Top 10 mountains to climb in Europe

Mountain ranges, anywhere in the world, are an extraordinary place to spend time, get grounded, and get away from the insane pace of daily life. When talking about mountain hiking in Europe, there is no doubt that the Alps come to mind first. However, there is a lot more besides the famous Alps for nature lovers to conquer. The most important part is that all of them bring us the feeling of freedom, warm memories, and the most breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, and they leave our comfort zone behind.

We have prepared a list of the most fascinating mountain peaks to climb in Europe. Some of them are perfect for beginners, and some of them require additional preparation and experience, so make sure you brace yourself for the adventure and take all the safety measures to ensure a smooth and carefree hike throughout your summer!

The hiking trail, Tour du Mont Blanc, leading throughout the Mont Blanc, is one of the world’s most iconic trekking circuits, opening up the most breathtaking views of the Alps. Walk through many alpine valleys along the way for stunning high-altitude views of waterfalls, meadows, alpine chalets, lakes, summits, and high mountain glaciers. If you are keen on guided tours, the locals will pass on their knowledge and experience, helping you to discover the different flora and wildflowers as well as the cultural heritage of the Alps. The Tour du Mont Blanc stretches for 170 kilometres through France, Italy, and Switzerland.

If you are determined to finish the route, get ready for a 6 to 12-day hike. There have been a few cases when the trail has been completed within a couple of days, but it requires Olympic speed and physical preparation. A trek longer than two weeks ensures frequent breaks and a relaxed trekking pace, perfect for beginners. And do not miss the Lac Blanc, a high alpine lake that has a high vantage point across the valley to the Mer de Glace, the Aiguilles de Chamonix, and Mont Blanc.

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The Tour of Monte Rosa is a 164-kilometre legendary hike through the Italian and Swiss Alps, touring around a collection of some of the most iconic peaks in Western Europe. The Monte Rosa Massif is the second highest mountain massif in the area and is home to the Dufourspitze (4,634 m), the highest peak in Switzerland, and the Breithorn (4,164 m), perfect for those looking forward to trying mountaineering. One of the hiking highlights will definitely be the Matterhorn (4,478 m), a truly unique pyramidal peak. The trek will fascinate you with its local flora and fauna. The breathtaking, picture-perfect views will guide you throughout the whole adventure and fill your heart with freedom.

Depending on your walking pace, pit stops and desired resting time, as well as alternative routes, you will finish the trail within 8 to 10 days. As the Alps are a network of treks, there are many route options along the way. Some of the ways are maintained and are a pleasure to hike. However, some of them are rocky with boulder crossings and quite a challenge for hikers. It's important to remember that this trail is not suitable for inexperienced alpine hikers. The most popular start and end locations are Zermatt, Saas-Fee, and Alagna Valsesia. All are easily accessible by public transport from key international airports - Geneva, Zurich, and Milan.

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The Gran Paradiso National Park is well known all over the world for its beautiful alpine scenery and wildlife. While strolling around the most scenic panorama of the numerous hiking trails here, you will see not only the famous Ibex (Capra Ibex), a massive mountain goat with big horns that was almost extinct, but also golden eagles, ermine, weasels, Eurasian badgers, and even lynx. The paths in the Gran Paradiso hiking area are very well marked and pretty easy to walk on. Although, if you are an adventurer seeking more of a challenge, you can always arrange a trekking route via rugged paths.

The peak is easily accessible from both Italy and France; therefore, there are numerous starting points. If you are travelling by public transport, the best points to begin the trip would be Turin and Chamonix, both of which have airports. Depending on how well acclimatised you are once you have arrived in the Graian Alps, most people only spend two or three days climbing to the top of Gran Paradiso. It is considered one of the easiest mountaineering peaks in the Alps and is an excellent option for beginners to learn basic trekking techniques.

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A trip to Slovenia would not be complete without climbing to the highest point in the country — Mount Triglav. The National Park of Triglav is brimming with a set of breathtaking mountains, the cleanest lakes, and the most delightful landscapes. There are a few different routes leading to the top of Slovenia, and it takes up to three days to get there, or longer if you decide to take alternative paths and take your time appreciating the surroundings. The Via Ferrata is one of the most popular trails. It is a fixed route where you will need to wear a harness with carabiners, secure yourself to the line and cover your head with a helmet.

There is the possibility to join a guided tour, which is recommended for first-time hikers, and more experienced wanderers will most likely be fine on their own. The Seven Lakes Valley route is the longest of them all, but certainly the most beautiful one. All of the trails are reachable from different sides of the national park, and the easiest way to get there is by car via gravel roads meandering around the Triglav National Park.

