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What are the best day hikes in Europe?
There are literally thousands of beautiful hiking trails in Europe, both short and long. Today, in this article, we’ll be focusing on the short hikes, walks you can do in a couple of hours up to a day, something you can easily do as a day trip. To create this list we have reached out to experienced travelers and adventurers, and these are the hikes they recommend. Here are 20 beautiful short hikes in Europe.
All hikes in this list are sorted by countries.
Table of Contents
Best Day Hikes in Europe
Here they are, some of the best hikes in Europe.
Save the list in bookmarks, if you’re thinking of hiking in Europe.
1. Vernazza to Monterosso al Mare Hike (Cinque Terre, Italy)

Cinque Terre are five colorful and picturesque villages.
They are located on the Ligurian coast, in Italy. While the Terres are well linked by public transport, you can also hike between them. One of the most popular trails is the one connecting Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza and it’s no wonder why as it offers stunning views of both the sea and the villages, in particular of Vernaza. For this reason, you should start your hike in Monterosso al Mare: this way you will face tiny Vernazza as you approach it.
While the trail is not extremely difficult, you do have to do some climbing (the views are worth it though), so make sure you bring water with you if you plan to do the hike in summer. You should also know that you will need the Cinque Terre Trekking Card to be able to access this trail. You can buy it at the trail’s entry points or from the Tourist Information points located inside the train station of each village.
While the Terres are well linked by public transport, you can also hike between them. And this trail you’ll be taking, is one of the best best day hikes in Europe.
Since most people visit Cinque Terre from Florence or Pisa, the easiest and most comfortable option to get there is taking the train. To reach either Monterroso or Vernazza you will need to change trains at La Spezia Centrale station.
LENGTH: 2.2 miles (3.5 km)
Recommended by Andreea, Andoreia.com
2. Hike From Portofino to San Fruttuoso (Italy)

The Italian Riviera is known for its picturesque hikes.
A great day hike is the hike from Portofino to San Fruttuoso in the Italian Riviera.
There are a couple of options to get to Portofino. If you stay at the nearby beach towns of Rapallo or Santa Margherita Ligure, you can take a ferry. If you’re staying in Portofino, a bus connects with the train to Santa Margherita Ligure, or, of course, you can drive.
Portofino is a gorgeous seaside village that’s one of the prime playgrounds of the rich and famous. It’s centered around a small bay that’s filled with sailing boats and luxury yachts. It’s worth spending some time exploring the shops, restaurants, and attractions before setting out on the hike.
Portofino is a gorgeous seaside village that’s one of the prime playgrounds of the rich and famous.
To get to the trail, head straight up the hill from the ferry dock. The path starts by climbing a long staircase past houses and then small terraced fields with olive and lemon trees. Eventually you leave Portofino behind, and you can see it glistening like a sapphire-colored jewel far below. The trail flattens out and skirts along the side of the steep hill, past isolated farmhouses, wildflowers, and native forest. There are frequent views of the Mediterranean Sea sparkling in the sun far below.
After about 1.5 hours, the trail starts to descend a series of switchbacks through a steep forested hillside. Near the end, you’ll start to see the hidden San Fruttuoso Bay below. The entire hike is 3 miles and takes about 2 hours. The views are stunning and the start and end points amazing.
San Fruttuoso can only be reached on foot or by boat. The tiny cove is framed with a beautiful 10th century Benedictine Abbey. Deck chairs are set up along the beach and there are several seafood restaurants and cafes to choose from. Cool off after your hike in the sea, enjoy lunch, and relax in this idyllic place for the rest of the afternoon. Then take a ferry back to Portofino at the end of the day.
LENGTH: 3 miles (4.8 km)
Recommended by James, Travel Collecting
3. Lake Sorapis Hike (Dolomites, Italy)

