Europe is a hiker’s paradise, home to a fantastic selection of trails that cut through the most magnificent landscapes. That makes picking the best hiking trails a challenging task. From the stark heights of the Alps to gentle Portuguese coasts, their paths fit many kinds of adventure enthusiasts: from experienced trekkers who look for challenging terrains to casual hikers who want day trips with views, varied trails in Europe promise unforgettable experiences.
In this guide, we lead you down some of the continent’s best hiking trails that will change your life. Imagine yourself following in the steps of history along the Camino de Santiago as it leads you to that place where pilgrims have tread for centuries or hiking through the dramatic cliff faces and coastal views of Italy’s Cinque Terre. For those who desire high-altitude excitement, the Tour du Mont Blanc offers an incomparable journey through the heart of the Alps, crossing the borders of France, Italy, and Switzerland.
Each trail has its own story, its own challenges, and its own rewards.
1. Tour du Mont Blanc (France, Italy, Switzerland)
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a legendary trek encircling the Mont Blanc massif, Europe’s tallest peak. This 170-kilometer journey offers breathtaking views of the Alps as you traverse through France, Italy, and Switzerland. The highlights include the stunning Chamonix Valley, the vibrant alpine meadows, and picturesque villages like Courmayeur. Additionally, the diverse landscapes range from lush valleys and glacial plains to high mountain passes, making this trail a feast for the eyes and a challenge for the spirit.
2. West Highland Way (Scotland)
Scotland’s West Highland Way stretches 154 kilometers from Milngavie to Fort William, offering hikers a taste of the Scottish Highlands’ rugged beauty. Key highlights include the serene shores of Loch Lomond, the hauntingly beautiful Rannoch Moor, and the dramatic Glencoe Valley. And to top it all off, the trail ends at the base of Ben Nevis, providing a majestic end to this scenic and historic hike.
3. Cinque Terre Trails (Italy)
The Cinque Terre Trails connect five charming coastal villages on the Italian Riviera, with the 12-kilometer Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) being the most popular. You will get to experience the colorful cliffside homes of Vernazza, the sandy beaches of Monterosso al Mare, and the panoramic sea views throughout the hike. Additionally, this trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, with each village providing its unique charm and culinary delights.
4. Laugavegur Trail (Iceland)
Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail is a 55-kilometer trek from Landmannalaugar to Thórsmörk, which showcases the country’s unique and dramatic landscapes, which can’t be found anywhere else. You will hike through the geothermal hot springs of Landmannalaugar, the vibrant rhyolite mountains, the stark black sands of Mælifellssandur, and the lush green valleys of Thórsmörk. Consequently, this trail offers hikers a surreal experience through one of the world’s most geologically diverse regions.
5. GR20 (Corsica, France)
The GR20 in Corsica is known as one of Europe’s toughest trails, stretching 180 kilometers from Calenzana to Conca. The trail is known for its challenging terrain, which includes steep ascents, rocky ridges, and high mountain passes. It typically takes around 15 days to complete and offers incredible views of alpine meadows, glacial lakes, dramatic cliffs and dense forests.
6. Camino de Santiago (Spain)
The Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James, is a network of pilgrimage routes leading to the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great in Santiago de Compostela. The French Way (Camino Francés) is the most popular, stretching about 800 kilometers (500 miles) from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to Santiago in Spain. The journey typically takes around 4-6 weeks and it passes through historic towns, lush vineyards of La Rioja, rolling hills, and picturesque countryside.
7. The Slovenian Mountain Trail (Slovenia)
Stretching 500 kilometers from Maribor to the Adriatic Sea, this trail takes hikers through the diverse landscapes of Slovenia, including the Julian Alps, the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, and the Karavanke range. It’s impossible for you to get lost, as the trail is marked and full of huts and shelters along the way, making it accessible for long-distance hiking. The trail will take you through the Triglav national park, where you can find Lake Bled, that looks like it came straight out of a fairytale.
8. Alta Via 1 (Italy)
The Alta Via 1 in Italy’s Dolomites is a 120-kilometer trek from Lago di Braies to Belluno and is known for its dramatic mountain scenery. It typically takes 10-12 days to complete and offers stunning views of beautiful mountains, alpine meadows, and mountain lakes. There are a lot of marks along the trail and also plenty of huts and refuges providing food and accommodation.
9. Rota Vicentina (Portugal)
Portugal’s Rota Vicentina features the 226-kilometer Fisherman’s Trail from Porto Covo to Odeceixe. The trail offers stunning coastal views, pristine beaches, and charming fishing villages, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
10. Kungsleden (Sweden)
The Kungsleden is a 440-kilometer trek through Swedish Lapland, stretching from Abisko to Hemavan. This trail offers a journey through vast, untouched landscapes, featuring serene lakes, dense forests, and majestic mountains, ideal for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. There are also plenty of huts along the way for you to stay at, so it is suitable for long-distance hiking.
What Are You Waiting For?
Picking out the best hiking trails in Europe was not the easiest task, but we feel these are some of the best you could experience. These hikes are more than just physical journeys; they are adventures that connect you deeply with nature, history, and local cultures. Each step brings new vistas, stories, and experiences that stay with you long after the journey ends.
We hope this guide has inspired you to lace up your hiking boots and set out on your own adventure. No matter which trail you choose, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories and perhaps even discover a new passion for exploring the great outdoors.
And who knows, once you complete your first trail you just might get inspired to create a full guide on one of these trails and share it on CopyTour!
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your gear, plan your route, and get ready to explore the best hiking trails Europe has to offer. Your next great adventure is just a step away. Happy hiking!