Northern Italy Hiking Tours
Booking one of these amazing Northern Italy Hiking Tours will open up an entirely new world full of adventure for you.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with hiking tours in Northern Italy, where the majestic Italian Alps await to mesmerize you with breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating trails. From the rugged Dolomites to the scenic Lake Como, Northern Italy offers a diverse range of trekking experiences that promise to leave a lasting impression.
Explore other tours in Northern Italy by activity
Northern Italy Hiking Tours and Itineraries
Displaying 20 of 20 tours
Displaying 20 of 20 tours
Via Francigena
Via Francigena: Pavia to Fidenza
This tour along the Via Francigena takes you on a historic pilgrimage route from Pavia to Fidenza, retracing the steps of medieval travelers who sought spiritual fulfillment in Rome. As you journey across the Po River by ferry, you’ll encounter the rich cultural heritage of Pavia’s medieval center and enjoy the serene agricultural plains of the region. The route offers captivating historical sites like the Cistercian Abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba and Fidenza’s magnificent cathedral. Along the way, indulge in Emilia’s renowned cuisine, sampling delicacies like Prosciutto di Parma, culatello di Zibello, and Parmigiano Reggiano, making this a deeply cultural and culinary experience.
Italian Lakes
Lake Como Self-Guided Walking Tour
The Lake Como Self-Guided Walking Tour offers an incredible way to explore one of Italy’s most picturesque regions. Situated just a couple of hours from Milan, Lake Como’s shimmering waters and surrounding mountains provide the perfect backdrop for your journey. Over five days, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from a selection of scenic walking routes, visit renowned villas such as Carlotta and Balbaniello, and stroll through charming lakeside villages. This tour is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to explore at your own pace, enjoying panoramic views, historical sites, and the peaceful atmosphere of Lake Como.
Via Francigena
Via Francigena: Fidenza to Pontremoli
This tour explores a memorable stage of the historic Via Francigena, a route traveled by pilgrims for centuries on their way to Rome. Beginning in Fidenza, this journey takes you through the Apennines to Pontremoli, offering an immersive experience of nature, history, and spirituality. Along the way, highlights include the ancient Cathedral of San Donnino, with its inspiring bas-reliefs, the ascent to the Cisa Pass with sweeping views of the Lombardy Plain and Lunigiana, and the medieval Groppodalosio bridge. This section of the Via Francigena is a snapshot of the grand pilgrimage route that once connected people and cultures across Europe, capturing the spirit of devotion and adventure that defined medieval travel to the Eternal City.
Northern Italy
Lake Iseo Hiking Tour
Tucked away in the picturesque landscapes of northern Italy, the Lake Iseo region is a hidden treasure, offering visitors a blend of serene beauty and captivating charm. Picture a place where crystal-clear waters meet pebbled shores, surrounded by rolling hills draped in vineyards and olive groves. This is Lake Iseo—a tranquil retreat that enchants the senses and leaves a lasting impression on those who explore it.
Italy
Walking & Wine Tour through Barolo and Barbera
Imagine walking through Italy’s famous Piedmont region, enjoying the countryside and then sampling some of the best wines in Barolo and Barbera. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the best in Italian wine and food.
Italian Lakes
Scenic Trails of Lake Maggiore & Lake Orta
The Scenic Trails of Lake Maggiore & Lake Orta walking tour takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Italian Lakes region. You’ll explore panoramic trails with stunning views of the Italian Alps, walk through charming villages, and visit the Borromean Islands, famous for their historic villas and magnificent botanical gardens. Each day offers a unique experience, from the serene lakeside paths to the more challenging mountain trails.
Northern Italy
Piedmont Barolo to Barbaresco Walking Tour
This casual walking tour of Italy’s stunning Piedmont region takes you from Barolo to Barbaresco, where you’ll sip Italy’s finest wines and marvel at world-class views of the Alps.
Via Francigena
The Heart of Via Francigena
This 9-day self-guided walking tour through the heart of Tuscany’s Via Francigena takes you from the historic town of San Miniato to the charming village of Buonconvento. Along the way, you’ll explore medieval towns like San Gimignano and Siena, traverse the picturesque Tuscan countryside, and enjoy local culinary delights, from truffles to traditional pici pasta. This route blends stunning landscapes, cultural treasures, and centuries-old pilgrimage paths, making it an unforgettable journey through Italy’s rich history and vibrant traditions.
