Top European Airports Near Mountains for Hikers & Short Trips

Discover the best European destinations for short hiking trips or weekend escapes, with airports located close to mountain ranges and scenic trails. Some airports are just minutes from the hills making them ideal for spontenaneous hiking trips,  while others take up to 3 hours to reach by public transport and are great for alpine adventure holidays.

Be aware that flight prices and overall affordability shift with the seasons and your departure city. Off‑season travel often offers the best value. While all destinations are accessible by public transport, renting a car provides faster and more flexible access to the mountains.

1. Bergamo Airport, Italy – Affordable Gateway to the Bergamasque Alps

Bergamo Airport is one of the cheapest European airports for hikers flying from the UK to the Alps. It offers excellent access to alpine trails via affordable public transport, including buses and trams that take about 1 to 1.5 hours  linking to nearby valleys and mountain towns, meaning alpine hikes are accessible without car hire. The Bergamasque Alps offer a mix of waterfalls, rugged peaks, and charming refuges, perfect for weekend hikers seeking an authentic Italian mountain atmosphere.
This airport is ideal for budget trekking and camping, especially in off-peak seasons.

Sample Itinerary:
Arrive at Bergamo Airport, take a 20‑minute bus into Bergamo’s city centre, then connect with local buses or trams that reach hiking towns such as Albino (40 minutes), Valbondione (1.5 hours), or Selvino. Spend your weekend exploring waterfalls and alpine trails, staying overnight in affordable mountain lodges or refuges.

Public buses from Bergamo run frequently into the valleys. They’re very budget-friendly and specifically timed to coordinate with hikers visiting mountain villages.

Popular Hikes Near Bergamo Airport:

• Cascate del Serio (Serio Waterfalls): Hike to Italy’s longest waterfall (315m)  accessible by bus from Valbondione. Consider the time of the year, as summer water releases are more dramatic as the water falls more dramatically into the valley. A short but striking hike.

• Monte Poieto: Reachable via tram to Albino and funicular to Selvino; then hike the panoramic ridge trails with mountain refuges.

• Sentiero delle Orobie: Multi-day hiking route that is doable in sections for shorter trips by talking buses into Piazza Brembana or Ardesio. This hike is full of dramatic alpine ridgelines, pine forests, and sweeping valley views.

• Hike from Bergamo to Canto Alto: A city trail about 23 km round trip for an immersive mountain experience. Perfect hike for those that want to stretch their legs without leaving town. Views over the Lombardy plains at the summit.

• Maresana to Selvino Trail: A 14 km scenic trail linking villages, accessible with local bus/tram services — ideal for travellers without a car.

2. Poprad Airport, Slovakia – Low-Cost Access to the High Tatras

Poprad Airport offers low-cost getaway for hikers and easy access to the High Tatras, which are  renowned for alpine lakes, jagged peaks, and well-marked trails. Although there is no direct bus or train from the airport itself, taxis or walking lead to Poprad town, where public transport options to the mountains start. Buses and trains connect to prominent High Tatras trailheads like Tatranská Lomnica.

The compact region means you can base yourself in Poprad or Tatranská Lomnica and explore multiple trails over a long weekend.

Sample Itinerary:
Arrive at Poprad Airport, take a quick taxi or short walk into Poprad town centre. From there, trains and buses run up into the Tatras — Tatranská Lomnica, Starý Smokovec, and Štrbské Pleso are the main hubs. These link directly into trailheads, cable cars, and alpine lodges.

Popular Hikes Near Poprad Airport:

• Tatranská Lomnica to Skalnaté Pleso (1,751m): rewarding route to a high alpine lake with cable car access for shorter hikes. Excellent introduction to Tatras hiking.

• Rysy Peak (2,503m) or High Tatras Valley Walks : The highest peak in Poland, accessed from the Slovak side. A full-day, demanding hike, but iconic for its glacial lakes and panoramic ridge views. Accessible by bus/train to Štrbské Pleso.

