Are you ready to explore the beauty and diversity of Europe on foot? Here we present eleven fantastic long-distance hiking trails that are ideal for beginners. These carefully selected routes give you the opportunity to experience breathtaking landscapes without feeling overwhelmed. Pack your hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable experience that will ignite your passion for long-distance hiking!
These trails are spread across Europe and have been chosen for their scenic beauty, manageable distances, and well-maintained paths. Each trail offers a unique insight into the natural and cultural heritage of its region, making them perfect introductions to the world of hiking for those who are just starting out.
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- Starting Point: Porto
- Ending Point: Santiago de Compostela
- Total Length: about 240 km (approx. 150 miles)
- Number of Stages: 10-14
- Stage Length: 17-24 km (approx. 10.5-15 miles)
- Best Time to Hike: March to May or September to November
- Equipment Specialties: Lightweight hiking shoes and rain protection
- Luggage Transport: Available. Numerous providers offer transport services, such as Pilbeo.
- Camping: Camping is not very common along this route as the infrastructure of pilgrim hostels is well-developed. There are some campsites along the route, but wild camping is legally restricted in Portugal.
The Caminho Português, also known as the Portuguese Way of St. James, stretches from Porto to Santiago de Compostela and is one of Europe’s most popular pilgrimage routes. Spanning approx. 240 km, this trail crosses some of the most beautiful landscapes of Portugal and Spain, connecting significant historical cities like Porto and Pontevedra. The route offers pilgrims the opportunity to delve deep into the cultural history of the region while enjoying the warm hospitality of the local population.
This trail is particularly suitable for beginners as the stages are clearly marked and manageable, ranging from 17 to 24 km per day. The well-developed infrastructure of pilgrim hostels along the route almost negates the need for camping, though some campsites are available. For those who prefer to travel light, numerous service providers along the way offer luggage transport, allowing hikers to enjoy the journey without the burden of heavy backpacks.
The ideal months to walk the Caminho Português are from March to May and from September to November when the climate is mild, and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Not only does the route offer a spiritual journey to one of Christianity’s holiest sites, but it also provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the scenic beauty and cultural diversity of the Iberian Peninsula.
Rheinsteig (Germany)
- Starting Point: Bonn
- Ending Point: Wiesbaden
- Total Length: 320 km (approx. 199 miles)
- Number of Stages: 15-20
- Stage Length: 16-20 km (approx. 10-12.5 miles)
- Best Time to Walk: April to October
- Equipment Specialties: Hiking poles might be useful
- Luggage Transport: Available. Services like “Das Gepäcktaxi” provide transportation options.
- Camping: Camping is not common or particularly practical on this trail as it often passes through nature reserves and most of the land is privately owned. However, there are some official campsites along the route.
- Official Website: www.rheinsteig.de
The Rheinsteig in Germany is one of Europe’s most spectacular hiking trails, running along the picturesque Rhine Valley from Bonn to Wiesbaden. This challenging 320 km route offers hikers the chance to explore steep vineyards, historic towns, and impressive castles and palaces, while enjoying breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley. The well-marked trail passes cultural highlights such as the famous Lorelei Rock, making it a feast for both culture and sight.
For hiking beginners, despite its challenges, the Rheinsteig is manageable because the stages, ranging from 16 to 20 km, are doable and numerous support services like “Das Gepäcktaxi” allow for light and carefree hiking. The infrastructure along the trail is excellent, and many inns and hotels provide relaxation and hospitality. While camping is not typical on the Rheinsteig, there are official campsites available for overnight stays, although most hikers opt for more comfortable accommodations. The accompanying railway line along the river also allows for shortening or skipping stages if needed.
The best time to hike the Rheinsteig is from April to October when the weather is ideal for long walks. During these months, temperatures are pleasant and nature along the Rhine is in full bloom, making the journey particularly picturesque. For culture lovers, the Rheinsteig offers access to numerous historical sites and the chance to delve deeply into the rich history and traditions of the Rhine Valley.
Hadrian’s Wall Path (England)
- Starting Point: Wallsend
- Ending Point: Bowness-on-Solway
- Total Length: 135 km (approx. 84 miles)
- Number of Stages: 6-7
- Stage Length: 20-23 km (approx. 12-14 miles)
- Best Time to Walk: May to September
- Equipment Specialties: Windproof and waterproof clothing
- Luggage Transport: Available. Providers such as “Brigantes” offer comprehensive support.
