The Way of Gods: from Bologna to Florence – 8 Day Self-Guided Walking Tour

The Way of Gods: from Bologna to Firenze is a breathtaking journey that traces the ancient paths connecting two of Italy’s most culturally rich cities. This scenic hike offers travelers an immersive experience through stunning landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites, providing a unique opportunity to discover Italy’s natural beauty and heritage. Whether you’re seeking spiritual reflection, adventure, or a deeper connection with Italian history, this trail promises an unforgettable exploration of the land between Bologna and Florence.

Prices / Dates

Price: 

Low Season: 20 March – 30 April & 1 Oct – 10 Nov

€840 per person sharing

High Season: 1 May – 30 Sept

€885 per person sharing

Single Supplement: +€265

Solo Traveller: +€270

Tour Dates: 15 March to 31 October

Tour Grade:  Moderate

Accommodation: Guesthouse or B&B

Included / Excluded

Day 1 - Welcome to Bologna

Welcome to Bologna, the lively capital of Emilia-Romagna.

Overnight in Bologna.

Day 2 - Bologna to Sasso Marconi

The walk on the Via degli Dei starts from the iconic statue of Neptune and goes through the longest portico in the world, that of San Luca.

The first stage on the Via degli Dei ends at the small village of Sasso Marconi, which from Praduro and Sasso assumed its current name in honor of the

Nobel prize winner Guglielmo Marconi.

Overnight in Sasso Marconi.

Distance: 21 km / 13 miles, Ascent: 400 m / 1280 ft, Approximate walking time: 5 / 6 hours

Day 3 - Sasso Marconi to Monzuno

oday’s stage of the trek from Bologna to Florence begins after a short private transfer.

Today’s stage on the Via degli Dei ends in Monzuno, where you can visit the Nino Bertocchi – Lea Colliva Art Gallery, excellence of this small village in

the Bolognese Apennines.

Overnight in Monzuno.

Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles, Ascent: 620 m / 1984 ft, Approximate walking time: 5  hrs

Day 4 - Monzuno to Bruscoli

Follow the Apennine ridge to immerse yourself in the very extensive beech forests that preserve the basalt of the ancient Via Flaminia Militare.

This wonderful route will lead you to your Bruscoli farmhouse, where you will stay overnight.

Distance: 20 km / 12 miles, Ascent 840 m / 2688 ft, Approximate walking time: 5 / 6 hrs

Day 5 - Bruscoli to San Piero a Sieve

Today a nice trekking in the mountains will lead you on suggestive paths in the woods.

After the legendary Passo dell’Osteria Bruciata, you quickly descend to Sant’Agata, where there is a bar and a grocery store, with the possibility of

shortening the day by bus.

Overnight in San Piero a Sieve.

Distance: 30 km / 18.5 miles, Ascent: 590 m / 1888ft, Approximate walking time: 7 / 8 hours

Distance: 21 km / 13 miles, Ascent: 530 m / 1696ft – if you take the bus option

Day 6 - San Piero a Sieve to Vetta delle Croci

Today’s stage of the walking journey on the Via degli Dei is almost entirely unpaved.

The route will lead you to the Florence basin, among beautiful chestnut, hazelnut and oak woods, juniper bushes, peaceful and wide clearings and

fields planted with olive trees.

The last climb to the Sanctuary of Monte Senario will make you leave the Mugello basin behind for good. It is highly recommended to visit the most

important sanctuary in Tuscany, and then go down towards Vetta delle Croci and then Olmo.

Overnight in Olmo.

Distance: 20 km / 12 miles, Ascent: 820 m / 2624 ft, Approximate walking time: 5 / 6 hours

Day 7 - Vetta delle Croci to Fiesole/Firenze

The last stage of the Via degli Dei takes you back to civilization with the entrance to the splendid and crowded Florence.

From Fiesole the route descends to Florence, which you can decide to reach with a short bus transfer. (Shortens the day to 10km)

Overnight in Florence.

Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles, Ascent: 290 m / 928 ft, Approximate walking time: 4 / 5 hours

Day 8 - Depart

After breakfast, you will begin your onward journey home. 

A few words from our customers...

I am a single woman traveller embarking on a self-guided hiking trip. While it's common for woman to embark on such adventures these days, it's my first time ever to be on a self-navigated hiking trip overseas. This is why I feel so grateful that I have the Footfalls as my backbone
Joan
UK
We thoroughly enjoyed our weeks self-guided walking on the Connemara and Western Way. This emphasized for me that Footfalls are there with you along the way albeit in the background. The B&Bs chosen were excellent and taxi pick-ups were very efficient. Even though the Way is well sign-posted, Christopher had provided us with very comprehensive route notes. Overall a very well organized and enjoyable week. Thank you Christopher and Teresa.
Anne & Ita
Ireland