• Štrbské Pleso Circuit: Easy lake walk with stunning mountain reflections, great for relaxed hikers. Can connect into longer valley hikes. Reached by train/bus directly from Poprad.

• Starý Smokovec to Hrebienok & Waterfalls Trail – A half-day, family-friendly option with cascading waterfalls and mountain pine forests. Cable car available for easier access.

Slovakia’s mountain railaway links all major villages and trailheads, meaning you can hop on/off with one affordable ticket. Poprad also connects directly by train to Bratislava and Kosice.

Consider flying to Kosice and getting a train to Poprad to reach the Tatra mountains. For longer trips flights to Bratislava can also be convenient.

3. Malaga Airport, Spain – Affordable Entry to Andalusian Hiking

Malaga Airport is one of the most accessible for hikers from all over the UK due to its abundance of budget flights. Malaga is a key gateway to Andalusia, , making it a springboard for Mediterranean coast walks, dramatic gorge hikes, and even snow-capped Sierra Nevada trails. The city itself is affordable, with buses and trains linking easily to trailheads. The city itself is relatively affordable with buses and trains easily linking you to the start of the trail.

Sample Itinerary:
Arrive in Málaga, take a 50‑minute train ride to El Chorro to experience the Caminito del Rey, then dedicate another day to the Granada region for foothill hikes of the Sierra Nevada. Stay in Málaga or Granada depending on budget and preference.

Popular Hikes Near Malaga Airport:

• Caminito del Rey: Spain’s most famous walkway along narrow cliff edges and suspended bridges, accessible by direct train/bus from Málaga to El Chorro. A must for thrill-seeking hikers.

• Montes de Málaga Natural Park – Just north of the city, accessible by local bus, featuring Mediterranean forest trails, vineyards, and historical farmsteads. A quiet escape only 30 minutes from Malaga.

• Sierra Nevada Foothills: From Granada (2 hours by bus), access gentle but scenic trails with wildflower meadows, rivers, and mountain views. Options range from shorter 2‑3 hour circuits to challenging mountain routes.

Travel Tip: Malaga’s commuter trains and buses get you to most trailheads. Booking Caminito del Rey entry and train tickets early is recommended in high season.

4. Granada Airport, Spain – Budget Access to Sierra Nevada National Park

Granada Airport is smaller than Malaga but closer to Sierra Nevada National Park, making it a great starting point for budget camping or hiking weekend. Unlike in Malaga, you can be on high-altitude trails within an hour of landing.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly into Granada, take a shuttle bus to the city, then onward to Sierra Nevada village (1 hour by bus). Spend weekends climbing or exploring alpine valleys.

Popular Hikes Near Granada Airport:

• Veleta Peak (3,394m) – The second-highest mountain in mainland Spain, with stunning views and diverse terrain. The routes start from Sierra Nevada ski resort. A challenging but attainable day hike for experienced trekkers.
• Monachil Gorge (Los Cahorros) – A famous half-day hike just outside Granada with hanging bridges and rocky canyons. Public buses run here directly.
• Sierra Nevada Valley Walks – Easier day trails with glacial cirques, wildflower meadows, and historic shepherd routes.

5. Turin Airport, Italy – Premium Access to the Italian Alps

Turin airport is a perfect entry point for hikers seeking a blend of Italian alpine terrain and easy access. Turin offers great direct connections by train and bus to some of Italy’s most famous alpine resorts and hiking hubs.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly to Turin, then take a direct train or bus one-hour train journey to alpine trailheads such as Pinerolo or Susa Valley (about 1 hour), or continue to the Olympic ski resort areas such as Sestriere. Stay overnight in a mountain hut and enjoy alpine ridge hikes over a weekend.

Popular Hikes Near Turin Airport:

• Sestriere Alpine Trails: There are many scenic trails in the Piedmont Alps, with hiking routes taking you through pastures, high ridges and alipine lakes.

