May 9, 2025, 12:19 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
When it comes to hiking, Germany offers a wealth of options: Numerous picturesque areas crisscross the country, perfect for exploring on foot with sturdy shoes. Of course, this healthy hobby can also be pursued while traveling. The renowned magazine “Time Out” has listed the best hiking trails in the world, and TRAVELBOOK presents them.
From a health perspective, the benefits of hiking are clear, and for vacationers, there are additional practical ones: After all, moderate cardiovascular exercise is an ideal way to explore beautiful spots in depth. TRAVELBOOK recently introduced new hiking routes in Europe. But old classics should also be celebrated, such as the famous Tour de Mont Blanc (ranked 20th). And even if the journey is further afield, it’s worth checking out a list of the best hiking trails in the world from “Time Out.”
Overview
The Best Hiking Trails in the World According to “Time Out”
The cultural magazine “Time Out” is a reliable source on this topic. It works with carefully researched information and relies on expert recommendations. The list of the best hiking trails in the world also includes the editors’ own experiences. In addition to scenic beauty, difficulty level and accessibility were considered. This resulted in a diverse selection where hiking enthusiasts with various preferences—including their favorite travel destinations—are likely to find something suitable.
1. Camino Francés – Jakobsweg, Spain
“Time Out” doesn’t explicitly call it a ranking, but it lists the best hiking trails in the world in numbered order, with the famous Jakobsweg at the top. It’s more of an “intense, international cultural experience that happens to involve a daily walk of 15 miles.” The most popular of the seven routes is the approximately 500-mile Camino Francés, which runs from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in the French Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela in western Spain. This is likely due to its long tradition, scenic diversity, and good infrastructure.
Thus, it can’t be considered a hidden gem. The Camino Francés can get quite crowded.
“Sister Route of the Jakobsweg”: Kumano-Kodo Pilgrimage Route, Japan
A brief excursion to rank 4. The list of the best hiking trails in the world promises greater distances, and the magazine features a pilgrimage route in Japan often referred to as the “sister route” of the Jakobsweg. It follows similar pilgrimage traditions and, with its numerous religious sites along the way, is a popular path for spiritual journeys. Yet it is absolutely unique: The Kumano-Kodo Pilgrimage Route runs through the mountains of the Kii Peninsula on Honshu—a region spanning the prefectures of Wakayama, Nara, Osaka, and Mie.
2. Lycian Way, Turkey
The most famous hiking trail in Turkey, valued for its scenic beauty and historical significance, is the approximately 335-mile Lycian Way. It runs from the port city of Fethiye to Antalya, passing ancient cities, temples, and ruins. The natural experience is not lacking: olive groves, mountains, and fragrant forests line the path. According to “Time Out,” hiking in October is particularly beautiful when it’s still warm but quiet—and pomegranate season. The route is marked, but it’s recommended to book a tour to learn more about the history and activities in the area from a local guide.
3. West Highland Way, Scotland
One of Scotland’s most famous hiking routes ranks third (see photo above): the West Highland Way. It starts with flat sections in Milngavie, a suburb of Glasgow, and stretches 96 miles to Fort William. Along the way, the path can become quite rocky and especially challenging in the north, notes “Time Out.” But the spectacular scenery makes the effort worthwhile. The trail runs along Scotland’s largest lake, Loch Lomond, and through picturesque mountain landscapes, including Buachaille Etive Mòr, which served as a backdrop in the James Bond film “Skyfall” (2012).
‘This is how my hike on Spain’s unknown parts of the Camino de Santiago went’
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Best Hiking Trails in the World According to “Time Out” Overview
- 1. Camino Francés – Jakobsweg, Spain
- 2. Lycian Way, Turkey
- 3. West Highland Way, Scotland
- 4. Kumano-Kodo – Nakahechi Route, Japan
- 5. Great Ocean Road, Australia
- 6. Kungsleden, Sweden
- 7. Jordan Trail, Jordan
- 8. Mount Snowdon, Wales
- 9. Kalalau Trail, USA
- 10. Dientes Circuit, Chile
- 11. Gotemba Trail, Japan
- 12. Waitukubuli National Trail, Dominica
- 13. Whale Trail, South Africa
- 14. Wales Coast Path, Wales
- 15. Mount Meru, Tanzania
- 16. Ratikon High Trail Hut-to-Hut Circuit, Austria/Switzerland
- 17. Coast-to-Coast Path, England
- 18. Maria Island Walk, Australia
- 19. Paria River Canyon, USA
- 20. Tour du Mont Blanc, Switzerland/Italy/France