Hiking in Greece - Explore the Best Trails, National Parks, and Coastal Paths

There’s no doubt about it, Greece is a dream destination for outdoor adventurers. Whether you’re hiking the ancient paths of Mount Olympus or wandering the peaceful shores of the Aegean, each trail reveals a new side of the country’s natural beauty. With both easy walks and challenging multi-day treks, Greece’s hiking routes provide unforgettable views and experiences, blending history, nature, and adventure at every turn.

In this guide, we explore the best hiking trails to help you plan your next adventure and make the most of your time when you hike Greece.

Top Hiking Trails in Greece

Greece offers a remarkable range of hiking opportunities, each trail highlighting different aspects of its diverse landscapes.

Mount Olympus - A Hike Through Mythology

A hike to Mount Olympus is as much a journey through history as it is through nature. Standing at 2,917 meters, it’s Greece’s highest peak and the legendary home of the ancient gods! The most popular route starts from the village of Litochoro and follows the Prionia to Mytikas trail, covering a 1,900-meter elevation gain over 7-9 hours. Most hikers stop at Refuge A (2,100 meters) before summiting. The hike is classified as moderate to difficult, suitable for experienced hikers who are prepared for rocky paths and steep ascents.

For more on the stunning mountains of Greece, explore our guide to Greek mountain adventures.

Samaria Gorge - Crete's Majestic Trek

Crete’s Samaria Gorge is one of Europe’s longest gorges and an essential part of any hiking itinerary in Greece. This 16-kilometre hike is challenging, but incredibly rewarding, winding through diverse terrains, including pine forests, rocky landscapes and narrow ravines. The difficulty level is moderate to difficult, with some steep and rocky sections, but the scenic beauty and the sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort. The highlight of the trek is the stunning views of the gorge’s cliffs. Once you reach the Libyan Sea at the end of the trail, a refreshing swim awaits, making it a perfect way to unwind after a rewarding hike. This trail is typically done in one day, with an average hike time of 5-7 hours.

Mount Zas - The Highest Peak of the Cyclades

For those seeking to hike in the Cyclades, Naxos offers an unforgettable experience with its hike to Mount Zas, the highest peak in the region at 1,004 meters. Mount Zas is also said to be the birthplace of Zeus, making it a must-visit for both nature lovers and mythology enthusiasts. The hike is relatively moderate, with a 2-3 hour trek to the summit, taking you through a variety of landscapes, from rocky paths to lush vegetation. Along the way, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and surrounding islands.

The Best National Park Hikes in Greece

Greece’s national parks offer a variety of landscapes, from deep gorges to towering mountains.

Vikos Gorge - A World-Class Natural Wonder in Pindus National Park

Located in the heart of Pindus National Park, Vikos Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world. The Vikos Gorge Trail takes you from the village of Vitsa to Monodendri and is approximately 14 kilometres in length. The hike is moderate to difficult, following the gorge’s edge through dense forests, rocky paths, and offering stunning views of the steep cliffs and rugged landscape. The trek typically takes 5-7 hours to complete and is an absolute must for hikers looking to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Greece’s Pindus National Park.

Mount Taygetus - Taygetus National Park

Mount Taygetus, in Taygetus National Park, is Greece’s highest mountain in the Peloponnese at 2,404 meters. The most popular route to the summit starts from Sparti and follows the Kaliva to Profitis Ilias trail. This hike covers a distance of 10-12 kilometres and ascends through alpine meadows, dense forests, and rocky terrain. The trail is challenging, taking about 6-8 hours to complete, and rewards hikers with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and the Aegean Sea from the summit.

Mount Parnassus - A Majestic Hike Near Delphi

Parnassus National Park is a gem in central Greece, offering stunning views and diverse landscapes. The most popular hike in the area is the Parnassus Summit Trail, which takes you to the top of Mount Parnassus at 2,457 meters. The trail starts at Kalyvia village and climbs through pine forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain. It’s a moderately difficult hike that typically takes 5-6 hours to complete, with incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, the valley of Delphi, and the Gulf of Corinth.

The Best Multi-Day Hikes in Greece

For those looking to truly immerse themselves in Greece’s natural beauty, multi-day hikes offer the perfect opportunity. These trails take you through diverse landscapes, allowing you to experience the country’s remote areas in a way that isn’t possible on shorter hikes.

Menalon Trail - A Journey Through the Heart of Arcadia

The Menalon Trail, located in the Peloponnese, is a 75-kilometre route that takes you through the heart of Arcadia, one of Greece's most scenic and historically rich regions. This multi-day trek is typically completed over five days, with each stage ranging from 10 to 20 kilometres. The trail starts from Mainalo, a small village near Vytina, and passes through picturesque mountain villages such as Dimitsana, Zatouna, and Giannitsa, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Along the way, hikers will navigate moderate to challenging terrain, including alpine meadows, dense forests, rocky paths, and ancient monasteries. The trail has varying elevation gains, and the highest point reaches about 1,500 meters.

Corfu Trail - An Epic Adventure Through the Ionian Islands

The Corfu Trail is a 220-kilometre hike that spans the island from Kavos in the south to Agios Georgios in the north. Completed over 10-12 days, this trail is divided into 12 stages, with daily hikes averaging 15-20 kilometres. The route takes you through coastal paths, olive groves, and traditional villages like Lefkimmi, and progresses into the island's mountainous terrain, culminating at Pantokrator peak. With varying difficulty levels, the trail offers both moderate and challenging sections, providing hikers with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and a chance to explore Corfu's rich history and natural beauty.

