Walkers take in the typical Tuscan landscape on the Via Francigena | Tim Charody
On the way to Buonconvento: "happy, fortunate place"
rabbit and wild boar plate Tuscany | Tim Charody
Religious paintings on the Via Francigena | Tim Charody
The Via Francigena is well marked for self guided travellers
Walking below the medieval village of Monteriggioni | Brad Atwal
San Gimignano and the surrounding Tuscan landscape | Tim Charody
3
moderate
Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 8 nights in 3 star hotels and agriturismo / B&B's
Meals
  • 1 Dinner
  • 11 Breakfasts

9 Days£GBP

View Inclusions

Overview

Trip Code: SOG6507

Trip highlights

  • Walking through the spectacular landscapes of the Tuscan countryside full of vineyards and picturesque rolling hills
  • Exploring the round walls of the historical fortified village of Monteriggioni
  • Discovering the charming UNESCO towns of San Gimignano and Siena
  • Staying in small, comfortable family-run accommodations and tasting the delicious Tuscan culinary specialities

On this section of the Camino trail to Rome, combine well-known towns including Siena and San Gimignano, with charming hamlets such as San Miniato, to discover the very best of the Tuscan Via Francigena in a single week. Starting in San Miniato, one of the hidden pearls of the Via Francigena, this itinerary takes you through a region of extraordinary beauty. From the thousand year old Pieve di Chianni, to the crenellated towers of Monteriggioni, to finally reach spectacular Siena, this walk will continue to amaze you. With achievable daily distances ranging from 13 to 24 km (7.5 to 15mi), enjoy wonderful views as you walk and discover fortified hamlets where time seems to have stopped. The landscape is not the only highlight. At meal times, savour the local cuisine including the precious white truffle of San Miniato, the pici of Siena and the saffron of San Gimignano, while at night stay in quality, handpicked hotels and agriturismi, the perfect blend of comfort on an active Italian holiday.

Countries:

Italy

Starting Point:

San Miniato Alto

Finishing Point:

Buonconvento

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Make your own way to San Miniato Alto. Set between Pisa and Florence, the medieval town of San Miniato is a splendid jewel of the Via Francigena. Sitting on the top of three hills, it dominates the Arno Valley. After checking in to your hotel, be sure to stroll the old town streets and visits the Episcopal Seminary, the Duomo and the church of San Domenico. San Miniato is known for its white truffles and we recommend sampling these tasty delights perhaps with a risotto at dinner.

Meals:  B

From San Miniato a paved road brings you to a spectacular route which leads you across typical Tuscan countryside. Following in the footsteps of Archbishop Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury from 990 to 994, who walked between Rome and Canterbury in 990, you will pass two "Submansiones" (Sigeric's "stopping places"): Pieve di Coiano and Pieve a Chianne. Continue to Gambassi Terme and your hotel for the night. Walk: 24km/15mi. Ascent: 781m/2562ft. Descent: 654m/2145ft.

Meals:  B,D

The walk today will lead you through wonderful surroundings and landscapes of the Via Francigena. You will visit the tiny villages of Collemuccioli and Pieve di Cellole, as well as the Sanctuary in Pancole, where you can learn about its legend. On arrival in San Gimignano, your final destination for the day, we recommend exploring the town on foot so you can really appreciate its charming medieval atmosphere. Walk: 18km/11mi. Ascent: 595m/1952ft. Descent: 540ft/1772ft.

Meals:  B

Today the Via Francigena will lead you up and over the Tuscan hills. This picturesque walk will lead you across vineyards, olive groves, fields and woods until you reach your accommodation in Gracciano. Along the way it's possible to make a detour to discover the fascinating Abbey of Santa Maria a Coneo, dating from the 11th century. Walk: 21km/13mi. Ascent: 209m/686ft. Descent: 204m/669ft.

Meals:  B

Today you will cross Pieve a Elsa, which was once a large, ancient parish frequented by pilgrims. You can also visit the ancient Etruscan Thermae (hot pools) of Caldane. Later in the day you will reach Strove and its beautiful Romanesque church. From Strove you continue past the medieval village of Abbadia a Isola, built around the Cistercian Abbey of San Salvatore, before reaching Monteriggioni. You will see its famed crown of towers as you approach. After check in you can spend the afternoon exploring this fascinating town. Walk: 13km/8mi. Ascent: 132m/433ft. Descent: 57m/187ft.

Meals:  B

Leaving Monteriggioni you walk on dirt roads along the Montagnola Senese, the main hilly area of the district. You will pass the ancient medieval suburb of Cerbaia which currently appears to be abandoned. Walking through woods you will reach the castle of Chiocciola and ascend to Poggio di Riciano. From here you will start your descent, walking along the river of Pian del Lago (or you can shorten your walk by omitting the Poggio di Riciano visit). At the end of the Renai forest you enter the beautiful town of Siena via the ancient pilgrim's access, Porta Camollia. Overnight in Siena, which you can explore this evening. Walk: 20km/12.5mi. Ascent: 224m/735ft. Descent: 245m/803ft.

Meals:  B

Inclusions

What's included

  • 8 breakfasts, 1 dinner: Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will usually consist of 3 courses, starting with a salad or pasta dish, followed by either a chicken, red meat or fish dish with seasonal vegetables & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cake
  • 8 nights in 3 star hotels and agriturismo / B&B's on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (hotel taxes extra, payable locally - allow €10)
  • Information pack including smartphone app with maps plus a route book per room booked
  • Luggage transfer (max 1 piece per person)
  • Emergency hotline and SMS alert
  • Credenziale - the pilgrim's passport

  • Travel to San Miniato Alto and from Buonconvento
  • Lunches and dinners (except dinner in Gambassi) - allow EUR15-20 for each dinner and EUR5 for a picnic lunch
  • Items of a personal nature including drinks, souvenirs, phone calls, internet and laundry etc.
  • Entrance fees (museums, galleries etc.)
  • Guide - this is a self guided tour
  • Travel insurance
  • Tourist Tax - allow approx EUR1-2 per day - payable directly to the hotel

Suitability

moderate

3

This is a moderate grade walk along paths that are well defined. The walking is mostly on paths and gravel roads (strade bianche), with some sections on asphalt roads. The towns are often on hilltops. You should be able to walk for up to 7 hours a day in hot sun (at times). The trail is well-marked with official signs of the Via Francigena. A good level of fitness is required. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, and jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure. Note: the walking time and distance are calculated from city centre to city centre and may vary depending on the accommodations booked, to a maximum of 2km.

Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct

Priceper person from

£GBP

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.

Videos

Walking the Best of Tuscany | Italy's Via Francigena | UTracks

Get Social

World Expeditions Travel Group

World Expeditions Australian Walking Holidays Tasmanian Expeditions Adventure South Great Canadian Trails Utracks Huma Challenge World Expeditions Schools Walkers' Britain Sherpa Van Trail Journeys Blue Moutains Adventures Company Larapinta Trail Walk Australian Cycle Tours Great Walks of New Zealand North America Active Adventure Travel West
  Walkers’ Britain operates under World Expeditions ATOL number which is ATOL 4491. Any holiday sold with international flights from the UK are ATOL protected.
When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative).
Please refer to our booking conditions for further information. Or, for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate - please visit www.packpeaceofmind.co.uk.
© Copyright 2024 by World Expeditions Travel Group Pty Ltd
Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips