From the majestic Alpine peaks to the volcanic peaks that rise above the Atlantic Ocean, Europe offers truly unforgettable hiking trails.
In recent years, hiking has become increasingly popular among tourists – hiking in the mountains to test yourself and at the same time admire the incredible scenery.
Experts from the insurance company InsureandGo have selected five of the best hiking trails in Europe with incredible landscapes that are worth exploring this year.
“From the majestic Alpine peaks to the volcanic peaks that rise above the Atlantic Ocean, Europe offers truly unforgettable hiking trails. These are trails where every step reveals something new. One moment, you’re walking through wild mountain valleys, and the next, you’re admiring glaciers, hidden lakes, or cozy mountain huts serving famous local cuisine,” the authors of the selection note.
1. Tour du Mont Blanc (France, Italy, and Switzerland): June-September
The total length of this route is 170 km, and it usually takes seven to eleven days to complete, with moderate difficulty. However, it can also be completed in sections, either as day hikes or multi-day treks.
This is one of the most famous long-distance hiking routes in Europe, where tourists can experience three different cultures with their own mountain traditions, cuisine, and landscapes.
Many tourists choose shorter sections, using mountain lifts, buses, or nearby villages as starting points. This flexibility makes the route much more accessible for those who want to explore the Alps without committing to a full multi-day hike.
The landscapes are constantly changing – one day you can walk through wide alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, and the next day you can cross high mountain passes with breathtaking views of glaciers.
2. Mount Pico (Azores, Portugal): May-October
This route, which is about 8 km long, offers tourists a unique experience of hiking through a volcano. It is moderately difficult and usually takes 7-9 hours to complete.
This majestic volcanic peak, towering over the Atlantic Ocean, is the highest mountain in Portugal and a major attraction of the Azores archipelago. The hike begins at the Casa da Montanha tourist center, where a marked trail leads up the dark volcanic cliffs. Although the route is challenging at times, it is well-marked and accessible to most physically fit hikers.
As you climb, the surrounding landscape becomes increasingly impressive. Lava fields stretch along the mountainside, and in the distance, you can gradually see the neighboring islands in the background of the ocean. On clear days, you can see Fajal and São Jorge towering over the Atlantic Ocean. Reaching the summit feels like standing on the roof of the Azores, and the crater at the top, known as Pico, offers breathtaking views of the island and the vast ocean.
3. Five Lakes Walk (Zermatt, Switzerland): June-September
This 11.3-kilometer medium-difficulty route offers stunning views of the Matterhorn and can be completed in three to four hours.
The Five Lakes Walk near Zermatt is one of the most interesting short hiking trails in the Swiss Alps. The trail connects five beautiful alpine lakes – Stellisee, Grindisee, Grunsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee – each offering a different perspective on the surrounding peaks. On windless days, some of the lakes reflect the sharp pyramidal shape of the Matterhorn, creating one of the most photogenic scenes in Switzerland.
Despite the breathtaking scenery, the hike itself is relatively easy. The route gently descends through alpine meadows, rocky paths, and open viewpoints, making it suitable for most hikers with an acceptable level of physical fitness. Many hikers start the route by taking the Sunnegga funicular or the Blauherd cable car, which means that they have already completed a significant portion of the climb.
Along the way, you can see grazing sheep, wildflowers, and traditional alpine restaurants. This hike combines impressive scenery with a leisurely pace, making it ideal for travelers who want to explore the Alps without embarking on a challenging mountain track.
4. The Blue Path (Cinque Terre, Italy): March-May, September-October
For the best coastal views, you should go to Italy, where the famous Five Lands National Park is located. The total length of the Sentiero Azzurro route is about 12 km, which can be covered in a day. However, it can also be divided into shorter sections, with overnight stays in local villages.
This picturesque coastal path connects the five famous villages of the Cinque Terre – Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore – along the rugged Italian Riviera. The path winds along the impressive cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, while terraced vineyards climb the hillsides.
Each village has its own unique character – you can walk past the fishing boats in Vernazza, the narrow streets in Manarola, or the quiet lookouts above Corniglia. Along the way, local cafes and small restaurants offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh seafood, focaccia, or a glass of local wine.
This hike combines beautiful coastal scenery with the laid-back pace of Italian life, making it one of the most enjoyable hiking trails in Europe.
5. Walking around the Plitvice Lakes (Croatia): April-October
This is another route with flexible conditions – the distance varies from 8 to 18 km, depending on the path that will be chosen. The route is easy, it can be done in half a day or stretched out for a whole day.
The Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for its chain of turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls, which are connected by a network of well-marked hiking trails and wooden decks.
Unlike many hiking trails, the paths here are gentle and easy to navigate, making them suitable for most visitors. As you explore the park, you’ll walk along wooden walkways through crystal-clear waters and lush forests. Waterfalls cascade between lakes at every turn, and the color of the water changes from deep blue to vibrant emerald, depending on the lighting.
Since the park is protected, swimming is not allowed, which helps to preserve the fragile ecosystem. However, the peaceful atmosphere and the constant sound of flowing water make it a wonderful place for relaxation and nature walks. For the best experience, many visitors come early in the morning, when the trails are quieter and the light over the lakes is most beautiful.