Via Francigena Cycle Route

Ride the historic pilgrim way by bike. The Ciclovia Francigena follows the Via Francigena across Italy, linking medieval towns, vineyards, and Roman-era sites on a mix of quiet lanes, bike paths, and gravel farm tracks. Pick an easy day ride between two towns or stack stages for a multi-day tour toward Rome.

Expect variety: flat cruising across the Po Plain, rolling Tuscan hills with cypress-lined lanes, and a few punchy climbs near the Apennines and the volcanic lakes of Lazio. You’ll never be far from a village for water, a bakery, or an espresso.

Bikes and gear: touring, gravel, or e-bikes all work. Go with 32–40 mm tires for comfort on dirt sections. Wayfinding is decent—look for Via Francigena waymarks—but carry a GPS track as signs can be patchy.

Logistics are easy thanks to frequent towns and good train connections for shortcuts or bailouts. Spring and autumn are prime; summer gets hot in the lowlands and busy around major heritage spots.

Highlights? Think Roman bridges, hilltop villages, vineyards, and thermal towns—whether you’re rolling past rice fields near Pavia, medieval streets around Siena and Lucca, or the lakes north of Rome. Mix and match stages to fit your time and legs, then enjoy the ride.