Bike & Boat tour in 2025?Cabins are Filling up Fast!Find trips
Duration
10 days
Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 9 nights in 3 star hotels and agriturismo / B&B's
Meals
  • 1 Dinner
  • 9 Breakfasts

Price

$1590USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: FRR

Trip highlights


  • Walking through the spectacular landscapes of the Tuscan countryside full of vineyards and picturesque rolling hills
  • Exploring the round walls of the historical fortified village of Monteriggioni
  • Discovering the charming UNESCO towns of San Gimignano, Lucca and Siena
  • Experiencing an option visit to a vineyard for wine tasting or a master class at a renowned cooking school in Siena
  • Staying in small, comfortable family-run accommodations and tasting the delicious Tuscan culinary specialities

Experience the Tuscan Via Francigena on a slow paced walk from Lucca to Siena, combining renowned towns like Siena and San Gimignano with hidden gems such as San Miniato. After time to explore Lucca, including an optional cycle around its walls, you head to San Miniato where the walk begins. This town is a true treasure of the Via Francigena, and an ideal starting point for your journey on foot. Ramble through landscapes of exceptional beauty, from the ancient Pieve di Chianni to the medieval towers of Monteriggioni, before reaching the stunning city of Siena. With daily distances between 8.4 and 14.6 km, enjoy leisurely walks with panoramic views and timeless fortified hamlets. Beyond the scenic charm, delight in regional cuisine—taste the rare white truffle of San Miniato, the hearty pici pasta of Siena, and San Gimignano’s renowned saffron. There are options to add wine tasting at a vineyard and a master class at a renowned cooking school in Siena. Each evening, rest in handpicked hotels and agriturismi that offer a perfect blend of comfort and Italian hospitality, making this journey both invigorating and unforgettable.

Trip Grading

introductory to moderate

More info about grading system

Make your own way to the first hotel in Lucca. If you arrive early you can enjoy a stroll through the town including its splendid gardens and the impressive Piazza Anfiteatro, a 2nd century Roman amphitheatre, or climb the majestic bell tower. You can also walk along the tree-lined walls of its perimeter, which were built in the 16th century.

Meals:  Nil

This morning you’re free to explore the wonderful town of Lucca. You can visit the Cathedral of San Martino, home to the famous Holy Face 'Volto Santo' of Lucca, a venerated wooden crucifix that may have been carved by Nicodemus. It features in the town's Holy Cross celebrations held in September. Rent an optional city bike or ebike and cycle around the walls of Lucca. This afternoon you will take the train to San Miniato-Fucecchio (via Pisa or Empoli, takes approx 1.5-2 hours) where you will be picked up and taken to your accommodation in San Miniato Alto.

Meals:  B

Today you start walking, following a paved road across the spectacular countryside which is typical of the Val d'Elsa region. Follow in the footsteps of Archbishop Sigeric, who walked between Rome and Canterbury in 990. Upon arrival to Coiano take the included transfer back to San Miniato for overnight. Walk: 12.4km/7.7mi +390m/1148ft -357m/1171ft

Meals:  B

Morning transfer from your hotel at 9am to Coiano where you will commence your walk, passing by two "Submansiones" (Sigeric's "stopping places"): Pieve di Coiano and Pieve a Chianne. Continue to Gambassi Terme and your hotel for the night. The town takes its name from the thermal baths of the area, here since antiquity. Walk: 13.3km/8.3mi, Ascent +391m/1283ft Descent -301m/987ft

Meals:  B,D

The walk today will lead you through wonderful surroundings and landscapes of the Via Francigena. You will visit the tiny villages along the way as well as the Sanctuary in Pancole, where you can learn about its legend. Walk: 8.4km/5.2mi Ascent +311m/1020ft Descent -308m/1010ft

Meals:  B

Continue on your walk along the Via Francigena. On arrival in San Gimignano, your destination for the day, we recommend exploring the town on foot to fully appreciate its charming medieval atmosphere and perhaps enjoying a Vin Santo to celebrate your travels. There is an optional wine and olive tasting plus a vineyard visit available this afternoon, please ask your reservations consultant for more information. Walk: 8.8km/5.5mi Ascent +311m/1020ft Descent -269m/882ft

Meals:  B

Today the Via Francigena will take you up and over the Tuscan hills. This picturesque walk will lead you across vineyards, olive groves, fields and woods until you reach your accommodation in Colle Val delÉlsa. The usual hotel we use in the heart of the town with a lovely outlook over the countryside. Walk: 13km/8mi. Ascent: 257m/848ft. Descent: 379m/1250ft.