• Pinerolo Mountain Routes: Day hikes with panoramic views of the Po Valley. This hiking trail is easily reachable by train or bus from Turin.

• Gran Paradiso National Park (Ceresole Reale side) – Accessible within 2 hours of Turin. Stunning trails lead to glacial valleys, ibex viewing, and refuges.

For longer trips, consider Milan Airports to visit Lake Como, St Moritz and Swiss mountains. Since there are plenty of sightseeing train this is a great place to go if you have people with you who perfer to do less hiking.

6. Glasgow Airport, Scotland – Gateway to the Scottish Highlands and Loch Lomond

For UK travellers Glasgow Airport is the most practical starting point for adventurous hiking in the Scottish Highlands. Within an hour you can easily reach Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, making it perfect for weekened trips without long transfers and passport control.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly to Glasgow, then take direct buses (30-50 minutes) to Balloch or Balmaha. Spend the weekend on the scenic lochside or travel further north to Glencoe for more dramatic landscapes.

Popular Hikes Near Glasgow Airport:

• Conic Hill (Loch Lomond) – Short but steep climb with outstanding loch views, accessible by bus to Balmaha.
• Ben Lomond – The most climbed Munro in Scotland, starting from Rowardennan (reachable by bus). A clear and manageable route for experienced day hikers.
• Glencoe Valley: For those that have more time, take the 2.5 hour bus from Glasgow to Glencoe. There are plenty of options there from short walks to demanding ridge traverses such as the Aonach Eagach.

7. Kosice Airport, Slovakia – Access to Forest and Mountain Trails

Kosice is a less crowded alternative to Poprad that connects hikers to local forests and mountain trails and nature reserves of the Slovak Ore Mountains. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy peace and authentic local culture.

For those that can’t fly to Poprad, flying to Kosice airport and taking the train to Poprad is also an easy option.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly to Kosice, then take public buses or trains into surrounding mountains like Slovenský raj (Slovak Paradise) or Volovské Hills.

Popular Hikes Near Kosice Airport:

• Slovak Paradise National Park: Famous for its ladder-and-gorge trails such as Sucha Bela and Piecky. Reachable in 1.5 hours by train/bus.

• Bankov Forest Park: Just minutes from Košice, offering marked trails through pine woods for a half-day outing.

• Volovské Hills Ridge Trails:  Quiet, long-distance hiking options accessible with public transport to mountain villages.

8. Ljubljana Airport, Slovenia – Budget Access to Lakes and National Parks

Ljubljana Airport offers direct, affordable flights from the UK and easy access to Slovenia’s famed hiking around Lake Bled and Triglav National Park.Within an hour of landing, you can be climbing peaks or walking beside crystal-clear alpine lakes.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly to Ljubljana, take a 30-40 minute bus or car ride to Lake Bled or Triglav National Park for stunning hikes in budget-friendly mountain landscapes.

Popular Hikes Near Ljubljana Airport:

• Lake Bled Circuit: A relaxed, 6km scenic day hike with iconinc lake bled and castle. Ideal for the first afternoon.

• Vintgar Gorge Walk:  A short but dramatic wooden walkway above turquoise river rapids, just outside Bled.
• Mount Triglav (2,864m): Slovenia’s highest peak, a demanding 2-day climb involving huts and breathtaking summits.

• Pokljuka Plateau Trails:  Forest and meadow trails linking mountain huts, accessible by bus from Bled.

Alternatively, consider Klagenfurt am Wörthersee airport in Austria, which has a direct bus to Lake Bled.

9. Sofia Airport, Bulgaria – Low-Cost Gateway to Mountain Hiking

Sofia Airport provides regular budget flights from the UK and easy access to the nearby Vitosha Mountain by public bus. Within an hour of landing, you can be on well-marked trails with panoramic city and Balkan mountain views.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly to Sofia, take public bus or metro to Vitosha’s cable car stations. Spend the weekend exploring forested slopes, waterfalls, and ridges, returning easily to the city for food and nightlife.

