The Top 10 Must-Do Multi-Day Treks in Europe Before You Die

For adventure enthusiasts, Europe is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, challenging terrains, and diverse cultures. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a passionate nature lover, the continent offers some of the most unforgettable multi-day treks. Here’s our curated list of the top 10 must-do multi-day treks in Europe that should be on every adventurer’s bucket list.

1. Tour du Mont Blanc (France, Italy, Switzerland)

Arguably the most famous trek in Europe, the Tour du Mont Blanc takes you through three countries, offering spectacular views of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. This 170-kilometer loop typically takes 10-12 days to complete and offers a mix of challenging climbs, serene valleys, and charming alpine villages.

Distance: 170 kilometers (105 miles)

Duration: 10-12 days

Elevation Gain: ~10,000 meters (32,808 feet)

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Highlights: Panoramic views of Mont Blanc, charming alpine villages, and diverse cultural experiences across three countries.

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2. West Highland Way (Scotland)

Scotland's premier long-distance path, the West Highland Way, stretches 154 kilometers from Milngavie to Fort William. This trek, usually completed in 6-8 days, takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, including the shores of Loch Lomond, the remote Rannoch Moor, and the majestic Ben Nevis.

Distance: 154 kilometers (96 miles)

Duration: 6-8 days

Elevation Gain: ~3,155 meters (10,351 feet)

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Scenic Loch Lomond, remote Rannoch Moor, and views of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak.

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3. Camino de Santiago (Spain)

The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, is a network of pilgrimage routes that lead to the shrine of the apostle Saint James in Santiago de Compostela. The most popular route, the Camino Francés, spans approximately 780 kilometers and takes about 30-35 days to complete. This trek is as much a spiritual journey as it is a physical challenge.

Distance: ~780 kilometers (485 miles) for Camino Francés

Duration: 30-35 days

Elevation Gain: Varies (~12,000 meters/39,370 feet for Camino Francés)

Difficulty: Moderate (long duration)

Highlights: Spiritual journey, historic towns, and cultural immersion in Spain.

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4. Laugavegur Trail (Iceland)

Known for its surreal landscapes, the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland spans 55 kilometers from Landmannalaugar to Thórsmörk. This 4-day trek takes you through vibrant rhyolite mountains, black sand deserts, hot springs, and lush green valleys, offering a truly unique trekking experience.

Distance: 55 kilometers (34 miles)
Duration: 4 days
Elevation Gain: ~2,000 meters (6,562 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Vibrant rhyolite mountains, black sand deserts, and hot springs.

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5. Alta Via 1 (Italy)

The Alta Via 1 is a classic high route through the Dolomites, one of the most dramatic mountain ranges in the world. This 120-kilometer trail, typically completed in 10 days, offers spectacular views of jagged peaks, serene alpine meadows, and picturesque villages. It’s a must-do for any serious hiker.

Distance: 120 kilometers (75 miles)

Duration: 10 days

Elevation Gain: ~6,665 meters (21,867 feet)

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Highlights: Jagged Dolomite peaks, tranquil alpine meadows, and charming villages.

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6. GR20 (Corsica, France)

The GR20 is often cited as the toughest long-distance trail in Europe. Spanning 180 kilometers across the rugged island of Corsica, this trek takes about 15 days to complete. It’s a challenging route with steep climbs, rocky paths, and stunning vistas that reward the determined adventurer.

Distance: 180 kilometers (112 miles)

Duration: 15 days

Elevation Gain: ~12,000 meters (39,370 feet)

Difficulty: Challenging

Highlights: Rugged terrain, high-altitude vistas, and Corsican wilderness.

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7. The King's Trail (Kungsleden, Sweden)

The Kungsleden, or King's Trail, is Sweden’s most famous long-distance hike, stretching 440 kilometers through the Lapland wilderness. The northern section, from Abisko to Nikkaluokta, is the most popular and typically takes 10-12 days. Hikers are treated to breathtaking Arctic landscapes, including majestic mountains, vast valleys, and pristine lakes.

Distance: 440 kilometers (273 miles)
Duration: 10-12 days (Abisko to Nikkaluokta section)
Elevation Gain: ~2,000 meters (6,562 feet) for northern section
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Arctic landscapes, majestic mountains, and pristine valleys.

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8. Rota Vicentina (Portugal)

The Rota Vicentina is a network of walking trails in southwestern Portugal, with the Historical Way being the most famous route. This 230-kilometer trail, usually completed in 12-14 days, takes you through charming villages, cork oak forests, and stunning coastal cliffs. It’s a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Portugal.

Distance: 230 kilometers (143 miles)

Duration: 12-14 days

Elevation Gain: ~4,000 meters (13,123 feet)

Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Coastal cliffs, cork oak forests, and traditional Portuguese villages.

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9. Julian Alps Traverse (Slovenia)

The Julian Alps Traverse is a stunning multi-day hike in Slovenia that offers breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. Spanning approximately 100 kilometers, this trek typically takes 8-10 days to complete. The trail takes you through Triglav National Park, home to Slovenia’s highest peak, Mount Triglav. You’ll experience pristine alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged mountain terrain, making it a must-do for any avid trekker.

Distance: ~100 kilometers (62 miles)

Duration: 8-10 days

Elevation Gain: ~6,000 meters (19,685 feet)

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Highlights: Triglav National Park, Mount Triglav, and pristine alpine scenery.

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10. Tatra Mountains Traverse (Poland/Slovakia)

The Tatra Mountains, straddling the border between Poland and Slovakia, offer some of the most scenic and challenging trekking in Europe. The High Tatras Traverse, typically completed in 7-10 days, takes you through dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and pristine valleys. The trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.

Distance: ~70-80 kilometers (43-50 miles)

Duration: 7-10 days

Elevation Gain: ~5,000 meters (16,404 feet)

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Highlights: Dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and a blend of Polish and Slovak cultures.

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Final Thoughts

Each of these treks offers its own unique challenges and rewards, making them essential additions to any adventurer’s bucket list. Whether you seek the spiritual journey of the Camino de Santiago, the rugged challenge of the GR20, or the breathtaking beauty of the Tour du Mont Blanc, Europe’s diverse landscapes and rich cultures provide endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and set out on an unforgettable adventure. These multi-day treks are more than just hikes; they are journeys of a lifetime that will leave you with memories to cherish forever.