Via Francigena
Via Francigena: Saint Bernard Pass to Ivrea
At the beginning of the second millennium, thousands of pilgrims traveled across Europe searching for the “Celestial Land” in Rome, the Holy Land, and Santiago de Compostela. The Via Francigena, or “Way to Rome,” was among the most significant pilgrimage routes, linking Canterbury to Rome. Used for centuries by people from all walks of life, it was a symbol of unity, connecting various European cultures and beliefs. The path crosses the Swiss Alps through the Great Saint Bernard Pass, where pilgrims were aided by Augustinian monks and their iconic dogs. The route descends into Italy’s Aosta Valley, winding through vineyards, castles, and ancient towns with rich Roman and medieval heritage. Landmarks include Aosta’s Roman ruins, Chambave’s vineyards, the Bard Fortress, and the Roman bridge in Pont-Saint-Martin. The path’s final Italian stages lead through the historical town of Ivrea, which holds Roman relics and medieval fortifications. Rediscovering this route today reflects Europe’s enduring legacy of shared history and cultural connection.
Northern Italy
Italian Riviera Trek
Experience the wonder and majesty of the Mediterranean and the Italian Riviera as you embark upon this trek across the Ligurian coast from historic Genoa to Sestri Levante and the Gulf of Tigullio. Immerse yourself in nature as you walk the hidden byways of the Portofino regional park and let the stunning scenery restore you.
Northern Italy
Cinque Terre Pilgrimage to Portovenere
Hike beside the Mediterranean through the Cinque Terre National Park and explore charming Italian villages steeped in history. Experience great food and wine at each stop as you travel the ancient winding footpaths connecting the famous five Cinque Terre villages on this seven-day hiking tour from Sestri Levante to Portovenere.
Italian Lakes
Alpine Crossing 4: Lake Garda to Venice
This is it, the third and final stage of the epic Alpine Crossing route from Garmish to Venice. This stage is from the north shores of Lake Garda, where you walk along ancient pilgrim routes through the rock deserts of the Sarca-valley down into the Etsch-valley to Trento.
Northern Italy
Piedmont Val Maira Walking Tour
Trek at the foot of the Alps on the Piedmont Val Maira Walking Tour of Italy’s mountainous northwest region, where you’ll traverse alpine forests and climb striking features like the 2309m Colle Greguri.
Italian Lakes
Walking Tour of Lake Como & Lake Maggiore
The Lake Como & Lake Maggiore Walking Tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring two of Italy’s most stunning lakes. This self-guided hiking tour takes you through picturesque towns, lush botanical gardens, and breathtaking trails that wind around the shores of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of northern Italy as you walk along panoramic paths, visit historic villas, and enjoy charming lakeside villages.
Via Francigena
The Appian Way: Via Francigena Rome to Formia
The Appian Way: Via Francigena Rome to Formia is a 12-day pilgrimage along a section of the renowned Via Francigena. This first part of the Via Appia is perhaps the most impressive section of the whole route, and certainly the part with the highest density of historical interest. This road for centuries has been the backbone of the Roman road system in southern Italy and the gateway to its colonies in the southern and eastern Mediterranean. While born as a transport road for soldiers, merchants, and everybody else, in medieval times the road was used intensively by pilgrims travelling from Rome, the Holy City, to the Holy Land.
Northern Italy
Cinque Terre Portofino to Porto Venere Trek
Bask in the sights, sounds, and smells of the majestic Mediterranean as you hike along forgotten pathways in the Cinque Terre National Park and Ligurian Coast. Your self-guided hiking adventure will take you on foot to ancient sanctuaries hidden in the hills and by train through charming Italian villages steeped in history.
Northern Italy
Langhe and Roero Family Adventure
Want to introduce the entire family to the spectacular Langhe and Roero region? The Langhe and Roero Family Adventure gets everyone out into the villages, restaurants, vineyards, and farms of Piedmont without having to pack up and move hotels every night. Your family will love the beautiful agrotoursim accommodation that allows you to cook some of your own meals and spend your downtime relaxing outdoors.
Northern Italy
Piedmont’s Wine, Food and Hiking Tour
Escape to wineries stretching across undulating terrain and enjoy delicious, authentic, rural Italian cuisine on this 8-day Langhe Vineyards Walking Tour. This holiday beautifully blends relaxation with adventure: each day, you will traverse lush scenery, whether that be rolling vineyards or woods peppered with hazelnut groves.
Dolomites
Guided Dolomites Hiking Tour
Hike the Dolomites in this guided group trip. Based in Cortina, each day is a new walk in the Dolomites, followed by a relaxing evening your Cortina hotel.
Tour du Mont Blanc
Guided 10-day Tour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc is an epic trek taking you through France, Italy and Switzerland, all the while providing stunning views of the Mont Blanc Massif. This guided Tour du Mont Blanc allows you to forget the hassle of planning and join a guide and a group of moderate trekkers on a wonderful trekking journey.
Book your Hiking trip to Northern Italy with 10Adventures
We Know Adventure
Authentic hiking, cycling, and adventure holidays - thoughtfully crafted by local tour partners and tailored to your unique journey.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
Let's start talking about your next adventure!
