying city of Naples is one of the most densely populated areas in the country.

Although the hike is fairly short (it can take about an hour to reach the crater), the way up is a very steep uphill incline.

Moreover, there are no stops for rest or shade along the way, making the hike difficult in summer. For a better experience, check this trail in the spring or late autumn, once the seasonal rains subside.

You can hike up to the top of Mount Vesuvius – spring or autumn is the best time to for hiking this trail

Saint Francis Way, Umbria region

One of the most historic paths in Italy, visited by hundreds of pilgrims year after year, is the so-called Way of Francis (la Via di Francesco) which connects the towns of Assisi and Gubbio.

This walking path is not just a hiking adventure, but a deeply spiritual trail that reaches all the most important places that played an important role in the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, Italy’s patron saint and most beloved religious figure.

Along the way, walkers can explore the 50-kilometer path from Assisi to Gubbio passing along varied landscapes of incredible beauty.

On the road, travelers will encounter pristine streams and mountain rivers, soft hills, abbeys, castles, and impressive scenarios.

Its unique beauty contrasts with some of the most demanding portions of the road which continuously shift from uphill to downhill making the road more challenging and tiring.

For that reason, it is a good idea to make frequent stops and try to complete the trail in 2-3 days if you’re an experienced hiker.

Instead, if you’re just starting, then take it easy and use one or two more days to better enjoy the landscape, visit the ancient churches, and avoid reaching the destination in pain.

Basilica St Francis of Assisi in Umbria

Final Thoughts on Best Hiking in Italy

There you go, from one coast to the other, from the Apennines to the Alps, from the north to the south, Italy is home to some of the most incredible hiking trails in Europe, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. From high to low level difficulty, over volcanoes, seaside paths, and ancient glaciers, the roads along the Bel Paese will conquer travelers with its fascinating ancient roads and historical trails, its beautiful monasteries, impressive little churches, and simple but picturesque seaside villages.

About the Author

Gabi Ancarola is a translator and travel journalist living in Crete. She regularly writes about Europe for several magazines about travel, gastronomy, and hospitality. She has published several travel guides about Greece and plans customized trips to the Greek islands. She loves cooking local dishes, taking photos, and driving on the mountain roads of Crete.

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The best hiking trails in Italy

The Gran Paradiso Grand Tour

It is a highly spectacular ring trekking route that winds in front of the Gran Paradiso , between the Aosta Valley and Piedmont, in view of glaciers and alpine lakes, in contact with ibexes and chamois. The difference in altitude is considerable - equal to the height of the Gran Paradiso peak (4,061 m) - and a good physical training is required. For further information on the route, please consult the  Gran Paradiso National Park website .

• Crossed regions : Aosta Valley, Piedmont
• Difficulty : demanding
• Length : approx. 56 kilometers
• Travel time: 4-5 days

Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso

The high routes of the dolomites.

Eight different itineraries higher up the mountains, from a mountain hut to another, up to altitudes of 3,000 meters, where you can walk in the extraordinary scenery of the Dolomites , UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Dolomites High Routes touch some of the most beautiful places, such as the Marmolada, the Pale di San Martino, the Three Peaks of Lavaredo , Lagazuoi and Lake Braies .

• Crossed regions : Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto
• Difficulty : medium to difficult
• Length : variable, from a minimum of 36 km (Alta Via No 7) to a maximum of 180 km (Alta Via No 2 and No 6)
• Travel time : several days, from the 5 stages of No 7 to the 13 stages of No 2

Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Lago di Braies

The greenway of lake como.

It is a pleasant panoramic walk along a splendid stretch of the western shore of Lake Como , from Colonno to Griante, tracing stretches of the ancient Roman Via Regina.  Seven legs along the route - suitable for everyone and in every season - among small fishing villages, historic villas and Romanesque churches.

• Crossed regions : Lombardy
• Difficulty : easy and suitable for everyone
• Length : approx. 10 kilometers
• Travel time : about 3 and a half hours

From Camogli to Portofino, in the Regional Park of Portofino

It crosses the entire promontory of Portofino, inside the  Regional Natural Park of Portofino , in the scent of the Mediterranean scrub: panoramic and not very demanding, this wonderful hiking trail starts from the seaside village of Camogli and arrives in Portofino, coveted destination of the international jet set, with a halfway stop in San Fruttuoso, where the famous Abbey of the same name is located.

• Crossed regions : Liguria
• Difficulty : easy to medium
• Length : 13 kilometers
• Travel time: approx. 4-5 hours

Bay of San Fruttuoso

The path of the gods on the amalfi coast.

Amidst rocky spires, oaks and terraces, straddling the Amalfi and Sorrento coasts , it owes its name to the spectacular views of the sea (stretching as far as the Faraglioni of Capri) and the legends surrounding it (Ulysses would have been saved from the sirens right here). The least demanding trail is from Agerola to Nocelle, a hamlet of Positano . Not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo, it is recommended in spring or autumn, when it is less hot.

• Crossed regions: Campania
• Length : 8 kilometers
• Travel time: approx . 4 and a half hours

Amalfi Coast

In the Etna Park along the Germoplasma Trail

Easily accessible to everyone - even to the disabled - and with gradients of less than 7%, this trail is included in the  Etna Park, where a dense network of paths branches out, among vineyards, brooms, and medicinal plants. The informational installations are also suitable for the visually impaired and the blind, making it a true five senses path in contact with nature.

• Crossed regions : Sicily
• Difficulty : easy, also accessible to disabled people
• Length : 1.153 kilometers
• Travel time: approx. 1 hour

The Via degli Dei, from Bologna to Florence

A fascinating itinerary, already travelled by the Etruscans, a military road in Roman times: the evocative  Via degli Dei  is a path that covers 130 kilometers, generally divided into five legs, from Bologna to Florence through the woods of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines . It can also be covered by bike and is suitable for people with average training (six stages are recommended for those who are at their first experience).

• Crossed regions : Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany
• Length : 130 kilometers
• Travel time : from 4 to 6 days

The Alpe Adria Trail, between Italy, Austria and Slovenia

It is a transnational trail that unites the mountains and the sea, 750 km in 43 legs between Austria, Slovenia and Italy: the  Alpe Adria Trail  begins from the perennial Grossglockner glaciers in Carinthia and ends in Muggia, 10 km south of Trieste. The route can be tackled in both directions and is technically not very difficult (the differences in height are minimal, each stage is about 20 km long).

