The Via Francigena cycle route is an ancient road that traverses iconic landscapes, steeped in Italian history.
What makes cycling the Via Francigena so special is its length and variety. The full 1,000 kilometre Italian route starts in the towering mountains on the Swiss border, before taking in idyllic cycling in Tuscany and then heading down into the gorgeous region of Lazio and on to the eternal city of Rome. St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City makes for a jaw-dropping finish.
If you ask us, it’s a strong contender for one of the best bike rides in Italy, if not Europe.
We were therefore delighted when Tullia Caballero Augi from SloWays and their sister brand Italian Bike Tours, suggested collaborating with us on this detailed article to explain more about what to expect from a Via Francigena bike tour. For 20 years SloWays have offered specialist cycling tours on the official Via Francigena cycle route and Italian Bike Tours have offered tours elsewhere in Italy.
Keep reading to discover the rich history of the Via Francigena bike route and to learn how you can cycle it for yourself…
Tullia Caballero Augi's journey is a testament to a life lived at the confluence of diverse cultures. Raised in the UK and Peru before relocating to Italy, her multicultural upbringing laid the foundation for a remarkable career. Graduating with a degree in interpretation and translation, Tullia's fluency in multiple languages and her passion for the great outdoors propelled her into the realm of adventure travel.
Her expertise and understanding of Italy's natural landscapes were significantly enhanced during her time at the World Wildlife Fund in Italy where she developed wildlife and nature based tours, and later, as the Italy product manager for a leading Dutch cycling and walking company.
In 1999, Tullia founded S-Cape Travel Italy. This has since become a leading expert in adventure travel. Known for its self-guided cycling and walking tours, as well as small groups throughout Europe. S-Cape Travel has a Travelife Certification, which is a reflection of its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. In 2016, Tullia's reach broadened when she established Italian Bike Tours and also established SloWays. This channelled her energy to include cycling adventures alongside long-distance pilgrim and walking trails.
In addition to her entrepreneurial achievements, Tullia serves as an ambassador and trainer for the Adventure Travel Trade Association. She is also a co-founder of ActiveItaly, a network dedicated to fostering Active and Sustainable Tourism within Italy.
Overview of the Via Francigena cycle route
The Via Francigena route was originally known as a walking pilgrimage (more on the history below) on mainly unpaved roads.
A special cycling itinerary has been developed by the founder at SloWays, who worked closely alongside the Italian Ministry, to help make the route more accessible to cyclists. As a result, cycling is an increasingly popular way to experience this historic journey.
The Via Francigena cycle route spans more than 1,000 kilometres within Italy, from the Great Saint Bernard Pass to Rome, Italy’s historic capital. For walkers, the official route has 45 stages. For cyclists there are 23 stages, with an average of 50 kilometres per day. We are always happy to work with our guests to tailor the route so they can ride more or less each day.
A journey through Northern Italy
The first section of the Via Francigena cycling route explores several impressive northern Italian regions. This includes the Aosta Valley, Piedmont and the food mecca Emilia-Romagna.
Tuscany
For many, Tuscany is the absolute highlight of cycling the Italian Via Francigena.
This largely agricultural region is home to undulating hills where you’ll ride past never-ending cypress trees, fields of corn and wildflowers, as well as many vineyards and ancient olive groves.
Lazio
Meanwhile, hazelnut farms and Europe’s largest volcanic lake, Lake Bolsena, await in the neighbouring region of Lazio.
Gorgeous towns and cities
Dotted in between the spellbinding scenery are some of Italy’s most cherished historic hamlets, towns and cities. The most famous cultural hubs are melting pots of history and art.
Bustling, grand piazzas surrounded by medieval bell towers and charming cobbled streets are common sights as you pedal along the Via Francigena.
Particular highlights include the Tuscan treasures of Lucca, San Gimignano and Siena. Lesser-known gems such as the hilltop fortress of Radicofani and village of Bagno Vignoni (home to hot springs!) will also delight cyclists.
