A timeless route that still defines the soul of Tuscany
From a document in 876 to Sigeric’s diary in 990
The earliest known reference to the Via Francigena appears in 876, confirming the strategic importance of this medieval route connecting northern Europe to Rome.
But the most famous description comes from Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury, who around 990 recorded the 80 stages of his pilgrimage to Rome. His diary is the first detailed “guidebook” of the Francigena, and many of the places he listed are still walked today.
This combination — a first mention in 876 and a full description in 990 — makes 2026 a symbolic year for celebrating the endurance of this ancient path.
A route that keeps inspiring modern travelers
The Via Francigena has become one of Europe’s most beloved long-distance trails, attracting walkers and cyclists who seek authenticity, nature, and cultural immersion.
- Slow travel at its best — step-by-step discovery of landscapes and villages.
- Local encounters — artisans, winemakers, small inns, and family-run trattorias.
- Spiritual and personal reflection — a journey that speaks to both body and soul.
- Sustainable tourism — supporting rural communities and preserving traditions.
The Francigena is not just a route; it’s a living ecosystem of hospitality and heritage.
Tuscany: the beating heart of the Francigena
No region embodies the spirit of the Via Francigena like Tuscany. Here, the path becomes a tapestry of rolling hills, medieval towns, and unforgettable panoramas.
Highlights include:
- Lucca, with its Renaissance walls
- San Gimignano, the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages”
- Monteriggioni, a perfect circular fortress
- Siena, a jewel of Gothic architecture
- The Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO landscape of pure harmony
Walking the Francigena in Tuscany means experiencing the region from the inside — not as a spectator, but as a participant.
1150 years: a unique opportunity for celebration
This anniversary is inspiring new cultural events, guided walks, exhibitions, and local initiatives along the route. Municipalities and associations are working to enhance signage, services, and accessibility.
For tour operators, 2026 is the perfect moment to offer:
- Guided walking tours
- Multi-day hiking packages
- Cycling itineraries
- Food & wine experiences
- Luggage transfer services
The Francigena is not just a path — it’s a platform for storytelling, hospitality, and sustainable tourism.
A journey across centuries
The Via Francigena has guided pilgrims, merchants, knights, and dreamers for more than a thousand years. In 2026, celebrating its 1150-year legacy means honoring a route that still connects people, cultures, and landscapes with the same quiet power it had in the Middle Ages.
It remains, today as then, a journey of discovery — and Tuscany is its most unforgettable chapter.