The Italian Dolomites are a hikers paradise in Europe.
There are plenty of hiking trails in the Dolomites, ranging from one day to multiple day – routes with varying degrees of difficulty. Aside from hiking, travelers will be surprised to find a wealth of sustainable hotels in the Dolomites, unparalleled anywhere else in the world. The perfect spot to relax after a day spent traipsing in the mountains!
One of the more scenic day-hikes is without a doubt the 14-kilometer hike to Lake Sorapis. The hike will take you along spectacular views of jagged snow-capped mountains, interspersed by a small winding path (which you follow) and finally lead to the most spectacular, crystal-clear turquoise mountain lake: Lake Sorapis.
There are plenty of hiking trails in the Dolomites, ranging from one day to multiple day – routes with varying degrees of difficulty. This is where you can find some of the best hikes in Italy, and also the best European hikes.
The trailhead begins and ends in Passo Tre Croci, which is easily reachable via public transportation (bus number 30 from Cortina stops right in front of the trailhead). If you decide to take the car, make sure to type in Passo Tre Croci in your GPS. This should lead you directly to the ample parking available around the start of the hike.
Be sure to wear a comfortable pair of hiking shoes, and to bring a rain jacket – the weather in the mountains can be very treacherous. The hike is categorized as moderate, the distance of the hike can be covered in a mere 3 to 4 hours. While the majority of the hike is a comfortable gentle ascent, the last portion is significantly steeper, not to worry as the very steep portion contains stairs to help you ascend. This last section, while perfectly safe, is not advisable to sufferers of Vertigo as the aforementioned stairs are in fact on the side of a rock wall with sweeping views over the valley.
LENGTH: 8.7 miles (14 km)
Recommended by Caroline, Veggie Wayfarer
4. Gorropu Gorge Hike (Sardinia, Italy)

Gorropu Gorge is the deepest gorge in Italy.
If you’re looking for the best day hikes in Europe, you have to add Gorropu Gorge in Sardinia, Italy, to your bucket list. Su Gorropu is the deepest gorge in Italy, and with its 450 meter high canyon sides, it’s also amongst the biggest ones in Europe.
If this isn’t enough to make you add it to your Italy itinerary, I’m sure the views will convince you. The trail is around 10 km, with an elevation change of 700 m, and takes around 5-6 hours. The hike is challenging, but well maintained and well marked, so it’s easy to follow. There are a variety of hiking trails to reach it, but my personal favourite is the one starting from Bar Silana. You will start at the top of the mountains, and hike down almost 5 km for a 700 m elevation change to reach the entrance of the gorge.
There are a variety of hiking trails to reach it, but my personal favourite is the one starting from Bar Silana.
As you hike from Bar Silana to the entrance of Gorropu Gorge you will enjoy one of the most scenic views you can imagine, stretching far over the Sardinian mountains and cliffs. Besides the incredible views, you will also see the nature surrounding you change as you hike down, going from the more barren Sardinian granite to a more traditional Mediterranean shrub, with some sections going through patches of trees and giving your enchanted forest vibes.
And this is all before reaching the actual gorge! After 5 km you will reach the entrance of Gorropu Gorge, and it’s up to you how deep you want to go. The deeper you go, the wilder the trail becomes and you’ll have to climb over rocks to keep going. We walked into the gorge for about 500 m, and found it was enough to see the majestic canyon sides towering above us. Also because you have to hike 5 km back up, so save your strengths!
DURATION: 5-6 hours
Recommended by Greta, Greta’s Travels
5. Schafberg Mountain Hike (Austria)

Austria is famous for its many mountains and hiking routes.
One of the most beautiful day hikes is the hike up to the famous Schafberg, which is located on the edge of the picturesque Lake Wolfgangsee. The best route for this is hiking trail No. 20, a gorgeous panoramic route that leads to the top of the mountain at 1732 meters above sea level.
The hike up to the Schafberg is not too difficult, but you should have some basic fitness. Mostly, this route is classified as moderately difficult. However, you should keep in mind that you will have to manage a height difference of 1188 meters. Thus, the entire hike from the lake up to the summit takes 4 to 5 hours and 30 minutes. If this is too strenuous for you, you can cut short at the middle station and take the red nostalgia train up the mountain.
The best route – hiking trail No. 20, a gorgeous panoramic route that leads to the top of the mountain at 1732 meters above sea level. Enjoy one of the best hikes in the Alps!
The highlight of the hike up the Schafberg are definitely the magnificent views of Lake Wolfgang and the surrounding Alps. Once you reach the summit, you will experience the most beautiful viewpoint of all, because in front of you, you will have a breathtaking view of the many sparkling lakes in Salzburg and a large part of Upper Austria.
This day hike is recommended in summertime, especially from May to the end of September. It is best to start the tour in the early morning, when temperatures are still cool. So check out the weather. The way back can then also be done with the red Schafbergbahn. This red train is now one of the most famous tourist attractions in the region and a must when traveling to Salzburg or Upper Austria.
DURATION: about 5.5 hours
Recommended by Martina, PlacesofJuma
6. Soca Trail (Soča Trail) (Slovenia)

