Highlights
- Explore the historic streets of San Miniato
- Climb San Gimignano's towers and taste its distinctive wine
- Marvel at Siena's famous Piazza del Campo
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in San Miniato | San Miniato |
| Day 2 | San Miniato to Castelfiorentino | Castelfiorentino |
| Day 3 | Explore San Gimignano | San Gimignano |
| Day 4 | Tour Monteriggioni | Siena |
| Day 5 | Leave Siena |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: San Miniato
After you arrive by train in San Miniato — which is located halfway between Florence and Pisa — a taxi will take you to the city center. Here, you can explore a typical Tuscan hill town, learn about its history since the Middle Ages, and importance to the Via Francigena. Spend the evening relaxing and get ready to begin your exploration of the pilgrim's route the next day.
Day 2: San Miniato to Castelfiorentino
Embark on your first day of the Via Francigena pilgrim's route, traveling about 3 hours or 9 miles (15 km) from San Miniato to Castelfiorentino on foot. You'll wind your way through the Tuscan countryside, with views of Cypress Trees, and rolling hills as you get a healthy dose of fresh air. After an active day, you'll spend the night at a lovely country farm house.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: San Gimignano
As you continue on the Via Francigena on your way from Castelfiorentino to San Gimignano, 12 miles (20 km) away, you'll pass through the hamlet of Gambassi Terme, known since ancient times for its thermal waters, and perhaps have time to take a dip to feel its healing properties. You'll then arrive in San Gimignano, which is famous for its many towers and medieval architecture, which at one time was significant, used by the families to symbolize their wealth and power.
Day 4: Monteriggioni
From San Gimignano, you'll travel by car to Gracciano, 9 miles (16 km) south, to begin the last stage of your journey on the Via Francigena, heading toward Siena. During your walk, you'll cross the boroughs of Strove, Abbadia Isola, and the height of Monteriggioni — an impressive fortress, which you can visit and see its dominance surrounding the Tuscan countryside. You'll continue your walk to Convento Vecchio, 16 miles (26 km) away, where a car will whisk you up to Siena. Spend the evening exploring this significant Medieval city, tasting authentic Tuscan food, and people watching in the famous Piazza del Campo.
Day 5: Leave Siena
Your planned activities will end after breakfast, leaving you the day to explore Siena, and learn about its historical significance as a political powerhouse during the Middle Ages. Marvel at its architectural masterpiece, Siena Cathedral, or take another stroll through its central piazza.
Map