• Crossed regions : Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Carinthia (Austria) and Slovenia
• Length : 750 kilometers in total divided into 43 legs of approx. 20 kilometers each
• Travel time: approx. 43 days to cover the entire route

From Assisi to Gubbio, on the Way of Francis

It is part of a longer path, the  Via di Francesco, a hiking trail that touches all the most significant places in the life of St. Francis: the stretch from Assisi to Gubbio covers 50 km between hills, streams, castles and abbeys and it is challenging because of the length and series of ups and downs (halfway stages are recommended).

• Crossed regions : Umbria
• Difficulty : medium to challenging
• Length : approx. 50 kilometers
• Travel time: 2-3 days

Along the Appian Way, from Rome to the Roman Castles

From downtown Rome , you can leave for a walk of about 20 km among history, nature and good food in the  Appian Way Regional Park  to the Castelli Romani . The ideal starting point is the ancient Porta Capena, from which to proceed in the direction of Cecilia Metella (5 km) and then towards Casal Rotondo (5 km) and Frattocchie (8 km). The trail is also suitable for families.

• Crossed regions : Lazio
• Difficulty : easy, also suitable for families
• Length : approx. 20 kilometers
• Travel time: one day

Via Appia Antica

Trekking along the wild blue.

From Santa Maria Navarrese to Cala Gonone, in the Gulf of Orosei, considered one of the most challenging trekking trails in Europe, the  Selvaggio Blu  (“Wild Blue”) includes sections of via ferrata and climbing, and along its 50 km you can’t find any rest stop or water. The reward, however, is an extraordinarily intact nature, among shepherds' paths and cliffs on a cobalt blue sea.

• Crossed regions : Sardinia
• Difficulty : hard
• Length : 50 kilometers
• Travel time: approx. seven days

From Abruzzo to Puglia along the Tratturo Magno

It’s 300,000 passes, from the rugged mountains of the Gran Sasso to the fertile pastures of the Tavoliere delle Puglie: once crossed by shepherds with their flocks, the  Tratturo Magno  is the longest Italian tratturo, a true historical itinerary that goes from Abruzzo to Puglia. It is generally divided into 10 legs of about 25 km each, which can also be covered by bike; because of the various differences in height, it is suitable for the most trained.

• Crossed regions: Abruzzo, Molise, Puglia
• Length : 244 kilometers
• Travel time: approx. 10 days

Gran Sasso d'Italia

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• Trip Styles
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• Alps Guided Treks

Italian Dolomites Trek

Venice, italy, trip highlights.

• Famous Mountains
• Dramatic Cliffs & Valleys
• Unique Wildlife
• Charming Villages
• Wonderful Accommodations
• Exquisite Regional Cuisine
• Amazing Natural & Cultural History

Description

This amazing trip follows a gorgeous itinerary through unforgettable mountains with stunning views, cozy 3-star accommodations and regional cuisine. We focus exclusively on the Italian Dolomites, one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the world! The Dolomites are a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site, universally valued for their unique and exceptional natural beauty. Geologically distinct (consisting mostly of high-quality limestone) and with fantastically unusual shapes and features, they have inspired artists, scientists and outdoors enthusiasts for centuries.

Alternating between towering, alpine passes and lush, diverse valleys, we explore a wonderland of scenery and adventure. The magic of these Italian landscapes emerge in detail as our week progresses and we discover alpine plateaus, dramatic massifs, pristine rivers and lakes, fields of wildflowers, fairy-tale villages, awe-inspiring mountain vistas and a lot more.

$3755 Per Person

$265/$600 single supplement.

The scheduled rate for this trip is based on double occupancy. Single rooms are available on a limited basis for an additional single supplement. The price of the single supplement is dependent on what size room is available at the time of booking. If you’d like to upgrade to a single room, please let us know when you register.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL 3

Scale of 1-5. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult

Hiking Distances:

Up to 10 mi

Backpack Weight:

Moderately Rugged

Max Daily Elev. ↑↓:

Up to 2000 ft

Heights Exposure:

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THIS TRIP

• Hiking uphill or downhill with a 8-12 lb backpack for 6-8 hours
• Maintaining balance and footing on variable, uneven terrain
• Potentially hiking across snow
• Hiking with occasional, significant heights exposure

SOLITUDE LEVEL 2

1 least solitude, 5 most solitude

We rate this Alps hiking tour a solitude 2. You can expect as much as an hour of solitude at a time.

•   Travel to
•   Minimum Guests

We require a minimum of 2 guests to confirm this trip. If booking within 90 days of the trip date, we require a minimum of 4 guests to confirm this trip. If a trip date is not confirmed yet, you can register and will be notified when the trip is officially confirmed. We recommend not making final travel arrangements until your trip meets the minimum number of guests and is confirmed.

In most cases, if a trip does not reach the minimum number of guests, you may choose to transfer to another trip date or another trip, be refunded your payments in full, or you may have the choice to pay a supplemental fee to run the trip with fewer guests. We make the final determination for these trips 65-60 days before the departure date.

Private Trips

Travel in perfect company by booking a private trip exclusively for your group!

Our sliding scale for private trips is based on the final number of guests in your group. Rates are per person and do not include sales tax, national park fees or guide gratuity. The final rate is based on the actual number of guests on the trip and may adjust based on cancellations or additions.

Please Note: you can also enjoy a private trip at our normal scheduled rates by filling any empty tour to capacity. However, if group members drop from the tour those spots will automatically become available on our website for instant booking. By purchasing a private trip at the rates listed below, your trip will remain exclusive to your group regardless of cancellations. 

Private Rates FOr This Trip

• 2 people: rate x 2.5
• 3 people: rate x 2
• 4-5 people: rate x 1.5
• 6-10 people: rate x 1.15
• 11-12 people: standard rate
• 13+ people: contact us for availability and pricing

*all rates are per person and single supplements apply

Learn About Our Private Trips

• Vehicle Transfer: 2.5-3 hours

On this  Alps hiking tour , we begin with arrival at Venice International Airport. Please arrange your flight to arrive at or before 2:30 P.M. After rendezvousing with your guide and group at the airport arrival terminal at 3 P.M., we will transfer via a private shuttle to our accommodations in the small village of Pocol just outside of Cortina d’Ampezzo. This scenic area will be our home for the next 4 nights and boasts fabulous views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. Once settled into our rooms, your guide will conduct a brief orientation meeting to discuss the specifics of your trip before enjoying our first dinner together. The food in this region is a mixture of Austrian, German and Italian influences; which is common in many areas of the Dolomites.

