Via Francigena - the Highlights Trip

Arrive in Aosta, a small city steeped in Roman history, nestled picturesquely in the valley that bears its name. 

Aosta is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the ancient city walls. 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. Surrounded by spectacular mountain peaks, it has plenty to offer visitors including its renowned local cuisine. This charming city is a fabulous place to start your trip – you may even like to add in an optional extra night to give yourself a leisure day.

Meals: n/a

Leaving Aosta on the first day of your hike, you’ll follow a mix of rural paths and quiet roads, passing through vineyards and small villages nestled in the valley. Fine views of the surrounding mountains are abundant with ancient castles perched on the hillsides – the first is Quart Castle which dates from the 12th century, then the Nus Castle, also on a cliff.  As you approach Nus, known for its local wines, you’ll be greeted by more beautiful vineyard landscapes, offering a perfect location for your overnight stay.

Ascent 410m, descent 430m

Meals: B 

As you continue your Via Francigena hike, today you’ll follow alongside the ancient ‘Rus’, the historic canals that still irrigate the terraced mountainsides of the Valle d’Aosta. Between the lush vineyards, you may like to stop to visit the renowned Crotta de Vegneron in Chambave, a temple dedicated to the wines of this region. Saint Vincent has a mild climate and is sometimes referred to as the ‘Riviera of the Alps’. It is famous for its thermal baths and spa, ideal for unwinding after a rewarding day on the trail.

Ascent 460m, descent 415m

Meals: B

Today make your own way by public transport from Saint Vincent in the Valle d’Aosta to San Miniato in Tuscany. The journey by train usually takes approximately 7 hours via Ivrea with changes in Turin and Florence. Italian trains are comfortable and usually efficient and connect well, and train travel is a great way to relax and see more of the countryside. There is also the option at the time of booking to add in a private transfer from Saint Vincent to Ivrea.

After arriving in San Miniato, take some time this afternoon to discover why this small town is considered one of the pearls of the Via Francigena. The seminary, from which the main square takes its name, has a unique facade; take a stroll past it in the evening when it is illuminated, before settling in to enjoy a local speciality of risotto with white truffle.

Meals: B

This morning we have included a transfer for the first 5km from your hotel in San Miniato along the paved road out of town to the trailhead, which reduces today’s usual walking distance from 25km to 20km.

Today’s walk is undulating and takes you through the Tuscan countryside, past vineyards, olive groves and farmland crossing the typical countryside of the Val d’Elsa. Along the way you will pass Pieve di Coiano, a parish church thought to have been built before 1000AD. The church is particularly significant due to a visit by Archbishop Sigeric on his journey from Canterbury to Rome.

The last half of the walk ventures along the top of rolling Tuscan hills with fantastic views of rustic farmhouses, fields of wheat, sunflowers and vineyards. As you near the town of Gambassi Terme you will pass Pieve a Chianni (the church of Santa Maria), a lovely Romanesque church that has been restored. You will stop for the night in Gambassi Terme, a town known for its thermal baths and the thermal springs found in the area.

620m ascent, 490m descent

Meals: B

Leaving behind the quaint village of Gambassi Terme, the trail today will take you along country roads, passing more vineyards and olive trees into sections of lush green forest. Keep your eye out for remnants of ancient Roman roads. Cypress lined paths with beautiful views of the rolling Tuscan hills either side of you lead to the town of Pancole, dominated by the Santuario di Pancole (Sanctuary of Pancole). Continuing on you will come across the working monastery of Pieve di Cellole. It is set amongst lovely grounds with panoramic views over the countryside. If a mass is not being held, you can visit the church and purchase some of the local farm produce or pottery. Even though you will be walking alongside the road as you approach San Gimignano, the views remain captivating as you look toward this evocative hilltop town.

The walled medieval town of San Gimignano is an absolute gem. We recommend taking your time to wander the narrow, boutique-filled streets, not forgetting to climb the Torre Grossa, the tallest town of many. From the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views over the UNESCO listed town and the surrounding hills. Included this evening is a wine tasting that will offer you the opportunity to sample some of the local produce.

