Along cliffs, lighthouses and ancient mule tracks, Italy is home to spectacular walks overlooking the sea, with postcard views and, often, specific rules to follow. In some cases, tickets or advance bookings are required; in others, it’s best to set off during the cooler hours of the day and carry plenty of water.
Here’s a selection of 10 coastal routes and sea‑view trails in Italy, with essential information on difficulty, walking times and access.
- AV5T Portovenere–Riomaggiore: the Ridge of Infinity
- Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail): the classic coastal route
- Path of the Gods, Amalfi Coast
- Zingaro Nature Reserve, Sicily
- Miniere nel Blu, Sulcis, Sardinia
- Stromboli, the volcano by the sea
- Montecristo Island, Tuscan Archipelago
- Rilke Trail, Duino–Sistiana, Friuli-Venezia Giulia
- Punta Aderci, Costa dei Trabocchi, Abruzzo
- Selvaggio Blu, Gulf of Orosei, Sardinia
AV5T Portovenere–Riomaggiore: the Ridge of Infinity
An ancient ridge path links Portovenere to Riomaggiore in Liguria for around 14 kilometres. The climb begins immediately through old walls, with views stretching towards the islands of Tino and Palmaria.
The route passes through Campiglia, reaches Colle del Telegrafo, then descends through vineyards and along dry‑stone walls towards the Montenero sanctuary and the final village.
The walk takes between four and five hours and is classified as a hiking route, with some exposed panoramic sections. The entire area lies within the Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail): the classic coastal route
Route no. 2 connects the villages of the Cinque Terre over 12 kilometres, reaching its highest point at Prevo, along ancient mule tracks and stone stairways. The full walk takes about five hours, with a total elevation gain of roughly 500 metres.
Up‑to‑date regulations need to be checked carefully: the Manarola–Corniglia section remains closed due to landslides, while the Via dell’Amore has reopened but requires booking. It is one‑way from Riomaggiore with limited entries.
Access is subject to a fee via the Cinque Terre Card, with dynamic pricing, and proper hiking footwear is compulsory.
Path of the Gods, Amalfi Coast
This historic trail, Sentiero degli Dei, best walked downhill from Bomerano to Nocelle, runs for around 8 kilometres along ledges and stone steps. There are some exposed sections unsuitable for anyone prone to vertigo.
Along the way there are caves and limestone pinnacles. From Nocelle you descend to Positano, a Condé Nast Traveler favourite, via a staircase of about 1,700 steps, or by bus. Walking time is approximately four and a half hours.
Zingaro Nature Reserve, Sicily
Between San Vito Lo Capo and Scopello, this well‑marked coastal trail leads to bays such as Tonnarella dell’Uzzo and Marinella, while higher variants open up wide views across the gulf.
There are no refreshment facilities inside the Zingaro Reserve. It is advisable to start early, walk during the cooler hours and carry sufficient water and suitable summer gear.
Miniere nel Blu, Sulcis, Sardinia
From Masua to Cala Domestica, the route follows the old mining railway towards Porto Flavia, passing through pine woods, tunnels and cliffs facing the Pan di Zucchero sea stack.
The Buggerru variant crosses the Henry Tunnel and the abandoned village of Planu Sartu. At around 10 kilometres, it takes seven to eight hours and is recommended only for experienced, well‑trained hikers.
Stromboli, the volcano by the sea
Stromboli has been erupting for over 2,500 years. Departures from San Vincenzo, with two routes, and from Ginostra, with one, lead to the panoramic viewpoint at Pizzo. At night, glowing pellets light up the sky, and on very clear days it is even possible to glimpse Mount Etna.
Access is allowed only with authorised guides, who provide the necessary equipment. Duration varies, and volcanic activity remains unpredictable.
Montecristo Island, Tuscan Archipelago
Access to Montecristo is strictly limited and permitted only through guided visits organised by the National Park.
Routes lead to the ruins of the Monastery of San Mamiliano and the Holy Grotto, along a 2‑kilometre itinerary (around two hours) or a longer 3‑kilometre route (around three and a half hours).
Both a guide and booking are mandatory.
Rilke Trail, Duino–Sistiana, Friuli-Venezia Giulia
This flat walk of about 2 kilometres runs between Mediterranean scrub and cliffs, with equipped viewpoints overlooking the Bay of Sistiana and the Duino Cliffs. On particularly clear days, the Slovenian coast is visible.
The path is well maintained and easy, taking around 45 to 60 minutes, and is suitable for families.
Punta Aderci, Costa dei Trabocchi, Abruzzo
In the Punta Aderci Nature Reserve, a mostly flat trail of about 6 kilometres runs along beaches and headlands. Starting ideally from Punta Penna, it passes Spiaggia dei Libertini and the Aderci promontory — with views over rolling hills, Gran Sasso and the Maiella — before reaching Mottagrossa.
This Costa dei Trabocchi trail is classified as easy, though there is significant sun exposure. Allow two to three hours including breaks.
Selvaggio Blu, Gulf of Orosei, Sardinia
Around 50 kilometres between Pedra Longa and Cala Sisine, in an area without roads. The route combines shepherds’ tracks with climbing sections up to grade IV and rope descents. You're rewarded by iconic coves such as Cala Goloritzé and the remote Cala Mariolu.
It is not signposted as a single trail and is reserved for experienced hikers. A qualified guide and carefully planned logistical support for water and food are essential.
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