Via Francigena:Lucca to Rome








Siena





Radicofani



Walking on Francigena - Montefiascone

Via Francigena - Viterbo

Via Francigena Vetralla

Via Francigena Sutri

Via Francigena Campagnano


Walk the ancient path of the Via Francigena, from the medieval charm of Lucca to the timeless beauty of Rome. Step by step, immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, historic villages, and the essence of Italy. This is more than a journey—it’s a personal adventure, a chance to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. With every mile, embrace the joy of slow travel, the warmth of local hospitality, and the profound emotions of a pilgrimage that has inspired travelers for centuries. Over 400 km in 21 days, crossing the stunning landscapes of Tuscany and Lazio, all the way to the Eternal City.
A 3-Week Journey
- Week 1: From Lucca to Monteriggioni, through rolling hills and medieval towns.
- Week 2: Across the Val d’Orcia, from Monteriggioni to Acquapendente, surrounded by iconic Tuscan scenery.
- Week 3: Through Lazio’s countryside, from Acquapendente to Rome, where history and spirituality converge.
To make the experience even more enjoyable, three additional overnight stays (Colle Val d’Elsa, Buonconvento, and Gallina/Castiglione d’Orcia) help break up the longest and most challenging sections.
Everything is taken care of—just walk and savor the journey!
Prefer a slower pace? Add extra rest days in beautiful towns along the way.
Click below to book your adventure!
Walk the Via Francigena in good company
- Overnight stays according to your needs
- Our luggage transport
- Our Maps
- Assistance every day from 8:30am to 7:00pm
- All the information from the specialists of the Via Francigena!
We take care of everything!
Via Francigena Walking is a very intense walking trip, with many miles of walking and tiring days.
A highly variable route, with easier and shorter stages, and others with decent climbs and descents.
With this great package you will have 7 rest days to visit some special places.
The route is very well marked and it has no objective difficulties.
Difficulty: 4/5

Arrival Airport: Pisa Airport or Florence Airport
Arrival Train Station: Lucca
Departure Airport: Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport
Departure Train Station: Rome
Ask for a Private Shuttle from Airport or Station.
- 22 nights bed and breakfast formula
- Luggage transport EVERY DAY from Hotel to Hotel
- Detailed route with our Original Virtual and Paper Maps
- Our on-site Assistants
- WhatsApp group with all instructions
- Telephone support from 8:30 to 19:00
- Transfer to reach the places of arrival and departure
- Lunches and dinners (You can add to your package HB formula on request where available)
- Visits and entrances to museums and attractive clubs
- Tourist taxes in hotel facilities
- Anything not specified under “the fee includes”
In case of any cancellation of the reservation, the following charges are expected:
More than 30 days before Departure date – deposit = 20%
29 – 20 days before Departure date – 30% of the total cost
19 – 15 days before Departure date – 50% of total cost
Less than 14 days before Departure date – 100% total of cost
Itinerary
First Week - Lucca to Monteriggioni
DAY 1: Arriving in Lucca
Day 1
Your Journey to Rome Begins in Lucca
Lucca, a key stop along the Via Francigena, is the first stage of your journey to Rome. This historic Tuscan city marks the true beginning of your adventure, leading you south through breathtaking landscapes, medieval villages, and centuries of history, all the way to the Eternal City.
Encircled by beautifully preserved Renaissance walls, Lucca offers stunning panoramic views from atop its fortifications, where you can walk or cycle while admiring the skyline of medieval towers and the rolling countryside. Inside the walls, the city’s charming narrow streets lead to remarkable landmarks, including the Roman-inspired Piazza dell’Anfiteatro and the stunning San Martino Cathedral. As the birthplace of composer Giacomo Puccini, Lucca also boasts a rich musical heritage, with concerts and opera performances held throughout the year.
From here, your journey to Rome begins with the very first step. The route is well-marked and free of major difficulties, making it accessible to all walkers. And if you ever need a break, assistance is always available – should you decide not to walk, we’ll take you comfortably to your next hotel.
Lucca is not just a starting point – it is the first chapter of your incredible journey to Rome.

