GemmaWhen it comes to exploring Italy beyond the usual tourist spots, Campania stands out as a hidden gem. The region boasts a stunning coastline, charming villages, and trails that make your legs sore—but in the best way possible. If you love hiking, breathtaking views, and discovering spots that feel like they belong in a postcard, then Campania’s coastal trails are calling your name. From my own personal experience, hiking here is more than just exercise; it’s a way to connect with nature, history, and a side of Italy that few guidebooks capture.
So, grab your walking shoes, pack some water, and let me take you on a journey through 12 must-see coastal trails in Campania. Each one offers something unique—whether it’s cliffside views, hidden beaches, or villages frozen in time.
1. Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)
No list of Campania coastal hikes can start anywhere else. The Path of the Gods is legendary, stretching along the Amalfi Coast from Bomerano to Nocelle. Imagine walking on a trail carved into cliffs that hang over the Tyrrhenian Sea. Every step offers sweeping views of Amalfi, Positano, and the small fishing villages below.
This trail is a must for anyone who wants a mix of adventure and Instagram-worthy moments. The path is well-marked but can be steep in places, so wear proper hiking shoes. Along the way, you’ll find spots to sit, breathe, and just stare at the sea—trust me, it’s therapeutic.
From my own personal experience, the magic of the Path of the Gods isn’t just in the view but in the way the trail winds through nature and history, making every step feel like a story unfolding.
2. Punta Campanella Trail
If you enjoy combining a hike with a ferry ride, the Punta Campanella Trail is ideal. Located at the tip of the Sorrentine Peninsula, this trail offers a unique view of Capri, the Bay of Naples, and even Mount Vesuvius on a clear day.
The trail isn’t overly difficult, but its cliffs and winding paths give you the satisfaction of having truly earned those views. You can even explore hidden coves and ancient ruins along the way. This hike perfectly balances natural beauty with a sense of discovery, making it perfect for a day-long adventure.
3. The Amalfi Coast Trail: Amalfi to Ravello
If you want to combine hiking with culture, this trail is a winner. Starting in the town of Amalfi, you’ll ascend towards Ravello, a hilltop village famous for its gardens and music festivals. The trail is dotted with lemon groves, tiny chapels, and terraces that overlook the glistening sea.
Along the way, don’t miss stopping at Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone in Ravello. From my own personal experience, taking breaks at these points feels like stepping into a different era, where every view is a painting, and every breeze carries the scent of citrus and the sea.
4. Cilento Coast Trail
Campania isn’t just the Amalfi Coast—its southern Cilento region is a hidden paradise. The Cilento Coast Trail stretches across rugged cliffs, quiet beaches, and quaint villages like Palinuro and Acciaroli.
This trail is less crowded than its northern counterparts, which means you can enjoy solitude while hiking. Along the way, you’ll encounter dramatic cliffs, caves, and even ancient ruins, giving you the sense that you’re stepping back in time.
If you’re looking for peace, stunning sunsets, and a chance to hear only the waves and your own footsteps, this trail will deliver it all.
5. Vico Equense to Seiano
A short but incredibly scenic trail, this route connects Vico Equense and Seiano. The path winds through terraces filled with vineyards and lemon groves, all while offering stunning sea views.
What makes this trail unique is its combination of easy walking and beautiful scenery. You can take your time, stop for a picnic, or just enjoy the quiet moments. From my own personal experience, this trail is perfect if you want a light hike that still feels rewarding and immersive.
6. Sorrento Peninsula Circular Trail
This trail is a local favorite, taking you through the Sorrento Peninsula with a mix of cliffside paths, coastal views, and hidden beaches. The circular route means you’ll end up back where you started, which is ideal if you want a hike without logistics stress.
Along the way, you can explore small coves, swim in crystal-clear water, and enjoy a panoramic sunset over the Gulf of Naples. It’s hiking, sightseeing, and mini-vacation all rolled into one.
7. Monte Faito Trail
For a change of pace, head inland to Monte Faito. While technically a mountain trail, its proximity to the coast means you’ll enjoy incredible views of the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast from above.