• Hiking Distance: 6.2 mi (10 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1150 ft (350 m)
• Elevation Loss: 2346 ft (715 m)
• Trekking Duration: 4.5 hours

We begin today with buffet breakfast spread at our hotel before taking a short private transfer to the starting trailhead for today’s hike. Our hike takes us towards an amazing mountain pass. After skirting beneath the towering limestone cliffs of Averau, we will stop and have lunch at the Averau Refuge surrounded by stunning views of the Italian Dolomites, before continuing down to another refuge, Scoiattoli. This stretch of our hike is directly across from the stone towers of Tofane and the world famous Cinque Torri. Climbers from around the globe love these towering pillars, and you will see why – they are dramatic, sheer and awe-inspiring. We will visit several fascinating World War II relics including mountain bunkers and defensive outposts, which for many guests is an unexpected highlight. After soaking in the views and learning some of the region’s fascinating history, we’ll descend gradually back towards civilization and catch a short transfer back to our accommodations. Once back at our accommodations we’ll have time to relax before dinner at our hotel, with the Alps as our backdrop.

• Hiking Distance: 7.2 mi (11.6 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1330 ft (405 m)
• Elevation Loss: 3050 ft (930 m)
• Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

Day 3 starts with another short transfer after another European buffet breakfast spread at our hotel. On today’s hike we start from the road at the Giau pass. Along the way we’ll cross over 3 small passes on our way to a high plateau with an alpine pasture and amazing views. Once through this area we’ll continue ad drop down to the picturesque high elevation Federa lake where we’ll sit down for a delicious trail lunch. After lunch we’ll descend to our awaiting transfer along a beautiful forested path crossing a river along the way. Once back at our accommodations we’ll have time to relax before dinner and tonight’s meal is planned at a fabulous hand-picked restaurant in the charming mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo.

• Hiking Distance: 6.5 mi (10.5 km)
• Elevation Loss: 2067 ft (630 m)
• Trekking Duration: 5 hours

Day 4 starts with another short transfer after another European buffet breakfast spread at our hotel. On today’s hike we explore the opposite side of the mountain valley from Cinque Torre. We follow a traversing route along the southern face of the Tofane di Rozes, one of the Dolomite’s most dramatic cirques. Our sweeping views are of the areas we have explored over the last two days of hiking, giving us a wonderful vantage to appreciate all we’ve accomplished thus far. Our path eventually takes us to the Dibona Refuge, where we’ll sit down for a delicious trail lunch. After lunch we’ll descend back to Pocol along a beautiful, forested path.

• Hiking Distance: 9 mi (15 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1476 ft (450 m)
• Elevation Loss: 2822 ft (860 m)
• Trekking Duration: 4.5-5 hours

This morning we will pack up our bags after breakfast and transfer via a private bus up to the Auronzo Refuge by private shuttle. From here we will start today’s hike, which is a memorable one indeed. We hike over the pass of Forcella de Mezzo to the North face of the famous Tre Cime, a towering, dramatic peak. This is the most famous mountain in all of the Dolomites and our backdrop for the next few days of hiking. We continue on to the pass of Forcellina and its neighboring, stunning alpine lakes. Our hike ends with a descent through the picturesque Rinbon and Rinbianco valleys back to our hotel and awaiting luggage for a much-deserved dinner and relaxing evening.

• Hiking Distance: 8.1 mi (13 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1936 ft (590 m)
• Elevation Loss: 1936 ft (590 m)

Today begins with another great European breakfast buffet at our hotel, after which we head up to the Auronzo refuge by private transfer to start our second day of hiking around the region’s famous Tre Chime di Lavaredo. Today the views are expansive, and the landscapes are unforgettable. Mountain peaks, passes, valleys, and lakes fill our day with an ever changing back drop of once-in-a-lifetime views. A few of these highlights include Lago di Cengia, the pass of Büllelejoch, and the Lakes dei Piani. We finish up our hike going up and over the Laveredo Pass down to our starting point. A local public bus will transfer us back to our hotel for one last relaxing night and celebratory dinner with Lake Misurina as our backdrop.

• Hiking Distance: 5 mi mi (8 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1312 ft (400 m)
• Elevation Loss: 1312 ft (400 m)
• Trekking Duration: 4 hours
• Vehicle Transfer: 3-4 hours

Our last day of the Italian Dolomites Lodge-based Tour gives us one more impressive half-day hike into the Popéna Valley. This quaint, remote valley just behind Lake Misurina allows us one last look at the surrounding beauty of the Dolomites. After returning to our hotel we will take a private vehicle transfer to the Venice Airport, then Mestre Train Station. Flights should be planned for a 6pm departure or later. What a week it’s been!

Please Note : We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal  terms and conditions  apply to trips with itinerary changes.

Trip Dates & Booking

Trip dates & booking.

Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.

AVAILABLE TO BOOK

This trip is available and bookable online! Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team!

This trip has 1 or 2 spots remaining and is bookable online! Click on the date to book now or contact us online to book through customer service.

REQUEST A RESERVATION

This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Please contact us online or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to request a reservation.

Don't see your dates? Call us! We may be able to add new trip dates.

Trip details, what's included.

• A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
• Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See  Guide Bios .
• Transportation for the duration of the tour starting on Day 1 and ending on the day you depart
• Private transfer to Cortina on day 1
• Private transfer to Venice (Mestre station or Airport) on day 7
• Lodging for the duration of the tour
• Use of a day pack, trekking poles and other gear
• All meals from dinner on Day 1 through lunch on the last day
• Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and emergency communication device

What's Not Included

• Transportation to Venice, Italy
• Beverages and personal expenses
• Trip insurance  that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (required in the Alps)
• Bar bills, drink bills, extra snacks, telephone bills, wifi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
• All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
• Clothes, rain gear, and footwear ( see recommendations )
• Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
• Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight
• Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 10-15% of the total trip cost. Please tip your lead guide and they will distribute responsibly to the crew. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about what to pack.

Meals: What to Expect

This Alps hiking tour features a combination of in-town meals and meals prepared by your guide. Most lunches are prepared on the trail by your guides. Italian meals with Austrian and German influences will be had in our hotels and nearby towns! Bread, grains, pastas, rice, polenta, local cheese, and pork products are all staples in this region.

It is common in the Alps that restaurants do not allow groups to order from an a la carte menu; a set menu is created, and guests do not have the option of ordering differently from the set menu.

We can often accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee, and in some destinations may be more difficult to accommodate than others. Please inquire with us for more information about the specific trip you’re interested in.

