The Via Francigena is a wonderful Way, a surprising path from the first to the last step.
You will meet the charming medieval center of Viterbo, where there is an entire neighborhood dedicated to the pilgrim. You will walk the ancient Etruscan roads, being able to admire the Roman amphitheater of Sutri entirely dug in the tuff, you will be enchanted by the green of the park of Monte Mario and Monte della Gioia, where you will finally see the dome of San Pietro.
The landscape of Lazio, green and hilly, will accompany you from an ancient village to the next, along the last stretch of the Via Francigena.
The Etruscan Section of the Via Francigena
Montefiascone rises proudly atop a volcanic ridge overlooking the enchanting Lake Bolsena, formed within an ancient caldera. This captivating medieval town, once a papal residence, is also renowned for its celebrated white wine "Est! Est!! Est!!!". From here, the route continues through hazelnut groves and gentle rolling hills, following stretches of ancient Roman roads that evoke a timeless atmosphere, all the way to Viterbo. An ancient city rich in history, Viterbo was the favored residence of the medieval Popes, who built the magnificent Papal Palace beside the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Along the Via Francigena, Viterbo was a key stop for medieval pilgrims and remains the last major town before the final approach to Rome.
After Viterbo, the Via Francigena winds through cool woodlands, passing near the Cistercian Abbey of San Martino al Cimino. The journey continues toward Vetralla and the small Pieve of Santa Maria in Forcassi, already mentioned by Sigeric in his famous itinerary.
The route then leads to stunning Sutri, famed for its ancient theater carved directly into the rock. In Campagnano you leave the historic Via Cassia to follow the Via Trionfale, today a broad and lively road that leads straight into the heart of the Eternal City: Rome, at last.
Full Itinerary Description
Day 1 \" Arrival in Viterbo
Arrival in Viterbo and free time to explore its charming historic center, filled with medieval palaces and beautiful churches-once the seat of the Papacy. Dinner at leisure in one of the town's atmospheric restaurants.
Day 2 \" From Viterbo to Vetralla
The first part of today's stage leads you through characteristic Etruscan hollow roads before immersing you in the typical landscapes of ancient Etruria. Along the way you'll pass by the village of San Martino al Cimino, dominated by its elegant abbey.
Day 3 \" From Vetralla to Sutri via Capranica
A long but rewarding stage awaits you. From Vetralla, the trail skirts the rim of the ancient volcanic crater once occupied by Lake Vico. The journey continues through the Etruscan countryside until you reach the picturesque village of Capranica. From here, you descend into a tuff gorge following the course of a small stream-a scenic and evocative stretch, though occasionally challenging due to water along the path. Your day ends at your accommodation in the heart of Sutri.
Day 4 \" From Sutri to Campagnano di Roma
The first part of the walk crosses gentle fields to Monterosi, where you can enjoy a refreshing break at the Monte Gelato Waterfalls, a perfect oasis for relaxing or taking a dip. The route continues along a panoramic tuff-carved road leading to the gates of Campagnano. To shorten the stage, you may request a morning transfer to the picturesque village of Monterosi and continue on foot from there to Campagnano di Roma.
Day 5 \" From Campagnano to La Giustiniana
From Campagnano the route continues through the Veio Park, among soft wooded hills, entering the enchanting Sorbo Valley. Along the way, admire the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Sorbo and the charming historic center of Formello, rich in elegant medieval buildings. The trail then leads to the characteristic village of Isola Farnese, perched on a rocky spur and dominated by the Farnese Castle. The last stretch, surrounded by the Roman countryside, brings you to La Giustiniana, your stop for the night.
Day 6 \" On foot or by public transport to Rome
After breakfast, set off on the final thrilling stage of your modern "pilgrimage" along the Via Francigena toward Rome, the Eternal City. You may choose to reach Rome entirely on foot or opt for public transport. Part of the route crosses the Insugherata Park, a splendid natural reserve just steps away from the vibrant capital. As you approach Rome, a must-see stop is the Monte Mario Belvedere for a triumphant photo: from here, the iconic dome of St. Peter's comes into view, heralding your descent into the city until you finally reach St. Peter's Square-the ultimate destination for countless pilgrims throughout the centuries. Let yourself be captivated by Rome's grand history, its monuments, and its extraordinary archaeological sites. Discover traditional cuisine and the city's excellent restaurants. If you wish to spend more time in Rome, you can shorten today's stage by taking a convenient local bus or train.
Day 7 \" Departure from Rome
Your journey and our services end after breakfast, unless you have booked an additional night in Rome or another destination in Italy.
Details
The rate includes
- 6 nights stay in Farmhouse/Hotel/B&B
- Accommodation in double room, breakfast included, in the following locations and facilities (or similar)
Viterbo: Hotel "Palazzo Riario" Vetralla: hotel "Da Benedetta" Sutri: B&B "Oriental Nights" Campagnano: Hotel "Benigni" La Giustiniana-Roma: Resort "La Rocchetta" Rome: Hotel "Domus Sessoriana"
- Accommodation in double room, breakfast included
- Transport of luggage from one place to another
- Route descriptions, maps, GPS tracks and Apps
- Credential of the Pilgrim
- Medical baggage insurance
The rate does not include
- Transfers, meals not mentioned, gratuities, extras of a personal nature and anything not expressly indicated in "The Price Includes"
- Optional cancellation insurance, quotation on request