And that’s all before you ride in to Italy’s capital and crown jewel, Rome…
History
All this classic Italian heritage is combined with the opportunity to take on a historic journey that’s been trodden by countless pilgrims over hundreds of years. There is so much to experience along the Via Francigena that it makes for an unforgettable ride. Check out the section below for more on the history of the Francigena.
Why cycle the Via Francigena (rather than walk)?
Cycling the Via Francigena is a great option for travellers who have limited time, but who are keen to experience as much of the Via Francigena as possible. You can take in the most iconic Italian landscapes by bike and ride all the way to Rome in less than two weeks.
What’s the best bike for cycling the Via Francigena?
The Via Francigena cycle route takes in stretches of road as well as unpaved gravel and dirt paths. In fact, approximately 30% of the route takes place on dirt tracks.
The best bike for this kind of terrain is a bike with tyres that have good treads and that provide plenty of grip and is suitable for a variety of mixed routes, typically gravel or touring bikes. However, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, touring bikes and hybrids can all be suitable as long as they’re fitted with the right tyres.
E bikes are also an option for those unsure of Tuscany’s short, sharp hills. They are widely available to rent from bike hire shops in both Lucca and Siena. Take note! You likely won’t find many charging stations on the route but you can charge your battery in bars or restaurants along the way and, of course, at your hotel each night.
As part of a SloWays Via Francigena bike tour you will be equipped with the best bike suitable for the terrain and your needs. We can send photos and details of the bikes we offer, on request.
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Want help organising your Via Francigena cycling tour?
We’ve been helping guests with Via Francigena bike tours since 2002. We would love to help you plan your trip.
Get in touch and let's discuss the best bike tour for you.
Check out our website so we can start helping you craft your perfect Italy cycling trip.
What are the best sections of the Via Francigena for cyclists?
Fun fact! The full Via Francigena route actually begins in Canterbury in the UK.
Only those with months of free time can realistically take on this epic 2,000 kilometre journey. The rest of us will probably just want to bike the very best bits of the Via Francigena in much less time.
For us, the best bits of the Via Francigena begin in Italy – and it is these routes that offer the true essence of the Via Francigena pilgrimage.
That’s where the experts at SloWays come in. They have been organising routes along the Via Francigena for more than 20 years and today offer a range of self-guided bike tours along this ancient route. All SloWays bike tours come with accommodation, 24/7 support and an app to help you navigate with ease. The team at SlowWays will also organise hiring you a suitable bike. Discover SloWay’s full range of Via Francigena bike tours to get started here.
Via Francigena: Great St Bernard Pass to Ivrea cycle route
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The first section of the Via Francigena bike route in Italy starts at the impressive Great St Bernard Pass on the Swiss border. Here you are surrounded by the beauty of the Alps.
The route continues through the villages and fortresses of the Aosta valley. It passes by the tranquil Dora River and cycles through pleasant trails surrounded by woodland. Finally you take on the rolling hills of Piedmont, before finishing in the picturesque town of Ivrea.
This is a good option if you want to cycle a less ridden stretch of the Via Francigena. It is also the shortest itinerary offered by SloWays, traversing just 125 kilometres. This makes it a great option for cyclists with limited time.
More information
Learn more about cycling St Bernard Pass to Ivrea here.
Via Francigena: Parma to Siena cycle route
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This bike ride of 364 kilometres can be completed over nine days.
Starting in the city of Parma, foodies will be delighted to hear this is the home of some of Italy’s most iconic products, including Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano.
After fuelling in the region’s foodie capital, you will set off into the green Italian countryside, passing by ancient churches and abbeys. There’s also a long climb up the Passo della Cisa! Once down the other side, the city of Pontremoli is also a highlight of the Via Francigena route. It’s home to beautiful, medieval bridges crossing the river.
Another highlight of cycling this Via Francigena section is the chance to cycle beside the Tuscan sea! The lovely town of Pietrasanta is also well worth a wander around.
From here you begin to head inland into Tuscany, passing through several iconic Tuscan towns and cities.