Gear We Provide

We provide all group gear which includes the following:

• Trekking poles
• Company-issued first-aid kit
• Emergency communication device

Guest Packing List

When you register for this tour you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip ( click here to see it now.) All trips require a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots, rain gear, a recommended clothing system, a headlamp or flashlight, a hydration system (water bottles and/or bladder) and other items specific to each trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled the most frequently asked questions that Wildland Trekking guests have about visiting and hiking Italy’s Dolomites. Learn the answers to these commonly asked questions about traveling in the Dolomites by using the link below!

• Hiking and Visiting the Dolomites – FAQs

Trip Logistics

How do i register.

Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can  click here  to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.

Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!

Where Do We Meet?

We will meet you at Venice Marco Polo Airport in Venice on Day 1 (your flight needs to arrive before 2:30 PM). Our Alps communication team will be in contact approximately  45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.

Please Note: Transportation outside of planned group shuttles have additional costs and are not included in trip rates.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.

Travel to Venice, Italy

Booking flights.

For this trip you will need to arrive in Venice, Italy on the day the trip begins, no later than 2:30 P.M. If you would like to rest more before beginning the trek, we recommend arriving a day early. A Wildland representative will rendezvous with you at the Venice airport on Day 1 at 3 P.M. and provide transportation to our first night’s accommodations. Departure flights can leave Venice anytime after 6 P.M. on day 7 of the itinerary.

Flights to and from Venice are the guest’s responsibility. Multiple airlines operate flights into Venice from many U.S. and European international airports. Some of the primary U.S. departure cities include Los Angeles, Phoenix, Denver, Newark, Baltimore, Washington DC, Boston, San Francisco, New York and Minneapolis. The duration of flights is 10-30 hours normally with one or two stops.

Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging

We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Venice as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly  to our team to check availability.

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.

In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the  Center for Disease Control website  for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.

Essential Eligibility Criteria

Essential Eligibility Criteria (“EEC”)  have been specifically identified to help you understand the skills and abilities necessary to participate on each Wildland trip, and they apply uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability.

Once you identify a trip in which you may be interested, please carefully review the  EEC  and itinerary details. If after reviewing the EEC that apply to your desired trip, you determine you need an accommodation in order to meet the EEC, please  contact us  prior to registering to discuss your requested accommodation.

The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. If you register and arrive for a trip for which you do not meet the EEC, you will be disqualified from participation on the trip and will be dismissed or evacuated from the trip without a refund.

Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.

Check out our  Meet Our Team  page for staff bios.

Guide Working Parameters

Guides are required to take 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down time…etc. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents/rooms  uninterrupted  for a minimum of 5 hours each night. We ask guests to respect these requirements and to not interrupt guides’ off time and sleep time unless there is a true emergency.

Age Restrictions

Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:

• 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
• 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis

Trip Insurance Requirements

Field evacuation, repatriation, and medical insurance is required on all Alps trips as a condition of partnership terms with our European vendors (field evacuation and repatriation minimum coverage is a combined $200,000 USD).

If you need to purchase field evacuation, repatriation, or medical insurance we recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance and policies meet all Alps requirements.

For information on the recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please  click here .

For even greater information, or if you simply prefer communicating with a real, live person, feel free to contact our exclusive agent Michael Bennett. Michael will help you identify the best product for your needs, and there is no cost associated with his assistance. You may contact him at:

Email: [email protected] US by Phone: 877-305-9083 Direct/International by Phone: 702-448-3664

If you already have the required insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.

Weather in the Alps

The location of the Alps and their tremendous elevation variations lead to significant and sometimes unpredictable temperatures and weather patterns, both in different ranges and in a particular range itself. Due to the Alps’ location in central Europe, they are influenced by moist air off the Atlantic, cold polar air from northern Europe, fluctuating air masses; and warm Mediterranean air flows northward.

Due to these extraordinary forces acting on the Alps’ weather, we recommend following our clothing list closely (in your trip packet when you register), as guests are best served by being prepared for a broad range of possible temperatures and weather conditions.

The average temperatures and precipitation in Alps are:

• Accommodations

HOTEL VILLA ARGENTINA

Since 1910 Hotel Villa has been hosting adventurous visitors to the Italian Dolomites. Built from locally-sourced materials provided by the mountains (limestone and wood primarily), this 3-star lodge blends into the mountains while offering a cozy, comfortable experience.

Grand Hotel Misurina

This charming 4-star hotel overlooks the shores of Lake Misurina. Here, the reflection of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo can be enjoyed. Beautiful villages and mountains surround this pristine area where we spend two nights. With cozy rooms and a truly spectacular setting, this is a special place to spend a few nights in the Italian Alps!

* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.

Trip Reviews

Average customer ratings:.

• 4.9 (9 reviews)
• Most recent

Katherine G

I had the best time on this trip.

This was an incredible trip! Everything was so well-planned and organized. I love Wildland trips because I’m able to relax and enjoy the best hikes, delicious food & great company knowing our guides will keep us all safe & having fun. Matthieu & Willy were excellent guides & are really fun to travel with. They accommodated everyone in our group on the hikes by occasionally splitting us into two groups and giving us the option to choose the level of difficulty we felt like taking on that day. The more challenging routes were so much fun and when we got to places on the trail that were narrow and steep with loose rocks that I would have been nervous to take on my own, Matthieu & Willy’s instruction along with their calm confidence took away my fear. Our meals together both in the restaurants & our mountain picnics were all so fun and delicious! Some other highlights were our clean, comfortable hotels and transportation, the dinner in Cortina d’Ampezzo with time to walk around & explore the town, the paddle boats on Lake Misurina, the beautiful sound of cowbells we sometimes encountered on the hikes, and of course our wonderful group! I made great new friends & had so many interesting, fun conversations with the amazing people in our group. I highly recommend traveling with Wildland, this trip in particular & definitely these guides. They make sure you see all of the best views, accomplish the most challenging, fun hikes, experience the food & culture and stay safe, comfortable, smiling & laughing the whole time!

Still savoring the trip

This was my 6th trip with Wildland. It again exceeded my expectations. The itenerary was well thought out. The food was beyond delicious. I cannot say enough wonderful things about my guides. Not only were they very nice people, I felt their attention to safety and group cohesiveness was excellent. I never worried about any details, they had it all under control. There were some very challenging hikes and they were always encouraging and helped us when needed. I cannot find anything that needed to be improved. I am still savoring the trip and almost ready to start planning the next one.