DAY 2: Lucca to Altopascio
DAY 2
Lucca to Altopascio Distance to Cover: 18 Km Walk Time: 4/5 hours
The First Day of Walking
Your journey to Rome truly begins today, as you set off on your first day of walking along the Via Francigena. Leaving Lucca behind, you follow a well-marked path through the serene Tuscan countryside, passing through small villages, forests, and quiet country roads. This stage is gentle and accessible, allowing you to ease into the rhythm of the journey while soaking in the beauty of the landscape.
Your destination is Altopascio, the “Town of Bread,” a historic stop known for its long tradition of hospitality. In medieval times, pilgrims were guided here by the Church of San Jacopo’s bell tower, once managed by the Knights of the Tau, who provided shelter and assistance to travelers. Today, the town’s narrow streets, medieval landmarks, and the historic Porta dei Mariani offer a peaceful place to rest before continuing your adventure.
With your first day of walking complete, you can relax and recharge, ready to take on the next leg of your journey.

DAY 3: Altopascio to San Miniato
DAY 3
Altopascio to San Miniato Distance to Cover: 29 Km Walk Time: 8/9 hours
Walking Through History and Nature
After a restful night in Altopascio, you continue your journey towards San Miniato, one of the most fascinating towns along the Via Francigena. This stage takes you through a varied landscape, transitioning from flat countryside to gentle hills, passing through forests and ancient rural paths. Along the way, you can fully enjoy the authentic beauty of Tuscany, with its olive groves, vineyards, and historic farmhouses.
Perched on a hilltop, San Miniato offers breathtaking views over the Tuscan countryside. The town has a rich history, having played a key role in medieval conflicts between Florence and Pisa. Its well-preserved historic center, with its narrow streets and impressive towers, reflects its strategic importance over the centuries.
A visit to the Palazzo del Seminario is highly recommended. This striking building, with its elegant frescoed façade, dominates one of the town’s main squares and is a perfect example of San Miniato’s artistic and architectural heritage.
With another rewarding day of walking behind you, San Miniato offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
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DAY 4: San Miniato to Gambassi Terme
DAY 4
San Miniato to Gambassi Terme Distance to Cover: 24 Km Walk Time: 6/7 hours
Castles, Abbeys, and Rolling Hills
Today’s stage unfolds along one of the most scenic and historically rich sections of the route. Walking through the hills of the Val d’Elsa, you pass by castles, fortresses, abbeys, and ancient hospices, silent witnesses to centuries of travelers who have crossed these lands. The path winds through vineyards, olive groves, and shaded forests, offering an immersive and authentic experience in the heart of Tuscany.
You arrive in Gambassi Terme, a town known for its medieval heritage and thermal waters. A historic resting place, it welcomes visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. Before continuing your journey, take time to visit the Church of San Jacopo, an important landmark along the route, and enjoy the charm of this tranquil destination.
As the sun sets over the rolling hills, the journey gains a new perspective—one where history, nature, and tradition blend seamlessly, making every step a discovery.

DAY 5: Gambassi Terme to San Gimignano
DAY 5
Gambassi Terme to San Gimignano Distance to Cover: 14 Km Walk Time: 4/5 hours
Walking Towards the Towers of San Gimignano
Leaving Gambassi Terme, the trail continues through the stunning Tuscan countryside, offering spectacular views along the way. As you walk through rolling hills, vineyards, and ancient farmhouses, the sight of San Gimignano’s iconic towers gradually emerges on the horizon, creating one of the most unforgettable approaches along the route.
Enclosed by 13th-century walls, San Gimignano is a perfectly preserved medieval town, famous for its 15 towers, once symbols of wealth and power. Walking through its cobbled streets, you can admire its unique architecture, visit the impressive Collegiate Church, and take in breathtaking panoramas from the town’s high points.
A stop in San Gimignano wouldn’t be complete without tasting a glass of Vernaccia, the renowned local white wine. The charm of this town, combined with the journey to reach it, makes this stage a true highlight, where history, tradition, and landscapes blend into an unforgettable experience.