- Camping: Camping is possible; there are several campsites along the route. Wild camping is not allowed in England, so official campsites must be used.
- Official Website: Hadrian’s Wall Path
The Hadrian’s Wall Path in England is a fascinating long-distance hiking trail that follows the historic remnants of Hadrian’s Wall, which once separated the Roman Empire from the “barbaric” north. This 135 km trail stretches from Wallsend on the east coast to Bowness-on-Solway in the west, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Hikers can admire the impressive ancient structures and enjoy the varied English landscape with its expansive views and rich wildlife.
For beginners, the Hadrian’s Wall Path offers ideal conditions: the trail is mostly flat and the individual stages, ranging from 20-23 km, are manageable. The well-maintained paths and the manageable total length make it possible to walk the trail within a week. Furthermore, several providers along the route, such as “Brigantes”, offer luggage transport services, allowing hikers to focus on the experience without having to carry heavy luggage.
The best time for this hike is from May to September when the weather is mildest and the days are longest, allowing for longer hikes under pleasant conditions. During these months, nature along the path flourishes, providing additional photo opportunities and the chance to experience the local flora and fauna. For those interested in history, the numerous well-preserved Roman sites and museums along the way offer deep insights into Britain’s ancient history.
GR65 or Via Podiensis (France)
- Starting Point: Le Puy-en-Velay
- Ending Point: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
- Total Length: about 750 km (approx. 466 miles)
- Number of Stages: 30-35
- Stage Length: 20-25 km (approx. 12-15 miles)
- Best Time to Walk: April to October
- Equipment Specialties: Pilgrim’s passport; trekking poles can be useful on some sections
- Luggage Transport: Available. Companies such as “La Malle Postale” offer transport services.
- Camping: Camping is possible on this part of the Way of St. James; there are numerous campsites. However, wild camping is generally not permitted.
The Via Podiensis, also known as GR 65, is a historic pilgrimage route that winds through the picturesque landscapes of France. From Le Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, this trail offers hikers the chance to experience France’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Along the route, hikers discover numerous historical sites, including ancient churches and monasteries that reflect centuries-old pilgrimage traditions.
For hiking beginners, the Via Podiensis is particularly attractive due to its well-marked paths and established infrastructure, including a variety of pilgrim hostels and services such as luggage transport by companies like “La Malle Postale”. The average stage length of 20-25 km is ideal for beginners to gradually get accustomed to multi-day hiking. Additionally, the option to stay in pilgrim hostels or camp provides flexible travel planning and helps keep the baggage light.
The best time to explore this route is from April to October. During these months, hikers benefit from pleasant temperatures and nature in full bloom, from fields of daffodils in the Aubrac to the vibrant colours of the Basque Country in autumn. This period also offers the best opportunity to experience the social aspect of the pilgrimage, as many other hikers choose these months for their journeys. The Via Podiensis is thus an excellent choice for beginners looking to delve into the world of long-distance hiking, supported by a community of like-minded individuals and a landscape that rewards every step.
Kungsleden: Nikkaluokta to Abisko (Sweden)
- Starting Point: Nikkaluokta
- Ending Point: Abisko
- Total Length: about 110 km (approximately 68 miles)
- Number of Stages: 5-7
- Stage Length: 15-22 km (approximately 9-14 miles)
- Best Time to Hike: June to September
- Equipment Specialties: Mosquito protection, warm clothing
- Luggage Transport: Not common; hikers usually carry their own gear.
- Camping: Ideal for camping. Sweden allows ‘Allemansrätten’, or the Right of Public Access, which permits camping almost anywhere in nature as long as you behave responsibly. There are also equipped shelters along the route.
The Kungsleden, known as the “King’s Trail”, is one of the most famous hiking routes in Sweden, stretching 440 km from Abisko to Hemavan through the stunning landscapes of Lapland. This approximately 110 km section of the trail from Nikkaluokta to Absiko is renowned for its spectacular scenery, ranging from majestic mountains to vast valleys and crystal-clear lakes. Hikers choosing this route can expect an unparalleled closeness to nature and a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This section of the Kungsleden is ideal for hikers looking to undertake their first multi-day tour, as it features five to seven stages, each between 15 and 22 km, making it manageable. In Sweden, ‘Allemansrätten’ is practiced—a right that allows everyone to camp almost anywhere in nature, provided they respect the environment and leave no trace. This offers an excellent opportunity to immerse fully in the natural surroundings and maximise the outdoor experience.