The hike here is a bit more challenging, with steep ascents, but the view from the top makes every step worth it. You’ll see Capri in the distance and the dramatic cliffs dropping into the sea below. From my own personal experience, Monte Faito is perfect for when you want a combination of forested trails and panoramic coastlines.
8. Nerano to Marina del Cantone
If you love hiking with a seafood twist, this trail along the Sorrento Coast delivers both natural beauty and culinary temptation. The path follows the coastline from Nerano to Marina del Cantone, offering hidden beaches and turquoise water perfect for a swim.
After your hike, you can stop at one of the seaside restaurants and enjoy fresh fish or a classic Caprese salad. Hiking and eating well—what could be better?
9. Positano to Nocelle Staircase Trail
This trail is famous not just for views but for its unique format: it’s a staircase that climbs from Positano to Nocelle. Thousands of steps lead you through winding alleys, lush vegetation, and dramatic cliffs.
The trail is short but steep, giving your legs a workout while rewarding you with incredible vistas. From my own personal experience, the feeling of reaching Nocelle after climbing hundreds of steps is oddly satisfying—like you’ve conquered a small piece of heaven.
10. Marina di Camerota Coastal Trail
For those who love untouched beaches and nature, Marina di Camerota in southern Campania is a treasure. The coastal trail here takes you through pine forests, cliffs, and quiet coves that are perfect for a secluded swim.
This trail is less known, so you’re likely to enjoy it without crowds. The combination of forest paths, sea views, and hidden beaches makes it an ideal spot for a day-long hike that feels like a private adventure.
11. Capo Palinuro Lighthouse Trail
Adventure meets history on this trail. The hike leads to the Capo Palinuro lighthouse, perched on a cliff above the sea. Along the way, you’ll pass caves, rock formations, and trails that wind close to the water’s edge.
From my own personal experience, reaching the lighthouse feels like a reward after a journey through nature’s best landscapes. The panoramic views are stunning, and the sense of accomplishment is unbeatable.
12. Paestum to Agropoli Trail
History lovers will adore this trail. Starting near the ancient Greek ruins of Paestum, the path follows the coast toward Agropoli, offering a mix of archaeological sites, sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs.
Hiking here is like combining a history lesson with an outdoor adventure. You can explore temples, ancient walls, and charming villages while enjoying the endless blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Tips for Hiking Coastal Trails in Campania
Hiking in Campania isn’t just about picking a trail—it’s about preparation and appreciation. Here are some tips to enhance your experience:
- Wear appropriate shoes: Many trails are rocky or steep, so sturdy hiking shoes are a must.
- Bring water and snacks: Some trails are long and isolated, so staying hydrated and energized is crucial.
- Start early: Coastal trails get crowded, especially in summer. Early morning hikes are peaceful and cooler.
- Pack a camera: The views are postcard-perfect, and you’ll want to remember them.
- Check weather conditions: Trails can be slippery after rain, especially cliffside paths.
- Respect nature: Stick to marked paths and leave no trace behind.
Why Coastal Hiking in Campania is Special
From my own personal experience, the combination of sea, cliffs, history, and villages makes Campania unique. Unlike other tourist-heavy areas, these trails offer solitude and authenticity. You can hike for hours and feel like you’re discovering Italy for the first time.
The trails also appeal to every kind of hiker. Whether you want a leisurely walk through lemon groves, a strenuous climb up cliffside paths, or a historical trek past ancient ruins, Campania has it all.
Hiking here isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about experiencing a journey where every turn reveals something new, whether it’s a hidden beach, a centuries-old chapel, or a view that stops you in your tracks.
Conclusion
Campania’s coastal trails are more than just paths—they’re invitations to explore, to breathe, and to witness Italy’s beauty in a way that goes beyond the surface. From the famous Path of the Gods to the hidden trails of Cilento, every hike offers a mix of nature, history, and adventure.
So, lace up your hiking shoes, bring your curiosity, and set off on a journey you’ll never forget. Based on my overall experience, the only challenge you’ll face is deciding which trail to conquer first. But trust me—once you start, you’ll want to explore them all.
Campania isn’t just a region; it’s a collection of experiences waiting to be discovered, one trail at a time.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.