The charming, fortified city of Lucca is particularly noteworthy. It is nicknamed the ‘town of a hundred churches’ and is a place of spiritual importance; there is much to explore on foot, including the Cattedrale di San Martino and impressive city walls. You’ll also pass the beautiful town of San Gimignano, before your end destination in the striking city of Siena.
Tips
The Piazza del Campo, found in the heart of the city, is widely considered one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. It’s so large it hosts a bi-annual horse race!
Fun fact: this is also the finishing location for the iconic Strade Bianche race which is held here annually.
Don’t forget to hop off your bike in the Piazza in Siena – aside from the Strade Bianche racers, cyclists are strictly forbidden to cycle in this part of the city.
More information
Learn more about cycling Parma to Siena here.
Via Francigena: Siena to Rome cycle route
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Cue the Italy of your dreams…
This is arguably the most stunning section of the Via Francigena. It starts over half way into the Via Francigena route, at the city of Siena. From here it’s a 284 kilometre bike ride to Vatican City, in the heart of Rome.
From Siena, the Francigena cycle route weaves its way through some of Tuscany’s most picture postcard landscapes, including the Val d’Orca, which you will no doubt be familiar with (and which really is a total joy to cycle!).
Both Siena and the Val d’Orica are both on the UNESCO World Heritage list!
Many lesser-known gems also await, including the walled mountaintop fortress of Radicofani and Lazio’s crumbling amphitheatre in Suri. The stunning palace of Viterbo in Lazio is also well worth a cycling pit stop.
The final section of this Via Francigena cycle route takes you into the heart of the capital city along a beautiful cycle path that hugs the River Tiber. Cycling in Rome is surprisingly easy to navigate thanks to the Tiber. Riding through the chaotic streets up to St Peter’s Basilica is a little more tricky, but it’s worth it. Arriving at St Peter’s feels like a very special ending to an amazing journey.
Tips
As is typical of Tuscany and Lazio, the route is undulating throughout. Flat stretches soon give way to another sharp climb, though these never tend to go on too long and are usually manageable for cyclists with a good level of fitness.
The route is signposted with dedicated blue bike signs, but it is always good to have a GPS file too. There’s the official SloWays navigational app to keep you on route, take a look here to find out more and download the app. The app is available for free download for the general public; the version for our paying guests include a personalised itinerary that they will be able to download through a QR code.
Depending on your fitness levels this route can typically be ridden over 12 days, or less if you have less time and are looking for more of a challenge.
More information
Learn more about cycling Siena to Rome here.
Sponsor Message
Want help organising your Via Francigena cycling tour?
We’ve been helping guests with Via Francigena bike tours since 2002. We would love to help you plan your trip.
Get in touch and let's discuss the best bike tour for you.
Check out our website so we can start helping you craft your perfect Italy cycling trip.
Via Francigena vs Camino de Santiago: How do they compare?
The Via Francigena is Italy’s version of the popular Camino de Santiago. Although less known, it makes a great option for those who have already tackled the popular Spanish cycle route and who are looking for a similar experience that is equally rewarding.
Both bike routes offer a sense of challenge, historical interest and beautiful scenery along the way.
Here are some of the key differences we noticed about the two routes…
Escape the crowds
The Camino de Santiago’s popularity attracts hundreds of thousands of walkers each year. In the summer months this makes cycling some of the camino routes tricky – particularly the more popular routes like the Way of St James – especially as you get nearer to Santiago de Compostela.
The Via Francigena cycle route is a lot less known. Whilst you will find people walking the route, there are far fewer. You might even go a full day without seeing any fellow cyclists! This gives you a real off the beaten track feel, which is ideal for cyclists who like to escape the tourists and feel a sense of solitude as they ride.
Fewer pilgrim accommodations
Pilgrim accommodation on the Via Francigena is not as common as on the Camino de Santiago. Whilst you might find entire guesthouses and B&Bs dedicated entirely to Camino tourism in northern Spain, this is less the case along the Via Francigena.
