Sentiero degli Dei, Amalfi Coast
Must-DoIconicThe "Path of the Gods" is Italy's most famous coastal walk — 7.8 km along cliffs 500m above the sea from Bomerano to Nocelle, with Capri floating on the horizon. Ends with stairs down to Positano.
Riserva dello Zingaro, Sicily
Must-DoSeven hidden coves along Sicily's northwest coast. Each beach is more beautiful than the last — white pebbles, clear water, and limestone cliffs. Pack snorkelling gear. €5 entry, no services.
Capo Testa, Sardinia
FamilyBudgetWind-sculpted granite boulders on Sardinia's northern tip create an almost surreal landscape. Short trails loop around headlands above crystal water. Free and uncrowded outside August.
Portofino Peninsula: Paraggi to Portofino
Must-DoA short, flat path from the beach at Paraggi into the jewel-box harbour of Portofino. Absurdly picturesque. Continue to the lighthouse (20 min more) for views across the Ligurian coast.
Costa dei Trabocchi, Abruzzo
Hidden GemFamilyA converted railway line along the Adriatic coast, now a bike-and-walk path passing ancient fishing platforms (trabocchi) perched over the sea. Flat, paved, and many trabocchi are now restaurants — eat fish 10m above the waves.
Our pick
Sentiero degli Dei for the all-time classic. Costa dei Trabocchi for a completely different vibe — flat, easy, and ending with a fish lunch suspended over the Adriatic.