Meals:  B

Today you will cross Pieve a Elsa, which was once a large, ancient parish frequented by pilgrims. You can also visit the ancient Etruscan Thermae (hot pools) of Caldane. Later in the day you will reach Strove and its beautiful Romanesque church. From Strove you continue past the medieval village of Abbadia a Isola, built around the Cistercian Abbey of San Salvatore, before reaching your accommodation near Monteriggioni. You will see its famed crown of towers as you approach. After check in you can hike up to the walled town and spend the afternoon exploring this fascinating town. Walk: 14.5km/9mi. Ascent: 233m/676ft. Descent: 165m/548ft. Note: The evening accommodation is located about 1.6km from the walled village of Monteriggioni. If you would prefer to stay inside the town walls, this is possible but a supplement is likely. Please request at the time of booking.

Meals:  B

Leaving Monteriggioni you walk on dirt roads along the Montagnola Senese, the main hilly area of the district. You will pass the ancient medieval suburb of Cerbaia which currently appears to be abandoned. Walking through woods you will reach the castle of Chiocciola and ascend to Poggio di Riciano. From here you will start your descent, walking along the river of Pian del Lago (or you can shorten your walk by omitting the Poggio di Riciano visit). Pick up today is at Convento Vecchio from where you will be transferred to Siena. Overnight in Siena, which you can explore this evening. Optional cooking class at a renowned cooking school. Ask your consultant for details. Walk: 15.4km/9.6mi. Ascent: 301m/990t. Descent: 213m/700ft.

Meals:  B

Trip concludes in Siena this morning, after breakfast. Please ask for our rates if you want to stay an extra night.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 9 breakfasts, 1 dinner: Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will usually consist of 3 courses, starting with a salad or pasta dish, followed by either a chicken, red meat or fish dish with seasonal vegetables & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cake
  • 9 nights in 3 star hotels and agriturismo / B&B's on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps and routebook
  • Luggage transfer (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 65 x 50 x 40 cm per person). Supplement applies for excess
  • Transfer from San Miniato Basso train station to your hotel in San Miniato Alto - Day 2, Coiano to San Miniato Alto - Day 3, San Miniato Alto to Coiano - Day 4, Convento Vecchio to Siena - Day 9
  • Pilgrim Passport
  • Emergency hotline and SMS alert

  • Travel to Lucca and from Siena
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Guide - this is a self guided tour
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage, and train from Lucca to San Miniato on day 2
  • Excess luggage
  • Tourist Tax - allow approx EUR1-3 per day - payable directly to the hotel
  • Items of a personal nature
  • wine tasting and vineyard visit on day 6, Cooking Class on day 9, Bike hire in Lucca on day 1 or 2

Grading

introductory to moderate  

This is an introductory to moderate grade walk along paths that are well defined. The walking is mostly on paths and gravel roads (strade bianche), with some sections on asphalt roads. The towns are often on hilltops. You should be able to walk for up to 5 hours a day in hot sun (at times). The trail is well-marked with official signs of the Via Francigena. A good level of fitness is required. The days walks range from 8.4km to 14.6km with ascents and descents of up to 390m/1290ft per day. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, and jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure. Note: the walking time and distance are calculated from city centre to city centre and may vary depending on the accommodations booked, to a maximum of 2km.


Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct

Notes

DN1
High season is from 22 Jul to 25 Aug, Mid season is from 26 May to 21 Jul and 26 Aug to 2 Oct. Supplement applies to high and mid season departures.
Note:
Trip not available 25 - 28 Jun & 9 - 12 Aug due to Palio Horse Race, Siena

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1590USD

Options & Supplements*
  • 1 hour bike hire LuccaUSD$14
  • 1 hour e-bike hire LuccaUSD$22
  • Mid season surchargeUSD$45
  • Wine and Olive Oil tasting plus Vineyard visit (2 people) pp San GimignanoUSD$80
  • Wine and Olive Oil tasting plus Vineyard visit (1 person) San GimignanoUSD$100
  • High season surchargeUSD$120
  • Pasta Lovers Cooking Class (2hrs) SienaUSD$150
  • Food and Wine Cooking Class (3hrs) SienaUSD$210
  • Single supplement - low seasonUSD$650
  • Single supplement - mid seasonUSD$690
  • Single supplement - high seasonUSD$730
  • Solo Traveller supplement - low seasonUSD$940
  • Solo Traveller supplement - mid seasonUSD$990
  • Solo Traveller supplement - high seasonUSD$1030
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

Videos

Walking the Best of Tuscany | Italy's Via Francigena | UTracks

Similar trips

Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips