Via Francigena

Great Saint Bernard Pass

Nestled at an elevation of 2,469m, this is one of the oldest and most famous mountain passes in Europe. Connecting Switzerland and Italy, it has been a vital route through the Western Alps since Roman times. The pass is renowned for its dramatic scenery, rugged terrain, and rich history. It is perhaps most famous for the hospice founded in the 11th century by Saint Bernard of Menthon to aid travellers, particularly during harsh winters.

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Étroubles

This charming alpine village located in the Aosta Valley of northwestern Italy is steeped in history and offers a glimpse into traditional mountain life. The village dates back to Roman times and has long served as a stopover for travellers crossing the Alps, particularly pilgrims on their way to Rome. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow cobbled streets, outdoor art exhibitions, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Aosta

Aosta is the vibrant capital of Italy’s Aosta Valley. The town is a cultural crossroads, reflecting both Italian and French influences, with its charming medieval streets, churches, and squares. Often referred to as the “Rome of the Alps,” Aosta boasts impressive Roman ruins, including the Arch of Augustus, the Roman Theatre, and city walls that date back to the 1st century BC.

Nus

Nus is known for its vineyards, medieval architecture and peaceful alpine atmosphere.ed streets. One of its key landmarks is the Castle of Nus, a medieval fortress that stands as a reminder of the area’s strategic importance over the centuries. Nus is also famous for its wine production, particularly its local white wine called “Malvoisie,” which is crafted from grapes grown on the terraced slopes around the village.

Saint-Vincent

Saint-Vincent is a renowned spa town in the Aosta Valley, often referred to as the “Riviera of the Alps” for its mild climate and elegant atmosphere. The town’s Fons Salutis thermal waters, discovered in the 18th century, are believed to have healing properties, attracting visitors seeking wellness and relaxation. The towns charming streets are lined with boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, making it a lively spot for both locals and tourists.

Vèrres

Verrès features charming old streets and traditional alpine architecture, contributing to its picturesque and historical ambiance. One of the town’s most prominent landmarks is the Castello di Verrès, a well-preserved medieval castle that dominates the landscape, built in the 14th century.

Point-Saint-Martin

Point Saint Martin is a striking scenic overlook in the Aosta Valley. This viewpoint offers visitors a sweeping panorama of the valley, framed by the majestic peaks of the surrounding Alps.

Ivrea

This historic city located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, not far from the Aosta Valley, is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, medieval architecture, charming old town and vibrant festivals. One of Ivrea’s most notable features is its well-preserved medieval Castello di Ivrea. The city also has impressive Romanesque and Gothic churches, including the Cathedral of Ivrea and the Church of San Lorenzo.

Turin

Vibrant Turin (Torino) is known for its rich history, elegant architecture and cultural significance. As Italy’s first capital, Turin played a pivotal role in the unification of the country in the 19th century. The city is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture, with landmarks such as the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace), the Basilica di Superga, and the Mole Antonelliana, which houses the National Museum of Cinema. Turin is also famous for its culinary delights. It’s the birthplace of the iconic Gianduiotto chocolate and is known for its traditional aperitivo culture, with many cafes and bars offering a range of delicious local dishes and drinks.

Lucca

The captivating city of Lucca is a jewel in Tuscany’s crown. It mesmerises with its intact Renaissance walls embracing a labyrinth of cobblestone streets. Its historic piazzas boast architectural splendour while hidden trattorias tease with sumptuous Tuscan flavours.

San Miniato

The hilltop town of San Miniato is ridiculously gorgeous and offers an enticing blend of cultural heritage, stunning vistas and gastronomic delights. The medieval town is perched atop three small hills, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside, vineyards and olive groves. It’s famous for its white truffle festival held every November.

Gambassi Terme

The lovely hill town of Gambassi Terme is famous for its thermal baths, archeological ruins and medieval churches. As well as classic traditional Tuscan products like Chianti wine and extra virgin olive oil, Gambassi also offers a delicious bounty of cheeses to taste.

San Gimignano

The fairytale hilltop town of San Gimignano is encircled by 13th-century walls and an eye-catching skyline of 14 medieval towers that soar above the cobbled streets. The towers have earned the village the nickname ‘Medieval Manhattan’.

Gracciano

From the village of Gracciano you walk along one of the more beautiful sections of the Via Francigena. Highlights include Pieve a Elsa and the ancient Etruscan thermae (thermal pools) of Caldane. Continuing on you will be able to admire the facade of the Pieve di Strove and Abbadia a Isola, a resting place for Archbishop Sigeric of Canterbury on his pilgrimage.

