The Via Francigena in Tuscany: from Lucca to Siena

From Altopascio to San Miniato

30km, +330 -210, or 4km + train from Lucca

After a hearty breakfast, you will say goodbye to Lucca to officially begin this exciting journey that will lead you to Siena.
A short train transfer will take you to Altopascio, a very important medieval village that, in the past, based its development above all on welcoming pilgrims: it is from here that this historic journey along the Via Francigena in Tuscany begins.
From the very first steps, it is easy to see how much history has influenced the destiny of these places, and that of their inhabitants, over the centuries: the rivers and marshes crossed by medieval wayfarers form the backdrop to the comfortable bridges that modern walkers cross today. Surrounded by the pristine nature of the Cerbaie woods, full of centuries-old oaks and beautiful water lilies, you will quickly reach the Tuscan plain, characterized by long expanses of skilfully cultivated fields.
You cross the ancient town of Fucecchio, a historic stronghold on the Via Francigena, with the pastoral hedgehog preserved in the Civic Museum as evidence of a profound past. After crossing the Arno River, we soon reach San Miniato with its perfectly preserved medieval village. Spread across three hillocks overlooking the Arno valley, the enchanting Tuscan town is linked to the name of two important emperors who changed the course of history: Napoleon and Frederick II.
In fact, the valiant French general seems to have direct family ties here, which can still be found in the city today in the name of squares, palaces and public places. Instead, Frederick II of Swabia was responsible for the construction of the Rocca from which the Tower rises, placed to protect the territory.

→ It 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!

From Gambassi Terme to San Gimignano

15km, +460 -390

The third part of the Via Francigena in Tuscany is one of the most beautiful stages of the entire route.
It is possible to see how much the passage of the Via Francigena has influenced and determined the daily life of the surrounding area, which is dotted with fairytale castles, marvellous abbeys and accommodation facilities. The long and charming dirt roads, framed by beautiful and orderly cypresses, will take you along the most evocative places in Tuscany, such as the Sanctuary of Pancole and the Pieve di Cellole.
The sight of the towers soaring on the horizon is the unequivocal sign that you are in San Gimignano. Once you arrive, take some time to visit the old shops nestled in the narrow streets of its beautiful medieval old town. Among these is still preserved the Vernaccia, the "white queen" of San Gimignano, one of the Italian wines that boasts the oldest tradition, mentioned by 14th century Florentine poets such as Dante and Boccaccio.

From Colle di Val d’Elsa to Monteriggioni

15km, +260 -200

Leaving the small town of Colle Val d'Elsa, you will resume Sigerico's route on the Via Francigena in this penultimate stage that will lead you to the charming village of Monteriggioni. In fact, like ancient medieval pilgrims, you will be amazed at the sight, from afar, of the walls that protect the town and overlook the central Via Cassia, an ancient Roman consular road.
The solemnity of the walls contrasts with the delicacy of the village, adorned with finely manicured gardens and orchards bursting with colour and vibrancy, which will welcome you festively.
Once you get here, a regenerating dinner will be just what you need, perhaps enjoying a tasty plate of pici, traditional handmade spaghetti, seasoned with the classic Tuscan ragù based on the local delicacy: the Cinta Senese pork. As per protocol, pigs have been raised in the wild in these areas since the Middle Ages, as evidenced by the famous painting "Allegory and effects of Good and Bad Government" (1338) by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, one of the greatest exponents of the Sienese School .

Arrivederci Siena

After breakfast, end of services.
But first, treat yourself to a walk through the beauties of the historic center of Siena to fully breathe the magic of this city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995.

Tour programme variations
Due to organizational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during the holiday.
Along the way you may find temporary deviations (for example road works) which cannot be foreseen; in this case each walker can decide autonomously how to deal with these stretches.