Picture yourself hiking mist-shrouded trails, stopping in at a family-run taverna for the day’s freshest fare, and sharing stories in a hilltop village — all on an immersive small-group tour. Europe offers a wealth of destinations that blend culinary discovery with scenic walks and local charm, but finding those authentic spots can be a challenge.
That’s where G Adventures comes in. We’ve spent over 30 years perfecting the art of the active getaway, specialising in tours that prioritise community connection and local flavour. Whether you’re craving a challenging summit or a slow stroll through a medieval hamlet, our trips blend physical adventure with culinary discovery.
Why G Adventures is perfect for food, hiking, and village explorers
We believe the best stories don’t come from waiting in long lines or in a crowded terminal; they come from authentic moments like sharing a meal with local people in a remote homestay. We focus on small groups, usually of no more than 16 travellers, which allows us to stay in unique guesthouses and navigate narrow village lanes that big coaches can’t reach.
With over 200 tours across Europe, our reach spans from the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast to the quiet fjords of the North, and everywhere in between. Each of the tours below include the best walking and hiking experiences with the finest local food and wine around. Whichever trip you pick, a local Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be on hand to create the best experience possible. These experts don’t just show you the map; they introduce you to the local-business owners and trail shortcuts that only insiders know about.
The best routes for foodies and hikers in Europe
If you’re wondering where to go in Europe for the perfect trifecta of active days, indulgent evenings and local experiences, take a look at our pick of the best places to go in Europe if you love food, hiking and small villages.
The Camino de Santiago
Walk this famous trail in Spain and trace the historic pilgrims’ trails through the rural landscapes of northern Spain. Along the way, fuel your journey with authentic tapas and pintxos, artisanal Manchego cheeses, and crisp Galician white wines.
Many walkers join the classic French Way, passing through eucalyptus forests, rolling farmland, and misty Galician peaks while completing the final 100km (62 miles) of this epic pilgrimage. The villages along the route add to the charm, with traditional guesthouses where you can rest and meet fellow peregrinos in tiny stone hamlets.
See it for yourself: On Camino de Santiago Encompassed
The Amalfi Coast
Experience one of Italy’s most romantic regions while staying in a converted 16th-century monastery high above the sea. Enjoy local flavours like Amalfi lemons, fresh mozzarella, and handmade dishes in family-run trattorias, and take part in a cooking demonstration followed by a traditional dinner using ingredients from the property’s gardens.
Hike the famous Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) for sweeping coastal views as you follow ancient paths through lemon groves and cliffside vineyards. You’ll also have time to explore the charming streets of Positano and Amalfi, while staying in the quieter hilltop town of Furore to experience a more local side of the coast.
Experience it for yourself: Local Living Italy—Amalfi Coast
Portugal’s Atlantic Coast
Combine raw coastal beauty with the medieval charm of Portugal on a journey from Lisbon to Porto. Along the way, savour fresh Atlantic seafood and wine-country meals in the Douro Valley, with the option to enjoy a traditional dinner in Lisbon accompanied by a live Fado performance. In Porto, you can also visit historic port cellars and sample the region’s famous export.
Orientation walks reveal the character of Lisbon and Porto’s hilly, tile-lined streets, while free time lets you explore the university city of Coimbra or visit the colourful palaces of Sintra. You’ll also stop in Batalha to see its remarkable 14th-century monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, while small-group travel allows time to discover smaller villages along the way.
Discover it for yourself: Highlights of Portugal
Eastern Europe
Experience the grit and grandeur of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire on a journey through Germany, Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, and Austria. Along the way, discover Central Europe through its flavours, from hearty Pierogi in Kraków to the elegant café culture of Vienna. You can also tour a local brewery in Český Krumlov and enjoy a traditional Hungarian meal in Budapest.
Orientation walks reveal the layered histories of cities like Prague and Kraków, including time in Kraków’s Jewish Quarter and a visit to the sobering memorial at Auschwitz-Birkenau. In Český Krumlov, a UNESCO-listed town, medieval streets and colourful buildings create a storybook setting, with centrally-located stays giving you time to explore local squares, bakeries, and artisan shops.
Explore it on: The Best of Eastern Europe
Iceland
Explore the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, the ‘Land of Ice and Fire’, where roaring geysers, glaciers, and powerful waterfalls shape the terrain. Along the way, enjoy fresh Nordic cuisine during farm-to-table stays and visit a local farm to learn about traditional Icelandic agriculture while sampling regional specialties.
Adventures include the option to hike on a glacier in Skaftafell within Vatnajökull National Park, trek to the mighty Dettifoss waterfall — one of Europe’s most powerful — and explore the volcanic landscapes around Lake Mývatn. You’ll also visit remote hamlets near the eastern fjords and the fishing village of Höfn before seeing the steaming geothermal area of Námaskarð and the striking icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a glacial lake formed by the retreat of a nearby glacier.
Visit Iceland on: Best of Iceland
The Azores
Often named Europe’s leading adventure destination, the Azores are a volcanic archipelago made for hikers. While exploring, savour a traditional Cozido das Furnas—a hearty meat and vegetable stew slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat in the town of Furnas. You’ll also visit Gorreana Tea Plantation, one of Europe’s only tea plantations, to learn about the island’s agricultural history and sample the local brew.
Hikes here include the rim of the Sete Cidades Caldera for views of its twin lakes, and a trek to Lagoa do Fogo, a protected crater lake surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. Your stay in the lively capital Ponta Delgada also leaves time to explore the spa village of Furnas, relax in natural thermal pools, and connect with life in these remote island communities.
