5 Bucket-List Hiking Trails in Europe

Born in London and raised in Northern California, Cody Siler is an experienced Trip Leader, active travel enthusiast and writer who has led Backroads trips in Spain, California, and across the whole of Iceland.

At Backroads, we love hiking in Europe, where ancient footpaths, tucked-away villages and gorgeous views abound. Come discover five of our favorite Europe hiking adventures and find out how you can explore these iconic routes!

1. Path of the Gods

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Il Sentiero degli Dei, or the Path of the Gods, is a cliffside trail that links the villages of Agerola and Nocelle on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. A centuries-old footpath once used to transport goods by mules between the towns, the Path of the Gods earns its name by offering spectacular elevated views of the Amafli Coast and the island of Capri. The complete trail is a little less than five miles—the perfect distance to work up an appetite before descending to town and enjoying a delicious meal of fresh-caught seafood.

Join us to discover the Path of the Gods on our Amalfi Coast Walking & Hiking Tour.

2. Tour de Mont Blanc

Chamonix, France

This epic long-distance trail circumnavigates the Mont Blanc massif, passing through Italy, France and Switzerland along the way. With jaw-dropping views of jagged, snowcapped peaks, cozy alpine refuges and picturesque lodges, this 110-mile trail offers adventurous travelers an unforgettable look at the landscapes of the Alps. Whether you hike the whole loop or just a section of it, the Tour du Mont Blanc should be on any hiker’s short list.

Join us to hike sections of the Tour du Mont Blanc on our Italian, French & Swiss Alps Walking & Hiking Tour.

3. Camino de Santiago

Spain, France & Portugal

The Camino de Santiago has drawn pilgrims and travelers from around the world for thousands of years. Since the 9th century, this sprawling network of trails has offered travelers the opportunity to discover quintessential European landscapes and delve into the local cultures of rural Spain, Portugal and France. Whether you’re hiking the French, Portuguese or English Way, the iconic yellow arrows of the Camino will lead you on an unforgettable adventure in the company of your fellow travelers.

Join us to hike sections of the Portuguese Way on our Camino de Santiago Walking & Hiking Tour.

4. Flatbrehytta

Jostedalsbreen National Park, Norway

Beginning in a picturesque green valley and climbing up to stunning views of the largest glacier on the European mainland, this lesser-known hike is one of our favorites. Stroll through wildflower-dotted meadows, gaze out over sprawling fjords and enjoy unforgettable vistas of Jostedalsbreen’s icy waves spilling into the valley, before descending into town to enjoy a warm drink and some local hospitality.

Join us to hike the Flatbrehytta route on our Norway Walking & Hiking Tour.

5. Camí de Ronda

Catalonia, Spain

This coastal trail follows Catalonia’s Mediterranean shore from Blanes to the French border, featuring unforgettable sea views and a colorful history of pirates, smugglers and fishermen. With swoopi­­ng descents down to picturesque coves, invigorating climbs through sandy pine forests and plenty of picturesque towns where you can stop for a caña and a lunch of fresh seafood, the Camí de Ronda is an incredible way to discover the landscapes of coastal Catalonia on foot.

Join us to hike sections of the Camí de Ronda on our Costa Brava to Spanish Pyrenees Walking & Hiking Tour.

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