DAY 6: San Gimignano to Colle Val d’Elsa
DAY 6
San Gimignano to Colle Val d’Elsa Distance to Cover: 13 Km Walk Time: 3/4 hours
Between Hills and History
As you leave San Gimignano, the path winds through the rolling hills of Tuscany, offering ever-changing landscapes of vineyards, olive groves, and cypress-lined roads. The route follows ancient rural tracks and shaded woodland trails, where the peaceful surroundings allow you to fully appreciate the beauty of this land.
Approaching Colle Val d’Elsa, the scenery shifts, revealing a town rich in history and tradition. Famous for its crystal glassmaking, Colle Val d’Elsa is divided into two areas: the lower, modern part and the upper medieval quarter, where narrow alleys and historic buildings evoke the town’s past. Walking through the ancient streets, you can admire stunning views over the Elsa Valley and experience the authentic charm of this lesser-known Tuscan destination.
Ending the day in Colle Val d’Elsa offers a well-earned rest in a town with a quiet, welcoming atmosphere before setting off on the next stage of the journey.

DAY 7: Colle Val d’Elsa to Monteriggioni
DAY 7
Colle Val d’Elsa to Monteriggioni Distance to Cover: 15 Km Walk Time: 4/5 hours
The End of the First Week
This stage is easy and mostly flat, allowing for a more relaxed walk through the Tuscan countryside. Following peaceful paths, you first arrive at the Romanesque parish church of Santa Maria a Coneo, a simple yet striking landmark along the route. After crossing the bridge over the Elsa River, the path leads to another beautiful Romanesque site, the Church of San Martino di Strove.
The journey ends in Monteriggioni, a perfectly preserved medieval fortress. Built in the 13th century by Siena, the town is entirely enclosed by its iconic walls, crowned with towers that once served as a strategic defense. Strolling through its small historic center, you can visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and take in stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Spending the night in Monteriggioni is a memorable way to mark the end of the first week, in a town where history and architecture have remained unchanged for centuries.

Itinerary
Second Week - Monteriggioni to Acquapendente
DAY 8: Monteriggioni to Siena
Day 8
Monteriggioni to Siena Distance to Cover: 21Km Walk Time: 5/6 hours
Across Medieval Towns and Scenic Trails
The second week of the journey begins in Monteriggioni, a perfectly preserved medieval fortress surrounded by ancient walls. Just beyond, white gravel roads lead to Cerbaia, a long-abandoned village where only ruins remain. The trail then winds through the Renai woods, offering a quiet and shaded path before opening up to the rolling Tuscan countryside.
Soon, the route reaches Siena, one of the most important stops along the Via Francigena. Entering through Porta Camollia, the traditional gateway for pilgrims, the medieval streets lead to Piazza del Campo, the city’s heart and the site of the famous Palio di Siena. The Duomo di Siena, with its striking Gothic architecture, houses masterpieces by Michelangelo, Bernini, and Donatello. Walking through the city’s 17 historic contrade, each with its own identity and traditions, offers a glimpse into Siena’s unique history and culture.

DAY 9: Siena to Monteroni d’Arbia
Day 9
Siena to Monteroni d’Arbia Distance to Cover: 18Km Walk Time: 4/5 hours
The Stage of the Crete Senesi
Leaving Siena, the Via Francigena enters the Crete Senesi, a landscape of rolling clay hills, open skies, and endless horizons. The wooded paths give way to vast fields, where the land shifts to shades of gray and ochre, shaped by wind and time.
The route follows the Val d’Arbia, passing Isola d’Arbia, where a Romanesque church stands as a silent witness to centuries of pilgrim crossings. The first true glimpse of the Crete Senesi appears—eroded cliffs, cypress-lined ridges, and a terrain that feels almost surreal.
Arriving in Monteroni d’Arbia, the medieval Grancia, once a fortified granary for passing pilgrims, marks the gateway to this striking region. From here, the journey continues deeper into the Crete Senesi, an ever-changing and timeless landscape.

DAY 10: Monteroni d’Arbia to Buonconvento
DAY 10
Monteroni d’Arbia to Buonconvento Distance to Cover: 13 Km Walk Time: 3/4 hours
From Open Countryside to Medieval Charm
Leaving Monteroni d’Arbia, the trail starts on a flat stretch before gently climbing into the hills. The path winds through the countryside, lined with iconic cypress trees, offering stunning views of the Tuscan landscape.
Further ahead lies Buonconvento, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Walking along the corso, you’ll find the clock tower, while the façade of the town hall still displays 25 coats of arms from the Podestas who ruled until 1270. This medieval town provides a peaceful and historic stop along the Via Francigena, inviting travelers to explore its narrow streets and visit the Museo d’Arte Sacra.
In Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, the town’s heart, you can soak in the local atmosphere, enjoy the traditional cuisine, or simply take in the beauty of this well-preserved Tuscan village.

DAY 11: Buonconvento to San Quirico
DAY 11
Buonconvento to San Quirico Distance to Cover: 21 Km Walk Time: 5/6 hours
Following Ancient Routes to Timeless Villages
Leaving Buonconvento, the path winds through the Ombrone Valley, passing the vineyards of Montalcino, home to the famous Brunello wine. A mix of dirt roads and historic trails leads to Torreneri, where the church of Santa Maria Maddalena, mentioned by Sigeric, has stood for centuries.
The route then climbs into the Val d’Orcia, revealing sweeping views of rolling hills. At the top, San Quirico d’Orcia welcomes travelers with its Collegiata, the elegant Horti Leonini gardens, and the flavors of traditional Tuscan cuisine.

DAY 12: San Quirico to Castiglione d’Orcia / Gallina
DAY 12
San Quirico to Castiglione d’Orcia / Gallina Distance to Cover: 17 Km Walk Time: 4/5 hours
From Ancient Baths to Panoramic Heights
Leaving San Quirico d’Orcia, the path descends with stunning views over the Val d’Orcia, leading to the unique village of Bagno Vignoni. Unlike any other Tuscan town, its main square is a large thermal pool, once used by pilgrims and travelers for centuries. Steam rises from the warm waters, creating an almost surreal atmosphere.
The route then climbs toward Castiglione d’Orcia, revealing breathtaking views of rolling hills and rugged landscapes. The fortress of Rocca di Tentennano dominates the horizon, a reminder of the area’s strategic importance in medieval times. With every step, the scenery shifts, offering one of the most spectacular sections of the Via Francigena.

DAY 13: Castiglione d’Orcia / Gallina to Radicofani
DAY 13
Castiglione d’Orcia / Gallina to Radicofani Distance to Cover: 15 Km Walk Time: 5/6 hours
Perhaps the most challenging stage.
On the 13th day, the journey leads to Radicofani, a striking hilltop town dominated by the imposing Rocca di Radicofani. From its ancient walls, breathtaking views stretch across Tuscany, making it one of the most scenic spots on the Via Francigena.
Once home to the legendary Ghino di Tacco, the fortress is rich in history and stories of medieval outlaws. The village itself offers a pleasant walk through narrow streets, past the Church of San Pietro, where valuable artworks are preserved. After exploring, travelers can enjoy classic Tuscan flavors, including pici pasta and wild boar, a perfect way to end the day in this historic setting.