I can't wait to do my next adventure with Wildland!

I did this as a gift for my mom's 70th birthday...I couldn't think of a better way to spend time with her. The guides made this trip. Having two guides allowed for more aggressive and more leisurely, but challenging, route options to accommodate all parties. Matthew and Wilfred our guides could not be better ambassadors for Wildland - both technically and as awesome human beings. They made sure my mom was safe but challenged her to do things she didn't think she could do #gratitude. Because the trip was so well organized it felt like 2 weeks but was only 5 days - I never once had to think about anything logistically - they took care of everything. I can't wait to do my next adventure with Wildland!

See All Guest Reviews!

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• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy

Unleash your inner explorer: embark on epic hiking adventures with these tours.

If you're craving an exciting escape into the wilderness, we're sure that one of these hiking and trekking tours to Italy are the perfect choice for you. In order to find the best, we've carefully analyzed all the tour options available, considering factors such as destinations, price, guest ratings, service, and activities. Get ready to embark on thrilling treks through stunning landscapes in Italy, where every step reveals a new marvel of nature. Italy is a fantastic destination because of the museums & attractions, food, nightlife, and beaches. Let's get to it!

• Self-Guided Hiking: Alpe Adria Trail - 8 Days 8 Days, $1319.91
• Trekking Mont Blanc 10 Days, $2249.00
• Walking In Sicily 8 Days, $2180.00

What are hiking tours like in Italy?

Here are the important factors:

• 54 trip options analyzed
• $328 average price per day (USD)
• 5 to 15 days in length
• 4.64 of 5 average rating
• 14 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of hiking and trekking tours? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.64 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 14 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 5 days, while the longest is 15 days. Looking at physical activity , the tours are moderate, serious, easy, and heart-pumping, with the most as moderate. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 54 hiking and trekking tours, you can rest assured that Italy has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Hiking Tours in Italy

Self-guided hiking: alpe adria trail - 8 days.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for hiking and trekking tours.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Set off on an extraordinary journey, visiting Slovenia and Italy, that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. Guests are treated to unforgettable hiking and mountain hikes experiences. With a duration of 8 days, this journey offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 10 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers aged 18 to 84 years old. With 8 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Tribil Superiore, Trenta, Triglav National Park, and Bovec, and more. Beginning in beautiful Kranjska Gora, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Cividale del Friuli. Brought to you by Nature Trips , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $165 per day.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

Trekking Mont Blanc

• On Sale: 20% Off See Prices

With this option you can experience an unparalleled journey for 10 unforgettable days, visiting France, Italy, and Switzerland. It ensures an intimate group setting with 12 participants at most. Along the way, this journey encompasses 8 destinations, including Les Houches, Les Contamines-Montjoie, Bourg-Saint-Maurice, and Col de la Seigne. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Chamonix. G Adventures , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers aged 12 to 90 years old. Experience the excitment of hiking and mountain hikes on your journey. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $180 per day. Act now to take advantage of the special sale price!

Walking In Sicily

This fantastic voyage has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. You'll create amazing memories while experiencing hiking, mountain hikes, and coastal walks. This itinerary covers 4 captivating destinations, with stops in Giardini Naxos and Mount Etna, among others. Catania kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. Lasting 8 days, the maximum group size is 16 people, and it's good for travelers aged 16 to 85 years old. Organized by Explore! , this is a great deal because it's only $219 per day.

• Centre Based Walking Holidays
• Coastal Walks

Tour du Mont Blanc Camping Trek

With a stellar 4.7 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary trip, visiting France, Switzerland, and Italy, is the perfect choice. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 8 destinations, featuring Champex-Lac, La Fouly, Courmayeur, and Bourg-Saint-Maurice. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Chamonix. Get ready to fully embrace hiking, camping, and mountain hikes. Spanning across 15 days, the trip accommodates 16 individuals, and is suitable for travelers aged 16 or older. Offered by Exodus Travels , this remarkable trip is priced at just $210 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Mont Blanc Explorer

This exceptional trip offering by G Adventures has received a 4.6 out of 5 rating. On this 8-day voyage, visiting France and Italy, you can unwind while also making new memories. Chamonix will be both the start and end of your journey. You'll enjoy hiking and mountain hikes. With a group size of 12 people, it's suitable for travelers aged 12 to 90 years old. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $210 per day. Hurry and secure your spot while this incredible sale lasts!

Mont Blanc Rambler

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4 out of 5 rating, visiting Italy, Switzerland, and France. On this amazing journey, you'll experience hiking and mountain hikes. Traverse through 8 enchanting destinations, with La Forclaz, La Tour, Champex, and La Fouly among the must-see stops along the route. Courmayeur marks the starting point, while Chamonix stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. Spanning across 7 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 14 participants, and it's great for travelers aged 2 or older. Brought to you by the renowned UTracks , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $207 per day - an unbeatable value.

Lake Como Walking

This 8-day voyage is ideal for travelers aged 16 to 85 years old. And priced at only $261 per day, it's a great value, too. Guests on this trip get to partake in hiking and mountain hikes. This trip visits 12 destinations, including Tremezzo, Cadenabbia, Santa Maria Rezzonico, and Gravedona along the way. Milan will be the beginning and end of your trip. It's offered by Explore! , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

• Attraction-Based Hikes

Dolomites Guided Walk

• On Sale: 10% Off See Prices

Priced at just $217 per day, this terrific 7-day trip is ideal for travelers aged 2 or older. Hiking and mountain hikes are just a few of the activities on this terrific journey. Experience a trip that takes you to 4 remarkable destinations, including Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Three Peaks Nature Park. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Organized by the reputable UTracks , this is one of the best tours on this list. Act quickly to seize the current limited-time sale and reserve your spot now.

Highlights of the Dolomites

Check out this incredible trip that has received a 4.5 out of 5 rating from previous guests. Guests are treated to unforgettable hiking and mountain hikes experiences. With a duration of 8 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 16 people, and is good for travelers aged 16 or older. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Venice. This fantastic option, organized by Exodus Travels , presents an unbeatable value at just $264 per day.

