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Your Guide to Italy's Hiking Trails: Photos, Filters, and FAQs

31 Hiking Trails

View Trails on map
Bari Belluno Bologna Cagliari Campobasso Catanzaro Claviere Eisacktal - Valle Isarco Fabriano Grado Heiligenblut am Großglockner La Spezia Messina Monterosso Al Mare Muggia Prags - Braies Pustertal - Val Pusteria Santhia Sondrio South Tyrol Udine Varzi Ventimiglia Verbano-Cusio-Ossola
Italy Static Map Photo 1 Photo 1 Photo 1 Photo 1

What to expect

Italy has 31 trails including medium, difficult, and extra difficult trails. The trail with the highest elevation climb is the Via Peuceta and the one with the least climb is the Sentiero Italia - Alps Section. The longest trail is Sentiero Italia - Alps Section at 2780 km. To complete this hike you should budget at least 200 days. For a shorter adventure, you can try the Cinque Terre Coastal Trail a t 29.7 km. This could be done in as little as 2 days. Trails with the best offering of hostels include Cammino Celeste, Cammino Kalabria Coast to Coast, Alta Via Valmalenco, Giro di Giüst, and Alta Via 5.

Guide to hiking in Italy

Be prepared for hiking in Italy with the HiiKER app

Hiking app for Italy
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FAQs about hiking in Italy

What is the climate like for hiking in Italy?

Italy's diverse climate makes it a year-round hiking destination. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, perfect for exploring trails from the Dolomites to the Amalfi Coast.
Summers can be very hot, particularly in the south, so early morning or high-altitude hikes are recommended.
Autumn, with its mild climate and vibrant foliage, is ideal for hiking, while winter offers stunning snow-clad trails in the northern regions. Spring and autumn are generally the best times to hike. For detailed climate data, visit https://climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org/country/italy.

Do I need a permit to hike in Italy?

Most hiking trails in Italy do not require permits, but for protected areas like national parks, entry fees or permits may apply. Always check requirements with the managing agency, often the local park authority or municipality. More information can be found at Italian Ministry of Environment.

Is wild camping allowed in Italy?

Wild camping in Italy is largely regulated and often prohibited to protect the environment. Always check with local authorities or landowners. Designated campsites offer a legal and comfortable alternative. Familiarize yourself with local regulations at Italian Camping Federation.

Are there mountain rescue services in Italy?

In case of emergencies while hiking in Italy, dial 112. The Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico (CNSAS) is the primary organization for mountain and cave rescue. It's advisable to inform local authorities about your hiking plans. Learn more at CNSAS.

Are there dangerous plants in Italy?

Italy's diverse flora ranges from Alpine wildflowers to Mediterranean scrubland. Be aware of spiny or allergenic plants like nettles or poison ivy. Italy's rich plant life, from chestnut groves to olive orchards, adds to the charm of any hike. More information can be found at Italian Botanical Society.

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

Italy's diverse habitats host various animals, from Alpine ibex to Mediterranean sea turtles. Hikers should be prepared for insect encounters, especially mosquitoes and ticks, by using repellents. Respect wildlife and maintain distance for an enriching hiking experience. Learn more at Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research.