Italy holds a special place in my heart, having spent six years living in Rome.
Yes, I hiked in Italy, being a member of Club Alpino Italiano meant I was off hiking most weekends.
Italy has a much more to offer than pasta, piazzas, and picturesque towns, though there’s nothing wrong with these —it’s also home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Europe. From the jagged peaks of the Dolomites to the sunny cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, there are incredible day hikes in Italy that offer world-class views, rich culture, and unforgettable landscapes—all in under a day.
This guide rounds up 10 of the best day hikes in Italy, with trail stats, tips, and local highlights.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop Hike – Dolomites
This iconic loop circles the famous three peaks of the Dolomites, offering stunning alpine views the entire way. It’s well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels.
Trail Summary
- Location: Dolomites, South Tyrol
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: ~400 m (1,310 ft)
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Terrain: Rocky mountain paths, alpine meadows
- Wildlife: Marmots, eagles, choughs
- Permits/Fees: Toll road fee to Rifugio Auronzo (~€30/car)
- Best Time: June–September
Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) – Amalfi Coast
A breathtaking cliffside hike with views that stretch across the Amalfi Coast and the Mediterranean. The trail connects the hill town of Agerola to Nocelle, just above Positano.
Trail Summary
- Location: Amalfi Coast, Campania
- Distance: 7.8 km (4.8 miles) one-way
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: ~200 m (656 ft)
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Terrain: Narrow footpaths, rocky steps
- Wildlife: Lizards, wildflowers, birds of prey
- Permits/Fees: None
- Best Time: April–June, September–October
Gran Paradiso National Park Trail– Rifugio Vittorio Sella
This alpine trail brings you into the heart of Italy’s oldest national park, with sweeping views, glacier-fed streams, and frequent ibex sightings.
Trail Summary:
- Location: Aosta Valley
- Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles) out-and-back
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Elevation Gain: ~900 m (2,950 ft)
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Terrain: Steep mountain paths, rocky alpine meadows
- Wildlife: Ibex, marmots, chamois
- Permits/Fees: None
- Best Time: July–September
Monte Subasio Hike – Umbria
This peaceful hike leads you to the summit of Monte Subasio, offering views over Assisi and the Umbrian countryside. It’s perfect if you want solitude and rolling green hills.
Trail Summary
- Location: Umbria, near Assisi
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) loop
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Elevation Gain: ~500 m (1,640 ft)
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Terrain: Grassy slopes, dirt paths
- Wildlife: Birds, butterflies, grazing sheep
- Permits/Fees: None
- Best Time: Spring or autumn
Val di Funes to Geisler Alm Trail– South Tyrol
An easy yet rewarding trail that winds through flower-filled meadows to the base of the jagged Geisler Peaks. Ideal for a chill hike with stunning Dolomite views.
Trail Summary
- Location: South Tyrol, Dolomites
- Distance: 8.5 km (5.3 miles) round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: ~350 m (1,150 ft)
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Terrain: Forest trails, grassy pastures
- Wildlife: Cows, birds, deer
- Permits/Fees: Parking fee at Zannes (~€6)
- Best Time: May–October
Mount Etna Crater Hike – Sicily
Trek around the rim of one of Europe’s most active volcanoes. This otherworldly landscape of lava rock and steaming vents is a bucket-list experience.
Trail Summary
- Location: Sicily, near Catania
- Distance: 6–10 km (3.7–6.2 miles), depending on route
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (due to altitude)
- Elevation Gain: ~500 m (1,640 ft)
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Terrain: Volcanic ash, lava rock
- Wildlife: Lizards, volcanic flora
- Permits/Fees: Guide required for higher craters (~€50)
- Best Time: May–October
Lago di Braies Circuit Hike – Dolomites
This flat loop around a turquoise alpine lake is one of Italy’s most photogenic walks. Great for all skill levels and families.
Trail Summary
- Location: Dolomites, South Tyrol
- Distance: 3.6 km (2.2 miles)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Duration: 1–1.5 hours
- Terrain: Gravel lakeside path
- Wildlife: Ducks, fish, dragonflies
- Permits/Fees: Parking fee at lake entrance
- Best Time: Year-round (but summer for best photos)
Monte Conero Hikes – Marche
Overlooking the Adriatic, Monte Conero has multiple short trails through pine forest and cliffside viewpoints. Ideal for a coastal hike off the beaten path.
Trail Summary
- Location: Conero Regional Park, Marche
- Distance: 4–9 km (2.5–5.6 miles), depending on trail
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Elevation Gain: Up to 500 m (1,640 ft)
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Terrain: Woodland paths, cliffs, coastal views
- Wildlife: Wild boar, foxes, seabirds
- Permits/Fees: None
- Best Time: Spring through autumn
Val di Sole Hikes – Trentino
Tucked in the Adamello-Brenta Nature Park, this region offers waterfalls, alpine lakes, and peaceful forests. Choose from several short day hikes. Here’s more information on this beautiful valley.
Trail Summary
- Location: Trentino-Alto Adige
- Distance: Varies (popular: Lago delle Malghette, 8 km / 5 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: ~400 m (1,310 ft)
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Terrain: Forest paths, alpine lakes, rocky sections
- Wildlife: Deer, chamois, woodpeckers
- Permits/Fees: None
- Best Time: June–October
You can read about more hikes in the part of Italy here.
Cinque Terre Coastal Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) – Liguria
This famous seaside trail links five colorful villages along rugged cliffs. It’s a must for any Italian hiking list. Read our full Cinque Terre hiking guide here.
Trail Summary
- Location: Liguria, Cinque Terre
- Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: ~600 m (1,970 ft) total
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Terrain: Stone staircases, cliff paths, village walkways
- Wildlife: Seabirds, lizards, wildflowers
- Permits/Fees: Cinque Terre Card required (~€7.50)
- Best Time: March–June, September–October
My Final Thoughts on Hiking in Italy
Whether you’re hiking through the stunning peaks of the Dolomites or along the Mediterranean coast, these day hikes offer some of the most beautiful scenery in Italy. Each trail is unique, showcasing Italy’s diverse landscapes and regional culture.
Before you go, be sure to check trail conditions and weather, and don’t forget to bring sturdy shoes, water, and snacks.