Via Francigena Camino Italy: San Miniato Alto to Buonconvento – 9 Days

Make your way to San Miniato, a fabulous and truly beautiful place to explore. As you arrive, soak in the exquisite views and the unique architecture of the local seminary. In the evening, indulge in a delicious risotto, enhanced by the region’s prized white truffle.

Walking: 5km / 2hrs
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: San Miniato

Today marks your first full day of walking, traversing a picturesque route through the rolling hills of the Val d’Elsa. This landscape is rich in Tuscan charm, punctuated by charming churches such as Pieve di Coiano and Pieve a Chianni. In the late afternoon, walk into your accommodation in Gambassi and enjoy a well-earned rest.

Walking: 25km / 7 hrs
Elevation: +780m / -655m
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Gambassi

Walk through the unique small towns of Collemuccioli and Pieve di Cellole, and visit the famous sanctuary in Pancole. From here, walk on and explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of San Gimignano, with its narrow medieval streets and amazing architecture.

Walking: 18 km / 6 hrs
Elevation: +595m / -540m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: San Gimignano

This stage follows the ancient path on the Via Francigena, crossing Tuscan Hills and past vineyards and olive fields. Today’s walk includes a wide variety of beautiful landscapes, including forested areas and farmland. There is a short detour to the gorgeous Abbey of Santa Maria a Conero of the 11th Century.

Walking: 21 km / 6 hrs
Elevation: +209m / -204 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Gracciano

The day starts out by walking out of your accommodation in Gracciano and over Pieve a Elsa to the ancient Etruscan thermal hot pool of Caldane. Pass through the town of Strove and its stunning Romanesque church and then onto picturesque Abbadia a Isola. It’s a short walk from here to Monteriggioni and its crown of towers. There’s plenty of time to explore Monteriggioni and clock up a few more kilometres if you so desire.

Walking: 13km / 4 hrs
Elevation: 132m / -57 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Monteriggioni

Today’s walk involves tackling the Montagnola Senese, an area known for being very undulating and probably the most mountainous in Tuscany. Walk via the ancient medieval suburb of Cerbaia, which is mostly abandoned to the Chiocciola Castle via a wooded area. Walk up to Poggio di Riciano and then down to the Pian del Lago River and Renai Forest to enter the much-acclaimed town of Siena, another UNESCO World Heritage site.

Walking: 20km / 6 hrs
Elevation: +224m / -245 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Siena

Fingers crossed for sunshine on the first day of your journey, because the Crests of the Val d’Arbia are absolutely breathtaking. After waving goodbye to Siena, you’ll follow the iconic dirt roads typical of the region all the way to the charming village of Lucignano, home to a beautiful church. As you approach Monteroni d’Arbia, you’ll come across the impressive Grancia di Cuna, a fortified farm that once stored the wheat reserves for the Republic of Siena. It’s a journey full of history and stunning scenery!

Walking: 21km / 6 hrs
Elevation: +307m / -467 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lucignano

From Lucignano, the route takes you through the peaceful Valle dell’Ombrone to Buonconvento. Passing through the village gates, you’ll step into its old town and discover why its name translates to “happy, fortunate place.” Stroll along its picturesque streets, where life moves at a relaxed, provincial pace. And if you’re an art lover, don’t miss the Museum of Sacred Art of the Val d’Arbia, where you can admire masterpieces by some of the most renowned Sienese painters.

Walking: 14km / 5 hrs
Elevation: +259m / -293 m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Buonconvento

Head onwards,  or you can book additional nights in Siena to spend more time exploring this wonderful region.

Meals: Breakfast