Overview
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! THE DATES ARE SET, AND THIS IS A PRELIMINARY POSTING WHILE WE CALCULATE TRIP PRICING.
Walking the Via Francigena from Lucca to Siena is an immersion into the heart of Tuscany—a land where rolling hills are stitched with vineyards, medieval towns rise on hilltops, and every day feels like stepping into a living Renaissance painting. This guided trek follows one of Europe’s most historic pilgrimage paths, bringing together cultural discovery, natural beauty, and warm Italian hospitality.
Our journey begins in the enchanting walled city of Lucca, often called a “little Florence” for its wealth of art, churches, and Renaissance charm. After an orientation walk along Lucca’s medieval walls and its leafy aqueduct trail, we set out onto the storied Via Francigena. Like countless pilgrims before us, we trace a route once traveled by kings, saints, and humble wayfarers, walking paths that lead us into the timeless landscapes of Tuscany.
Each day brings a balance of history and scenery. We follow woodland paths and medieval dykes, cross Renaissance bridges, and climb toward panoramic ridgelines where distant towers signal the next destination. Along the way, we pause in hilltop towns where narrow stone streets hide treasures like Romanesque churches, frescoed chapels, and bustling piazzas lined with cafés.
Highlights abound: the hilltop beacon of San Miniato, the thermal springs of Gambassi Terme, the fairytale skyline of San Gimignano with its soaring medieval towers, and the crystal-clear waters of the Elsa River near Colle di Val d’Elsa. At Monteriggioni, we pass through gates that have stood intact since the 13th century, stepping into a perfectly preserved walled village that feels suspended in time.
Our final triumph is Siena, one of Italy’s most beloved medieval cities. Famous for its striped Gothic cathedral, artistic treasures, and the fan-shaped Piazza del Campo, Siena rewards us with a fitting finale: a city where history, faith, and beauty intertwine.
With professional guides, van support, delicious meals, and carefully chosen accommodations, this journey balances active walking with comfort and cultural depth. Each evening we share Tuscan cuisine and fine local wines, enjoying camaraderie with fellow travelers. Whether you are drawn to the spiritual heritage of the Via Francigena, the landscapes of Tuscany, or simply the joy of walking in good company, this trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Join us for this unforgettable adventure and discover why the Via Francigena continues to inspire pilgrims and travelers alike after more than a thousand years.
Map of the route
Daily Itinerary

Sunday, May 3, 2026- Gather in Lucca
Sunday, May 3, 2026- Gather in Lucca
Description
Welcome to Lucca, a jewel of Tuscany often described as a “smaller Florence.” Enclosed by perfectly preserved Renaissance walls, the city offers quiet cobbled streets, elegant piazzas, and a wealth of churches. We gather at Sandy Brown’s apartment on a lively piazza for introductions and orientation, followed by a delicious Tuscan dinner. Overnight in Lucca.
distance: 0 km
ascent: 0 m
descent: 0 m
% hard surfaces: 0
difficulty rating: 0

Monday, May 4, 2026 – Lucca City Walk
Monday, May 4, 2026 – Lucca City Walk
Description
A full day in Lucca lets us discover its Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance past. We walk the leafy path atop the city’s walls, then follow the 19th-century aqueduct to the Parole d’Oro springs. After time to explore the parklands and aqueduct structures, we return to Lucca on foot or by van. Aperitivi and a relaxed evening round out the day. Overnight in Lucca.
distance: 8.4 km
ascent: 109 m
descent: 108 m
% hard surfaces: 100%
difficulty rating: 5

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 – Transfer To Altopascio And Walk To San Miniato
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 – Transfer To Altopascio And Walk To San Miniato
Description
A short van ride brings us to Altopascio, where our walk begins. We cross woodlands and tread atop medieval dykes, reaching the Renaissance-era Ponte Cappiano before continuing to Fucecchio. From here, a van transfer (or optional extra walking) leads us to San Miniato, crowned by its tower beacon and full of medieval charm. Overnight in San Miniato.
distance: 28.7 km
ascent: 353 m
descent: 225 m
% hard surfaces: 39%
difficulty rating: 8

