Walking & Hiking in Italy

Walking and Hiking Tours of Italy

In a country shaped like a boot, it’s no wonder we have an impressive collection of walking and hiking adventures in Italy! Put your best foot forward as you explore the countryside of Tuscany the hill towns of Umbria and test your resilience on alpine hikes. Find the adventure right for your activity level and explore Italy on foot.

In this guide, we explore the top senior-friendly walking tours of Italy so you can find an excursion that matches your interests and activity level. Take a look to see where you will end up in Italy next.

Walking and Hiking in Italy

If you're a trekking fan on the hunt for unforgettable experiences, Italy is the place to be! So, get ready to challenge yourself with some alpine hikes and explore the stunning countryside of Tuscany and the charming hill towns of Umbria. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there's a trail out there that's perfect for you. Who knows, you might even discover some hidden gems!

There are numerous benefits of exploring Italy on foot. While embarking on your next Italy hiking tour or walking tour, you can take in the natural beauty by immersing yourself in the natural wonders while enjoying panoramic views, serene lakes, lush forests, and picturesque villages. Not only can you maintain your fitness and health while enjoying Italy’s pristine nature, but participants on Italy walking tours can immerse themselves in Italian culture by visiting historic towns, enjoying traditional cuisine, and talking with locals. Ready to see for yourself? Take a look at our roundup of the top walking and hiking tours in Italy in the next section.

Browse the Italy Hiking Tour and Walking Tour Collection

This guide not only features the top Italian walking tours and hikes, but it's also packed with plenty of fun facts to keep you entertained along the way.

1. Walking and Hiking in Idyllic Tuscany and Mystical Umbria

Tuscany and Umbria are two of Italy’s most picturesque towns, known for their rolling hills, olive groves, vineyards, and medieval hilltop towns. At Road Scholar, our walking tours of Italy through Tuscany and Umbria allow you to experience all these areas have to offer. Embark on this 12-day journey through the magnificent Italian countryside and immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, geology, art, flora and fauna of Tuscany and Umbria.

Key Highlights:

• Explore Bevagna, a quaint town that's home to two extraordinary Romanesque churches.
• Visit Saint Francis’ hermitage and explore the small town of Assisi, where you'll experience a sense of spiritual renewal and a deep connection to the past.
• From picturesque wineries to local cheese shops, get your taste buds ready for a culinary adventure that'll leave you craving more.
• Wander the streets of Monticchiello, a small village known for its Teatro Povera (Poor Theater), and the idyllic countryside in the background, creating a serene and truly authentic Italian experience.
• Discover the medieval village of Montepulciano, located on the crest of a hill formed by volcanic rock, where you can learn about medieval history and the role these forts had in shaping Italian culture.
  

Program: Walking and Hiking in Tuscany and Umbria

2. Italy Walking Tour: Walking the Hill Towns of Umbria

Umbria, known as the “Green Heart of Italy,” boasts stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and artistic heritage that meets the interests of a wide range of travelers. Ideal for nature lovers who seek impressive views of Tuscany without the crowds, Umbria provides the perfect opportunity for you to embark on scenic guided walking tours. On our Italy walking tour through the hills of Umbria, group participants will be able to discover historic hilltop towns, visit spiritual and religious sites, and immerse themselves in Italian culture by attending cultural festivals and events while tasting authentic Italian cuisine.

Key Highlights:

• Learn the secrets of truffle hunting in Spoleto by embarking on a truffle hunt with the owner of a truffle farm and his truffle dogs.
• Explore the panoramic vistas of Assisi and Trevi before reaching a local winery for a well-deserved wine tasting. These two destinations are known for their medieval charm and religious significance, allowing visitors to explore the narrow streets, ancient churches, and historic sites associated with St. Francis of Assisi.
• Visit a medieval paper manufacturer in Bevagna, where you'll get to learn the fascinating papermaking technique that dates back centuries.
• Learn about olive oil production from a local expert at an olive mill in Torre del Colle.

Program: Walking the Hill Towns of Umbria

3. Alpine Hiking in Austria and Italy

One of our most exciting Italy hiking tours brings you through the awe-inspiring Alps, where you can explore traditional villages and learn about alpine flora, fauna, and wildlife. Discover the unmatched charm of Austria's Tyrol and Italy's South Tyrol. Compare and contrast their rich culture, history, environment, and architecture. Before embarking on your hiking tours in Italy and Austria, review our hiking tips for older adults to ensure a smooth and memorable excursion.

Key Highlights:

• Hike roughly 4 to 10 miles on varied terrain.
• Learn about Ötzi, the fascinating mummified "Iceman."
• Join our walking lectures to explore the botany of the Dolomites, where you'll discover the healing power of local herbs.

Program: Alpine Walks in Austria and Italy

4. Hiking Below and Beyond Mont Blanc: Switzerland, Italy and France

Another one of our most memorable hiking tours in Italy brings you to Italy, Switzerland, and France to take in the magnificent sights of the Alps and the world-famous Mont Blanc. Get ready to experience the grandeur of the Alps across three countries! Walk through quaint villages, castles and chalets in Switzerland, Italy and France.

Key Highlights:

• Walk through the ancient Great St. Bernard Pass, once traveled by Napoleon’s army.
• Take in spectacular views of Mont Blanc while hiking in Chamonix or from a nearby peak reached by cable car.
• Visit Aosta, founded by the Romans in 25 B.C. and known as the “Rome of the Alps.”

5. Hiking the Cinque Terre

To complete our list of hiking and walking tours of Italy, we bring you to the picturesque Cinque Terre. Hiking in Italy wouldn’t be complete without the Cinque Terre, where medieval fortresses, fishing villages and vineyards coexist in a breathtaking Mediterranean landscape.

Key Highlights:

• Experience expert-led walks along the dramatic Cinque Terre footpaths.
• Discover the local wine, cheese and focaccia bread with the president of the Lunigiana Wine Route.
• Hike through a chestnut forest to the beautifully preserved village of Vergheto.