Pilgrims making their way towards Rome on the Via Francigena
Blog home / Final Stage of Italy's Via Francigena: Tours & Information
Walk or Cycle the Final Stage of the Via Francigena: Tours & Information
If you want to experience the last stage of the
Via Francigena, also known as the Italian Camino, you're in the right place. Here we explain what a Testimonium is, how far you need to walk or cycle to be eligible for it, why the final section of the Via Francigena is so popular, and we'll provide two affordable walking and cycling tours for you to complete the Via Francigena.
What is a Testimonium?
A Testimonium is the Italian equivalent of the Camino de Santiago's Compostela, or Pilgrim's Certificate. It signifies that the holder has walked or cycled the necessary distance to complete the Via Francigena. According to the
European Association of the Via Francigena, it certifies that the pilgrimage was undertaken in a religious spirit.
How Long is the Final Stage of the Via Francigena?
To be eligible for the Testimonium, pilgrims need to walk at least 100km or 62 miles of the Via Francigena. This typically starts in the beautiful hilltop town of Orvieto and finishes in the eternal city of Rome, Italy's capital.
For pilgrims who choose to cycle the Via Francigena, the minimum distance is 200km or 124 miles. Cyclists need to start in the medieval town of Siena and follow the route to Rome. Note that these distances are equivalent to the
Camino de Santiago.
Why is the Final Stage of the Via Francigena so Popular?
The last stretch of the Via Francigena is thoroughly enjoyable for these reasons:
- Being able to collect the Testimonium, i.e. the certificate of completion, is a rewarding sense of achievement.
- It's a beautiful walk. Even for those not interested in a 'pilgrimage', this journey highlights Italy's medieval villages, postcard perfect countryside, and charming local hospitality.
- Walking the entire Via Francigena route with UTracks takes 50 days to walk, as it begins in the Swiss Alps at St Bernard's Pass (the official start point is in Canterbury, England). The final stage is understandably more practical in terms of time and physical exertion.
- The final stage of the Via Francigena showcases the spirit of a pilgrimage. You get to experience the day to day walking, the social atmosphere of your fellow pilgrims, the changing landscape, and get to enjoy the delicious regional cuisine.
Which Walking Tour Covers the Final Stage of the Via Francigena?
Via Francigena: Orvieto to Rome
This is a self guided walking tour that takes place over 10 days. Starting in the magnificent hilltop town of Orvieto, you'll venture to the lake town of Bolsena, the medieval village of Montefiascone (famous for its wine), and continue along the trail until you reach Rome.
View this affordable tour here.
Which Cycling Tour Covers the Final Stage of the Via Francigena?
Cycle the Via Francigena: Siena to Rome
The Siena to Rome stretch of the Via Francigena makes for fantastic cycling. Daily marvels include the rolling hills of Tuscany, the beauty of Lake Bolsena, the intriguing villages of Umbria, and plenty more. The cycling is of moderate grading and it takes just 9 days to complete this spectacular ride.
View the tour here.
Have you collected your Testimonium or do you intend to? Let us know in the comment section which route you want to do.