Ascent 550m, Descent 500m 

Meals: B

Leaving the fairytale town of San Gimignano this morning, the Via Francigena takes you along quiet, local roads, through farmland and a number of forested sections. The terrain can be uneven at times with tree roots and rocky sections, particularly on the forest trails. A detour worth taking today is to see the fascinating Abbey of Santa Maria Assunta in Conèo; a Romanesque church built around the year 1,000 and located in the lovely surrounds of the Colle di Val d’Elsa. Some of the areas you are walking through today and tomorrow were once underwater. If you look carefully, some sections of road have shell fossils embedded in them.

Colle Val d’Elsa, often called the “City of Crystal,” is a charming Tuscan town traditionally known as a resting place for pilgrims and travellers, and for its artisanal glassmaking and medieval atmosphere. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, explore the picturesque upper town with its historic buildings, and enjoy panoramic views. If time permits you may like to visit the Crystal Museum or the Archaeological Museum. 

270m ascent, 380m descent

Meals: B

Today you will walk along one of the more beautiful sections of the Via Francigena. Today’s 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. 

There is no mistaking Monteriggioni as you approach. This gorgeous small village is perched on a hilltop and is enclosed by medieval walls and 14 striking towers that make quite an impact on the landscape. Explore the narrow streets with its ring of vegetable gardens, houses and the Piazza Roma at the centre. Make sure you climb up on one of the walls to take in the view.

250m ascent, 190m descent

Meals: B

After breakfast, depart Monteriggioni on dirt roads through the Montagnola Sense, a hilly area of the region passing through the now deserted medieval village of Cerbaia. The trail today is gently undulating along wide gravel country roads lined with the iconic cypress pine. The landscape consists of large expanses of open, rolling hills dotted with castles, farms and forests; land that has seen many legendary battles between Siena and Florence. After a meditative walk through the Renai forest, you will pass through the Porta Camollia, the traditional pilgrims’ entrance to the epic town of Siena. 

Walk the cobblestone streets of this vibrant town before soaking up the incredible atmosphere of Piazza del Campo in the evening, with a glass of Prosecco and antipasto.

Ascent 224m, Descent 245m 

Meals: B

Situated along three ridges at the southern end of the Chianti hills, Siena is a UNESCO city not to be missed. The striking Duomo is jampacked with artworks by Bernini, Michelangelo and Donatello and is only one of many fascinating sites to explore during your stay. This vibrant city explodes with excitement during the famous Palio horse race run several times over summer in Piazza del Campo. 

The day is free to explore this exciting town; art galleries, museums, atmospheric squares, churches, boutiques, gelaterias – the choice is endless!

Meals: B

Bid farewell to Tuscany today as you journey by train from Siena to the enchanting hilltop town of Orvieto. As you travel through the heart of Tuscany and briefly into Umbria, soak in the picturesque views of rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards that characterize the Italian countryside. These towns are well connected with the train journey usually taking a total of 2 hours to 4 hours, with one connection in Chiusi-Chianciano Terme. 

Upon arrival in Orvieto, you’ll be greeted by its striking cliff-top position, perched on a volcanic tuft. Take the town’s historic funicular from the train station up into the heart of the old town, where your accommodation is located. In the afternoon explore the old town’s charming streets, marvel at the intricate façade of the Orvieto Cathedral (Duomo), and take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Although Orvieto is not officially part of the designated Via Francigena route, this impressive town has a very close relationship with the route and nearby Bolsena, and in fact Orvieto’s Cathedral is said to have been constructed to commemorate Bolsena’s famous miracle of 1263. Orvieto was also formerly the centre of the Etruscan civilization and there are still plenty of remnants from this period, with an impressive underground cave network and tunnels to explore. The archaeological treasures housed in the Museo Claudio Faina are also worth a visit.

Meals: B

Departing Orvieto, today’s walking route starts from the Cathedral (Duomo). After crossing the old town and walking through the modern town, the trail then leads you through the countryside with a recently discovered Etruscan necropolis. There is some walking on secondary asphalted roads to reach the side of the ancient crater, with panoramic views on the whole Bolsena Lake.