The Soca Trail is an easy/moderate 25 km one way hike.
It runs through Triglav National Park in Slovenia and is considered one of the most picturesque sections of the longer 640 km Alpe Adria Trail which traverses Austria, Slovenia, and Italy. You can hike the entire Soca Trail in one day, or choose a shorter section of the trail, which is ideal for anyone short on time or hiking with kids.
The trail begins at the source of the Soca River near the village of Trenta in the Soca Valley. It is possible to walk in either direction, but the most common way to hike the trail is from the river source near Trenta, towards Bovec. You can stay in Trenta, in the town of Bovec where the hike ends, or at one of the many campgrounds set on the river between the two towns. Public buses run in the Summer between Bovec and Trenta, making it easy to accomplish this one way hike in one day.
It runs through Triglav National Park in Slovenia and is considered one of the most picturesque sections of the longer 640 km Alpe Adria Trail which traverses Austria, Slovenia, and Italy.
The Soca trail meanders through pretty forest and runs alongside the crystal-clear Soca River for much of the time. There are several crossings of the river on wooden footbridges. You pass through the small villages of Trenta and Soca where you can take a break to explore several historical churches and military graveyards. Along the way you will be treated to three stunning natural gorges with high mossy walls and narrow rocky walls. For those brave enough there are several spots to stop for a quick dip in the breathtakingly cold water of the Soca River.
The Soca Trail is one of the best things to do in Triglav National Park and a must-do for anyone exploring Slovenia and looking for memorable day hikes.
DURATION: one full day
Recommended by Rachel, Adventure and Sunshine
7. Pico de Mijas Hike (Andalucia, Spain)

Pico de Mijas is a beautiful day hike in Andalucia.
If you find yourself travelling to Andalucia and Costa del Sol, do not miss this hike!
This beautiful hike starts in Mijas Pueblo, one of the most beautiful villages in Andalucia. It is a moderate hike that will take around 7-8 hours to complete, depending on how fit you are. The path leads up the top of the mountain, passing through pine forests, wild olive trees, herb shrubs, and rocky areas. As you go up, the scenery opens up more and more, with stunning views over the coast. On a clear, sunny day, you can see across the Mediterranean Sea, and spot the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. There are many chances that when you will be on this trail, you will be meeting with mountain goats, as there are so many living in the forest just above Mijas Pueblo.
Pico de Mijas, the top of the mountain, is at an altitude of 1150 meters.
Pico de Mijas, the top of the mountain, is at an altitude of 1150 meters. The trail climbs over an elevation of 720 meters. The top of the mountain is home to “La Bola”, a meteorological observatory. From there you can have a spectacular view over the coast, including Malaga, the airport, up to Costa Tropical.
The best time to hike Pico de Mijas is during spring or autumn, when the temperature is milder. In summer it can be too hot – there is no shade on the trail.
DURATION: 7-8 hours
Recommended by Joanna, Andalucia in My Pocket
8. Cares Gorge Hike in Picos de Europa (Spain)