Monteriggioni

Monteriggioni is one of the oldest, most memorable and recognisable villages in all of Italy. This splendid medieval walled village has 14 striking towers that make quite an impact on the landscape. In the early 1300s, Dante compared its towers to infernal giants. A full circuit of the walls runs to just 570m and you can walk much of it, admiring the view out to the Chianti and Val d’Elsa, over olive groves and vines.

Siena

The vibrant town of Siena is situated along three ridges at the southern end of the Chianti hills. It is bursting with art galleries, museums, atmospheric squares, churches, boutiques and gelatarias. Walk the cobblestone streets before soaking up the atmosphere of Piazza del Campo with a glass of Prosecco and a delicious antipasto.

Lucignano

The small fortified village of Lucignano is one of the most extraordinary examples of medieval town planning. Its streets spiral inwards to reach the heart of the village – the square of Tribunal, which is overlooked by the town hall and the 16th-century church.

Buonconvento

Buonconvento is a delightful village in the Crete Senesi. The heart of the historical centre is Via Soccini, where most restaurants, cafes and the church are located, along with the old town hall, which is covered with 25 crests of the Podestas (mayors) who ruled Buonconvento until 1270.

San Quiroco d’Orcia

The beautiful hilltop town of San Quiroco d’Orcia is a lovely example of medieval architecture and city planning. At the centre of the historic town sits the stunning Collegiata. Built in the 11th century on the site of an old baptistery, it has three main main doorways, one of which overlooks the Via Francigena.

Castiglione d’Orcia

On your way to the World Heritage village of Castiglione d’Orcia, you’ll walk through one of the most beautiful panoramic sections of the whole Via Francigena. In the walled old town you’ll find cobblestone streets, medieval houses, Roman churches and the Piazza il Vecchietta, a square that is dedicated to Lorenzo di Pietro, a sculptor, architect and painter.

Radicofani

The village of Radicofani is situated on a hill in the Val d’Orcia and is dominated by a spectacular Tuscan fortresses. Its historic centre has splendid buildings and the remarkable Romanesque church of San Pietro The village is also known as the city of fountains.

Acquapendente

The lovely town of Acquapendente is located right at the border of Tuscany, Lazio and Umbri. It owes its name to the nearby waterfalls that flow into the river Paglia. Charles Dickens travelled to Acquapendente on the Via Cassia in 1845 and details it in his writings. If you have time, experience a silent walk through the Romanesque crypt located beneath the Basilica del Santo Sepolcro.

Bolsena

As well as being an important stop for pilgrims walking the Via Francigena, Bolsena is famous for a miracle recorded in 1263 at the church of St Christina. This church is well worth a visit for its frescoes, architecture and underground catacombs. You can also take a walk along the lake promenade, book a boast cruise or simply wander the shops and enjoy a coffee while taking in the cafe culture.

Montefiascone

Located on top of a hill overlooking Lake Bolsena, Montefiascone is surrounded by vineyards. There are many sites worth visiting such as the Fortress of the Popes and the Santa Margherita Cathedral, both of which dominate the town’s landscape.

Viterbo

Film crews are a frequent sight in the pretty medieval Viterbo. The town dates all the way back to the time of the Etruscans and had its golden age during the Middle Ages. Viterbo was chosen as the papal residence in the 13th century. Today, its old town is one of the best-preserved Medieval towns in Italy.

Vetralla

Vetralla sits on the slope of Mount Fogliano at the crossroads of three important Roman roads – via Cassia, via Clodio, and via Aurelia. Local legend says that Vetralla dates back to the Biblical figure of Noah, who ran the Ark aground here.

Sutri

The pretty town of Sutri was occupied by both the Etruscans and the Romans. Highlights include the Roman Amphitheatre, thought to have been carved from volcanic ‘tuff’ rock in the 1st-century, and the nearby Etruscan Necropolis that has tombs cut into the rock.

Campagnano di Roma

The pretty hilltop town of Campagnano di Roma retains its atmosphere of the Middle Ages. A strategic point on the route to and from Rome, Campagnano is crossed by the Via Amerina and the Via Francigena, which sees its last stop here before reaching Rome.

Rome

Rome is one of the world’s great cities and it’s truly magical, even with the crowds! The Eternal City blends ancient wonders and modern vibrancy. Immerse yourself in unparalleled history amid iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain and Vatican City and indulge in the capital’s fascinating and eclectic food scene.