Lombardy is Italy's most populous and economically powerful region, stretching from the Alps in the north to the Po Plain in the south. It encompasses world-class cities like Milan, the Italian fashion and financial capital, alongside alpine lakes of breathtaking beauty — Como, Garda, Maggiore and Iseo — and Renaissance gems such as Mantua, Cremona and Bergamo. The region blends metropolitan sophistication with timeless natural landscapes and a rich artistic heritage.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Sentiero del Viandante
The ancient 'Traveler's Path' runs 130km along the eastern shore of Lake Como from Lecco to Sorico, with the first historic section between Abbadia Lariana and Varenna being the most scenic and accessible. The path follows old mule tracks through chestnut forests and olive groves with sweeping lake views.
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2
Rifugio Rosalba and Resegone via Lecco
The Resegone mountain above Lecco (1,875m) is Lombardy's most distinctive peak — a serrated ridge visible from Milan on clear days. The approach from Lecco via Val Calolden is a classic day hike with spectacular views over the city and Lake Como.
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3
Monte Generoso from Lanzo d'Intelvi
Monte Generoso (1,704m) straddles the Swiss border above Lake Como and Como city. The summit plateau offers extraordinary panoramic views of the Alps, the Po Plain, Lake Como and Lake Lugano. A cogwheel train runs from Capolago (Switzerland) making it easily accessible.
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4
Valmalenco Alta Via
The Valmalenco valley in Sondrio Province is one of Lombardy's finest mountain landscapes, with soaring granite peaks, glaciers and high meadows. The Alta Via (High Route) traverses the valley at altitude, connecting mountain rifugi in a classic multi-day itinerary.
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5
Val di Mello Circular Walk
Often called the 'Yosemite of the Alps', Val di Mello is a car-free glacial valley in Sondrio Province with soaring granite walls, waterfalls and crystal-clear streams. The valley floor walk is easy; the surrounding granite walls are a world-class rock climbing destination.
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6
Monte Baldo Ridge from Malcesine
Monte Baldo (1,745-2,218m) forms the dramatic eastern wall of Lake Garda. A cable car from Malcesine (just over the Veneto border, easily accessed from Lombard shores) rises to the ridge where walking trails offer extraordinary views over the lake and toward the Dolomites.
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7
Stelvio National Park — Val Zebrù Circuit
The Stelvio National Park is Lombardy's largest protected area. The Val Zebrù above Bormio is one of its most spectacular valleys, with a circular route past alpine lakes and meadows inhabited by ibex, chamois and marmots. The scenery rivals anywhere in the Alps.
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8
Orobie Alps — Rifugio Calvi Traverse
The Orobie Alps form Bergamo Province's northern wall, offering excellent high-altitude hiking. The Rifugio Calvi (2,096m) in the Val Brembana is a classic destination, reached through a beautiful circuit that passes alpine lakes and rocky ridges.
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9
Brunate to San Maurizio Walk (Como Funicular Route)
A short but rewarding walk starting from Brunate, reached by funicular from Como, along the ridge above the western shore of Lake Como with stunning lake panoramas. The 19th-century lighthouse at San Maurizio is the turnaround point.
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.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.