An easy day hike in the Picos de Europa National Park.
One of the best day hikes in Europe is found in the Picos de Europa National Park tucked way in the North of Spain. In fact, the Cares Gorge trail may be the most popular day hike in the Picos. The beautiful path follows along the Cares River.
While hiking the Ruta del Cares, enjoy the twists and turns that showcase stunning views of the limestone mountain peaks, wander next to unique rock formations, walk through small caves, cross the gorge via cool footbridges, and share the trail with silly goats. This scenic hiking trail is a highlight of a Picos de Europa road trip.
Hikers that are traveling without a car should access the trailhead from Poncebos.
The trail connects two charming mountain hamlets, Cain de Valdeon and Poncebos. The villages lie 12 kilometers apart by foot. It’s possible to start the hike at either village and complete the trek as an out and back trail or as a point to point hike. If you are traveling without a car, you should access the trailhead from Poncebos. Don’t fret, there are a few small guesthouses in each village if you feel like soaking in the tranquil mountain hamlets. Another benefit of staying in the small villages are the additional nearby day hikes and peaks to explore.
LENGTH: 7.5 miles (12 km)
Recommended by Megan, Packing up the Pieces
9. Levada do Risco Hike (Madeira, Portugal)

The Portuguese island of Madeira offers some of the best hiking trails in Europe.
Madeira has approximately 1,350 miles / 2,170 km of hiking trails that run alongside its famous levadas. These irrigation channels criss-cross the entire island and have created a variety of easy to challenging trails including mountainous, coastal and forested paths.
The Levada do Risco is one of the most varied and scenic Madeira walks with terrain that is suitable for all ages and abilities. The path is signposted from the coastal resort of Calheta which can be reached by public bus from the capital Funchal. However, the start of the hike is best reached by car, taxi or tour bus. You can choose to start from the Rabacal Hut or continue a little further to a small car park on the other side of the hill.
Madeira has approximately 1,350 miles / 2,170 km of hiking trails that run alongside its famous levadas. Yes, there are a lot of hiking trails in Madeira.
Starting from the smaller car park, the path winds through an aromatic Eucalyptus forest before leading onto an open hillside with fantastic views to the Atlantic Ocean. In Spring, this hillside is packed with Agapanthus and wild garlic. The trail then passes through a 1 kilometre long, low ceiling tunnel; a good torch is essential. At the end of the tunnel, the hike emerges into a contrasting shaded forest landscape; look out for orchids hiding amongst the dense ferns lining the levada. This elevated trail eventually ends at the dramatic Risco waterfall, plunging in a single drop over a rocky cliff face.
As this is a linear path, you can either return the same route or diverge onto the equally stunning Levada do 25 Fontes path which, as the name suggests, is lined with pretty waterfalls of varying sizes. A full circuit of the two routes is approximately 9 kilometres and will take around 4 – 5 hours to complete without stops.
However, given the views and the idyllic waterfall pools, expect to make lots of stops so allocate a full day to this hike.
DURATION: 4 – 5 hours, up to a full day
Recommended by Sinead, Map Made Memories
10. The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (Portugal)

Portugal has one of the most beautiful hikes in Europe, here’s one of them.
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is a coastal walking route in southern Portugal’s Algarve region. It’s a moderate 6-kilometers linear trail that can be walked in either direction or as a 12-kilometers return hike. One needs 2 hours to complete the one-way route. The trail starts at the Marinha Beach and finishes at Praia de Vale de Centianes. The best way of getting to the trailhead is by car.
The trail starts at the Marinha Beach and finishes at Praia de Vale de Centianes. The best way of getting to the trailhead is by car.
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is a not-to-miss day hike in the Algarve. The route takes hikers through some of the most iconic places in the region. For the entire 6 kilometers, the trail follows the limestone cliffs of the southern Algarve offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic coast: dramatic drops, sandy beaches, impressive caves, rugged cliffs, and the turquoise water of the Atlantic Ocean. Some of the trail highlights include Marinha Beach one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe; Benagil Cave one of the highlights of the Algarve region; Benagil Beach, Carvalho Beach, Alfazinha Lighthouse, Praia do Vale de Centianes.
The trail can be walked all year round, though during the summer it gets very hot in the Algarve, and then it’s recommended to start walking early in the morning. The route is well-marked and easy to follow, there’s no need to use a GPS or a guide.
DURATION: 2 hours, one way
Recommended by Alya, Stingy Nomads
11. Calanque d’En Vau Hike (France)