Buses (e.g. #66 and #64) and the Vitosha cable car make the hikes directly accessible from Sofia without needing a car.

Popular Hikes Near Sofia Airport:

• Cherni Vrah (Vitosha Peak, 2,290m):  The highest point of Vitosha, a straightforward day hike with 360° views. Bus #66 transports you directly to selected trailheads.

• Boyana Waterfall & Boyana Lake:  Family-friendly day hike to a mountain waterfall just 40 minutes from Sofia by bus.

• Dragalevtsi Monastery Trails:  Cultural and natural routes combining medieval heritage with pine forests.

10. Zadar Airport, Croatia – Coastal Access to Mountain Trails

Zadar Airport is the second coastal entry point on this list and provides easy access to Croatia’s Paklenica National Park making it perfect for those who want to combine coastal towns with mountain adventure. It offers the best of both worlds — Adriatic sea views and towering karst peaks.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly to Zadar, then take a 45-minute bus to Paklenica National Park. Bus routes connect from Rijeka to Starigrad-Paklenica. Spend your weekend exploring canyons and summits before relaxing by the beach.

Popular Hikes Near Zadar Airport:

• Velika Paklenica Canyon:  A dramatic trail through limestone gorges popular with hikers and climbers. Accessible directly from Starigrad.

• Vaganski Vrh (1,757m):  The highest peak in Velebit mountains, a tough but rewarding full-day hike.

• Coastal Walks from Zadar Old Town:  Easier trails along the Adriatic for those wanting light hiking with sea views

11. Inverness, Scotland – Gateway to Stunning Highland Hikes

Inverness is an ideal starting point for exploring some of the most beautiful and accessible hiking trails in the Scottish Highlands. The city offers easy access to a variety of scenic routes ranging from gentle nature walks to more challenging mountain hikes.

Sample Itinerary:
Arrive in Inverness, then head to nearby trails such as Ord Hill for an easy uphill walk with panoramic views of the city and Beauly Firth, or take a short drive to the Loch Affric Circuit for a longer half-day wilderness hike among ancient pine forests.

Popular Hikes Near Inverness:

• Sections of South Loch Ness Trail: 58 km long and stretches from Fort Augustus to Torbreck near Inverness. This scenic route runs along the quieter side of Loch Ness, and is typically completed in 2–3 days. It features loch views, historical sites, waterfalls, and charming villages. You can return to Inverness by bus from Fort Augustus at the end of your trek, making it very practical for a weekend adventure.
• Sections of the Great Glen Way: While the full Great Glen Way is a long-distance route from Inverness to Fort William, hiking the stages between Inverness and Drumnadrochit or Fort Augustus can be completed in 1–2 days, with accommodation available in the villages en route and regular public transport connections.
• Sections of Moray Coast Trail : The full Moray Coast Trail is 80km, but the portion between Forres and Findhorn or Burghead can be done in a weekend, featuring beautiful beaches, cliffs, and quieter villages with good public transport for start and finish points.
• To explore options further afield, take a bus or train to Aviemore for trails in the Cairngorms

12. East Midlands, England – Accessible Trails for Weekend Explorers

The East Midlands region offers a variety of short, accessible countryside walks and day trips of rolling hills, nature reserves and scenic reservoirs. Its location means short travel times from cities like Nottingham, Leicester, or Derby.

Sample Itinerary:
Take a train or car journey to the Peak District foothills or Rutland Water. Spend a weekend mixing gentle walks with country pubs and historic landmarks.

Popular Hikes in the East Midlands:

• Peak District Foothills: Accessible trails around areas like Dovedale and Thorpe Cloud, perfect for river valley walks and limestone dales.

• Rutland Water Circular Trail: A 25 km gentle lakeside loop with birdwatching and picnic spots, accessible by bus from Oakham.

