Walking from Lucca to Siena on the Via Francigena is a soulful journey through the heart of Tuscany, blending centuries of pilgrimage history with rolling landscapes, cypress-lined roads, and timeless hilltop towns. Starting in the elegant Romanesque city of Lucca, the route threads southward across fertile plains, olive groves, and vineyards, passing medieval villages, Romanesque churches, and peaceful farmsteads. Each day offers varied terrain—paved lanes, dirt tracks, and gentle climbs—rewarded by warm Tuscan hospitality, regional cuisine, and sweeping views. This walk suits travelers seeking cultural discovery, moderate physical challenge, and a slow, contemplative pace through one of Italy’s most picturesque regions.
Prices / Dates
Price: €1169 per person sharing
Single Supplement: +€495
2026 Tour Date:
Saturday 10th to Saturday 17th October
Tour Grade: Moderate
Accommodation: Guesthouse & Hotel
Included / Excluded
- 7 nights bed & breakfast
- All accommodation is pre-booked in approved family-run guesthouses & hotels; with all rooms en-suite.
- English speaking guide
- Luggage transfers daily while you walk with a small day pack. (1 suitcase per person Max 18kg)
- All information on trains to get to first accommodation in Lucca (private transfers organised on request - extra charge will apply)
- Pilgrim credentials
- Packed Lunches
- Evening Meals
- Extra luggage (available with extra charge)
- Entrance fees to museums and tips
- Hotel tourist taxes
Your journey to Siena along the historic Via Francigena begins in this charming, history-filled city. Arrive in Lucca on your own and spend the day exploring at a leisurely pace: stroll atop the impressive city walls, visit the Cathedral of San Martino, and wander around the Romanesque Amphitheatre.
Closest airport is Pisa
A short train ride brings you to Altopascio, an important medieval stop that grew around welcoming pilgrims — here the Tuscan stretch of the Via Francigena truly begins. You’ll pass through the Cerbaie woods, where ancient oaks and ponds fringed with water lilies give way to the wide, cultivated plains of Tuscany. After crossing the Arno, the route climbs to San Miniato, a well-preserved hilltown set on three knolls above the Arno valley. Rich in history, the town is associated with notable figures such as Napoleon and Frederick II.
Distance: 30 km / 18.5 miles, Ascent: 330 m / 1080 ft, Approximate walking time: 7 / 8 hours
It's is possible to shorten today's stage to just 4 km by taking the train from Lucca to S.Miniato-Fucecchio with a change in Pisa: you could visit
the famous leaning tower! (this option would be self-guided)
Today’s stage follows country lanes and ancient trails, entering the Chianti region in the final stretch. Neat vineyards and rolling scenery—changing with the seasons—create a picturesque backdrop as you walk. You finish in Gambassi Terme, known for its thermal baths and long a restful stop for pilgrims.
Distance: 25 km / 16 miles, Ascent: 500 m / 1640 ft, Approximate walking time: 5 / 6 hrs
A local transfer can be arranged to shorten this day to 13km / 8 miles
This stretch is among the most beautiful on the Via Francigena in Tuscany. Charming, long dirt tracks lined with orderly cypress trees lead you past evocative sites like the Sanctuary of Pancole and the Pieve di Cellole. When the towers rise on the skyline, you’ve arrived in San Gimignano — allow time to wander its narrow streets and discover the historic shops of the medieval center.
Distance: 15 km / 9 miles, Ascent 460 m / 1509 ft, Approximate walking time: 4 / 5 hrs
After a leisurely morning in the medieval town and a breakfast of local specialties, depart San Gimignano and walk through the pleasant shade of ancient oaks and olive groves that define the Sienese countryside. The route brings you to Colle di Val d’Elsa, a town whose growth was shaped by the nearby river — a centre of craft and workshops since medieval times.
Distance: 15 km / 9 miles, Ascent 240 m / 787 ft, Approximate walking time: 4 / 5 hrs
Set out from Colle di Val d’Elsa to continue Sigeric’s route on the Via Francigena. This penultimate stage brings you to the picturesque walled village of Monteriggioni — a sight that, as for medieval pilgrims, is striking from a distance as its fortifications rise above the historic Via Cassia.
Distance: 15 km / 9 miles, Ascent: 260 m / 853 ft, Approximate walking time: 4 / 5 hours
Today, you'll reach Siena, one of the most stunning and significant cities along the Via Francigena. The route winds through forests of ancient oaks and holm oaks, crossing the characteristic white Tuscan roads that blend with the more vibrant hues of the Sienese countryside. Upon arrival, Siena will greet you through the impressive Porta Camollia, the historic gateway that has welcomed travelers for centuries.
Distance: 20 km / 12 miles, Ascent: 389 m / 1276 ft, Approximate walking time: 5 hours
It is possible by public transport to shorten this day to 16km
After breakfast, your services conclude. Before leaving, take some time to explore the stunning historic center of Siena, allowing yourself to fully immerse in the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized since 1995.