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When it comes to legends, Mt. Olympus is definitely it. Olympus is the highest point in Greece, a country chock-full of cultural significance and unimaginable history. According to the mysterious Greek mythology, the mountain was home to the gods, and the peak of Stefani was considered Zeus’s Throne. Located in the Olympus Range between Thessaly and Macedonia, Mt. Olympus features 46 peaks exceeding 2,000 meters. The tallest ones are Mytikas (2,917 m), Stefani (2,909 m) and Skolio (2,911 m). If you already have mountaineering experience and good physical form, try more complex routes such as the trail through Louki to Mytikas. Safety equipment is strongly recommended here. The Gortsia Trail starts in a lush forest and is usually less crowded and a little more simple. Whichever trek you decide to take, the whole trip should not take longer than two or three days, depending on your preparation and rest time.

The region is home to an eclectic range of species that are unique to this stunning landscape, including falcons, foxes, and even extinct bear and lion species. It has everything you could want: a Mediterranean sparkle in the distance, as well as distant land destinations. Get to Mt. Olympus, put your hiking shoes on, and forget the rut, as nothing can compare to this larger-than-life mountain.

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For most people, spending the holiday in the Swiss mountains is the most captivating summertime activity. The Matterhorn offers 400 kilometres of marked hiking trails and the most scenic panoramas. Some of the trails are easy and accessible for family hikes, and some of them contain thrilling passages and vertical rope routes. So, whether you are an experienced hiker looking for an adrenaline-filled trip or a beginner, you will find your own summer paradise here.

The journey will be surrounded by unique fauna and lush greenery, rare bright flowers, and crystal clear mountain lakes. Keep in mind that reaching the summit takes courage, determination, and good physical preparation. Being in great cardio shape is essential for success. Depending on how fast you will be walking and how long you will be staying for rest, it is possible to finish the trek in 8–10 hours. It is strongly recommended to have a hike leader who knows the mountain. Do not attempt to climb the peak without using a qualified guide. Stay safe and have the most pleasantly memorable experience!

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The third highest peak in the Pyrenees, located in the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, has been named one of Europe's most beautiful limestone peaks. The kilometre-deep canyons, an abundance of wildlife and flora, as well as majestic peaks, are simply awe-inspiring when explored on foot. The area is famous for its ‘faja’ paths that thread through the high limestone cliffs. Some of these are jaw-droppingly narrow, while others are much more gentle and suitable for everybody. While this is not a difficult ascent, it does pose several challenges along the way, so experience and the right equipment are required. The hike to Monte Perdido will take up to 6 hours, depending on how long you want to rest and wander around the national park.

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Located in the Pennine Alps, between Saas-Fee and Randa, Dom (4545 m) is the third highest mountain in the Alps and the highest in Switzerland. This majestic mountain belongs to the Mischabel group. Although not difficult at a technical level, its ascent requires excellent fitness and stamina. The whole trip to the top will take you up to 7 hours, and it is strongly recommended to have a local guide who knows the mountain and its surroundings. You’d also really enjoy this trip if you’ve previously climbed Mont Blanc or the Grand Paradiso, and it’s a good step before climbing more technical peaks like the Matterhorn. The top of the mountain opens up a breathtaking panorama of the peaks of the Mischabel group and its snowy mountain tops.

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Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in Scotland, the United Kingdom, and the British Isles. The Mountain Track (sometimes called the Tourist Track or the Pony Track) is used by most walkers, whilst the Carn Mor Dearg Arête route presents a more challenging climb for more experienced hikers. An average time to the summit and back is 7–8 hours. Mostly rugged and rocky, this mountain track features wildlife, birding, a waterfall, and a beautiful landscape in the sun, snow, blue skies, and thick clouds. 

As the weather in the country of Scotland is always changing and it gets cooler the higher you climb, looking up the weather forecast is a must before your attempt. Always look after yourself, keep hydrated and have some snacks. Walk at a pace that you can maintain comfortably. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to hold a conversation while you are walking. Pay a lot of attention to the conditions and do not be afraid to turn back; Ben Nevis will always be there!

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Kebnekaise is the highest mountain in Sweden and is part of the Scandinavian mountain range. It has two main peaks. The western route, or the route you can go on your own, is a long and physically demanding hiking trail in steep, very rocky terrain. The tour usually takes between 10 and 14 hours, but that obviously depends on your level of fitness. The eastern route is somewhat shorter, a round trip of approximately 14 kilometres, and takes about ten hours. The route is unmarked. There is also the possibility to rent all the necessary gear at the tourist point.

The distant alpine panorama you'll see on your climb to the top is breathtaking. Furthermore, reaching the peak is not difficult and does not require any prior climbing experience. Climbing Kebnekaise, which is home to several glaciers and spectacular arctic vistas, is a pleasantly unforgettable experience.

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