The Best Island Hikes in Greece

Greece’s islands also offer some of the most spectacular hiking experiences, with routes that take you through rugged coastlines, volcanic peaks, and charming villages. If you're looking to experience the most scenic hikes in the Cyclades, our 8-day Hike Greece Tour offers an unforgettable adventure across these stunning islands.

Koufonisia Hike

The Koufonisia Hike is a 5-kilometre coastal trail on the peaceful island of Koufonisia. This easy hike takes you past secluded beaches, including the stunning Pori Beach, and offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and nearby islands. As you pass traditional whitewashed houses and quiet tavernas, you’ll experience the island’s charm and natural beauty. Ideal for beginners or those seeking a short, relaxing adventure, this trail offers a serene escape with crystal-clear waters and rugged coastlines.

Kalimnos - The Path to the Cave of Zeus

On Kalimnos island, the hike to the Cave of Zeus is a short but rewarding trek that offers a mix of history, mythology, and stunning island views. The trail takes you through rocky terrain, leading to the cave where it’s said that Zeus once hid. The hike is about 4 kilometres, taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, and offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the island’s rugged coastline. Perfect for mythology enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, scenic hike off the beaten path.

The Caldera Trail: Oia to Fira Hike

The Caldera Trail in Santorini offers one of the best ways to experience the island’s stunning volcanic landscape. This moderate hike runs between Oia and Fira, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours. Along the way, hikers enjoy incredible views of the caldera, the iconic whitewashed buildings, and the Aegean Sea. The path winds through volcanic terrain and picturesque villages, making it a perfect mix of nature and iconic architecture.

Tragea Valley Byzantine Trail

This more leisurely hike begins in the charming village of Chalki, nestled in the heart of Naxos’ fertile Tragea Valley. The route leads through olive groves and quiet countryside to the 11th-century church of Agios Georgios Diasoritis, known for its stone arches and remarkably preserved Byzantine frescoes. The walk is an easy 3-4 km round trip, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours, and is perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional pottery workshops, olive oil presses, and glimpses of rural island life - an ideal blend of nature and history. This hike, along with the Oia to Fira Caldera Trail, is included in our 8-day Hike Greece Tour through the Cyclades.

The Best Coastal Hikes in Greece

Greece’s coastline is a dream for hikers, offering a diverse range of paths that take you along cliffs, through hidden coves, and by serene beaches. Whether you're trekking along volcanic ridges or exploring remote shores, these coastal hikes provide some of the most stunning views in Greece.

Menalon Lower Trail - Coastal Beauty in the Peloponnese

The Menalon Lower Trail is part of the larger Menalon Trail but focuses on the southern section, which takes hikers along the beautiful coastline of the Peloponnese. This 12-kilometre route offers scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged coastline, passing through olive groves and small traditional villages. The trail is moderately easy, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed walk along the coast while still experiencing the stunning landscapes of Greece’s mainland. The hike typically takes 3-4 hours.

Agios Pavlos Beach to Ageri Beach - Crete's Stunning Coastline

On Crete, the hike from Agios Pavlos Beach to Ageri Beach is a hidden coastal gem that offers some of the most breathtaking views of the island’s rugged coastline. This 7-kilometre trail takes you along cliffs and rocky outcrops, with spectacular vistas of the Libyan Sea. The hike is moderate, taking about 3 hours to complete, and allows you to enjoy remote beaches where you can take a break and swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Where to Stay Before or After You Greece Hike

For day hikes or coastal routes like the Caldera Trail in Santorini or the Koufonisia Hike, you can easily stay in nearby resort towns. In Santorini, choose from boutique hotels in Oia or Fira, both within walking distance to the trails. Koufonisia offers cosy guesthouses and hotels near the beaches and trailheads. For mainland hikes like Vikos Gorge or Mount Olympus, stay in mountain villages such as Litochoro or Dimitsana, where you’ll find guesthouses and local inns close to the trails. For multi-day hikes like the Menalon Trail, book village guesthouses along the route in places like Vytina. These provide a comfortable rest after a day’s hike.

If you want a seamless hiking experience, our 8-day Hike Greece Tour includes accommodation, port and hike transfers and expert guides, making it easy for you to explore the best hiking destinations across the Cyclades.

What to Bring on Your Hike in Greece

For hiking in Greece, bring sturdy hiking boots, breathable clothing, and a hat for sun protection. A lightweight daypack should carry essentials like 2 litres of water, snacks, a map or GPS, and a first-aid kit. If you're doing multi-day hikes, such as the Menalon Trail, pack a sleeping bag and extra layers. Don’t forget sunscreen and a camera to capture the stunning views, but keep your gear practical and light.

When to Go Hiking in Greece

Shoulder Season

The best time to hike in Greece is during the shoulder seasons - spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). The weather is mild, with fewer crowds, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. This is also when our Hike Greece Tour takes place, ensuring you experience Greece at its best, with comfortable weather and stunning landscapes.

Peak Season

Summer (July and August) is a popular time for hiking, especially for those seeking the island experience. While it can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), many trails remain accessible, especially those along the coast. Just be sure to start early in the day to avoid the heat. If you're ready for the summer energy, this can still be a great option.

Winter Hiking

Winter (November to March) can offer a quieter hiking experience, especially in mountainous regions like Mount Olympus and Taygetus, where snow is common. Conditions require proper preparation, but this time also offers a peaceful alternative to the busier seasons. Keep in mind, ferry services and flights may be slower during this season, so it’s a good idea to plan transport ahead of time. Winter hiking provides a peaceful escape and a unique way to experience Greece’s landscapes.

No matter the season, hiking in Greece provides an adventure that combines stunning landscapes, rich history, and authentic local experiences.