Hike it for yourself on: Hiking the Azores
Madeira
Discover the ‘Pearl of the Atlantic’ Madeira — a rugged volcanic island just off Portugal where ancient laurel forests meet dramatic coastal cliffs and a mild, year-round climate. In Funchal, visit the lively Mercado dos Lavradores to sample exotic fruits, and stop by a local winery to taste the island’s famous Madeira wine paired with regional snacks. A sensory overload some might say!
Hiking adventures follow the island’s historic Levadas through the Laurisilva Forest and up to Pico do Arieiro for sweeping views across the island’s rugged interior. You’ll also explore the coastal town of Machico and the village of Santana, known for its colourful triangular thatched houses, with evenings free to wander local squares and dine in family-run tavernas.
See it for yourself on: Hiking in Madeira
Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro
Experience the rugged beauty of the mighty Accursed Mountains on a trek through three Balkan countries — Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. Along the way, enjoy traditional mountain meals featuring fresh cheeses, honey, and hearty stews, including a home-cooked dinner in the remote Dobërdol Valley where local ingredients and warm hospitality define the whole trip.
The journey follows sections of the Peaks of the Balkans Trail, including the classic hike from Valbona to Theth in Albania and a border crossing on foot over Gjeravica Pass. You’ll also trek through the lush landscapes of Biogradska Gora National Park, staying in remote shepherd villages and simple family-run guesthouses that offer a glimpse into life in these high-altitude communities.
Explore it for yourself on: Hiking in Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro
Helpful planning tips for your European adventure
Planning ahead can transform your European adventure from memorable to unforgettable. From choosing the right trails and regions to matching your itinerary with your fitness level and seasonal preferences, a little preparation goes a long way in making every hike, meal, and village visit feel effortless and rewarding.
Choosing the right region
Your destination should match your cravings, both for the trail and the table. If you’re after Mediterranean flavours and coastal walks, look towards Italy or Spain. For dramatic, volcanic landscapes that feel like another planet, the Azores and Iceland are unbeatable. If you want heartier mountain fare and trails that feel like your own secret discovery, the Balkans offer incredible value and authenticity.
Trip styles and fitness
We encourage you to book based on your specific appetite for adventure and your current fitness level. G Adventures offers a huge range of pacing; you can challenge yourself on high-altitude treks through the Accursed Mountains or opt for a more relaxing and indulgent food-and-wine focused trip where the walking is gentle and the focus is firmly on the vineyard.
Seasonal considerations
While June is a peak month for European travel, consider booking during the shoulder season (typically May, September, or October) or even off-season. Travellers who head out during these months can often enjoy fewer crowds at iconic sites, lower prices, and great weather that is perfectly suited for active days.
Booking smart
Don’t wait for a moment that never comes. We have availability for our European adventures running right up into 2027, so you can secure your spot on a popular route like the Camino de Santiago or the Amalfi Coast well in advance.
Why should I book with G Adventures?
At G Adventures, we’ve been perfecting the art of small group adventure tours for over 30 years. We know that the difference between a good trip and a life-changing adventure comes down to three things: the right group size (small enough to be flexible, big enough to be fun), local guides who are part of the community and who know where the real magic happens, and itineraries that balance must-see highlights with those pinch-me moments you never saw coming in unique destinations.
Is G Adventures good for solo travellers?
Absolutely! Most travellers on G Adventures trips are solo, and our small group adventure tours make it easy to connect fast. You’ll share stories, laughs, and maybe even a tent (although you’ll be able to choose your own room if you prefer). Our Solo-ish tours are specifically designed for solo travel, prioritising safety while giving ample opportunities to meet local people and other travellers. Perfect for adventurous spirits who want the freedom of solo travel with the security of group support.
Are these destinations safe in 2026?
Yep. Every spot on our list is carefully vetted; our local CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) live and breathe these places, so you’re in expert hands from the moment you land. We keep it responsible, safe, and big on local know-how, so you can focus on adventure, safe in the knowledge that you’ll be well taken care of. For hints and tips, check out our advice for safe travel.
Do G Adventures tours include local food experiences?
Yes! We believe you can’t truly know a place until you’ve tasted it. Whether it’s a cooking demonstration for regional fare in an Italian agriturismo, a geothermal stew slow-cooked in the volcanic soil of the Azores, or a farm-to-table feast in rural Iceland, our itineraries are packed with flavour. We prioritise local eateries and family-run taverns over generic hotel buffets, ensuring your travel spend stays in the community while you get an authentic taste of local life.
Which European region is best for a foodie hiker?
That’s a tough call — it really comes down to what you’re hungry for. If you want sun-drenched coastal trails followed by fresh seafood and a crisp glass of wine, then Italy or Portugal are your winners. If you’re after something more rugged and remote, head to the Balkans for hearty mountain stews and local cheeses in shepherd villages. For those who want dramatic, otherworldly landscapes paired with fresh Nordic fare, Iceland it is. Pick the terrain that excites you most and the local food will handle the rest.
How active are G Adventures trips — do I need to be super fit?
Not at all. G Adventures designs trips across a wide range of activity levels, so you can choose what suits your comfort and fitness. Some tours focus on gentle walking, cultural experiences, and relaxed pacing, while others include longer hikes, higher elevations, or multi-day treks.
Each itinerary clearly lists physical ratings, daily distances, and terrain so there are no surprises. Your CEO also adjusts the pace when possible and offers alternatives on more challenging days. In short, you don’t need to be an athlete — you just need a sense of curiosity and a willingness to get out there and explore.
So, ready to trade the tourist trail for village tavernas and mountain dinners? Whether you’re looking to conquer high-altitude peaks in the Balkans or settle into the slow rhythm of an Italian coastal village, we’ve got a spot at the table waiting for you.
Browse our full range of G Adventures Europe tours and start planning your next great adventure
