Here, we put the spotlight on 10 affordable walking holidays in Italy for you.

 

 

Experience living like a local by staying in your own apartment in the heart of the Cinque Terre on this affordable 7 day centre-based trip. Experience breathtaking coastal scenery as you use an extensive network of trails connecting the famous centuries-old fishing villages perched above the Mediterranean on steep terraced hills while enjoying local culinary specialties and wine.

>> Prefer guided trips? Check out our Cinque Terre Guided Walk
>> Browse our range of Cinque Terre walks

Discover Campania’s secret jewel, the unspoilt Cilento National Park, before the rest of the world does. This little known paradise is the second largest park in Italy and contains 100km of dramatic coastline, wild green mountains, secluded coves, medieval villages and Greek temples. This fascinating 5 day trip can be completed on a short break or combined with the postcard-perfect Amalfi Coast on the Cilento and Amalfi Highlights.

With its palatial villas, magnificent gardens, forested valleys and Alps views, the Italian Lakes is a region you need to visit at least once in your lifetime. Explore the scenic mountain trails high above Lake Como, the most spectacular of the region’s main lakes, on this competitively priced 5 day trip that gives you some insight into the rich culture of the region. If you would like to take your time exploring the region, consider the longer Lake Como Rambling option.

>> See all active holidays in the Italian Lakes

Follow in the footsteps of St Francis, the patron saint of ecology, on one of five self guided walks through eastern Tuscany and northern Umbria, the 'green heart of Italy'. On this scenic section of the St Francis Way, you’ll discover medieval hilltop towns as you traverse the ridges and valleys of the wild Apennines and soak up landscapes that have inspired artists and poets over the centuries. Highlights of this 7 day trip include the handpicked B&Bs and agriturismos you stay in, local wine and regional cuisine including salami and black truffles in Spoleto. 

>> Compare our range of great value St Francis Way walking itineraries between Chiusi della Verna and Rome.

Starting in the Swiss Alps and ending in Rome, the Via Francigena cuts through some of Italy's prettiest regions. This section of the historic pilgrim route takes in Fidenza, with its famous cathedral, the Apennine’s ancient woods and valleys, the Parma hills and well-preserved medieval villages whose old towns you can happily get lost in. A highlight of this affordable 7 day walk is the climb to the top of Mount Valoria for unparalleled views over the Lombardy and Lunigiania plains.

>> Check out our Quick Guide to Via Francigena Walks blog post or browse our range of Via Francigena walking tours

The Piedmont region of Italy is home to two of the world’s best red wines: Barolo and Barbaresco. These famous reds come from the Nebbiolo grape, a native variety of northwestern Italy. Piedmont is also famous for its white truffles, cheeses, pastries and chocolates, making this 8 day trip a food and wine lover’s dream. As you follow quiet footpaths through hazelnut forests and picturesque vineyards, you’ll also get to devour mouth watering landscapes of rolling hills sprinkled with medieval villages and castles.

>> Eat and drink your way through Italy’s second largest region on an affordable Piedmont walking holiday

The heel of Italy’s ‘boot’ is fast becoming Italy’s new hotspot, thanks to its friendly locals, ancient olive trees, delicious produce and idyllic coastal landscapes. Follow ancient footpaths through endless orchards and olive groves and trails overlooking the sea on this great value 8 day trip. Gain some insight into the rich history of the region by visiting Messapian villages, fortresses, Roman masterpieces and Baroque architecture in Lecce.

>> Find out more about our affordable and flexible walking and cycling tours in Puglia

Every year millions of people flock to the Amalfi Coast to enjoy this stretch of UNESCO-listed Mediterranean coastline. Get away from the crowds using a network of footpaths and mule tracks in the cliffs that connect the precariously perched villages. Enjoy exploring medieval towns, ruins, caves, nature reserves and following the ‘Footpath of the Gods’ trail on this romantic 6 day trip.

>> Explore more of the popular Campania region on an Amalfi Coast walking tour

The Gran Paradiso National Park was founded in 1922 by King Vittorio Emanuele III, a nature lover who transformed his grandfather’s game reserve into the country’s first national park to protect certain species from poachers. Consequently, encounters with animals like ibex and chamois are a daily occurrence. On this 7 day guided walk, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views of Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa and the Matterhorn ranges from high passes and lookouts and experience staying in charismatic mountain huts.

>> Browse our range of competitively priced Alpine Walks in Italy

>> Explore more of the Piedmont & Aosta Valley regions on foot or on two wheels

The Upper Lys Valley, also known as the Gressoney Valley, is a small pocket of Aosta which has for centuries been home to the Walser Germanic people. Their enduring traditions can still be found in the typical wood & stone houses, the cuisine and the unique dialect. Highlights include views of western Europe's 2nd highest peak Monte Rosa (4634m) and stunning glaciers, crossing alpeggi where cows and sheep spend the summer, staying at the terrific Alpenzu Hut and enjoying regional cheeses including Fontina and Tomme de Gressoney. 

>> View all Guided Walking Tours in Italy