The best time to hike the Kungsleden is from June to September, when the weather is most stable and the midnight sun provides extra long daylight hours. The necessity to carry warm clothing and mosquito protection should not be underestimated, as the weather can change quickly and insects are plentiful in the summer months. Despite the challenges, the Kungsleden offers a unique chance to experience the wild, untouched nature of Sweden while making use of the comfortable shelters along the way.
Pieterpad (The Netherlands)
- Starting Point: Pieterburen in the province of Groningen
- Ending Point: Sint-Pietersberg near Maastricht
- Total Length: about 498 km (approximately 309 miles)
- Number of Stages: 26
- Stage Length: varies, average 19 km (approximately 12 miles)
- Best Time to Walk: April to October
- Equipment Specialties: Water-resistant clothing, as the weather can be changeable
- Luggage Transport: Not standardly available, but some local tour providers or accommodations may offer support on certain sections.
- Camping: Camping is possible, but there are relatively few campsites along the route. Wild camping is not permitted in the Netherlands.
The Pieterpad is renowned for its variety of landscapes and flat paths, typical of Dutch geography. It traverses rural areas, small villages, and along some of the characteristic canals and rivers. The route provides insights into local culture and history, and hikers can encounter typical Dutch sights such as windmills, historic towns, and extensive nature reserves along the way.
The well-marked paths and available infrastructure, including numerous cafes and restaurants along the route, make the Pieterpad an accessible and enjoyable hiking experience. Although the trail includes some longer stages, it is well suited for beginners due to the flat topography and well-developed paths. This makes the Pieterpad a great introduction to long-distance hiking in a uniquely Dutch setting.
Unfortunately, there are apparently no hiking guides for the Pieterpad in English. So the only options for planning are the usual online suspects: Download the GPX track from your favourite app or the Dutch website of the Pieterpad and plan the rest online from there. The Netherlands is densely populated and the people speak excellent English. So long as you speak English yourself, there’s not much that can really happen to you. And if you know Dutch, you’ll find a hiking book duo in the Dutch books section.
West Highland Way (Scotland)
- Starting Point: Milngavie
- Ending Point: Fort William
- Total Length: 154 km (approximately 96 miles)
- Number of Stages: 7-8
- Stage Length: 18-23 km (approximately 11-14 miles)
- Best Time to Walk: May to September
- Equipment Specialties: Waterproof clothing and shoes
- Luggage Transport: Widely available. Services such as Travel-Lite or AMS Scotland offer support.
- Camping: Camping is very popular on this route. There are several campsites, and in Scotland, the “Right to Roam” allows wild camping under certain rules. However, there are increasingly restrictions due to rule violations. But there are still plenty of campsites, with some limitations.
- Official Website: West Highland Way
The West Highland Way is one of Scotland’s most famous long-distance walking routes, taking hikers through a stunning variety of landscapes—from the gentle hills of the Lowlands to the majestic peaks of the Highlands. This route not only offers breathtaking views of picturesque lochs and dense forests but also crosses open moors and passes by historic sites. Each stage of the path is steeped in Scotland’s rich history and culture, making every hike an educational experience. The Scottish hospitality is experienced firsthand in the numerous pubs and inns along the way, where one can refuel and enjoy local delicacies.
For hiking beginners, the West Highland Way offers ideal conditions as it is excellently marked and maintained, which eases navigation. Moreover, comprehensive services like luggage transport by providers such as “Travel-Lite” or “AMS Scotland” allow for hiking without heavy luggage, making the West Highland Way particularly attractive for those who are still getting used to multi-day hikes. Additionally, the infrastructure along the path is well-developed, with many accommodation and provisioning options, allowing for flexible planning.
The best time to explore the West Highland Way is between May and September. During these months, the weather conditions are most favourable—the days are longer and the temperatures are pleasant, making the walk a pleasurable experience. Waterproof clothing and shoes are still recommended, as the weather in Scotland can change quickly. These months also offer the best opportunity to witness the full splendour of Scottish nature in bloom, from flowering heaths to vibrant greenery, transforming the landscape into a sea of colours.
