Italy's great outdoors

Climbing the Dolomites' iron paths

The Dolomites in north-eastern Italy are home to over 150 via ferrata, climbing routes that follow permanent cables and steel rings fixed into the rock. Known as ‘iron paths’, the first of these were laid during World War I, when the mountains here were a battleground between Italian and Austrian forces. Today, they open up terrain usually only accessible to experienced rock climbers. You will need to be in reasonable shape, but clipping in and following the route is more manageable than it sounds, especially with a guide alongside you. The Giro de Sorapis is the pick of them all: a two-day route over jagged peaks, with nights spent in the region's beautiful refugio mountain huts along the way.

Closest Finnair destination: Venice

Plunge into Campania's wild pools

Italy has no shortage of beautiful wild swimming spots, but few are as special as the Cascata Capelli di Venere in Campania. The name means ‘Hair of Venus’, a nod to the way the water tumbles over the rocks into the gorgeous plunge pools below. Located close to Casaletto Spartano, around two hours by car from Naples, it is easy to reach on foot. For those who want to explore further, there are more swimming holes nearby, as well as good spots for wild camping. A perfect destination when the weather is warm and a long, cool swim is exactly what you need.

Closest Finnair destination: Naples

Paddleboard the waters of Lake Garda

Lake Garda has a character all its own. The northern end feels almost Austrian, while the south is unmistakably Italian. Whichever shore you choose, the best way to take in the scenery is from the water. Stand-up paddleboarding has grown steadily in popularity here, with plenty of places to hire a board and wetsuit. If it is your first time, a guide will help you find your balance, read the wind and the waves, and point out the mountain passes and villages along the horizon.

Closest Finnair destination: Verona or Milan

Hike quiet trails through the Apennines

The Apennines are often overshadowed by the Alps, but this long mountain range forms the backbone of Italy and holds hundreds of kilometres of wonderful hiking trails. Some follow ancient shepherds' roads, others wind across open, windswept ridgelines. Part of the Via Francigena, the historic pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome, passes through here too. There are also plenty of shorter day routes for those who prefer a gentler pace. For quiet time in some of Europe's most underappreciated countryside, it is hard to find a better place.

Closest Finnair destination: Florence, our new summer destination starting in April 2026. Bologna is also nearby.

Pedal through Piedmont's vine-covered hills

The hills south of Turin are best known for their wine, but they make for equally wonderful cycling country. The Langhe, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape of vine-covered ridges and medieval hilltop villages, offers routes for all levels, from gentle valley roads to more demanding climbs with views that stretch as far as the Alps. Turin itself is a natural starting point: a confident, understated city with excellent connections and a relaxed pace that sets the tone for the trip ahead. Bike hire is widely available across the region, and the local roads are quiet enough to let you settle in and simply enjoy the ride.

Closest Finnair destination: Turin, our new summer destination starting in May 2026.

Cycling up from the Sicilian coast

Sicily's warm climate and rolling terrain make it a rewarding destination for cyclists. Those who prefer road cycling can set out from the coastal town of Balestrate and climb into the hills for sweeping views over the sea. Mountain bikers will find a satisfying challenge at Monte Pellegrino, with scenery that more than repays the effort. Catania, on the island's eastern coast, is an equally wonderful base for the island: a lively, sun-warmed city with direct Finnair connections and easy access to the slopes of Mount Etna and the open landscapes beyond. On Sicily offers bike hire and guides across the island, making the whole trip straightforward to arrange.

Closest Finnair destination: Catania, our new summer destination starting in March 2026.