If you are planning a hiking adventure, Europe offers some of the world’s most breathtaking trails—ranging from short scenic walks to multi-day treks through rugged mountains and coastlines. Whether you want to wander through charming villages, climb alpine passes, or walk along dramatic sea cliffs, hiking in Europe gives you a chance to explore diverse landscapes while challenging yourself outdoors. This guide covers the best hiking trails in Europe, divided into short hikes and long hikes, to help you plan your next adventure.
Short Hikes in Europe
1. Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Italy
- Distance: 10 km
- Duration: 3 – 5 hours
- Difficulty: Medium
- Start/End: Rifugio Auronzo (car parks)
- Terrain: Narrow and rocky trail with ridge hikes
- Where to Stay: Mountain villages and huts around the Dolomites, including Rifugio
“The Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop is the Dolomites’ most iconic hike. Three massive rocky prominences are the star of your adventure,” said TripLeader Windy, an experienced traveler specializing in hikes around Italy and Slovenia.
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo showcases dramatic limestone peaks, alpine meadows, and panoramic views at every turn. The landscape is dotted with wildflowers in summer, and you’ll also find remnants of old World War I fortifications along the path. It’s a rewarding hike that is accessible yet offers some of the most iconic views in the Alps.
2. Mykines, Faroe Islands
- Distance: 7 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Medium to hard
- Start/End: Mykines Village to Mykineshólmur Islet
- Terrain: Narrow, rugged paths with steep ascents and descents
- Where to Stay: Mykines Village; no camping allowed
“The island of Mykines offers one of the most remote and breathtaking hikes in Europe. This trail rewards us with breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs, the crashing waves, and the opportunity to witness,” said TripLeader Marie. Mykines sits on this list for its blend of rugged seascapes and wildlife. It is the place where you can see puffins in their natural habitat, nesting in the summer. Moreover, you can reach Mykines by helicopter and cross to the Mykineshólmur islet with its lighthouse.
3. Pico do Alto, Madeira
- Distance: 7 km
- Duration: 3 hours
- Difficulty: Medium
- Start/End: Camacha Village to Pico do Alto Viewpoint
- Terrain: Narrow and rocky trail with ridge hikes
- Where to Stay: Funchal or Camacha Village (short drive to the starting point); no camping allowed
Pico do Alto gives an extraordinary sense of adventure, especially when huge crowds go to Pico do Areiro. It is one of the most incredible adventures in the north of Madeira with a ridge hike,” said TripLeader Figo, a local host for seasonal hikes in Madeira.
Like Figo said, this Madeira hike is relatively untouched and known only to the locals. It takes you through lush forests, following ancient levadas (irrigation channels) before climbing to the Pico do Alto viewpoint. Greenery, birdlife, and sweeping vistas fill the trails. It’s a great choice for those wanting a medium-level hike with plenty of natural beauty.
4. Håen, the Lofoten Islands
- Distance: 3 km round trip
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Clear footpath and grassy hillside
- Start/Finish: Village of Sørvågen
- Where to Stay: Rorbuer (traditional fisherman cabins) or guesthouses; camping is not needed
“The Håen trail is short but spectacular. It is one of the best hikes in the Lofoten with an Instagram-worthy view,” said TripLeader Windy. If you decide to hike Håen, you are going to follow an old military trail and grassy ascents. Your sights will be spoiled by a breathtaking view of the Lofoten Islands’ mountains and lakes. But the real deal begins at the summit, where you can see the turquoise waters of Lake Ågvatnet and the dramatic coastline of the Lofoten archipelago. The hike is steep in parts, but the payoff is one of the best panoramas in Norway.
5. Cinque Terre Blue Trail, Italy
- Distance: 12 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Start/Finish: Monterosso to Riomaggiore
- Where to Stay: Villages like Monterosso or Vernazza; no camping allowed
The Cinque Terre Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) winds along Italy’s stunning Ligurian coastline, linking the colorful fishing villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The hike takes you along cliffs, vineyards, and olive groves with constant sea views. You’ll also pass charming cafes and trattorias where you can pause for local delicacies.
6. Logar Valley Jezersko, Slovenia
- Distance: 7 km
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start/Finish: Entrance of Logar Valley to Okrešelj Hut
- Accommodation: Okrešelj Hut, farm stays, and guesthouses nearby
- Camping: Restricted in the valley
Hiking through the Logar Valley feels like stepping into a hidden alpine paradise, with green meadows surrounded by soaring peaks. The trail to Okrešelj takes you past waterfalls and through pristine forests before reaching a high mountain hut. “You can also stop by the Rinka Waterfall, which requires a short hike off the beaten path,” recommended TripLeader Demi, who travels frequently around Europe’s wilderness. It’s a peaceful hike where you can enjoy the tranquility of Slovenia’s untouched nature.
7. Trolltunga, Norway
- Distance: 27 km round trip
- Duration: 10–12 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Start/Finish: Skjeggedal
- Where to Stay: Odda; wild camping is allowed along the route
The Trolltunga trail is one of Norway’s most famous hikes, leading to the dramatic rock ledge that juts out over Lake Ringedalsvatnet. The journey is long and strenuous, but the payoff is a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity on the “Troll’s Tongue.” Expect steep climbs, alpine plateaus, and breathtaking views across the Hardangervidda mountain plateau.