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 – San Miniato To Gambassi Terme
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 – San Miniato To Gambassi Terme
Description
Today the wide-open Tuscan hills unfold before us in sweeping vistas. We walk through rolling farmland, past chapels and farmsteads, with pickup points available for shorter walks. The day concludes in Gambassi Terme, famed for its thermal waters. Overnight in Gambassi Terme.
distance: 24.0 km
ascent: 552 m
descent: 368 m
% hard surfaces: 31%
difficulty rating: 7

Thursday, May 7, 2026 – Gambassi Terme To San Gimignano
Thursday, May 7, 2026 – Gambassi Terme To San Gimignano
Description
The day’s walk brings us to one of Italy’s most beloved medieval towns, San Gimignano, known for its 14 surviving towers. Along the way, we visit the contemplative Monastery of Bose at Cellole. In San Gimignano we enjoy its Duomo frescoes, wander narrow lanes, and savor its world-renowned gelato. Overnight in San Gimignano.
distance: 13.7 km
ascent: 396 m
descent: 392 m
% hard surfaces: 48%
difficulty rating: 6

Friday, May 8, 2026 – San Gimignano To Colle Di Val D'Elsa
Friday, May 8, 2026 – San Gimignano To Colle Di Val D'Elsa
Description
Rolling vineyards and olive groves line today’s route. Our goal is Colle di Val d’Elsa, a hidden gem rich in history and tradition. Adventurous walkers may add an excursion to the turquoise cascades of the Elsa River. Overnight in Colle di Val d’Elsa.
distance: 17.0 km
ascent: 294 m
descent: 448 m
% hard surfaces: 50%
difficulty rating: 7

Saturday, May 9, 2026 – Colle Di Val D'Elsa To Monteriggioni
Saturday, May 9, 2026 – Colle Di Val D'Elsa To Monteriggioni
Description
Through the Tuscan countryside we walk toward the 11th-century abbey of Abbadia a Isola, once a key pilgrim stop. From there, a steep but rewarding climb delivers us to Monteriggioni, a storybook walled village unchanged for centuries. Overnight in Monteriggioni or nearby.
distance: 14.9 km
ascent: 268 m
descent: 202 m
% hard surfaces: 44%
difficulty rating: 6

Sunday, May 10, 2026 Monteriggioni To Siena
Sunday, May 10, 2026 Monteriggioni To Siena
Description
We cross the Pian del Lago, a dry plain once drained by an ingenious 17th-century tunnel. From here, either transfer by van or continue on foot up into Siena itself. Siena’s treasures include its striped cathedral, vibrant piazzas, and medieval streets alive with history. Overnight in Siena.
distance: 20.4 km
ascent: 368 m
descent: 300 m
% hard surfaces: 42%
difficulty rating: 7

Monday, May 11, 2026 Depart Siena
Monday, May 11, 2026 Depart Siena
Description
After breakfast, we enjoy a guided tour of Siena’s highlights before saying farewell to new friends. Travelers may linger longer in Siena to soak up its beauty or depart onward from here.
distance: 0 km
ascent: 0 m
descent: 0 m
% hard surfaces: 0
difficulty rating: 0
What we provide
- Hosted by experienced pilgrim leader, Laura Harris
- Expert European hiking guide included
- All (8) overnight accommodations
- All breakfasts and dinners (wine not included)
- Complete van and driver support
- Baggage transfer each day (up to 18kg/person)
- E-guidebook by Pilgrim Paths' own Sandy Brown
- Official Via Francigena pilgrim credential
- Private rooms with private baths
What you provide
- Transportation to and from the journey
- Lunches and snacks each day
- Gratuity for your guide and driver (€5-10 per day for each)
- Adequate gear and fitness for walking 12-25km/day