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

Spanning over 8 days, this journey has a maximum size of 16 individuals. Welcoming travelers aged 16 to 85 years old, it is organized by Explore! , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Experience the excitment of hiking and coastal walks on your journey. Discover a journey that spans 8 destinations, with notable stops in Amalfi, Bomerano, Ravello, and Capri. Naples kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. Available at an unbeatable price of only $204 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy , The Best Historical Tours in Italy , The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy , The Best 3-Day Tours in Italy , The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy , The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Italy , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy , The Best Adventure Tours to Italy , The Best Eco Tours in Italy , The Best Train & Rail Tours in Italy , The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Italy , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy , The Best Cultural Tours in Italy , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy , The Best Music Tours in Italy , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy , The Best Walking Tours in Italy , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Italy , The Best Luxury Tours to Italy , The Best Budget Tours to Italy , The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy , The Best Contiki Tours to Italy , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Rome , The Best 3-Day Tours from Florence , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Venice , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Catania , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Naples , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Florence , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Milan , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Palermo , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bari , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Pisa , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bolzano , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bologna , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Merano , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Olbia , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Cagliari , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Como , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Alberobello , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Civitavecchia , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Montecatini , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Siena , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Taormina , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Turin , The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome , The Best 10-Day Tours from Venice , The Best 10-Day Tours from Palermo , The Best 10-Day Tours from Catania , The Best 10-Day Tours from Milan , The Best 10-Day Tours from Naples , The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome , The Best 2-Week Tours from Venice , The Best 2-Week Tours from Milan , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Palermo for more package tour options.

How much do hiking tours in Italy cost?

Travelers to Italy will have a large number of terrific options for hiking and trekking tours at a variety of great prices. The price of hiking and trekking tours here can vary by type, destinations, length, and travel style. Based on thorough data from 54 hiking and trekking tours, their average daily price is a very reasonable $328 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Italy .

And for more information on Italy, see Italy Travel Costs and Italy Hotel Costs .

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Week of Hiking in the Hidden Parts of Tuscany

June through September

Pisa, Italy is your starting point

Intermediate

Things to know

Not far from bustling piazzas and glistening church interiors, Tuscany hides soaring mountains waiting to be explored by adventurers. Between the limestone Apennines and the marble Apuan Alps lies the unspoilt Tuscan region of Garfagnana that offers a harmonious blend of indulgence and outdoor exploration. Spend a week tracing ancient shepherd trails beside vineyards and olive groves, meandering along dramatic ridges between medieval villages and summiting peaks revealing views that stretch to the coast. Switch it up by strolling through dense chestnut forests, enjoying a picnic by a mountain lake, or exploring the historical sites in the nearby town of Lucca. In the evenings, return to your villa to relax by the pool, unwind in a hot tub and savor delectable Tuscan cuisine and wines on the terrace overlooking the Serchio Valley. Discover the wild heart of Tuscany—where hedonism and hiking go hand in hand.

Traverse mountain ridges, summit peaks, and savor dramatic scenery tamed by vineyards and olive groves

Stay in a luxurious villa atop a valley with a pool and a hot tub

Combine hiking in the wilderness with historical towns and villages and superb Italian dishes

​​Embark on this guided hiking adventure and discover the secret treasures of Garfagnana in Tuscany. This 8-day trip takes you through vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages, but also offers a different and more dramatic experience of this famous Italian region by taking you through its scenic mountains between the Apuan Alps and the Apennines. You’ll stay at a luxurious villa overlooking the serene Serchio Valley, where you can relax by the pool and savor delicious Tuscan cuisine.

You will meet your Tuscany hiking guide at Pisa airport and get transferred to a charming villa nestled in the Tuscan hills, offering breathtaking views of the serene Serchio Valley. After settling into the traditional farmhouse, dinner will be served on the terrace, surrounded by the vineyard. Your guide will provide an informal briefing, answering any questions about the upcoming week. Get to know fellow hikers a bit better over dinner. Meals: Dinner Accommodation: Villa

Start the day with a transfer to Palagnana (757m / 2,484 ft), a quaint hamlet. Embark on a trail through stunning beech woodland, reaching the Foce delle Porchette (980m / 3,215 ft) with magnificent views of the limestone hills and possibly the Mediterranean on a clear day. Ascend along a limestone gorge to the grassy summit of Monte Croce (1314m / 4,311 ft), savoring a relaxing picnic lunch. Descend through beech woodland, passing the charming hamlet of Pioppo, before ending the walk with a well-deserved drink in a local bar. Accommodation: Villa Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Walking: 5-6 hrs Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles) Altitude gain/loss : 580 m (1,903 ft)

After a short transfer to Corfino (836m / 2,743 ft), journey to the remote village of Pruno. Follow a cobbled mule track through serene beech forests, pausing at the Fonte del Amore (Fountain of Love). Reach the charming 16th-century village of Campaiana (1358m / 4,455 ft) for lunch, then ascend to the long summit plateau of Pania di Corfino (1603m / 5,259 ft). Take in breathtaking views of the jagged peaks of the Apuan Alps. Descend along the well-worn shepherds’ trail, passing Rifugio Isera and returning to Pruno. Accommodation: Villa Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Walking: 6 hrs Distance: 13 km (8.1 miles) Altitude gain/loss : 775 m (2,543 ft)

Embark on the longest and most rewarding day of the trip, ascending Pania della Croce, the fourth highest peak in the Apuan Alps. Begin at the small chapel of Piglionico (1008m / 3,307 ft) and gradually climb to Rifugio del Freo at Mosceta (1200m / 3,937 ft). Traverse to the Foce di Valli pass (1266m / 4,154 ft) at the base of Pania della Croce. Ascend on a steady zigzag path to the summit ridge, where a well-deserved picnic awaits by the summit cross (1858m / 6,096 ft). Admire breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and, on clear days, Corsica. Descend through the “Canale dell Inferno,” crossing alpine meadows and returning to the beech forest. Accommodation: Villa Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Walking: 8 hours Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles) Altitude gain/loss : 940 m (3,084 ft)

Enjoy a day of tranquility at the villa or explore the surrounding area. Visit the delightful city of Lucca, just 45 minutes away by train, with its medieval walls, splendid piazzas, cobbled streets, and a beautiful basilica. Alternatively, relax by the pool, unwind in one of the garden’s hammocks, or embark on a local walk. Breakfast is included, while lunch and dinner are not, allowing you the freedom to choose where and when to eat. In the evening, consider a leisurely stroll to a local restaurant. Accommodation: Villa Meals: Breakfast