8. Quiraing Route, Scotland
- Distance: 6.8 km
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Start/Finish: Quiraing car park
- Terrain: Soil paths with rocky sections and loose ends in some parts, could be muddy and slippery when raining
- Where to Stay: Portree or Staffin; wild camping is allowed under Scotland’s access laws
The Quiraing hike on the Isle of Skye is a surreal experience, with jagged rock pinnacles, rolling green hills, and panoramic views of the sea. The trail winds through a landscape shaped by landslides, giving it a mystical, otherworldly feel. It’s especially popular with photographers thanks to its dramatic scenery.
9. Oeschinen Lake Trail, Switzerland
- Distance: 8 km round trip
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start/Finish: Kandersteg
- Where to Stay: Kandersteg; camping is not allowed
The Oeschinen Lake hike offers a fairytale setting of turquoise waters surrounded by steep cliffs and pine forests. The trail is relatively easy, making it popular for families and casual hikers. At the lake, you can relax, swim, or rent a rowboat to explore further.
10. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
- Distance: 55 km
- Duration: 4–6 days
- Difficulty: Moderate (weather can make it harder)
- Start/Finish: Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk
- Where to Stay: Hrafntinnusker, Álftavatn, and Þórsmörk (providing mountain huts and cabins); camping is allowed at official sites
The Laugavegur Trail is Iceland’s most famous trek, crossing otherworldly volcanic landscapes, colorful rhyolite mountains, and geothermal hot springs. The route ends in a lush valley filled with birch forests, creating a dramatic contrast to the barren highlands. The variety of landscapes makes it a favorite for adventurous hikers.
Long Hikes in Europe
11. Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc circles Western Europe’s highest mountain, passing through France, Italy, and Switzerland. The landscapes change daily, from alpine meadows and glaciers to mountain passes and charming villages. It’s one of the most rewarding and diverse long-distance hikes in the world.
- Distance: 170 km
- Duration: 10–12 days
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Start/Finish: Les Houches, France (loop)
- Accommodation: Mountain huts, guesthouses, hotels
- Camping: Allowed in designated areas
12. Camino de Santiago, Spain
The Camino de Santiago is not just a hike but a cultural and spiritual journey. The route takes you across northern Spain through rolling hills, medieval towns, and vineyards. Pilgrims walk for weeks before reaching the famous Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, creating a deep sense of community along the way.
- Distance: 780 km (Camino Francés)
- Duration: 4–6 weeks
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start/Finish: St. Jean-Pied-de-Port, France to Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Where to Stay: Pilgrim hostels (albergues), guesthouses, hotels
13. Rätikon Alps High Trail Circuit, Austria & Switzerland
The Rätikon Alps High Trail follows a rugged circuit along the Austrian-Swiss border, offering stunning alpine ridges, wildflower meadows, and sparkling mountain lakes. It’s less crowded than other alpine treks, making it a peaceful choice for those who want solitude in nature.
- Distance: 70 km
- Duration: 6–8 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start/Finish: Brand, Austria (loop)
- Where to Stay: Brand or Bludenz; camping is not allowed
14. Matterhorn Trek, Switzerland
- Distance: 145 km
- Duration: 8–10 days
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Start/Finish: Zermatt (loop)
- Accommodation: Mountain huts, hotels in Zermatt
- Camping: Restricted
The Matterhorn Trek gives hikers dramatic alpine scenery dominated by the iconic Matterhorn peak. Along the way, you’ll pass glaciers, high passes, and picturesque villages. It’s a challenging hike, but the rewards are some of the most breathtaking views in the Alps.
15. Fisherman’s Trail, Portugal
- Distance: 226 km
- Duration: 10–12 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start/Finish: São Torpes to Lagos
- Where to Stay: Porto Covo, Vila Nova de Milfontes, Odeceixe, or Aljezur
The Fishermen’s Trail runs along Portugal’s southwest coast, following rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and small fishing villages. It’s one of the most scenic coastal hikes in Europe, with constant views of the Atlantic Ocean. The trail is well-marked, offering a mix of nature and culture. “Fisherman’s Trail is not the most challenging hike in Europe, suitable for beginners. However, you need to have a basic level fitness. You can also hike everyday to see everything,” said TripLeader Sam, a local host from Algarve, Portugal.
16. Alpe Adria Trail, Italy & Slovenia
- Distance: 750 km
- Duration: 30+ days (sections possible)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start/Finish: Grossglockner, Austria to Muggia, Italy
- Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses, and farm stays
- Camping: Limited
The Alpe Adria Trail connects the Alps with the Adriatic Sea, taking hikers through Austria, Slovenia, and Italy. The landscapes range from high alpine peaks to vineyards and Mediterranean villages. It’s more than just a hike—it’s a journey through diverse cultures and cuisines.
Final Thoughts
From short day hikes through dramatic coastal cliffs to legendary long-distance treks across borders, these are truly the best hiking trails in Europe. Each one offers unique scenery and experiences, making Europe one of the best regions in the world for hiking enthusiasts.
Ready to hit the trails? Join one of JoinMyTrip‘s hiking group trips in Europe and explore these stunning routes with like-minded adventurers. Together, you’ll discover hidden gems, share the challenge, and make unforgettable memories.