Italy stands out not only for its historical and cultural richness but also for its natural beauty. The national parks spread across the country serve as a paradise for nature lovers. Extending from the peaks of the Alps to the Mediterranean coast, these protected areas offer both biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. Here are Italy’s top 8 national parks and the unique experiences they offer.
1. Gran Paradiso National Park
Gran Paradiso National Park, established in 1922, holds the title of Italy’s first national park. Located between the Aosta Valley and Piedmont regions, this park is named after the 4,061-meter-high Gran Paradiso Mountain.
Where is it?
Gran Paradiso National Park is situated in northwestern Italy, between the Aosta Valley and Piedmont regions. Established in 1922, it is Italy’s first national park.
Since it lies within the Italian Alps, the park is known for its high mountain peaks, glaciers, lush valleys, and rich wildlife. It is about 100 kilometers from Turin and is a popular destination for nature lovers, mountaineers, and photographers.
How to Get There?
📍 Location: Aosta Valley and Piedmont regions
✈️ Nearest Airports:
- Turin Airport (TRN) – 80 km
- Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) – 180 km
🚆 By Train:
Take a train from Turin or Milan to Aosta, then continue by bus or rental car to reach the park.
🚗 By Car:
- From Turin: Take the A5 highway; the drive takes about 1.5 hours.
- From Milan: Take the A4 and A5 highways; the drive takes about 2.5 hours.
Natural Beauty and Fauna
The park is particularly famous for Alpine ibex and chamois. Additionally, it is home to golden eagles, marmots, and foxes. In summer, the valleys are covered with colorful Alpine flowers.
Activities
Gran Paradiso is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in winter. The Valnontey Valley and the village of Cogne offer popular trails for hikers.
2. Stelvio National Park
Established in 1935, Stelvio National Park is the largest national park in Italy. Located in the Lombardy and Trentino-Alto Adige regions, it offers stunning Alpine landscapes.
Where is it?
Stelvio National Park is in northern Italy, spanning the Lombardy and Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol regions. Established in 1935, it is Italy’s largest national park.
The park covers the Ortler-Cevedale Mountains and surrounding areas. It includes the famous Stelvio Pass (Passo dello Stelvio), one of Europe’s highest mountain passes. It is located near alpine towns such as Bormio, Livigno, and Santa Caterina Valfurva. It is about 100-150 km from the cities of Bolzano and Trento.
With its impressive Alpine scenery, glaciers, lakes, and rich wildlife, it is a popular destination for nature and outdoor sports enthusiasts.
How to Get There?
📍 Location: Lombardy and Trentino-Alto Adige regions
✈️ Nearest Airports:
- Bolzano Airport (BZO) – 90 km
- Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) – 200 km
🚆 By Train:
Take a train from Milan to Tirano, then continue by bus or taxi to the park.
🚗 By Car:
- From Milan: Take the A4 highway; the drive takes about 3.5 hours.
- From Bolzano: Take the SS38 road; the drive takes about 2 hours.
Peaks and Glaciers
The park is dominated by Ortler Mountain, which stands at 3,905 meters. It is filled with glaciers, deep valleys, and waterfalls. The Stelvio Pass, one of Europe’s highest mountain passes, offers an unforgettable experience for drivers and cyclists.
Nature and Wildlife
The park is home to red deer, Alpine ibex, and lynxes, as well as over 1,200 plant species.
3. Cinque Terre National Park
Cinque Terre consists of five colorful coastal villages listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located along the Ligurian coast, this park is famous for its villages built on steep slopes and terraced vineyards.
Where is it?
Cinque Terre National Park is in northwestern Italy, in the Liguria region, within the province of La Spezia. Established in 1999, this park includes the five coastal villages (Cinque Terre: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore), which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located along the Ligurian Sea, the park is known for its colorful villages built on steep cliffs, vineyards, and breathtaking views. It is about 80 km from Genoa and 160 km from Florence.
Cinque Terre National Park is a popular destination for hiking, water sports, and photography. The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) is the most famous hiking route, connecting the villages and offering visitors stunning coastal views.
How to Get There?
