Walking holidays offer a unique and enriching way to travel, combining the benefits of physical activity with the opportunity to slow down and fully experience your surroundings. Unlike more conventional holidays, they allow you to connect with the landscape, uncover hidden paths, and engage with local life in a meaningful way. Here are some of our suggestions for the best hiking destinations in Europe and further afield.
Best places to go hiking in Europe and beyond
Andorra
Holidays to Andorra may be popular for skiing enthusiasts, but a walking holiday in Andorra is perfect for mountain hikes in the warmer months. Nestled between the French and Spanish border it has 65 peaks that stand at over 2,000m high. We’ll be based in the mountain village of La Massana, where we’ll see the top highlights of Andorra. We’ll discover the Andorran Pyrenees, Lake Moreno, Griu Summit and much more.
Hungary
Explore the Danube Bend, a region of peaks and river towns in Northern Hungary, where the river dramatically curves around forested hills, creating one of the most picturesque stretches of the Danube. Our walking holidays in Hungary offer the perfect way to experience this beautiful region by foot, taking in its stunning landscapes and charming towns.
Italy
Our Italy Walking Holidays combine scenic landscapes with cultural and historical exploration. We visit different regions across the country, each offering its own unique experiences.
- Amalfi Coast: Hike the famous Path of the Gods and other coastal trails, enjoying panoramic views of the sea and exploring towns like Ravello, Amalfi and Positano along the way.
- Cinque Terre: Follow the trails linking the five villages, passing terraced vineyards, colourful houses, and quiet viewpoints along the rugged Italian Riviera coast.
- Dolomites: Walk through alpine meadows, valleys and past mountain lakes, with dramatic peaks providing a stunning backdrop to every trail.
- Sicily: Trek along coastal paths, nature reserves and hills, connecting historic towns and taking in sights like Monte Pellegrino and Favignana Island.
- Tuscany:Wander through rolling hills, vineyards and medieval towns, following trails to places like the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, Civita di Bagnoregio, and the streets of Siena.
- Umbria: Walk through olive groves and vineyards, linking medieval towns like Assisi, Spello and Montefalco along peaceful countryside trails.
Morocco
Discover the rugged beauty of Morocco on a walking holiday through the High Atlas Mountains. Explore traditional Berber villages, hike to the summit of Mount Toubkal—the highest peak in North Africa—and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Marrakech. The diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences make Morocco a unique and unforgettable destination for walking enthusiasts.
Portugal
With dramatic coastal trails, forest paths, and mountain routes, Portugal is a fantastic destination for walking holidays.
- Madeira: Madeira’s mild climate makes it perfect for walking all year round. Wander along the island’s levadas, coastal paths, and forest trails, taking in dramatic cliffs, lush scenery, and viewpoints including Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest peak.
- Rota Vicentina: Also known as Portugal’s Fishermen’s Trail, this route follows the southwest coast past rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and traditional fishing villages, offering stunning coastal views and a real sense of local life.
Romania
Delve into the heart of the Romanian countryside on our Transylvania walking holiday. Experience invigorating treks in the Bucegi, Fagaras, and Carpathian Mountains, and visit Transylvania’s most iconic landmark, Bran Castle—known as the home of Dracula. We’ll also explore Romania’s vibrant capital, Bucharest, combining cultural exploration with the stunning natural beauty of this fascinating country.
Slovenia
Slovenia is a country that offers unlimited opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Set against the backdrop of the Julian Alps, our Slovenia Walking Holiday takes you through dramatic gorges, pristine national parks, mountain peaks, and the serene beauty of Lake Bohinj. Slovenia’s diverse landscapes make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a must-visit destination for walkers.
Spain
Spain offers a variety of walking holidays with scenic trails, mountain routes, and historic paths to explore:
- Sierra Nevada: Trek through the dramatic mountain landscapes of southern Spain, with routes that showcase rugged peaks, high plateaus, and traditional villages.
- Camino de Santiago: Walk sections of this ancient pilgrimage route, experiencing centuries of history, charming towns, and cultural landmarks along the way.
- Tenerife: Explore a range of trails on the island, from scaling Mount Teide in Teide National Park to wandering through the lush forests of Anaga Rural Park, taking in coastal views and volcanic landscapes.
Uncover the top hiking trails with TD active Holidays
Whether you’re an experienced walker or prefer to take things at a more moderate pace, we offer a range of exciting itineraries. Some might think that embarking on a walking holiday seems a little too strenuous for a “holiday”. However, the sense of achievement at the end of a hike, along with the discovery and connection to each destination, is what makes these journeys truly memorable. Whether it’s reaching a scenic summit, following in ancient footsteps, or exploring hidden local gems, there’s no better way to experience the world than on foot.
On our walking holidays, local expert walking guides, incredible itineraries and accommodation are all included, so all you have to do is lace up your walking boots on arrival!