• Sherwood Forest Trails:  Family-friendly woodland hikes steeped in Robin Hood legend, easily accessible by bus/train.

13. Dublin Airport, Ireland – Quick Access to Coastal and Mountain Hikes

Within Ireland, there are plenty of airports that are quite close to hills and cliffs, including Kerry, Cork, and Shannon Airport. However, most of these places would require a car rental.  For most people, Dublin Airport is best placed for quick access to some of Ireland’s best walking trails using public transport. Just 40 minutes south from the Dublin by bus or train brings you to the Wicklow Mountains and the wild, scenic coastline near Bray and Greystones. The Wicklow region, known as “the Garden of Ireland,” features glacial valleys, rolling moorlands, and forested routes perfect for weekend hiking.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly into Dublin airport and take the bus to the city centre (~30 mins),  then catch a bus or a train to the Wicklow Mountains (~1 hour 15 mins) . Base yourself in Glendalough or Enniskerry for a weekend of scenic hikes.

Popular Hikes near Dublin:

• Glendalough (Wicklow Mountains National Park): Easily reached by the St. Kevin’s Bus from Dublin city centre.  The bus ride takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to the Glendalough Visitor Centre. From here, you can access multiple trails like the Spinc & Glenealo Valley loop and leisurely walks around the lakes.

• Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk: A scenic coastal trail accessible by train. Take the train to Bray or Greystones stations, then walk the 5.5 km cliff path between the two towns. This is a popular, easy hike with beautiful sea views.

• Djouce Mountain: Start from the village of Roundwood, which can be reached by bus from Dublin. The hike to Djouce summit takes 2-3 hours and features boardwalk trails with excellent mountain views.

• Marlay Park and Wicklow Way Start: Accessible by several Dublin bus routes from the city center, Marlay Park is the northern trailhead for the Wicklow Way, Ireland’s famous long-distance hiking path. From here, you can explore sections of the Wicklow Way heading south.

• Wicklow Way Bus Route: This dedicated bus service connects walkers with trailheads such as Glendalough, Glenmalure, Tinahely, and Laragh, allowing flexible one-day hikes or multi-day segment walks along the Wicklow Way. It links with trains at Rathdrum station from Dublin.

14. Venice Marco Polo Airport, Italy – Scenic Gateway to the Dolomites

Venice Marco Polo Airport is a major hub for travellers seeking quick access to the Dolomites, one of Europe’s most dramatic alpine landscapes. From the airport, frequent buses and shuttle transfers reach towns such as Cortina d’Ampezzo, Alleghe, and Val di Fassa in around 2.5 to 3 hours, making it possible to start a hiking trip in the heart of the Dolomites without needing a car.

The region’s trails offer everything from gentle valley walks to rugged high‑altitude treks with panoramic views of sheer limestone peaks. Venice is particularly ideal as a starting point for hikers who want a blend of cultural exploration in the historic lagoon city, followed by an alpine adventure.

Sample Itinerary:
Arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport, then take a direct Cortina Express coach to Cortina d’Ampezzo (around 2.5–3 hours). Spend a weekend hiking iconic trails around the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks), the Lago di Sorapis with its turquoise waters, or the Alta Via 1 multi‑day route if you’re seeking a longer challenge. Stay in rifugi (mountain huts) to fully experience the Dolomites’ alpine culture.

Popular Hikes near Dublin:

• Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop: One of the most famous hikes in the Dolomites with monumental peaks, accessible by bus from Cortina.

• Lago di Sorapis: A moderate trail leading to a turquoise alpine lake that feels otherworldly.

• Seceda Ridgeline Hike: Accessible via cable car from Ortisei — iconic jagged ridges with spectacular panoramas.

• Alta Via 1 (section hikes): Embark on sections of this famous multi‑day route, starting from Lago di Braies.

1. Geneva Airport, Switzerland/France – Alps Gateway for Weekend Hiking

Geneva offers mid-range flight options and about 1.5-hour transfers to key alpine hiking spots covering both France and Switzerland. Within 90 minutes, hikers can reach Chamonix, Morzine, or the Jura Mountains.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly into Geneva, transfer by bus/train to Chamonix in around 1.5 hours. Spend the weekend exploring world-famous alpine routes.

Popular Hikes Near Geneva Airport:

• Lac Blanc (Chamonix Valley):  One of the most photographed alpine lakes, reached by a moderately challenging trail.
• Aiguille du Midi Viewpoints:  Routes leading to panoramic glacier views via cable car.
• Jura Mountain Walks: Gentle ridge hikes with alpine meadows just across the border.

2. Innsbruck Airport, Austria – Tirol Alps Hiking Hub

Innsbruck provides mid-priced flights with convenient alpine access. The airport is just 10-20 minutes away from mountain trailheads. to popular hiking trails like Nordkette and Patscherkofel. This makes it one of the best airports for weekend hiking escapes.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly to Innsbruck and take the bus to the city centre. From there  hop on the Hungerburgbahn funicular to the base of the Nordkette mountains or Patscherkofel cable car directly from the city. to the Patscherkofel moutain. Spend a weekend exploring the various day hikes in Austria.

Popular Hikes Near Innsbruck Airport:

• Nordkette Ridge Hike : Cable car to Seegrube followed by panoramic ridge walking right above Innsbruck.

• Patscherkofel Summit (2,246m): Accessible by cable car and featuring circular alpine routes with excellent views.

• Innsbruck Panorama Trail: Lower-elevation hikes linking villages and mountain huts.

3. Munich Airport, Germany – Access to the Bavarian Alps

Munich offers steady mid-range flight availability with about 2-hour train or drive access to Garmisch-Partenkirchen trails,  the hiking capital of Bavaria. Ideal for weekend trips that mix city attractions with mountain adventure.

Sample Itinerary:
Arrive in Munich Airport, take a 2-hour train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Use it as a base for hiking Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak, or nearby gorges.

Popular Hikes Near Munich Airport:

• Zugspitze (2,962m):  Can be attempted fully on foot or partially by cable car/train for flexible levels.

• Partnach Gorge: A scenic, family-friendly hike through dramatic limestone formations.

• Wank Mountain Trails: Easier alternatives with panoramic balcony views over the Alps

4. Salzburg Airport, Austria – Gateway to the Austrian Alps and National Parks

Salzburg is a great location for hikers who want both Austrian alpine trails and easy access to culture or Germany. It’s one of Austria’s most walkable cities. Within minutes of the centre you can be in the mountains and within an hour bus ot train ride you have access to Hallstatt’s Salzkammergut lake district, Tennen Mountains and Dachestein peaks. If you’re looking for a weekend break that balances cultural sightseeing with rewarding hikes, Salzburg is an unbeatable base.

Within an hour, you can also reach Berchtesgaden National Park in Germany.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly into Salzburg, take a short bus/train across the border to Berchtesgaden. Spend a weekend exploring lakes, alpine meadows, and ridges.

Popular Hikes Near Salzburg Airport:

• Kapuzinerberg & Mönchsberg: City-based trails with easy ascents and rewarding vistas over Salzburg Fortress and the Alps.

• Gaisberg (1,287m):  Salzburg’s local mountain, accessible by bus from the city centre. Perfect half-day hike with expansive alpine views.

• Wolfgangsee Lakeside Trail:  Stunning waterside and forest walking route, accessible by bus from Salzburg (~50 minutes).

• Schafberg Summit:  Classic hike or cogwheel train ride above Wolfgangsee with famous alpine panoramas.

• Untersberg (1,972m):  A tougher full-day hike on Salzburg’s south edge, with a cable car option for shorter hikes.

• Watzmann Mountain Trails (Germany) :  Iconic alpine peak with demanding ridge hikes.

