Overview
Lace up your boots and hike the Via Francigena, the legendary pilgrim trail that has connected northern Europe with Rome since the Middle Ages. We follow this historic route through spectacular settings, including Siena, with its scallop-shaped piazza, and dreamy San Quirico d’Orcia. We’ll hike along serene Lago di Bolsena, taste wines from renowned vineyards, explore the peaceful Etruscan ruins at Sutri, and finish with a flourish as we walk right into St. Peter’s Square in Rome. This route is still relatively untouristed; experience it before the crowds come. The cuisines of Tuscany and Lazio and the famed local wines keep us well-fueled as we enjoy a journey that is both an experience of the senses and of the heart.
Wonderful trip with great guides and wonderful other travelers. Everything was well organized and no issues arose. The itinerary took us to out of the way places to see the real Italy that most tourists never get to. The meals were outstanding, the best I've had in Italy.
— Thomas Y., Sedona, AZ
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-4
Siena / Buonconvento / San Quirico d’Orcia / Lago di Bolsena / Montefiascone
From Siena, we hike a classic Tuscan landscape to the walled town of Buonconvento, one of the piu belli borghi d’Italia (most beautiful villages of Italy), with an overnight in charming San Quirico d’Orcia. Our trail crosses a section of cobbled Roman road as we head above deep blue Lago di Bolsena to the citadel town of Montefiascone, with its papal fortress. Sampling regional dishes, from ribollita (Tuscan bread soup) to gnocchi alla Romana, adds to our pleasures en route.
Days 5-8
Viterbo / Sutri / Monterosi
Our hike towards medieval Viterbo passes rolling vineyards and ends at thermal springs set among green hills. In Sutri, we visit a Roman amphitheater carved out of tufa rock, and we’ll explore Monterosi, once a major pilgrim stop, with a private tour of the Etruscan museum there. The small village of Isola Farnese, perched on a rock outcrop has a rich history—a member of the Farnese family became Pope Paul III.
Days 9-10
Rome
From our countryside hotel, we hike right into Rome, pausing for a panoramic vista of the Eternal City from Monte Mario, just above the city. The final steps of our pilgrimage lead us right to Bernini’s masterpiece, St. Peter’s Square, flanked by the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica. Leaving our pilgrim staffs by the door, we enter the revered sanctuary of the Basilica to conclude our pilgrimage. Depart on Day 10.
Italy's Pilgrim Trail
Highlights
Highlights
Details
A mix of moderate walks and hikes, some steep trails, 4-7 hours a day, van support (for luggage or if you wish to skip a day's hike)
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