That said, the regions you traverse are well loved by tourists in Italy and so there are plenty of traditional options to choose from along the way, including hotels and agriturismos. These offer a lovely local feel (more on that below!). As a result, you will likely find that accommodation tends to be more expensive on the Via Francigena.
Rugged terrain
Both biking routes have their fair share of challenges along the way that make them interesting and varied.
However, it is typically believed that Tuscany’s undulating hills and sharp ascents into the hilltop towns make this route tougher than the Way of St James in Spain.
World renowned cuisine
What the Via Francigena lacks in cheap pilgrim’s menus, it more than makes up for in its delicious local dishes! In fact, Northern Italy is home to some of the country’s most iconic dishes.
The regions of Piedmont and Tuscany are world-famous and the food and wine you will experience here are loved the world over. Most meals are often made with food that has been freshly picked, or harvested, and prepared that day.
Fresh salads, regional pasta dishes and legendary wines such as Barolo and Chianti, will all likely be regular features on menus you come across. Each meal here promises to provide a mouthwatering gastronomic experience that will keep you well fuelled to tackle those Via Francigena hills!
The quality of the food tends to be a lot higher here than along the Camino de Santiago. The downside to that is that costs tend to be higher for your meals.
Practicalities of a Via Francigena tour
Best time of year to cycle the Via Francigena
April to October typically provide the best conditions for cycling. This excludes July and August which can get exceptionally hot.
Spring time is a particularly wonderful time of year to explore the Via Francigena. At this time, the countryside is at its greenest and in full bloom. You’ll also find swallows swooping about the medieval bell towers of the cities.
The landscape changes hue later in the season after a hot summer; expect more shades of brown and orange. This is harvest season and so the world class vineyards will be a hive of activity.
Winter is also possible to ride the Via Francigena, but do be prepared for changeable, cool conditions if you choose to explore at this time of year. Take note! Some accommodation tends to close during these months, so plan ahead accordingly and book in advance. There is also the possibility of snow on some areas of the route, especially the unsurfaced sections (dirt roads).
Where to stay on the Via Francigena?
If you are booking a SloWays Via Francigena bike tour, we always choose trusted and characterful family run hotels (where possible), which offer a real flavour of the regions you are cycling through.
If cycling by yourself, there are a number of options to choose from along the Via Francigena cycle route. This includes comfortable options such as hotels and B&Bs. Take a look at this official list of accommodation options to get started.
Take note! Tuscany is a popular destination for tourists in the summer so it is best to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any disappointment. At the opposite end of the spectrum, some more traditional agriturismos and hotels may not be heated; if you are travelling in winter take some layers to keep you comfortable.
Bike rental and mechanical support options
If you book a Via Francigena bike tour with SloWays, we will rent you a bike that is already suitable for the route ahead and support you all the way.
If you decide to rent a bike independently, there are several bike shops in the key starting locations of Lucca and Siena, which offer suitable bikes for the Via Francigena.
Take note! You’ll have to take the price of delivery and pick up from your arrival and finish point into consideration.
Those looking to cycle the Via Francigena should have a basic understanding of how to fix any minor issues, such as a puncture. If you have rented a bike there will always be a number you can call for further assistance and advice on the nearest bike shops.
Are luggage transfers available?
When you book a Via Francigena bike tour with SloWays luggage transfer is included so you can simply focus on the riding each day.
Getting to the start
Depending on which airport or train station you choose, SloWays will provide you with all the information you need to get to the first nights accommodation of your SloWays Via Francigena bike tour.
If planning your own Via Francigena tour there are several well connected international airports you could fly into, including the Leonardo da Vinci –Fiumicino Airport in Rome, or the Galileo Galilei Airport in Pisa.
Both airports have excellent train links connecting them to other major cities on the Via Francigena route, including Luca and Siena. This article contains more information.
Can you take your bikes on public transport from the nearest airport?
If you bring you own bike, you cannot take it on the fast speed trains, even if it is packed in a box.
You can take bikes on some intercity trains and on all regional trains. Check Trenitalia to know which trains accept bikes.