📍 Location: Liguria Region, La Spezia Province
✈️ Nearest Airports:
- Pisa Airport (PSA) – 80 km
- Genoa Airport (GOA) – 100 km
🚆 By Train (Recommended):
Take a train from Florence, Genoa, or Pisa to La Spezia Centrale, then take regional trains to the Cinque Terre villages (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore).
🚗 By Car:
Roads in the area are narrow, and parking is limited, so traveling by train is recommended.
Breathtaking Views
The villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore are the most well-known locations in the park. Their colorful houses and narrow streets reflect the charm of the Mediterranean.
Hiking and Sea Activities
One of the most popular activities in the park is exploring the hiking trails between the villages. The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) offers breathtaking views. Swimming, diving, and boat tours are also popular.
4. Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park
Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park is located in the southeastern Dolomites and is known for its dramatic rock formations and rich flora.
Where is it?
Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park is in northern Italy, within the Veneto region, in the province of Belluno. Established in 1990, this park is one of the most spectacular natural areas in the southeastern Dolomite Mountains and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The park is located between the cities of Belluno and Feltre, about 100 km from Venice. It is known for its dramatic rock formations such as Schíara, Pizzocco, and Cimónega and its deep valleys.
Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park is an excellent location for mountaineering, hiking, birdwatching, and photography. The Vette Feltrine area, in particular, stands out for its botanical diversity. The park, with its untouched wilderness and rare plant species, is an exceptional destination for nature lovers.
How to Get There?
📍 Location: Veneto Region, Belluno Province
✈️ Nearest Airports:
- Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) – 100 km
- Treviso Airport (TSF) – 80 km
🚆 By Train:
Take a train from Venice to Belluno, then continue by bus or taxi to the park.
🚗 By Car:
- From Venice: Take the A27 highway; the drive takes about 1.5 hours.
The Power of Nature
The unique geological structure of the Dolomites makes this park ideal for mountaineering and photography enthusiasts. The Cimónega and Schíara Mountains are among the most striking peaks in the region.
Biological Diversity
The park is home to more than 1,400 plant species and over 120 bird species. Animals such as lynxes, wolves, and Alpine ibex also inhabit the area.
5. Gargano National Park
Gargano National Park is located in the Puglia region, at the “spur” of Italy’s “boot-shaped” peninsula. It is known for its white limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
Where is it?
Gargano National Park is in southern Italy, in the Puglia region, within the province of Foggia. Established in 1991, this park encompasses the Gargano Peninsula and is located along the Adriatic Sea.
It is situated in the protruding part of Italy’s “boot” shape and is famous for coastal towns such as Vieste, Peschici, and Mattinata. The park is approximately 140 km from Bari and 220 km from Naples.
Gargano National Park features white limestone cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. The Foresta Umbra (Umbra Forest) is one of the most significant natural areas in the park. Additionally, the Tremiti Islands are a popular spot for diving and snorkeling. The park is an excellent destination for hiking, cycling tours, and beach activities.
How to Get There?
📍 Location: Puglia Region, Foggia Province
✈️ Nearest Airports:
- Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI) – 150 km
- Naples Capodichino Airport (NAP) – 220 km
🚆 By Train:
Take a train from Rome, Naples, or Bari to Foggia, then take a bus to Vieste or Peschici.
🚗 By Car:
- From Bari: Take the A14 highway; the drive takes about 2.5 hours.
Forests and Caves
The park includes the Foresta Umbra, a vast woodland area. Additionally, coastal towns such as Vieste and Peschici are famous for their sea caves and beaches.
Rich Marine Ecosystem
Gargano is also home to the Tremiti Islands, which offer excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
6. Sila National Park
Located in the Calabria region, Sila National Park is one of southern Italy’s oldest forested areas. The park is particularly known for its vast pine forests and serene lakes.
Where is it?
Sila National Park is in southern Italy, in the Calabria region. Established in 1997, the park spans the provinces of Catanzaro, Cosenza, and Crotone.
Situated on the Sila Mountains, the park forms one of the largest mountainous plateaus in the Mediterranean. It is approximately 50 km from Catanzaro and 30 km from Cosenza.
Sila National Park is famous for its dense pine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. The Arvo, Ampollino, and Cecita Lakes are among the park’s most significant natural attractions. It is divided into three main regions: Sila Greca, Sila Grande, and Sila Piccola.
The park is ideal for activities such as hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and skiing in winter. It also offers visitors a chance to experience the local culture and cuisine in traditional Calabrian villages.
How to Get There?
📍 Location: Calabria Region (Catanzaro, Cosenza, Crotone provinces)
✈️ Nearest Airports:
- Lamezia Terme Airport (SUF) – 70 km
- Crotone Airport (CRV) – 60 km
🚆 By Train:
Take a train from Rome or Naples to Lamezia Terme, then rent a car to reach the park.
🚗 By Car:
- From Lamezia Terme: Take the SS109 road; the drive takes about 1.5 hours.
Towering Trees
Sila’s pine forests provide a peaceful environment for hikers and campers. The Arvo, Ampollino, and Cecita Lakes are popular for water sports.
Cultural Richness
The villages surrounding the park reflect Calabria’s traditional lifestyle. The region’s unique cuisine and crafts offer visitors a cultural experience.
7. Aspromonte National Park
Aspromonte National Park is located in the southernmost part of Calabria and is named after the Aspromonte Mountains. This park stands out for both its natural beauty and historical significance.
Where is it?
Aspromonte National Park is in southern Italy, in the Calabria region, within the province of Reggio Calabria. It was placed under protection in 1989 and officially declared a national park in 1994.
The park extends across the Aspromonte Mountains and is situated between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas. It is approximately 40 km from Reggio Calabria and is very close to the Strait of Messina.
Aspromonte National Park is known for its high mountain peaks, deep valleys, waterfalls, and dense forests. The highest peak in the park is Montalto Summit, which rises to 1,956 meters. On clear days, visitors can see Sicily and the Stromboli Volcano from the top.
The park is an excellent destination for hiking, mountaineering, cycling tours, and wildlife observation. Additionally, due to its archaeological remains from Ancient Greece and the Byzantine era, it is an attractive site for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
How to Get There?
📍 Location: Calabria Region, Reggio Calabria Province
✈️ Nearest Airports:
- Reggio Calabria Airport (REG) – 40 km
- Lamezia Terme Airport (SUF) – 130 km
🚆 By Train:
Take a train from Rome, Naples, or Lamezia Terme to Reggio Calabria, then continue by bus or taxi.
🚗 By Car:
- From Reggio Calabria: Take the SS183 road; the drive takes about 1 hour.
Unique Geography
From the mountain peaks, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Sicily and the Stromboli Volcano. Montalto Peak (1,956 meters) is the highest point in the park.
History and Culture
Aspromonte is home to archaeological sites from Ancient Greece. It is also believed that the Carthaginian general Hannibal once hid in these mountains.
8. Val Grande National Park
Val Grande National Park is known as Italy’s largest wilderness area. Located in the Piedmont region, this park is one of the rare places that has remained largely untouched by human intervention.
Where is it?
Val Grande National Park is in northern Italy, in the Piedmont region, within the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola. Established in 1992, it is known as Italy’s largest wilderness area.
The park is located west of Lake Maggiore, near the Swiss border. It is about 100 km from Milan and 150 km from Turin. The cities of Domodossola and Verbania are the closest urban areas to the park.
Val Grande National Park is famous for its untouched forests, steep valleys, and rugged mountains. Since the park remains almost entirely free of human influence, it is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and experienced hikers.
Due to the lack of marked trails, guided tours are recommended. The park also has a rich ecosystem, home to wolves, eagles, deer, and various endemic plant species. It is a perfect spot for nature photography, camping, and wildlife observation.
How to Get There?
📍 Location: Piedmont Region, Verbano-Cusio-Ossola Province
✈️ Nearest Airports:
- Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) – 90 km
- Turin Airport (TRN) – 150 km
🚆 By Train:
Take a train from Milan to Verbania, then continue by bus or taxi.
🚗 By Car:
- From Milan: Take the A26 highway; the drive takes about 1.5 hours.
A Truly Wild Nature
Val Grande is ideal for adventure seekers, with its unmarked trails and untouched forests. Guided tours are recommended for exploring this challenging yet fascinating landscape.
Rich Ecosystem
The park is home to rare animals such as wolves and bears. Additionally, many endemic plant species can be found in the park.