The best walks in Europe

1. Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Italy

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo circuit in the Italian Dolomites is a relatively easy walk that’s good for beginners. Covering a distance of 10 km, with about 400 metres of difference in altitude, the walk can be completed in approximately 3-4 hours. Beginning at the car park of Refugio Auronzo, it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks. The path is wide and steady, particularly on the first stretch between Refugio Auronzo and Refugio Locatelli. After that the path becomes narrower and a little rocky, but you can still walk to Refugio Locatelli and then head back the same way if you need to. The best time to visit the Tre Cime di Lavaredo is from late June to late September, when the trails are free of snow.

2. Camino de Santiago, Spain

The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St. James, is one of the world’s oldest pilgrimage networks. It leads to the shrine of St. James, in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. Rich in medieval culture and history, the Camino de Santiago was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993, with the Camino Francés (French Way) being the first route to be recognised.

The total route covers around 800 km and takes experienced hikers around 35 days to complete, but there are beginner-friendly routes with well-marked trails and manageable daily distances of 10-15 km. The Camino Portugués (Portuguese Way) is the flattest to walk, with a coastal route that starts in Porto (there’s also a central route beginning in Lisbon). The easiest option is to walk the last 100 km of the Camino Francés from Sarria. You’ll pass through Galicia’s lush green countryside and can enjoy a more relaxed pace, covering an average of 10 km per day. The best time to visit are May, June and September, which is when you still have pleasant weather, but not the crowds that you would during peak summer months.

3. Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal blue waters, backed by dense pine forests and limestone cliffs. The most relaxed routes here can be found on coastal paths and in historic cities: enjoy the ancient Diocletian's Palace in Split, or catch a ferry and explore islands like Hvar, Brač and Korčul on foot. Visiting in the summer is the best time, but these can get very hot. Going early or late summer (May/June or September) is the ideal time to visit, without there being too many people.

7. Hadrian’s Wall Path, England

Hadrian’s Wall is an iconic ancient landmark of Roman Britain. Stretching from coast to coast across the modern-day counties of Northumberland and Cumbria, it’s best seen on foot. Hadrian’s Wall Path, which follows the route from Wallsend in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in the west, runs for 135 km, though there are several shorter, easier routes you can take. The shortest is the Chesters Roman Fort and Humshaugh village walk, which covers around 4 km and can be completed in about an hour. While rain is always a possibility, summer is a great time to visit. It’ll be warmer from May until October and also will have less crowds in May/June and September/October.

8. Catalonia, Spain

Catalonia isn’t just home to Barcelona (though the capital offers plenty if you’re looking for a European city walk). Beyond this, the region is made up of mountain and coastal landscapes, nature reserves, and traditional towns and villages that are perfect for walking. The Camino de Ronda is a scenic walking route along the Costa Brava coast that offers flexible routes to suit a range of fitness levels and abilities. There are lots of parks to explore too, including the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park (which contains around 40 inactive volcanoes), and the Aiguamolls Natural Park, a wetland area famed for its natural beauty. Visiting in spring in autumn will allow you to still enjoy comfortable weather, without the crowds.

9. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

The picture-postcard village of Lauterbrunnen is situated in a valley and surrounded by a dramatic mountainous landscape. It gets its name, meaning ‘loud springs’, from the 72 waterfalls that are found there, including the Staubbach Falls, which cascades some 300 metres over the rock face. You can visit Staubbach Falls by taking a short walk (1 km each way) from Lauterbrunnen Train Station. The Lauterbrunnen Valley Path is another option if you want a short yet scenic stroll: striking alpine views can be enjoyed from as little as 1 km in (the full route covers 6.7 km). Visiting from June to August will let you enjoy warm weather, great for adding in a hike or swim into your trip.

10. Samoëns, France

The French village of Samoëns is located in the Haute-Savoie department, on the Swiss border. Nestled in mountains (seven of them, to be precise), it offers a range of walking trails, from easy to more challenging long-distance treks. If you’re in search of spectacular views, the Tête du Pre des Saix walking area is accessible by cable car from Samoëns (this runs on certain days). Alternatively, take the Lacs aux Dames loop for a leisurely stroll around two lakes, or venture from Samoëns to the picturesque village of Sand Verchaix and admire its traditional architecture and old-world charm. Depending on what you’re after, Samoëns is a great all year-round destination. If you want to add in a ski or snowboarding trip, winter, from December to April, sees a high amount of snow. Though if you’d prefer a warm walk and to enjoy the scenery, going from May until late autumn is perfect.

Get the Gear: The Best Footwear and Clothing for Walking

It’s important that you have the right footwear for walking. Not only will this ensure you can make the most of your trek; it’s a surefire way to reduce the risk of common walking injuries, too.

Athletic trainers are the best option, even for gentle strolls. All-day comfort is crucial, so look for styles with maximum cushioning and superior support, like our walking shoes for men and women. Our trainers are designed with advanced technologies, providing proper stability to enhance your walk. The Ghost Max and Adrenaline GTS both offer maximum comfort and protection, great for keeping your feet protected on those beautiful walks.

Additionally, the Addiction Walker style offers added comfort and max support for walking on most terrains.

Keep your clothes comfortable, too. Although walking is generally considered a low intensity exercise, you’ll still benefit from wearing proper sports gear. Thin layers that you can peel off in the heat work well, and you’ll want to take a jacket with you, too. Lightweight, waterproof styles are great for walking in Europe, especially if you plan on visiting somewhere with a more temperate climate, like France or the UK. Discover the Brooks range of running jackets to keep warm and dry.