DAY 14: Radicofani to Acquapendente
DAY 14
Radicofani to Acquapendente Distance to Cover: 32 Km Walk Time: 8/9 hours
The Gateway to Lazio
Leaving Radicofani, the route begins with an 8-kilometer descent toward Ponte a Rigo, marking the transition into Lazio. The path crosses Centeno, a small village with a historic connection—this is where Galileo Galilei stayed before traveling to Rome to meet the Pope.
The journey continues to Acquapendente, often called the “Gateway to Rome”. This town is known for its Basilica del Santo Sepolcro, which houses a relic of the Holy Sepulchre in its ancient crypt. Strolling through the medieval streets, visitors can admire the Torre Julia de’ Jacopo and experience the town’s artistic tradition with the Pugnaloni, stunning mosaics made from flower petals. Nearby, the Monte Rufeno Nature Reserve offers a glimpse of Lazio’s unspoiled landscapes, marking a new phase of the Via Francigena.

Itinerary
Third Week - Acquapendente to Rome
DAY 15: Acquapendente to Bolsena
Day 15
Acquapendente to Bolsena Distance to Cover: 22 Km Walk Time: 6/7 hours
Towards the Shores of Lake Bolsena
Leaving Acquapendente, the route leads to San Lorenzo Nuovo, a small town perched above Lake Bolsena, offering panoramic views of the water and surrounding hills. The path then continues through rolling terrain, with alternating climbs and descents across wooded meadows, always with the lake in sight.
Arriving in Bolsena, a town rich in history and natural beauty, travelers can explore the Basilica of Santa Cristina, linked to the famous Miracle of Bolsena. The medieval Rocca Monaldeschi overlooks the town, while the lakeshore invites visitors to relax, take a boat trip, or enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters. A walk along the waterfront, perhaps with a ride on the Ferris wheel, is the perfect way to experience the charm of this lakeside destination.

DAY 16: Bolsena to Montefiascone
Day 16
Bolsena to Montefiascone Distance to Cover: 18 Km Walk Time: 4/5 hours
The 100-Kilometer Mark
Leaving Bolsena, the route climbs toward Montefiascone, passing through olive groves and stretches of Mediterranean scrub. This hilltop town marks the symbolic 100-kilometer point from Rome, a major milestone on the Via Francigena.
Montefiascone offers breathtaking views over Lake Bolsena and the surrounding countryside. Its most notable landmarks include the Rocca dei Papi, a fortress with sweeping panoramas, and the Cathedral of Santa Margherita, recognizable by its massive dome. The town is also known for its legendary Est! Est!! Est!!! wine, a must-try for travelers.
With its rich history, scenic beauty, and renowned local flavors, Montefiascone is a memorable stop.

DAY 17: Montefiascone to Viterbo
DAY 17
Montefiascone to Viterbo Distance to Cover: 18 Km Walk Time: 4/5 hours
Reaching the Papal City
Leaving Montefiascone, the route follows a well-preserved section of the Via Cassia, allowing travelers to walk on the same ancient paving stones once used by the Romans. The path winds through rolling hills, offering scenic views of both Montefiascone and Viterbo in the distance.
Viterbo, known as the “City of Popes,” has deep Etruscan roots and one of Italy’s largest and best-preserved medieval centers. The San Pellegrino district, with its narrow alleys and fortified walls, feels like a step back in time. The Palazzo dei Papi, once the site of papal conclaves, stands as a symbol of the city’s historical importance.
For those seeking relaxation, Viterbo’s famous thermal springs provide the perfect break. The Terme dei Papi, once frequented by medieval popes, offer mineral-rich waters and treatments ideal for restoring energy before continuing the journey.

DAY 18: Viterbo to Vetralla
DAY 18
Viterbo to Vetralla Distance to Cover: 18 Km Walk Time: 4/5 hours
The Land of Olive Oil
Leaving Viterbo, the route quickly reaches one of the most fascinating sections of the Via Francigena. Here, the trail follows an ancient Etruscan road, carved into the tuff rock, where towering walls over 10 meters high, known as Etruscan cuts, create a dramatic passage.
Further along, the path leads to Fossato Callo, a historic spring with a beautiful peperino stone fountain and interconnected pools. The journey continues through open fields and paved stretches before reaching Vetralla.
This medieval town, set in the Lazio countryside, welcomes travelers with its Gothic Church of San Francesco, ancient walls, and well-preserved historic center. Renowned for its olive oil production, Vetralla celebrates this tradition with the Sagra dell’Olio festival. With a mix of history, nature, and local flavors, it offers an authentic taste of central Italy.