• Königssee Lake Walks (Germany) :  Stunning lakeside hikes with boat transfers into hidden valleys.

• Untersberg Mountain (Germany) : Accessible by cable car, with panoramic border-marking ridge walks.

5. Zurich Airport, Switzerland – Premium Access to Swiss Alpine Trails

Zurich provides premium access to alpine trailheads. Ideal for hikers who want comfort, efficiency and breathtaking scenery.

Sample Itinerary:
Arrive in Zurich, take a 2-hour train to Engelberg for the Titlis or other valley hikes.

Popular Hikes Near Zurich Airport:

• Mount Titlis Trail: Panoramic glacier and alpine hiking accessible by cable car.

• Engelberg Valley: Wide range from gentle forested paths to steep alpine climbs.

6. Tromsø Airport, Norway – Adventure Hiking in Arctic Fjords

Tromsø is one of the best places for adventurous walkers looking for Arctic mountain and fjord hikes in the nort. Although flights can be more expensive, summer offers midnight sun hikes, while autumn brings colourful tundra trails.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly to Tromso, then take a local bus to mountain and fjord trailheads. Weekend options include both demanding climbs and gentle coastal trails.

Popular Hikes Near Tromsø Airport:

• Mount Storsteinen: Accessed by a cable car, followed by summit hikes offering fjord vistas.

• Fjordside Trails: Varied scenic coastal routes perfect for half-day outings.

• Tromsdalstinden (1,238m):  Popular local peak with a challenging but rewarding climb.

7. Tivat or Podgorica Airport, Montenegro – Affordable Rugged Mountain Hiking

Montenegro offers access and affordable Balkan hiking in Durmitor National Park, with its craggy limestone peaks, glacial lakes, and sweeping valleys, is Montenegro’s hiking jewel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While Tivat Airport is closer to the coast, the more practical choice for reaching Durmitor is often Podgorica Airport, as it has more frequent international connections, direct bus routes inland, and better logistics for reaching the mountain town of Žabljak (the main hiking hub). It’s  an emerging hiking hotspot in Europe.

From Podgorica: Multiple daily buses and transfers run to Žabljak, making it the most reliable gateway.

From Tivat: Buses to Žabljak exist but often require changes (usually via Nikšić or Podgorica) and take longer due to coastal traffic. Tivat works if you want to combine mountains AND Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, but Podgorica is best for a focused Durmitor hiking trip.

Sample Itinerary:
Fly into Podgorica (or Tivat if more convenient for your route). Take a direct bus or transfer (2.5–3.5 hours) to Žabljak. Spend 2–3 days exploring Black Lake and shorter valley hikes, with one big day out tackling Bobotov Kuk.

Popular Hikes 

• Bobotov Kuk (2,523m):  The highest summit in Montenegro, challenging but incredibly rewarding. The standard route starts near Žabljak and can be done in one long day.

• Black Lake (Crno Jezero):  A scenic and accessible lakeside loop directly on the edge of Žabljak. Excellent for sunset or a gentle afternoon hike.

• Ice Cave Trail (Ledena Pećina):  A longer mountain hike crossing meadows and ridges, accessible in summer.

• Durmitor Ring Routes: A circular road through the park with many day hikes branching off, offering varied alpine scenery and cultural villages.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual weekend hiker, choosing the right airport can make all the difference in maximizing your mountain adventure without breaking the bank. From budget-friendly gateways like Bergamo and Poprad to mid-range hubs such as Geneva and Innsbruck, these airports offer convenient public transport links and access to some of Europe’s most breathtaking hiking trails. By planning your trip around affordable flights and well-connected transport options, you can experience spectacular alpine landscapes, diverse terrains, and authentic local culture—all while keeping travel costs low. Lace up your boots, pack your backpack, and get ready to explore the best hiking destinations accessible from Europe’s cheapest mountain airports. Your next unforgettable outdoor adventure awaits.