Rota Vicentina: Fisherman’s Trail (Portugal)
- Starting Point: Porto Covo
- Ending Point: Odeceixe
- Total Length: about 74 km (approximately 46 miles)
- Number of Stages: 4
- Stage Length: about 18 km (approximately 11 miles)
- Best Time to Walk: September to June
- Equipment Specialties: Lightweight hiking shoes and sun protection
- Luggage Transport: Available. Providers such as “Vicentina Transfers” offer specialised services.
- Camping: There are some campsites along the Fisherman’s Trail of the Rota Vicentina, but options are more limited than on other routes. Wild camping is not permitted in Portugal.
- Official Website: rotavicentina.com
The Fisherman’s Trail of the Rota Vicentina runs along the stunning southwest coast of Portugal and offers ideal conditions for hiking beginners. The route from Porto Covo to Odeceixe is about 74 km long and impresses with spectacular views of cliffs and pristine beaches. With daily stages of around 18 km, hikers can experience the beauty of the Atlantic coast at a comfortable pace. This combination of natural beauty and easily walkable paths makes the Fisherman’s Trail particularly appealing to those who have no experience with longer hikes.
Nature lovers will particularly enjoy this trail. The route is known for its rich biodiversity, offering great opportunities for bird watching and allowing hikers to discover the unique coastal ecology. Technically, the trail is not demanding, making it ideal for beginners. Additionally, services like “Vicentina Transfers”, which transport luggage from one stage end to the next, significantly ease the hiking experience. This allows hikers to fully immerse themselves in their surroundings without the burden of heavy luggage.
The optimal time for hiking the Fisherman’s Trail is from September to June. These months avoid the hottest part of the summer, making hiking more pleasant. During this period, the weather is mild and mostly dry, perfect for enjoying nature in all its glory. These months also offer the most vibrant colours and the best visibility, making every hike an unforgettable experience.
Via Francigena: Tuscan Section (Italy)
- Starting Point: San Miniato
- Ending Point: Siena
- Total Length: about 120 km (approximately 75 miles)
- Number of Stages: 5-6
- Stage Length: 20-25 km (approximately 12.5-15.5 miles)
- Best Time to Walk: April to June, September and October
- Equipment Specialties: Lightweight, breathable hiking shoes; a hat and sun protection
- Luggage Transport: Available. Services such as “Brigolante” offer support.
- Camping: Camping is possible, there are some campsites along the route. However, wild camping is generally not permitted in Italy.
The section of the Via Francigena through Tuscany is one of the most picturesque and culturally enriching long-distance walking routes in Europe, ideal for beginners interested in both culture and nature. The route from San Miniato to Siena offers stunning views of the gentle hills and the characteristic cypress-lined avenues that have made this region famous. Additionally, the route passes through medieval towns such as San Gimignano, whose impressive skyline of tower houses can be seen from afar. This part of the Via Francigena is perfect for those who want to delve deep into the heart of Italian history and culture.
For long-distance walking beginners, the Via Francigena in Tuscany offers particularly favourable conditions: The stages, ranging from 20 to 25 kilometres, are manageable and the terrain is mostly flat to gently rolling. The well-marked route and highly developed infrastructure make navigation easy and provide safety even for those who may be undertaking their first longer walk. The availability of luggage transport services like Brigolante allows walkers to focus on the beauty of the landscape and the rich culture of the region without worrying about carrying heavy backpacks.
The best months to walk this section of the Via Francigena are April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is ideal—not too hot and mostly dry—making the walk pleasant and offering the chance to experience nature in its full glory. Additionally, these months are outside the main tourist season, which means the paths are less crowded and accommodations are not as fully booked, facilitating access to the beautiful but often small historical hostels. At this time, the landscape blooms in vibrant colours, and the harvest times, especially the grape harvest in autumn, provide an additional cultural experience.
Lechweg (Austria – Germany)
- Starting Point: Formarin Lake (near Lech, Austria)
- Ending Point: Füssen (Germany)
- Total Length: about 125 km (approximately 78 miles)
- Number of Stages: 8
- Stage Length: about 14-20 km (approximately 9-12 miles)
- Best Time to Walk: June to September
- Equipment Specialties: Waterproof hiking shoes, weatherproof clothing, walking poles
- Luggage Transport: Available
- Camping: Official camping along the trail is not permitted, only in designated camping areas
- Official Website: Lechweg
The Lechweg is a unique long-distance hiking trail that leads hikers along one of the last wild river landscapes in Europe. The trail starts at the picturesque Formarin Lake in Austria and follows the Lech river to Füssen in Germany. This route offers not only breathtaking alpine landscapes but also the opportunity to discover the rich flora and fauna of the Lech Valley.