A picturesque hiking trail in Southern France.
The Calanques National Park in southern France is a region made up of “calanques,” which are narrow inlets from the Mediterranean, with steep, white limestone walls. Hiking to Calanque d’En Vau, one of the most stunning and dramatic calanques, is very rewarding.
From the city center of Cassis, take Avenue de la Calanques, until it ends at a parking lot at Calanque de Port Miou. You will need to drive or take an Uber (10 minutes), or walk (25 minutes) from the city center – there is no public transportation. There is an obvious trail that starts by Calanque de Port Miou. While this calanque is smaller, it’s still a really pretty inlet and a great way to start the hike.
The Calanques National Park in southern France is a region made up of “calanques,” which are narrow inlets from the Mediterranean, with steep, white limestone walls.
From Port Miou, the trail is flat, wide, and easy, and in 15-20 minutes, you’ll end up at the second calanque at Port Pin. There is a little beach area that is popular with kayakers and locals who want to swim. From here, you’ll swing out and follow the coastline, until you cut inland to make the very steep hike down to the beach at Calanque d’En Vau. When you finally round the corner to the beach, you’ll be very impressed with the towering white walls and the turquoise water leading out to sea. Relax on shore, enjoy a picnic, or take a dip in the water (just be aware that the beach is pebbly, not sandy!).
The hike isn’t too long – between 4-5 km and takes around 2-4 hours, depending on if you explore any of the side areas on the trail (which I highly recommend you do!) and how long you stay at the beach.
DURATION: 2-4 hours
Recommended by Stephanie, The Unknown Enthusiast
12. Scafell Pike Hike (Lake District, England)

Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England.
If you are looking for an epic day hike in England, a hike with incredible views of mountains and lakes, look no further than the Lake District in England. This popular destination in the UK with the highest English peak – Scafell Pike – offers an amazing day out from Liverpool or Manchester.
With so many international flights it is really easy to get to the Lake District. It takes only 2 hours to drive from Manchester or Liverpool airport to Scafell Pike. The best Lake District attractions include not only the highest mountain but also the deepest lake in England where the hike to Scafell Pike begins.
With an elevation of 978 meters above sea level, panoramic views from Scafell Pike are breathtaking and unforgettable.
The best place to start your hike to Scafell Pike is from Wasdale Car Park. During the hike, you will fall in love with the English landscape. Just keep in mind that the hike requires scrambling and it is not easy, but offers amazing views. From the top of the mountain, you will see many other peaks such as Great Gable, Great End, Bowfell, or Sca Fell. Also, the famous lake – Wast Water. With an elevation of 978 meters above sea level, panoramic views from Scafell Pike are breathtaking and unforgettable.
DURATION: 5 hours
Recommended by Paulina, UK Everyday
13. Croagh Patrick Hike (Ireland)

What about a hike to Ireland’s ‘Holiest Mountain’?
Located in a small village called Murrisk, which is a few kilometers from the popular, lively seaside town of Westport in Co. Mayo is Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s ‘Holiest Mountain’. Famed for its associations with Ireland’s patron saint, Croagh Patrick, it’s somewhat of a rite of passage to climb Croagh Patrick as an Irish person.
Public transport links to Murrisk are limited, so you’re best off reaching the base of Croagh Patrick by car. There is a large visitor’s centre with a car park at the start of the hike, with a cafe, toilets and shower facilities.
Public transport links to Murrisk are limited, so you’re best off reaching the base of Croagh Patrick by car.
The hike starts from the car park, from which you’ll enter a narrow country lane before making your way onto the start of the trail. While Croagh Patrick is not the tallest mountain you’ll encounter at a height of 764m, there are several factors that make it quite a challenging climb.
First up is the shape of the mountain – which is that of a cone. With it comes a pretty immediate, steep climb which offers little relief for several hundred metres’ elevation. Once you’ve navigated this first part, you’ll reach a relatively short stretch from which there are pretty spectacular panoramic views. Once you’ve caught your breath, it’s time to attack the top of the cone, and summit Croagh Patrick!
Here comes the second challenging part to this hike. As the mountain is a well-worn pilgrim’s path and attracts its fair share of casual hikers too, the trail is very denigrated, with copious amounts of unstable scree, which you’ll need to take extreme caution when navigating. Thirdly, are the numbers of people; both going up and down the mountain, which adds in an additional challenge, as their footsteps disturb the scree above you and it’s also a bit tricky to overtake slower hikers.
Famed for its associations with Ireland’s patron saint, Croagh Patrick, it’s somewhat of a rite of passage to climb Croagh Patrick as an Irish person.
Once you reach the top, however, it’s an extremely rewarding feeling. You’ll be met with unparalleled views of the drumlin islands of Clew Bay, as the blue waters of the Atlantic twinkle below you, along with a swathe of green on the other side of the mountain. It’s also a relatively short hike, taking around 3.5 hours to complete.
DURATION: 3-4 hours
Recommended by Isabelle, Issy’s Escapades
14. Quiraing Hike (Isle of Skye, Scotland)

