The best walks and hikes in Greece

Greece offers a vast network of over 9,200 hiking trails. These routes cater to all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging multi-day treks across its diverse landscapes.

For families, Greece provides numerous easier trails. The View of the Preveli Palm Gorge – Preveli Beach and Palm Forest loop from Lower Preveli Monastery is a moderate 4.6-mile (7.4 km) trail leading to a unique palm gorge and beach, perfect for a memorable outing. Many coastal paths and shorter routes in less rugged areas are also suitable for families.

While specific regulations can vary by national park or protected area, many trails in Greece are generally dog-friendly, especially outside of strictly regulated zones like the core of Samaria Gorge. It's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure they are well-behaved, particularly in areas with livestock or wildlife. Always check local signage for any restrictions.

Greece is rich in unique geological formations. You can hike through dramatic gorges like the Samaria Gorge, known for its narrowest point, the Iron Gates, or the impressive Vikos Gorge. The Meteora region offers a truly unique experience with trails winding between towering sandstone pillars topped by ancient monasteries. You can also find fascinating rock formations like the Stone Arch in Imbros Gorge.

The best time for hiking in Greece is typically spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is pleasantly mild, wildflowers are abundant in spring, and the autumn colors are beautiful. The warm and light climate also makes winter hiking possible in many lower-altitude areas, while summer can be very hot, especially in July and August, making early morning or late afternoon hikes preferable.

Yes, many trails in Greece are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the challenging Samaria Gorge – Iron Gates loop from ΞΥΛΟΣΚΑΛΟ, or the scenic Skaros Rock – View of Oia loop from Faros Akrotiriou-Oias on Santorini. These loops offer convenience and diverse scenery without retracing your steps.

The komoot community highly rates hiking in Greece, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 77,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning variety of landscapes, from dramatic gorges and majestic mountains to breathtaking coastal and island trails. The unique cultural immersion, especially in areas like Meteora, and the warm hospitality also receive high marks.

Absolutely. Greece, with its extensive coastline and numerous islands, offers incredible coastal hiking opportunities. Islands like Crete, Corfu, Santorini, and Naxos feature trails with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. The View of Cape Drastis loop from Sidari on Corfu is a great example of a scenic coastal path.

Beyond the famous Samaria Gorge, Greece boasts several other impressive gorges. The Vikos Gorge in the Pindus Mountains is one of the deepest canyons globally, offering spectacular mountain hiking. On Crete, you can also explore the Imbros Gorge, known for its narrow passages, or the Kritsa Gorge in Eastern Crete, and the Rouvas Gorge.

Near popular hiking areas, you'll find a range of accommodation options, from traditional guesthouses in charming villages to mountain refuges and huts. For example, near Mount Olympus, you can find the Spilios Agapitos Refuge. Many areas also offer hotels, apartments, and campsites, especially in more developed regions or on the islands.

Yes, Greece offers several challenging multi-day hikes for experienced trekkers. The ascent of Mount Olympus, the fabled home of the Greek gods, provides diverse trails from family-friendly routes to demanding ascents. The Corfu Trail, a 136-mile route, traverses the island's interior and stunning coastlines, offering a longer adventure. The Pindus Mountains also feature impressive multi-day paths.

Many trails in Greece lead to or pass by significant highlights. You can discover the unique Preveli Beach and Palm Forest, explore the ancient Old Town of Rhodes, or reach mountain summits like Psiloritis (Timios Stavros). The dramatic Iron Gates (Sideroportes) in Samaria Gorge are also a memorable sight.