Northern Italy General Travel Information
Where to Trek in Northern Italy
When planning your trekking adventure in Northern Italy, consider starting from iconic hubs like the Dolomites, Lake Como, or Lombardy. The Dolomites, with their dramatic peaks and lush valleys, offer a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts, while Lake Como boasts picturesque trails with stunning lake views.
What Makes Trekking in Northern Italy Special?
Trekking in Northern Italy is a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Explore ancient villages nestled amidst alpine meadows, traverse rugged mountain passes, and marvel at the UNESCO-listed landscapes of the Dolomites. Whether you choose the challenging Alta Via routes or leisurely strolls along scenic trails, Northern Italy offers an unforgettable trekking experience.
When to Go Trekking in Northern Italy
The best time for trekking in Northern Italy is during the summer months, from late June to early September. During this period, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are snow-free, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant hiking conditions, with fewer crowds and vibrant foliage, while winter is perfect for snowshoeing and winter hiking excursions.
Top 5 Trekking or Hiking Adventures in Northern Italy
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hiking Tour: Embark on the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo Circuit, a circular trek around the towering peaks of Tre Cime (Three Peaks) in the Dolomites. This challenging route offers unparalleled views of jagged limestone spires, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys, making it a must-do for adventurous hikers.
- Barolo Wine Tasting and Hiking Experience: Embark on a unique journey through the Piedmont region, where you'll savor exquisite Barolo wines amidst the rolling vineyards and indulge in scenic hikes that offer panoramic views of the picturesque countryside.
- Alta Via 1: Traverse the legendary Alta Via 1, a renowned long-distance trekking route in the Dolomites. Spanning approximately 120 kilometers from Dobbiaco to Belluno, this challenging trek offers stunning mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and charming rifugios along the way.
- Piedmont Val Maira Walking Tour: Discover the remote beauty of Val Maira in Piedmont on a guided walking tour, where you'll trek through pristine wilderness, lush forests, and charming mountain villages, immersing yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of the Italian Alps.
- Alpe Adria Hiking: Experience the natural splendor of the Alpe Adria region on a scenic hiking adventure, where you'll traverse diverse landscapes, from the majestic peaks of the Alps to the picturesque valleys and crystal-clear lakes, uncovering the rich cultural heritage of the area along the way.
Travel tips for Northern Italy Hiking Tours
What to pack when trekking in Northern Italy?
When trekking in Northern Italy, it's essential to pack appropriate clothing for variable weather conditions, including sturdy hiking boots, waterproof jacket, layers for warmth, sun protection, hiking poles, plenty of water, snacks, a map, and a first aid kit.
Are luggage transfers available on treks in Northern Italy?
Luggage transfer services are available on some trekking routes in Northern Italy, particularly for long-distance hikes like the Alta Via routes in the Dolomites. However, availability may vary depending on the specific trek and tour operator.
How long do I need to trek in Northern Italy?
The duration of your trek in Northern Italy depends on the chosen route and your hiking pace. Some shorter treks may last a few hours to a day, while multi-day treks like the Alta Via routes may require several days to complete.
Are there family-friendly treks in Northern Italy?
Yes, Northern Italy offers a variety of family-friendly treks suitable for all ages and skill levels. Trails around Lake Como, Cinque Terre, and the Dolomites feature easy to moderate hikes with stunning scenery and accessible amenities.
What are the accommodations when trekking in Northern Italy?
Accommodations during trekking in Northern Italy range from mountain rifugios (huts) to hotels, guesthouses, and campsites. Rifugios provide basic amenities and meals along the trails, while towns and villages offer a range of lodging options.
Can I do a self-guided trek in Northern Italy?
Yes, self-guided trekking is possible in Northern Italy, with many well-marked trails and resources available, including maps, guidebooks, and GPS navigation apps. However, it's essential to research the route and be adequately prepared for the journey.
Can I do a guided trek in Northern Italy?
Guided trekking tours are popular in Northern Italy, offering experienced guides who lead groups along scenic routes, provide insights into the local culture and environment, and ensure safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
What are the best times of year for trekking in Northern Italy?
The best times for trekking in Northern Italy are typically late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild, and trails are free from snow. However, some higher elevation routes may be accessible only during the summer months.
Are there any permit requirements for trekking in Northern Italy?
Generally, no permits are required for trekking on public trails in Northern Italy. However, certain protected areas or national parks may have entry fees or regulations, so it's advisable to check in advance.
What wildlife and flora can I expect to encounter while trekking in Northern Italy?
While trekking in Northern Italy, you may encounter diverse wildlife such as chamois, ibex, marmots, and various bird species. The flora varies from lush forests to alpine meadows, with wildflowers blooming in spring and summer.