One of the most spectacular hikes in Europe.
The Quiraing in the Isle of Skye, Scotland is truly one of the best day hikes you can take in Europe. Commonly considered one of the best things to do on Skye, this hike will take you past spectacular sceneries and surreal landscapes; the postcard-worthy views that Scotland is known for.
To start this hike, simply drive to the Quiraing Car Park. From there, you’ll see clearly marked signs that’ll guide you to the trail. This loop hike is around 6.5 km round trip, and you’ll be climbing up 543 m. It’ll take you roughly 3-4 hours to complete it, but factor in more time for soaking in the stunning views and relaxing along the way.
Be sure to bring a windproof and rainproof jacket, as the weather in Scotland is notoriously cold and wet.
Along the hiking trail, you’ll come across endless beautiful rock formations overlooking the sea. The scenery is absolutely ethereal, and even more magical during sunset. Note that while this hike isn’t super long, it is quite difficult when it comes to technicalities. You will need to step over some very slippery rocks at some point, and navigate very narrow cliff paths.
Be sure to bring a windproof and rainproof jacket, as the weather in Scotland is notoriously cold and wet. With that said, if you’re seeking absolutely epic views, don’t miss this hike in Europe!
DURATION: 3-4 hours
Recommended by Jiayi, The Diary of a Nomad
15. Kristínartindar Mountain Hike (Iceland)

Kristínartindar Hike is one of the best short hikes in Iceland.
The trail to 1126 m Kristínartindar starts from the Skaftafell Visitor Center, a short detour from the Ring Road in Southern Iceland. It takes roughly four hours to drive there from Reykjavík, and renting a car is by far your most convenient option. Skaftafell is reachable by public transport in the summer season, but it requires multiple transfers, so it’s worth signing up for a direct bus transfer or an organized day tour instead.
The Skaftafell Visitor Center is your starting point. To Kristínartindar you need to follow route S4 which is a 17.7 km loop. With more than a thousand meters elevation gain and a steep scrambling section before the summit, it’s a challenging trail, but it also treats you with wonderful vistas. Nothing blocks your view on the lush green, open grassy plateaus, and you’ll be overlooking a tongue of Vatnajökull glacier for about half of the hike. The peak itself offers fantastic views of the icefield, dramatic glacial valleys, surrounding peaks and the ocean in the distance.
The route to the peak is usually open from mid-June.
The beginning of the trail is the same as the S2 route to Svartifoss which could be your first rest stop. Svartifoss is neither very tall nor too powerful (by Icelandic standards), but the white cascades of water backed up by the black columnar basalt rocks is a captivating sight.
Then continue to the viewpoint at Sjónarsker and cross the grassy plateau to reach the foot of Kristínartindar. The most challenging section of the hike starts there as you scramble up to the top of a narrow, rocky ridge. As you hike down, continue on the path that goes to the left to make it a loop.
The route to the peak is usually open from mid-June.
Read about more amazing hiking trails in Iceland here.
LENGTH: 11 miles (17.7 km)
Recommended by Bea & Csaba, Our Wanders
16. A Day on the Kungsleden Trail (Sweden)