There is no extra cost for folding bikes but you do pay for all other bikes, even if you remove the wheels.
Tips for getting the most from your Via Francigena Tour
We want you to experience the Via Fracigena to its fullest, so here’s a little more information you might find interesting to know about the history of the Francigena route.
Pilgrim Passport and Testimonium
Just like the Camino de Santiago, one of the unique features of cycling the Via Francigena is the opportunity to get a pilgrim passport that is stamped along the way. As part of your SloWays Via Francigena bike tour we will provide this for you when you start the trip.
Cycling without us? See this website to find out where you can get your pilgrim passport from.
A testimonium was typically given to pilgrims completing their pilgrimage as confirmation they had completed the route.
Today those conquering the last 200km of the Via Francigena can still receive a testimonium (100km for walkers). This can be claimed at the Basilica of St Peters in Rome and will require a stamped passport for proof. Find out more information here.
Do you need cash?
There are ATMs in most villages and main cities along the route
Most of the tourist accommodation and restaurants accept credit cards. But some cash is useful for small bars along the way or in case your accommodation does not accept credit cards.
Are there lots of places to get water/restaurants en route?
You are never too far from a village or town where you can get something to eat and drink. Water fountains are also common in some areas. Tap water from bars and restaurants is drinkable everywhere in Italy (if not otherwise stated).
We still encourage you to bring at least two litres of water with you every day. Even in the spring months temperatures can get up into the mid-twenties. Be prepared for warm days on the bike.
Bike etiquette
As previously mentioned, there are some off road sections on the Via Francigena so you should take extra care here to avoid any accidents.
You will also likely encounter other pilgrims on the trail at some point so do give them a wide berth and a friendly ‘ciao’ as you pass!
Do you need to be able to speak Italian?
English is widely spoken along the via Francigena.
In smaller villages and towns you may find some Italians do not speak English so knowing some useful phrases in Italian is always helpful:
- Hello/Goodbye – Ciao
- Good morning – Buongiorno
- Good afternoon – Buona sera
- Goodbye – Arrivederci
- Thank you – Grazie
- Please – Per favore
- You’re welcome – Prego
What to pack
The Via Francigena explores the heart of Tuscany and surrounding regions, so be prepared for warm days on the bike. Pack plenty sunscreen, your sunglasses, padded shorts and mosquito repellent.
Loose comfortable clothes are also recommended for cooler evenings and sightseeing, as well as warm layers, when the temperature dips.
A protective waterproof for any heavy downpours is always a good idea, especially in spring and autumn or if you take on the route from the Alps.
Our packing guide contains further suggestions on what to pack for a cycling holiday.
History of the Via Francigena cycle route
The Via Francigena trail originates in the early Middle Ages. It served as a major route to connect different regions in Italy and for centuries has since been used by merchants, armies and pilgrims.
The Via Francigena has a long history and was initially developed by the Lombards to avoid Byzantine- held areas near the coast. Instead, the route headed inland towards Lucca and then through the Elsa Valley towards Siena. It then connected with the ancient Via Cassia road leading to Rome.
The birth of the Via Francigena
The route’s significance grew when Lombard control gave way to the Franks. They renamed it the Via Francigena, which translates in English as: “the road from France”. This name reflected its role as a major north to south European connecting route for many travelling across the continent.
A central pilgrimage route
The Via Francigena provided access to one of the world’s most important holy places of Christianity: Rome, Jerusalem and Santiago de Compostela.
Its central location in Europe effectively made the Via Francigena a junction for pilgrims taking on these sacred journeys. From Rome pilgrims could head on to the Holy Land via Puglia. they could Alternatively, they could head north into France and on to the St James Way.
This unique geographical location enabled it to become a well-trodden path for devoted Christians for hundreds of years.
The Via Francigena’s revival
By the late 20th century, the Christian pilgrims that first walked the route were now long gone. However, over in Spain, the Way of St James pilgrimage was beginning to once again gain in popularity. This led to a revival of interest in the Via Francigena.
