This is far more than an ordinary hike—it’s a two-week journey across the Alps, from Germany’s fairytale castles to the sunlit canals of Venice! From the soft green valleys of Bavaria, we climb into Austria’s Tyrolean ranges and finally into the Dolomites, all the way to Venice. This is a tour of contrasts, from beer gardens to espresso bars, stylish hotels to the cutest mountain lodges—over our 14 days together, we’ll follow a trail that links three nations and countless traditions.
This Munich to Venice guided hiking tour is a 14-day adventure crossing Germany, Austria, and Italy on foot. We hike through Bavaria’s forests and meadows, over Tyrol’s high mountain passes, and into the dramatic peaks of the Italian Dolomites before finishing in Venice. The trip combines great hiking with cultural stops, castles, and cozy alpine villages. With most meals, all transfers, luggage transport, and an expert guide included, it’s a complete and exciting way to experience the Alps!
We meet in Munich, the vibrant capital of Bavaria, and begin our journey south by train to Füssen, followed by a short transfer to Hohenschwangau. This picturesque village sits at the foot of two of Germany’s most iconic castles, Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau, both built by King Ludwig II. After settling in, we enjoy a relaxed afternoon walk to nearby lakes Schwansee, Alpsee, and Hohenschwangau, surrounded by rolling green hills and castle views that set the tone for our Alpine adventure.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 6 km (3.7 mi), ~3 hours
Elevation: +160 m (525 ft), -160 m (525 ft)
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Hohenschwangau
Luggage access: Yes, just a daypack to carry
We start the day with a short walk to the Tegelberg cable car and ascend effortlessly to our trailhead above the valley. From here, we enter the wild heart of the Ammergau Alps, hiking across open ridges and limestone spires where chamois are often seen. The scenery is a stunning mix of rugged rock towers and lush alpine meadows. Our route descends gently through the forest to reach the Kenzenhütte, a cozy mountain hut nestled in a peaceful setting—the perfect reward after a full day of hiking.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 12.7 km (7.9 mi), ~4.5 hours
Elevation: +525 m (1,715 ft), -930 m (3,055 ft)
Accommodation: Mountain hut (Kenzenhütte), shared dormitory (2 or more beds)
Luggage access: Yes, just a daypack to carry
A morning transfer brings us back to Kenzenhütte, where we begin our climb toward the Lösertaljoch Pass (1,682 m). The path winds through alpine pastures where chamois often graze before opening to wide views across the Linderhof Valley. We descend through the heart of the Ammergau Alps to reach Linderhof Castle—a small “Versailles” created by King Ludwig II—before continuing by short transfer to Ettal and its magnificent Benedictine monastery.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 11.8 km (7.3 mi), ~4 hours
Elevation: +390 m (1,275 ft), -745 m (2,450 ft)
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Ettal
Luggage access: Yes, just a daypack to carry
We leave Ettal by bus to reach Garmisch-Partenkirchen, an Olympic town at the base of Germany’s highest mountain, the Zugspitze. Our trail passes through the dramatic Partnach Gorge, a narrow canyon of roaring water and limestone walls, before climbing toward Elmau. We pass the tranquil Ferchensee and Lautersee lakes, then descend through another gorge to reach Mittenwald, a colorful village famous for its painted houses and violin-making tradition.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 19 km (11.8 mi), ~5–6 hours
Elevation: +500 m (1,640 ft), -300 m (985 ft)
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Mittenwald
Luggage access: Yes, just a daypack to carry
We transfer to the Leutasch Valley, crossing the border into Austria. From Puitbach, we begin our climb through the Puittal Valley to the Scharnitzjoch Pass (2,048 m). The open alpine pastures offer sweeping views of the Tyrolean mountains, and we pass cozy mountain huts like Wangalm and Wettersteinhütte. After descending toward Leutasch Klamm, we meet our transfer and continue to the Tyrolean capital, Innsbruck, where we stay for two nights.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 12 km (7.5 mi), ~6 hours
Elevation: +950 m (3,115 ft), -900 m (2,955 ft)
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Innsbruck
Luggage access: Yes, just a daypack to carry
Today we rest and explore Innsbruck at our own pace. You may join the guide for an optional morning hike using the Hafelekar cable cars for breathtaking views over the city, or simply relax and stroll through the charming old town. Highlights include the Golden Roof, St. James Cathedral, and the Imperial Palace—or just enjoy a traditional Apfelstrudel in a sunlit café.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: Optional 3.2 km (2 mi), ~1.5 hours
Elevation: +75 m (250 ft), -440 m (1,440 ft)
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Innsbruck
Luggage access: Yes
A scenic transfer brings us deep into the Austrian Alps and to the impressive Krimml Waterfalls—the highest in Europe. From here, we hike through the Krimmler Achental Valley, following glacial rivers and alpine meadows into the heart of the Hohe Tauern range. Our day ends at the historic Krimmler Tauernhaus, a welcoming lodge surrounded by peaks and wildflower meadows.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 11 km (6.8 mi), ~4 hours
Elevation: +600 m (1,970 ft), -50 m (165 ft)
Accommodation: Mountain lodge (Krimmler Tauernhaus), private room, shared or private bathroom
Luggage access: Overnight pack to carry
From the lodge, we set off for a panoramic loop high above the valley. The path climbs steadily to the Rainbach Lake and then to the Rainbachscharte Pass (2,724 m). The view from the top stretches across the Hohe Tauern National Park and its glacial peaks before we descend back to the lodge for a second cozy night.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 12.7 km (7.9 mi), ~6 hours
Elevation: +1,100 m (3,610 ft), -1,100 m (3,610 ft)
Accommodation: Mountain lodge (Krimmler Tauernhaus), private room, shared or private bathroom