Have you ever heard of Kungsleden or The King’s Trail?
It’s one of the world’s classic long distance hikes, and it’s in Sweden.
The total length of this hike is more than 400 kilometers, and it is divided in four sections. The trail takes you through some of Sweden’s most rugged landscapes and offers the unique opportunity to camp wherever you want along the trail, something that is rather uncommon in Europe. If you don’t have the time to complete the whole hike or even just a section, there’s a few places where you can enjoy a day hike and at least get a taste of what Sweden has got to offer.
If you wish to escape the crowds, my suggestion would be to hike the southern end as a day hike. The trail starts in the mountain town of Hemavan, a skiing resort which is not much more than a bunch of houses and hotels.
Although most hikers venture off to the northern section, this certainly is also the busiest, as it hosts the popular Fjällräven Classic each summer. If you wish to escape the crowds, my suggestion would be to hike the southern end as a day hike. The trail starts in the mountain town of Hemavan, a skiing resort which is not much more than a bunch of houses and hotels. Here, you can either hike up into the valley or take the ski lift instead.
Once in the mountains, you can follow the orange markers to Viterskalstugan, the last hut on the Kungsleden trail (or first, if you decide to hike south-north). You can decide how far you’d like to continue as you’ll have to hike the same way back. If it’s a sunny day in summer, remember that there’s daylight almost 24 hours so you can hike as long as you like. You may even encounter a herd of reindeer or pitch up your tent if you wish.
Hemavan can be reached by a long distance bus from Stockholm. Alternatively, catch the Inlandsbanan train to Storuman and take a coach to Hemavan from there.
DURATION: one full day
Recommended by Antonette, We12Travel
17. Reinebringen Hike (Lofoten Islands, Norway)

One of the most popular hikes in the Lofoten Islands.
It offers spectacular aerial views over the unique village of Reine, its vibrant blue waters and the surrounding mountains. The trailhead for this hike is actually on the side of the E10 highway so you will need to either park in the harbour of Reine village or in the E10 parking lot south of the trailhead. It is over a kilometre walk from both of these parking lots to the trailhead but it is a relatively flat and pretty walk along the water.
The trailhead is well marked along the side of the E10 highway, just south of Reine, and you will see lots of people at the bottom of the trail so it is very easy to spot. From the trailhead it is a roundtrip of 3-kilometres with 510 metres of elevation gain. It is a fairly strenuous hike as you climb straight up a well-maintained set of stairs with a final ascent up a muddy and rocky path. While the trail is quite gruelling it is worth every sweaty step as the views at the top are absolutely mind blowing. The village is actually numerous small islands connected by a network of bridges and you get to appreciate how unique this place is when looking at it from above.
The Reinebringen hike is one of the most popular hikes in the Lofoten Islands.
The water that surrounds these islands is also an outrageous shade of blue and looks like water you would expect to see in somewhere like the Maldives rather than in Norway. It is bright blue and crystal clear, and again it is much easier to appreciate it from above. Add in the jagged mountain peaks that tower over this little bay and you have one of the best viewpoints you will ever hike to.
LENGTH: roundtrip of around 2 miles (3 kilometres)
Recommended by Roxanne Savage, Wild About BC
18. Trolltunga Hike (Norway)

Just google the best hikes in Norway… and you’ll find it.
You’ll find the Trolltunga hike. While Norway is a big country, and there are plenty of outdoorsy things to do in Norway, hiking to Trolltunga lately has become one of the most popular activities that everyone wants to do. It’s easy to understand why. The hike is easily accessible. You don’t need any special skills or equipment to do it. During the summer it’s also very easy to follow the trail. And the views… the views are out of this world spectacular.
The hike is easily accessible. You don’t need any special skills or equipment to do it. And the views… the views are out of this world spectacular.
We went to Trolltunga from Oslo. It’s not the best option. Flying to Bergen is a much better choice. First, get to Odda. There is a shuttle bus from Odda to Trolltunga parking. You can start walking from there, or you can take one last bus to Magelitopp.
DISTANCE: in total around 17 miles / 27 km (full day)
19. Hiking to the Monasteries of Meteora (Greece)