DAY 19: Vetralla to Sutri
DAY 19
Vetralla to Sutri Distance to Cover: 24 Km Walk Time: 6/7 hours
Toward the Small Colosseum
Leaving Vetralla, the route winds through a forest before opening into vast hazel groves and passing beneath centuries-old oak trees. The trail then leads past the village of Capranica, offering glimpses of medieval architecture along the way.
The journey continues to Sutri, a town with deep Etruscan roots and one of the most fascinating stops on the Via Francigena. Its highlight is the impressive Roman amphitheater, entirely carved into the tuff rock, often called a “small Colosseum.” Nearby, the Mithraeum, an ancient temple later converted into a Christian church, holds remarkable frescoes, including images of medieval pilgrims.
Sutri’s Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral, with its imposing bell tower, dominates the town, while its medieval streets and surrounding nature trails make it an unforgettable blend of history and landscape.

DAY 20: Sutri to Campagnano di Roma
DAY 20
Sutri to Campagnano di Roma Distance to Cover: 28 Km Walk Time: 7/8 hours
Where Waterfalls Meet History
Leaving Sutri, the route passes through the fascinating Etruscan necropolis, then continues toward Monterosi. From here, the trail leads to a truly special spot: the Monte Gelato Waterfalls.
These waterfalls, set in the Parco Regionale Valle del Treja, gained international fame thanks to director Roberto Rossellini, who featured them in his 1950 film Francis, Jester of God. Surrounded by lush greenery and volcanic rock formations, the falls offer a peaceful break along the Via Francigena. Nearby, the ruins of an old medieval mill add to the site’s charm.
The journey then continues into the Veio Regional Park, leading toward Campagnano, where history and nature blend seamlessly along the path to Rome.

DAY 21: Campagnano di Roma to La Storta
DAY 21
Campagnano di Roma to La Storta Distance to Cover: 24 Km Walk Time: 6/7 hours
Walking Between Two Parks
Leaving Campagnano, the route soon reaches the Sanctuary of Sorbo, perched on a rocky outcrop amid lush vegetation. The path then winds through two natural parks, offering a journey through history and nature.
The first stretch crosses the Parco del Sorbo, leading to Formello, before continuing into the Parco di Veio. Along the way, travelers pass Etruscan archaeological sites, the scenic Cascate della Mola, and the historic village of Isola Farnese.
The stage ends in La Storta, the final stop before Rome. Here, the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Storta, where Saint Ignatius of Loyola had a vision, provides a moment for reflection before taking the last steps toward the Eternal City.

DAY 22: La Storta to Rome (Vatican City)
DAY 22
La Storta to Rome (Vatican City) Distance to Cover: 18 Km Walk Time: 5/6 hours
The Final Steps to Rome
This is the last stage of the journey, leading to St. Peter’s Square. The first section requires caution, as it follows urban roads before entering the Insugherata Park, where the trail returns to peaceful country paths. Along the way, scattered ruins of Roman villas and tombs serve as reminders of the area’s ancient past.
Leaving the park, the route continues toward Monte Mario, the final climb before reaching Rome. From its panoramic viewpoint, the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica comes into sight—a powerful moment for every traveler on the Via Francigena.
Arriving at St. Peter’s, pilgrims can visit the Pilgrim’s Office to receive the Testimonium, the official recognition of their journey. Inside the basilica, masterpieces like Michelangelo’s Pietà offer a final moment of reflection, marking the completion of an unforgettable experience.
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Services

Silver Package
Bed and Breakfast Formula in 2-stars Hotel/B&B

Gold Package
Bed and Breakfast Formula in 3-stars Hotel/Agritourism

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Bed and Breakfast Formula in 4/5-stars Hotel/Agritourism
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