Lake Bolsena is the largest volcanic lake in Europe, formed over 370,000 years ago with the eruption of the Vulsini volcano. After the eruption, the surrounding land collapsed, creating a caldera and forming what is now, the bed of Lake Bolsena. 

Bolsena is a picturesque town on the Via Francigena in the Lazio region, located on the shore of the massive lake that bears its name. The town is steeped in history and legends and is most famous for a miracle recorded in 1263 at the church of St Christina. The church is still worth a visit for its frescoes, architecture and underground catacombs. We also recommend taking time to relax by the tranquil lake and to explore the town’s medieval streets and the Castello Rocca Monaldeschi – the impressive castle that dominates the town. For dinner you may wish to try one of the local seafood specialties, fresh from the lake: Sbroscia is a soup made from lake fish and tomatoes.

Ascent 535m, Descent  524m 

Meals: B

After breakfast today, you will set off on a pleasant route that offers continual views of the lake. You will pass through fields and forests and an area famous for its olive oil production, and we recommend experiencing a tasting with a piece of warm, fragrant bread. Your walk today ends in the papal town of Montefiascone.

Located on top of a hill overlooking Lake Bolsena, Montefiascone is surrounded by vineyards that produce the EST! EST!! EST!!! wine the region is famous for. 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.

603m ascent, 329m descent

Meals: B

Journey today from the hilltop town of Montefiascone with its peaceful charm to the vibrant capital city of Rome, with its timeless energy. Direct trains are possible and the rail journey usually takes less than 2 hours, and bus travel via Viterbo is also an option worth considering. 

Leaving behind the serene countryside of Lazio, the trip offers scenic views as you approach the Eternal City. Once in bustling Rome you will be surrounded by the unparalleled history, culture, and architecture of one of Europe’s most famous cities. From iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the splendour of the Vatican City, Rome is absolutely brimming with energy and priceless treasures to explore. 

Meals: B

Today is a day at leisure for you to rest up, or to explore some of the many famous sights in the ‘Eternal City’. 

For the energetic, a highly recommended option that can be added at the time of booking is for you to be transferred to the Via Appia Antica (Appian Way) to enjoy a beautiful 14km walk on this historic cobblestone road leading to Rome. Despite the traditional Via Francigena route into Rome travelling through two parks, it is often along busy and noisy roads in the outer suburbs of Rome, and thus we believe that the Via Appia Antica option is a much more pleasant experience for our guests.

The Via Appia Antica (312 BC) was the vision of Appius Claudius Caecus, a Roman politician, and extended over 600km from Rome to the port town of Brindisi. The ancient highway helped trade thrive and also served as an important way for the Roman army to move supplies within the empire. The Via Appia Antica is also where Spartacus and 6,000 rebel slaves met their demise when they were crucified here in 71 BC.

Today the cobblestone road is smooth, having been worn down over the centuries by merchants, pilgrims, emperors and great Roman armies. Take your time as you stroll this peaceful ancient road, shaded by pines and surrounded by remnants of a different time. Impressive, ornamental gates give suggestion to the grand villas hidden behind them and are a reminder that the Via Appia Antica predominantly ran through the wealthy suburbs of Rome. The section that you will walk along today is through the Parco dell’Appia Antica, a park that protects and conserves the ruins and monuments within.

There are many sites that you can explore (some entry fees may apply, and some are closed on Mondays), and highlights include the 300km of underground catacombs where early Christians buried their dead, ruins of villas, aqueducts, a circus maximus where chariot races were held, and a Roman bath complex. Upon reaching the tourist information office, you can choose to take a bus or taxi into the city and your hotel for the night.

Meals: B

Your trip ends today but we highly recommend spending additional time in the Eternal City to visit iconic sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. Although you will not be eligible to receive a testimonium upon completion of this particular Via Francigena trip, a visit to the Vatican is not to be missed.

Meals: B