In 1994, the route was designated as a “Cultural Route of the Council of Europe“. This highlighted the Via Francigena’s historical importance and ongoing relevance as a major route of cultural and spiritual significance.
A modern day pilgrim’s cycle trail
With the Via Francigena growing in popularity in the past couple of decades, in recent years there has been a push to make cycling easier along the route.
The official cycling itinerary was designed, mapped and signposted in 2016 via a crowdfunding project.
Typically, the original walking route takes in mainly unpaved roads and loose gravel tracks. Whilst this can be ridden by cyclists who are confident tackling this kind of terrain, the cycling itinerary takes in approximately 70% asphalted roads with little traffic. This makes the Via Francigena a great option for a range of cyclists seeking a rewarding journey.
Tell us more about your cycling tours. What do you offer?
Italy is a land of bike enthusiasts, with the first being Leonardo da Vinci and Galileo Galilei! Visiting our country by bike is a guaranteed way to immerse yourself in its ever-changing landscape and the distinctive natural beauty of each region.
We have been designing active trips in Italy for more than twenty years. We offer cycle tours in a great variety of destinations across Italy – from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the vineyards of Piedmont, from the coasts of Puglia to the mysterious forests of Umbria. E-bikes are available for rent in every destination.
You can find all our trips at Italian Bike Tours. Get in touch!
Thank you Tullia for sharing these handy insights. The Via Francigena is a unique and rewarding multi day cycling route that we are more convinced than ever before should be added to your biking bucket list!
If you book a Via Francigena tour, do let us know in the comments below. We’d love to hear how you get on!
- See this article for more inspiration for cycling in Italy.
- Already cycled the Via Francigena and are looking for another rewarding long-distance cycle ride in Italy? Don’t miss the Alpe Adria.
- Love the idea of Pisa to Florence bike tours? We think you’ll enjoy this in-depth article.
Got a question for SloWays?
Fill out this form and we will pass it to SloWays who aim to reply (within 24 hours wherever they can!)
Got a question for Tullia?
Fill out this form and we will send it to Tullia. We aim to get you an answer within 24 hours where possible!Tullia Caballero Augi's journey is a testament to a life lived at the confluence of diverse cultures. Raised in the UK and Peru before relocating to Italy, her multicultural upbringing laid the foundation for a remarkable career. Graduating with a degree in interpretation and translation, Tullia's fluency in multiple languages and her passion for the great outdoors propelled her into the realm of adventure travel.
Her expertise and understanding of Italy's natural landscapes were significantly enhanced during her time at the World Wildlife Fund in Italy where she developed wildlife and nature based tours, and later, as the Italy product manager for a leading Dutch cycling and walking company.
In 1999, Tullia founded S-Cape Travel Italy. This has since become a leading expert in adventure travel. Known for its self-guided cycling and walking tours, as well as small groups throughout Europe. S-Cape Travel has a Travelife Certification, which is a reflection of its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. In 2016, Tullia's reach broadened when she established Italian Bike Tours and also established SloWays. This channelled her energy to include cycling adventures alongside long-distance pilgrim and walking trails.
In addition to her entrepreneurial achievements, Tullia serves as an ambassador and trainer for the Adventure Travel Trade Association. She is also a co-founder of ActiveItaly, a network dedicated to fostering Active and Sustainable Tourism within Italy.
The contents of this website are provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on it. You should carry out your own due diligence and risk assessments and take professional advice. Views expressed by interviewees or other users of this website do not necessarily represent our views. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content on our website is accurate, complete or up to date. If you use any information or content on this website, download from, or otherwise obtain content or services through our website, it is entirely at your own discretion and risk. Epic Road Rides Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on the information and content on this website. Find out more here.
Sponsor Message
Want help organising your Via Francigena cycling tour?
We’ve been helping guests with Via Francigena bike tours since 2002. We would love to help you plan your trip.
Get in touch and let's discuss the best bike tour for you.
Check out our website so we can start helping you craft your perfect Italy cycling trip.
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