Begin the day with a transfer to the foothills of the Apennines. Commence the walk at Vetricia (1,308m / 4,291 ft), ascending through beech woodland to the open pastures of La Porticciola (1,700m / 5,577 ft). Descend via “Hannibal’s camp” to reach the picturesque Lago Santo (1,501m / 4,925 ft). Undertake a steep climb above the lake to the summit cross. Enjoy lunch at the summit while relishing extensive views across the Apennines. Descend to the historic town of Barga, making sure to stop at the local gelateria for a refreshing treat. Return to Vetricia and transfer back to the villa. Accommodation: Villa Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Walking: 6-7 hrs Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles) Altitude gain/loss: 930 m (3,051 ft)

Embark on the ascent of Monte Forato, a perfect finale to the week. Begin in the quiet village of Fornovolasco, strolling through cobbled streets. Follow the forest trail to the mountain pass of Foce di Petrosciana, with views of Monte Procinto’s rock tower and the mountain chain leading to the Mediterranean. Ascend to a magnificent limestone archway below the peak of Monte Forato (1,223m / 4,012 ft). A short climb brings you to the summit, offering outstanding views of the Tuscan hills. Enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing along the ridge to the Foce di Valli pass, then descend through alpine meadows to the beech forests. Upon returning to Fornovolasco, indulge in refreshments at the local gelateria in Gallicano. Back at the villa, take a final dip in the pool, relish a delicious local cuisine, and raise a toast to a successful Tuscan adventure. Accommodation: Villa Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner Walking: 6-7 hrs Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) Altitude gain/loss : 915 m (3,002 ft)

Enjoy a final breakfast on the terrace before transferring to Pisa airport. Say goodbye to your Tuscany hiking guide, fellow hikers, and to Italy—or continue touring on your own. Meals: Breakfast

Meet your guides

For the past five years Cloud 9 has organized a private guided hiking adventure for our family in Europe – including the Alps, the Pyrenees and Tuscany. The trips have been outstanding! Emma and Helen’s attention to detail means everything goes very smoothly with each day of hiking tailor made to our family’s ability. Emma challenges us to go higher, including hiking a 4,000 m peak – but our safety is always paramount. Her knowledge of the area means our itineraries are full of hidden gems – amazing trails off the beaten track and secluded mountain cafes with delicious food.

Our guide was Jason and he did an incredible job. He didn’t make us feel rushed at all and he followed our pace. He also was very educated about the outdoors and sounds like a very experienced hiker/climber. Highly recommend!

What you get on this adventure:

• An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
• An 8-day hiking adventure with 5 days of trekking
• Twin-room accommodation in a private villa (7 nights)
• Airport transfers
• Transport during the adventure (apert from optional excursions during the rest day)
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary (most days breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner are included)

What’s not included:

• Transportation to Pisa
• Meals not indicated in the itinerary
• Travel insurance
• Guide gratuities — optional

This Tuscany guided hiking trip is suitable for hikers with some experience and a reasonable level of fitness. The daily walks will typically be around 5-7 hours on well-marked trails, with ascents ranging from 500 to 1,000 meters (1,640 to 3,280 feet). There will be a couple of longer days when climbing Monte Giovo and Pania della Croce. While it is not necessary to be an expert hiker, being in good physical condition before the trip will enhance your overall enjoyment. We suggest you do some long hilly walks in the weeks before the trip, especially if you have new boots.

Keep in mind that all days on this trip are optional (you can always decide to stay in your villa or go somewhere else) and that the itinerary may be adjusted by the leader based on weather conditions and the group’s ability. In terms of altitude, the maximum reached on this trip is 2,054 meters (6,739 feet) during the Monte Prado climb. Most days, the maximum height reached will be between 1,300 and 1,700 meters (4,265 to 5,577 feet). Since you return to the valley every evening and spend limited time above 1,500 meters (4,920 feet), altitude is not expected to be an issue.

If you’re looking for something that is a bit more challenging, you may like this hiking adventure in the Venetian Alps at the foot of the Dolomites .

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

• Day pack large enough to carry all the items you might need in a day (around a 20-30L bag)
• Hiking boots or trekking-specific trainers
• Water bottle(s) (2L capacity in total)
• Light waterproof jacket and trousers
• Socks and underwear
• Trekking pants and shorts
• Moisture-wicking T-shirts
• Fleece jacket
• Lightweight warm hat
• Buff — optional
• Light pair of gloves (a mid or light pair of gloves is fine)
• Sun Hat and sunglasses
• Plastic bags / dry sacks
• Basic first aid kit (containing plasters, blister treatment, painkillers, antiseptic cream, and diarrhea treatment)
• Toiletries (bug spray, sunscreen, lip protection, cosmetic products, etc.)
• Walking poles – optional
• Swimwear for the pool
• Camera — optional (but recommended)
• Lightweight sandals and sneakers — optional

Make sure to feel comfortable in the clothes that you bring and don’t forget to take some regular casual clothes as well.

During your guided hiking tour in Tuscany, you’ll stay in a private villa that exudes rustic charm with its Garfagnana stone, chestnut beams, and terracotta tiles. You’ll be able to Indulge in ultimate relaxation as you unwind by the pool, dine on the terrace adorned with wisteria, and gaze upon the serene Serchio valley and vineyards. Immerse yourself in luxury with antique furniture, art, and plush beds, with an inviting sitting room that comes complete with wood-burning stove and a collection of books and games. Apart from that, this Tuscan villa also boasts landscaped gardens with hammocks, a swimming pool, hot tub, and recreational amenities (tennis table, marked badminton court, and a yoga deck). You will sleep in a twin room, but you can also opt for a single room for an additional fee. Each day (apart from the rest day), you’ll get to enjoy breakfast and a 2-course dinner accompanied by fine wines. All food restrictions and dietary preferences can be easily accommodated—just let your guide know in advance!

Group sizes and prices:

• For this group adventure, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 11:1.
• It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate.
• The cost does not decrease as the group grows.

Hiking in Tuscany can be arranged for larger and for private groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:

• If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.

Pisa is the starting point of this guided hiking trip in Tuscany. To get there, most people fly into Pisa International Airport . Once there, you will meet your guide and fellow hikers for a private transfer to your accommodation near the towns of Barga and Gallicano.

Airport transfer from the airport is usually scheduled at 14.30. If coming later in the afternoon, we suggest you arrive on your own by train. To do this, you first need to get from the airport of the Pisa Central Station and then catch a train for Barga-Gallicano, where your guide will pick you up and take you to the villa.

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Tuscany, Italy, please refer to the Italian Ministry of Health website.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

A 30% non-refundable deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 10 weeks (70 days) prior to departure.

