The best hiking trails in Greece

29 Hiking Trails

"Discover Greece's timeless allure through its stunning landscapes, vibrant wildflowers, and mythic echoes."

Embark on a journey through Greece's breathtaking landscapes, where ancient history and natural beauty intertwine. Hike the legendary trails of Mount Olympus, home of the gods, or explore the dramatic gorges of Crete's Samaria Gorge. Wander through olive groves and vineyards on the Peloponnese, or discover the serene beauty of the Zagori villages. Each path offers a unique tapestry of vibrant wildflowers, stunning vistas, and echoes of mythic tales, inviting you to explore Greece's timeless allure.

Most popular trails

Difficult

Menalon Trail

Gortynia, Greece · star 5.0 (19) · 71.7 km · Est. 3 day

Difficult

E4 - Peloponnes

Aigialeia, Greece · star 5.0 (11) · 289.7 km · Est. 14 day

Medium

Corfu Trail

Corfu, Greece · star 0.0 (0) · 155.8 km · Est. 7 day

Difficult

Andros Route

Andros, Greece · star 5.0 (5) · 63.9 km · Est. 3 day

Medium

Spartilas - Agios Spyridon

Corfu Regional Unit, Greece · star 5.0 (1) · 19.6 km · Est. 4 hrs 33 min

Difficult

Nestos - Rodopi Trail

Xanthi, Greece · star 5.0 (3) · 58.6 km · Est. 3 day

Medium

Stavros - Pelekas

Corfu Regional Unit, Greece · star 0.0 (0) · 16.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 10 min

Medium

Paramonas - Benitses

Corfu Regional Unit, Greece · star 5.0 (1) · 18.0 km · Est. 4 hrs 47 min

Medium

Pelekas - Liapades

Corfu Regional Unit, Greece · star 0.0 (0) · 21.8 km · Est. 4 hrs 59 min

Medium

Platanias - Mytikas Peak Trail

Sporades Regional Unit, Greece · star 0.0 (0) · 4.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 6 min

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FAQs about hiking in Greece

What is the climate like for hiking in Greece?

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Greece's climate is Mediterranean, characterized by mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Winter, from December to February, can be cold in mountainous areas, making certain trails impassable.

From March to May, the spring season brings pleasant temperatures and blossoming flora, ideal for hikes such as the famous Samaria Gorge.

The best hiking season is spring and autumn (September to November), when the weather is stable, and the landscapes are lush. In summer, the heat can be intense, particularly on exposed trails. More info: https://climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org/country/greece/climate-data-historical#:~:text=Greece%20has%20a%20Mediterranean%20climate,regions%20and%20hot%2C%20dry%20summers..

Do I need a permit to hike in Greece?

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Most hiking routes in Greece don't require permits. However, for trails in national parks, like Mount Olympus, a notification to the park's management might be necessary for safety reasons. For specific information, contact the Hellenic Ministry of Environment and Energy or local authorities. More info: Greek Ministry.

Is wild camping allowed in Greece?

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Wild camping is technically illegal in Greece, including beaches, forests, and archeological sites. Some hikers take the risk, but fines can be issued. Organized campsites are plentiful and provide a legal alternative. For more details, consult the Hellenic Ministry of Tourism's website: Visit Greece.

Are there mountain rescue services in Greece?

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In Greece, the Hellenic Rescue Team, a volunteer organization, assists with mountain emergencies. Dial 112 for urgent assistance. It's advised to inform local authorities about your hiking plans, especially for challenging routes like Mount Olympus. More information here: https://www.hrt.org.gr/mountain-rescue.en.aspx.

Are there dangerous plants in Greece?

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Greece's diverse flora varies from olive groves in lowland areas to Alpine flowers in mountainous regions. Springtime brings a riot of wildflowers, particularly on Crete. However, summer's heat can result in parched landscapes. Stick to trails to protect the ecosystem. More info here: https://portal.cybertaxonomy.org/flora-greece/intro.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Greece?

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Greece hosts diverse wildlife, from tortoises in the Peloponnese to ibex in the Pindos Mountains. On coastal hikes, you might spot dolphins or monk seals. Beware of vipers in rocky areas and mosquitoes during summer evenings. More about Greece's fauna: https://www.responsibletravel.com/holidays/greece/travel-guide/wildlife.

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