The Lechweg is particularly suitable for beginners as the stages, averaging 14 to 20 kilometres, are manageable and the trail is mostly easy to navigate. The well-marked paths and the professional organization of the trail, including luggage transport and detailed trail descriptions, allow even less experienced hikers a worry-free journey.
Moreover, there are numerous accommodations along the trail, from cosy inns to luxurious hotels, providing comfort and hospitality to the hikers.
The best time to hike the Lechweg is from June to September, as during these months nature is in full bloom and the weather conditions are ideal for hiking. During this time, the Lech river is particularly impressive as the melting mountain water fills the river with life. This season also offers the best opportunity to experience the diverse wildlife and plant life in the Alps and to enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
None available, but the official online-guide answers just about every question about the trail.
Camino Francés (Spain)
- Starting Point: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port (France)
- Ending Point: Santiago de Compostela
- Total Length: about 780 km (approx. 485 miles)
- Number of Stages: 30-35
- Stage Length: 20-25 km (approx. 12-15.5 miles)
- Best Time to Walk: April to October
- Equipment Specialties: Rain protection, sun protection, pilgrim’s passport
- Luggage Transport: Widely available; services like Correos Paq Mochila, Jacotrans, Camino Facil offer support.
- Camping: As with the Caminho Português, camping is not very common due to the well-developed infrastructure of pilgrim hostels. There are some campsites, but they are not always close to the path.
- More Info: caminosantiagocompostela.com
The Camino Francés is perhaps the most famous section of the Camino de Santiago and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The route is excellently marked and traverses diverse landscapes, from the Pyrenees to the gentle hills of Galicia.
The infrastructure is specifically tailored to meet the needs of hikers, with numerous hostels, restaurants, and medical facilities along the way. The cultural and spiritual significance, along with the warm community of pilgrims, makes this walk a truly unique experience.
However, especially on the last 100 km, it can become so overcrowded during peak season that it is hardly recommended for beginners. For seasoned hikers, it might be amusing to observe the bustling activity and diversity of the walkers. For newcomers, who are still getting used to their equipment and gathering their first long-distance hiking experiences, it can quickly lead to unpleasant stress.
The optimal months to walk the Camino Francés are from April to October when the weather conditions are most favourable. During these months, pilgrims can enjoy mild temperatures and the natural beauty along the path, making their journey not only a physical but also a visually enriching experience.
General Tips for Long-Distance Hiking Beginners
If you’re looking to tackle your first long-distance hiking trail in Europe after some initial walks and hiking day trips, I’d like to offer some special tips for your journey:
1. Limit your first trip to a maximum of one week
Choose a route that you can comfortably manage in one week for your first holiday. Even in the best weather, you’ll learn a lot about yourself and your equipment over that week. And how your body, as well as your mind, responds to the challenge of getting up each day and continuing to hike. One week is enough. At best it will make you seriously addicted to long distance hiking. But it’s still a foreseeable horizon that you can reach, even on the worst rainy day. Then, you can rest at home and improve what didn’t work out in the preparation or with the equipment.
2. Use luggage transport if you can
If you choose a route with luggage transport, make the most of this convenience. This is especially important if you’re hiking in areas prone to rain. Not only can you significantly reduce the weight of your backpack for the day, but you also won’t have to worry about where to find dry clothes in your backpack after 6 hours of continuous rain. They’ll be waiting for you at your accommodation.
3. Plan generously and include breaks
Plan your route carefully, but don’t forget to schedule time for breaks. You’re in a beautiful landscape, making the effort to hike it on foot, and then you don’t have time to enjoy the view? Or to have a spontaneous chat with fellow travellers? Or to take a detour to that inviting café right by the trailside? That would be a pity, wouldn’t it? 😉
Have you already felt the urge to explore one of the mentioned beginner-friendly long-distance hiking trails? Perfect! But before you set off, you should gather more information. If you want to learn more about hiking in various European countries, take a look at my comprehensive country guides in Hiking in Europe.
Happy hiking!