The Via Francigena is one of Europe’s greatest historical treasures—an iconic pilgrimage path leading all the way from Canterbury, England, to the eternal city of Rome. Spanning over 2,000 kilometers across four countries, this ancient highway crosses France and Switzerland before entering northern Italy through the majestic peaks of the Aosta Valley.
For centuries, kings, merchants, and devout pilgrims traveled this trail to reach the tombs of St. Peter and St. Paul. Today, it remains one of the most rewarding ways to experience authentic Italy at a human pace, far away from overcrowded tour buses and standard sightseeing circuits.
Tracing the Historic Route Through Northern Italy
Once the trail enters Italy, the Via Francigena winds through the fertile plains of the Po Valley, connecting historic towns like Pavia, Piacenza, and Parma. Each region brings a distinct change in local culture, regional cuisine, and landscape, but all share a deep connection to the path’s medieval heritage.
Continuing south, the route enters Tuscany and the rolling hills of the Sienese province. Here, the trail threads through fortified hilltop villages that look almost identical to how they appeared centuries ago. Exquisite Romanesque architecture, cobblestone piazzas, and quiet stone churches stand as lasting tokens of a route that has welcomed thousands of travelers across the ages.
Walking the Via Francigena Today: A Modern Pilgrim’s Journey
Nowadays, many visitors explore highlights of the Via Francigena using cars, buses, or trains. However, a growing community of modern travelers chooses to undertake the journey the traditional way—on foot.
Thanks to dedicated local volunteers and trail organizations, the route is well-marked with official wayfinding signs. These paths guide walkers along quiet country roads, ancient gravel tracks (strade bianche), and forest trails designed to keep you clear of traffic while showcasing Italy’s most breathtaking countryside. If you’re looking to combine this path with other sacred trails across the country, check out our guide on 3 scenic pilgrimage routes to Rome beyond the tourist trail.
Along the trail, a network of pilgrim hostels (ostelli) and religious guesthouses offers budget-friendly accommodation for credentialed travelers. Many of these hostels are housed in the exact same historic monasteries, hospitals, and hospices that sheltered medieval travelers hundreds of years ago.
When passing one another along the path, walkers still exchange the traditional Latin pilgrim greeting:
- “Utreia!” (Further!)
- “Suseia!” (Higher!)
It is a simple tradition that instantly creates a sense of camaraderie among travelers from all corners of the globe.
Siena: The Jewel of the Sienese Trail
Known historically as “the daughter of the Via,” the Tuscan city of Siena owes much of its wealth and cultural heritage to its strategic position along the Francigena route. Siena warmly opens its gates to incoming walkers with a famous Latin inscription carved above the ancient entrance of Porta Camollìa: Cor magis tibi Sena pandit—“Siena opens its heart to you wider than its gates.”
As the Via Francigena winds through Siena’s historic city center, it crosses through four of the city’s seventeen historic contrade—the famous medieval neighborhoods that compete each year in the world-renowned Palio horse race.
The path eventually opens up into the breathtaking Piazza del Duomo, directly opposite the monumental Ospedale di Santa Maria della Scala. Built in the 11th century specifically to care for weary pilgrims arriving on the Via Francigena, this complex now stands as one of the oldest operating hospitals in Europe turned world-class museum.
Whether you tackle a single weekend section through Tuscany or lace up your boots for the entire journey to St. Peter’s Square in Rome, walking the Via Francigena offers an authentic, unforgettable side of Italy that stays with you long after the journey ends.
A degree in journalism and a professional limbo ranging from press offices to newspapers, magazines and finally the web. I lived in Verona, Zurich, London, Cape Town, Mumbai and Casablanca. I hate flying and I love jodel music. And when I grow up I wanna be a cosmonaut.
