Campania is a stunning region in southern Italy renowned for its dramatic coastlines, ancient ruins, and world-famous cuisine. Home to Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and the islands of Capri and Ischia, it offers an unrivaled mix of history, natural beauty, and gastronomy. The birthplace of pizza and mozzarella di bufala, Campania captivates visitors with its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)
One of Italy's most celebrated walking routes, the Path of the Gods traverses the high cliffs above the Amalfi Coast with staggering views over Positano, Praiano, and the Mediterranean. The trail passes through olive groves, terraced vineyards, and Mediterranean scrub with the islands of Capri and Ischia visible on clear days.
Trailhead: Bomerano (SITA bus from Amalfi/Sorrento to Agerola)
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2
Mount Vesuvius Crater Trail
The trail to the crater rim of Vesuvius, Europe's only active mainland volcano, winds through volcanic ash and lava fields to the edge of the Gran Cono crater. From the summit, panoramic views encompass the Bay of Naples, the city below, and on clear days the islands and even Mount Etna in Sicily.
Trailhead: Vesuvius car park (bus from Ercolano or organized tour from Naples)
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3
Valle delle Ferriere, Amalfi
A beautiful hike inland from Amalfi up a lush gorge with waterfalls, ancient paper mills (Campania's paper-making heritage), and rare botanical specimens including ferns found only in this valley. The valley's microclimate supports plants from the Tertiary era.
Trailhead: Amalfi town center, follow signs to Valle dei Mulini
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4
Ravello to Minori via Torello
A scenic descent from the hilltop town of Ravello through terraced lemon groves, past ancient hamlets, to the coastal town of Minori. The trail offers changing perspectives on the Amalfi Coast landscape from above, passing working lemon groves and small chapels.
Trailhead: Ravello center (bus from Amalfi)
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5
Monte Faito Circuit, Vico Equense
Monte Faito (1,131m) is the highest point of the Sorrento Peninsula, reached by cable car from Castellammare di Stabia (Circumvesuviana train) or by trail. The summit plateau offers sweeping views of both the Bay of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno, with several walking circuits through beech and oak forests.
Trailhead: Monte Faito cable car station, Castellammare di Stabia
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6
Positano to Praiano Coastal Walk
A rewarding coastal walk following the Amalfi coastline between Positano and Praiano, passing through the village of Vettica Maggiore. The trail alternates between sea-level paths and high viewpoints, offering constantly changing perspectives on the Mediterranean coast.
Trailhead: Positano bus stop on SS163
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7
Cilento Coast Trail - Infreschi
A beautiful coastal path in the Cilento National Park leading to the stunning Baia degli Infreschi, a pristine sea cave bay accessible only on foot or by boat. The aquamarine waters and dramatic limestone cliffs make this one of Campania's most beautiful but less visited natural sites.
Trailhead: Marina di Camerota (car recommended)
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8
Terra Murata, Procida
A pleasant walking route around Procida's ancient fortified hilltop (Terra Murata) passing the closed Abbey of San Michele and the panoramic terraces overlooking Marina Corricella and the Gulf of Naples. The best way to see the most photogenic perspectives of this charming island.
Trailhead: Procida ferry port, walk to Terra Murata
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Campania.
- Spring
- March-May: Ideal conditions. Wildflowers at Pompeii, Paestum, and along coastal trails. Cooler temperatures, clear views. Some trails may be wet.
- Summer
- June-August: Best for high altitude (Monte Faito, Vesuvius) where heat is less intense. Avoid coastal trails midday July-August. Carry plenty of water.
- Fall
- September-November: Excellent for all trails. Warm temperatures, dramatic light, harvests on lemon and olive terraces. Best season for photography.
- Winter
- December-February: Some mountain trails and Vesuvius may be closed or icy. Coastal and low-level trails accessible. Few other hikers.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Sun exposure and heat exhaustion on exposed coastal trails July-August
Hazard: Loose volcanic ash on Vesuvius crater trail - slip hazard
Hazard: Slippery stone paths after rain on Amalfi Coast trails
Hazard: Strong winds on exposed ridges and cliff-top paths
Hazard: Limited water sources on most trails - carry 2 liters minimum
Hazard: Cliff-edge paths with no barriers require care and appropriate footwear
Hazard: Wasps and bees common in lemon grove areas spring-summer