Secure your spot for 2025 with a 10% deposit!  This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you can rest assured you’ve booked your dream adventure in time.

• Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure anytime in case the dates don’t suit you. This can be done by the end of the year.
• Another 20% needs to be paid by the end of this year.
• The remaining balance is due 10 weeks (70 days) prior to departure.

Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.

• If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to seventy (70) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client’s deposit will be forfeited.
• For cancellations thirty-one (31) to seventy (70) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total price of the trip.
• For cancellations thirty or less days in advance, Client is not entitled to any refund.
• Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.

Other things to do in Tuscany

Hike and Explore the Wild Heart of Tuscany

View all (43) adventures in Italy

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Hiking the Dolomites - What To Expect On a 7-Day Hike

Hiking the dolomites – a 7-day hike in italy’s dolomite mountains.

I f hiking is your thing and you love Italian food, there’s nowhere better to combine your two interests than the Dolomite Mountains in northern Italy . Whether you’re a middling hiker or a pro, the network of trails there offer something for everyone and makes hiking the Dolomites an adventure for hikers of every skill and fitness level.

And if you want to see more than just mountains, know that a visit to Trentino is one of the most diverse regions of Italy . You have the stunning Dolomites in the North and beautiful Mediterranean Lake Garda in the South – the best of all in Italy. 

>>Make sure to check out our Hiking Packing List for Day Hikes and Muli Day Treks

A few years ago, I spent a week hiking the Dolomites in a circle around the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo , and wanted to share some insight into helping you plan your own hiking trip in Italy.

Before You Go

How we trained for hiking the dolomites.

More important than what you pack, more important than buying Euros before your trip is: train, train, train. While I felt I was a fairly confident hiker on the 1,700-foot elevation mountains of Southern California, I knew I’d be facing elevations of 7,000 or more in Italy, so my friend Debbie and I started training nine months out.

First, we hiked once a week, then twice a week, then daily the two weeks before our trip. To acclimate to the higher elevation, we hiked in Idyllwild a few hours outside of San Diego. We also varied our hikes; sometimes they were short and intense; other times they were several hours long to build up endurance.

We also hiked with loaded backpacks toward the end of our training to ensure we’d be used to carrying around about 20 pounds of stuff on the trail, and broke in our new hiking boots .

So yes: training beforehand is extremely important to prepare you for your hike in the Dolomites. 

Dolomites Hiking Resources

I also recommend reading a couple of books about the trails. Sadly, there are few adequate books about hiking the Dolomites in English (it seems more popular with German and French hikers), so the best books we discovered were:

Dolomites Trekking – AV1 & AV2, 2nd: Italy Trekking Guides 

Walking in the Dolomites: 25 multi-day routes in Italy’s Dolomites 

Both books were pretty old, so don’t rely on them for up-to-date information about the rifugios where you’ll stay. More on those shortly. We sketched out a rough idea of the route we wanted to take, but the books, to be honest, weren’t all that helpful. What was useful was the Tobacco map of the area we purchased when we arrived in Cortina at the visitor’s center (if you’re inclined to overpay for it by about $10, you can get it on Amazon before you go)

Rifugios: Your Home on the Trail

The good news about hiking in the Dolomites is that you won’t have to sleep in a tent on the trail if you don’t want to. There are what are called rifugios , or mountain huts, throughout the trail systems of the Dolomites.

One rifugio will vary wildly in level of accommodations from another. Rifugio Nuvolau ,  for example, is a barebones hut accessible only by trail that offers several shared rooms of simple accommodations. There is no shower, and only freezing cold water.

On the other hand, Rifugio Sennes  offers some private rooms with their own bathroom. Some have meals included, while others charge for them separately. All are extremely affordable (between $25 and $50 per person per night).

If you visit in offseason, it shouldn’t be a problem to book your night’s stay just a day in advance, which allows you to be more flexible, should you not stay on track timewise on the trail. However, if you want to stay at one of the more popular huts like Rifugio Lagazuoi , which is known for its killer sunsets, do book that one weeks or even months in advance.

We didn’t need any of the food we packed for the trail because we always stumbled onto a rifugio midday. They’re spaced out just enough to plan your lunch around, and there’s nothing more fortifying than a hearty polenta with cheese and mushrooms, accompanied by an Italian beer.

Tips for On the Trail – Dolomites Hiking

As I said, we started in Cortina d’Ampezzo, then took a bus to Lago di Braies, a breathtaking lake nestled in the mountains, and the starting point for the Alta Via 1, the trail network we chose to hike.

Something to be aware of: Italian trail-forgers don’t seem to be fond of switchbacks, which we Americans are accustomed to. The first day was one slow and steep slog up a mountain. Thankfully, our hike got easier after that.

We hiked in September and occasionally passed other hikers, though mid-summer you’re likely to find it more crowded.

The trails are amply marked, but here’s another point to note (and learn from our misunderstanding). We’d see signs listing a rifugio as being 90m away, for example. We assumed this meant meters, and our American brains couldn’t translate that to miles.

After days of marveling at how long it took to go a few meters, we finally realized that the m must have stood for “minutes.” As in: this is how long it should take you to get to this rifugio …assuming you are a fit Italian who has hiked this trail dozens of times. We started tripling that number to guesstimate how long it would take us.

Non-Hiking Experiences in the Dolomites

The Dolomites were designed for Instagram, so charge up your phone (for photo taking purposes only; cell signal is pretty nonexistent here) or camera. But remember to also just enjoy the view.

The food at the rifugios was stellar no matter where we were. The menu was surprisingly devoid of the traditional pasta dishes we found elsewhere in Italy, and instead focused on nourishing mountain food like dumplings, polenta, and meat. Also not-to-miss are the various grappas that most restaurants offer. We tried everything from traditional unflavored to pine and hazelnut grappa. The pine was not a hit.

Another key experience on your hike is making friends. Sometimes we’d keep bumping into the same people at each rifugio , so that gave us the opportunity to get to know people from California like us (go figure), Germany, and Austria over a glass (or three) of wine.

My week hiking the Dolomites was the most physically challenging thing I’ve ever done, but I’m glad I did it. It enriched my life in unbelievable ways, and I got to experience the most beautiful mountains I’ve ever seen.

Before coming to Italy, do not forget these 3 important points:

When Susan Guillory isn’t running her marketing company, she’s traveling and writing about it on The Unexplorer . She’s written several books (business, as well as travel) and has been published on Forbes, FOX Business, and other sites. Follow her on Instagram , Twitter , or Facebook .

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