One of the best European day hikes takes you to the monasteries of Meteora.
The area of Meteora is famous for its monasteries perched on rock pillars, and exploring them on foot is a great way to enjoy the fantastic views along the way. The trail starts and ends in the nearby town of Kalambaka and is around 16 kilometres long.
While, in theory, you can finish the trek in four hours, it’s a good idea to take more time so you can visit some of the six monasteries that you pass during your hike. Keep in mind that each abbey is closed on a different day of the week, so you won’t be able to enter all of them, but you can visit a few or even most if you plan carefully. Along the way, allow enough time for photo stops. At each turn of the road, you can enjoy a different view of the rock formations and buildings towering on them. Remember to turn around often so you don’t miss a great panorama behind you.
Keep in mind that each abbey is closed on a different day of the week, so you won’t be able to enter all of them, but you can visit a few or even most if you plan carefully.
To get to the Meteora hike, you first need to go to Kalambaka. You can reach this town in Northern Greece either by car or train from Athens. In Kalambaka, the trek starts behind the B&B Koka Roka. Follow the signs to Agia Triada, the first monastery. The first part of the trail takes you up a steep mountain, so remember to wear good hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Also, take long trousers (for men) or pack a long wrap skirt (for women) if you want to enter any of the monasteries.
DURATION: at least 4 hours
Recommended by Ilona and Daniel, Top Travel Sights
20. Shkhara Glacier Hike from Ushguli (Georgia)

The Svaneti region in northern Georgia is blessed with fantastic mountains.
The region is perfect for hiking. Here you’ll find the picturesque hamlet of Ushguli, the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe, from where you can go on several great day hikes. It’s one of the best places where to go in Georgia, if you love mountains.
To reach Ushguli, you’ll first need to take an overnight train to Zugdidi, where you will transfer to a minibus that will take you to the town of Mestia. In Mestia, transfer to another minibus for the final stretch into the mountains of Svaneti. Another popular option is to hike from Mestia to Ushguli, which should take three to four days. Those short on time can see the best of this hike by going on a day hike to the Shkara glacier from Ushguli.
Once in Ushguli, the Khalde wall of the Caucasus dominates the landscape. At the base of the gigantic mountain wall is the Shkara glacier, where this day hike will take you.
Once in Ushguli, the Khalde wall of the Caucasus dominates the landscape. At the base of the gigantic mountain wall is the Shkara glacier, where this day hike will take you. A path from the northern side of the village follows the Enguri river until it reaches the glacier. The out and back hike is about 16 km long, and you can expect to be back in Usghuli in about 6 hours.
The path is mostly flat, making this day hike suitable for hikers of all abilities. There are a few plank bridges to cross the river along the way, but the stream is shallow and nothing to worry about.
The incredible mountain scenery, seas of wildflowers and the farmers and their cows you meet along the way are just some of the things that make this hike so good. There is even a small cafe at the glacier base where you can get something to eat and drink before starting the return to Ushguli.
LENGTH: 16 km (out-and-back)
Recommended by De Wet and Jin, Museum of Wander

Where to Go Hiking in Europe?
As you can see from the list above, there are a lot of options.
And these are just 20 hikes. These are some of the best one day hikes in Europe. But that’s only 20 out of thousands. So, here are a few more ideas, how to look for places where to go on a hike in Europe — some of the best places to hike in Europe (areas):
- The Alps. It’s the most extensive mountain range in Europe. The mountain range stretches across eight countries – France, Switzerland, Monaco, Italy, Austria, Germany, Slovenia, and Liechtenstein
- The Carpathian Mountains. A big mountain range in Central and Eastern Europe. More than half of it lies in Romania, but the more popular parts are in Poland and Slovakia (Tatra Mountains). Zakopane is the most popular city in Poland, Vysoké Tatry – in Slovakia.
- Long-distance hikes in Europe. Here are a few examples — Kungsleden Trail, Camino de Santiago, Alpe Adria Trail. Take any of them, choose a part of the trail that fits your interest and time that you can allocate for hiking, and go!
- Think of Georgia. It’s awesome. Located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, the country offers some of the best hiking in Europe. My personal recommendation – a town called Kazbegi. It’s easy to get there from Tbilisi, and there are a lot of cool hiking trails. You can even go there on a day trip from Tbilisi, to check it out first.
Have you done any hiking in Europe? Any of these hikes? Anything you would add to this list of the best day hikes in Europe? What’s on your Europe hiking bucket list?
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