Luggage access: Overnight pack to carry
We cross into Italy today via the Krimmler Tauern or Birnlücke Pass (weather dependent), walking between towering glaciers and the massive peaks of the Venediger range. This is one of the classic alpine crossings between Austria and Italy. After descending into the South Tyrolean valley, a private transfer takes us to Brunico, a charming town where Italian and Austrian cultures blend beautifully.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 18.3–19.2 km (11.4–11.9 mi), ~6.5–7 hours
Elevation: +1,015–1,052 m (3,330–3,450 ft), -1,040–1,070 m (3,410–3,510 ft)
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Brunico
Luggage access: Yes
We take a bus into the Dolomites, starting our hike from the Pederü Hut. The trail climbs through the Fodara and Sennes alpine huts, traversing the vast Senes Plateau with incredible views before descending to the turquoise waters of Lago di Braies, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 13.5 km (8.4 mi), ~5–6 hours
Elevation: +800 m (2,625 ft), -850 m (2,789 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel at Lago di Braies, simple hiker rooms (shared bathroom)
Luggage access: Yes, just a daypack to carry
From the shores of Lago di Braies, we ascend toward the Croda del Becco Pass, surrounded by vast meadows and rugged cliffs. Continuing across alpine pastures, we traverse under the Croda Rossa before reaching Prato Piazza, a broad green plateau with views of the crimson-tinted peaks. A short bus ride brings us to our accommodation in Ponticello.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 15 km (9.3 mi), ~5–6 hours
Elevation: +940 m (3,085 ft), -350 m (1,150 ft)
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Ponticello
Luggage access: Yes, just a daypack to carry
A transfer brings us to the Rienza Valley, where we hike toward the world-famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo. These three towering pinnacles are the crown jewels of the Dolomites. We circle beneath their sheer faces, taking in the grandeur of the alpine scenery, before meeting our transfer to Cortina d’Ampezzo—the “Queen of the Dolomites.”
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 11.3–13 km (7–8.1 mi), ~5–6 hours
Elevation: +1,020–1,100 m (3,340–3,615 ft), -115–200 m (375–655 ft)
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Luggage access: Yes, just a daypack to carry
This morning, we travel from the mountains to the sea. A private transfer brings us to Venice, followed by a scenic water taxi ride to our hotel in the heart of the city. The afternoon is free to explore Venice’s canals, bridges, and piazzas before meeting for a festive farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Venice
Luggage access: Yes
After breakfast, we say goodbye to the group. Depending on departure plans, there’s time for a final morning stroll or coffee by the lagoon before checking out and heading to the airport or train station.
Meals: Breakfast
Included:
Add-ons (available to add at checkout):
Not included:
In order to join this Munich to Venice guided hiking tour, great fitness is required. Expect 3 to 7 hours of hiking per day, with up to 1,100 m (3,615 ft) of elevation gain and 1,100 m (3,610 ft) of elevation loss. The most you’ll hike within a day is up to 19 km (11.8 mi).
Most routes follow well-marked mountain trails, though a few short sections—particularly in the Dolomites—include steeper or more technical terrain equipped with handrails and cables for safety. Some hiking days are optional.
Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more Dolomites hiking tours here!
The following items are required for this Munich to Venice guided hiking tour unless otherwise noted. When packing, think layered clothing systems that work together and can be easily added or removed.
Your main luggage will be transferred on most of the nights—on those days, you’ll only be carrying a small daypack with necessary items you might need throughout the day. For the two nights you’ll be staying at huts—Days 7 & 8—you’ll have to carry your overnight belongings. Luggage access isn’t available on those nights. Luggage transfers have a limit of 33lbs/15kg—please stick to this as extra items are not easily stored by the team.
Avoid cotton or cycling-specific clothing. Synthetic fabrics dry quickly and perform well in active conditions. Merino wool is also an excellent option—it dries fast, is comfortable to wear, and naturally resists odors even after extended use.
Clothing:
Gear:
First aid kit suggestions:
Carrying a basic personal first aid kit is strongly advised, as unforeseen situations may arise during travel. Access to medications and first aid supplies can be limited in certain destinations, making it essential to bring necessary prescription and over-the-counter items. Travel plans, vaccinations, and medication use should be reviewed with a healthcare provider in advance to ensure a safe and smooth journey.
Here’s a basic list of what’s generally a good personal travel first aid kit:
Optional items:
Group sizes and pricing
Munich to Venice guided hiking tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this Munich to Venice guided hiking tour is based on shared double rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.
As for twin rooms, note that hotels in Germany and Austria do not always offer twin beds. However, double rooms typically feature one frame with two separate mattresses, each with its own sheets and duvet. If this setup is not suitable, booking two single rooms will be necessary.
The starting point of your Munich to Venice guided hiking tour is Munich, Germany. To get there, most people fly into Munich International Airport (MUC), one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe. From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transportation (S-Bahn), or rent a car to reach the city center.
You will meet your guide in the morning of Day 1. We highly recommend arriving at least a day prior to Day 1—we can arrange accommodation for nights before or after the tour, leave us a note if interested at checkout.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.
Basic
Flexible
Super Flexible
