From Siena to Rome, Along the Path of History

Your journey begins in one of the most enchanting cities along the Via Francigena: Siena, a medieval jewel with timeless charm.
As you wander through its cobbled streets, you’ll breathe in centuries of history. The symbols of the city’s contrade (districts) decorate the buildings, telling stories of identity, rivalry, and pride that still live on today.
Climb the Torre del Mangia for an unforgettable view over the red rooftops and rolling Tuscan hills. Then step into the Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece of black and white marble columns that will leave you in awe.
With a bit of luck, you might stumble upon a contrada celebration, with flag throwers and drums bringing the piazzas to life in a whirlwind of color and tradition.
And to end the day, there’s only one place to be: Piazza del Campo, basking in the golden light of the sunset as the Palazzo Pubblico glows before you, and a plate of pici all’aglione paired with a fine Tuscan red wine delights your senses.
Siena isn’t just your starting point — it’s a perfect taste of the journey to come.

54 km of pure wonder
If the sun shines on your first day in the saddle, consider yourself lucky: the ridges of the Val d’Arbia offer breathtaking views, especially as Siena fades behind you, nestled among the Tuscan hills. You’ll ride along peaceful backroads that lead to Monteroni d’Arbia, where the imposing Grancia di Cuna stands — a fortified 13th-century granary once used to store grain for the Republic of Siena.
Your journey continues through the Ombrone Valley, following the Via Francigena by bike, across golden fields and rolling landscapes, until you reach Buonconvento. Cross its fortified gate and explore its charming medieval centre — it’s easy to understand why its name means “happy and fortunate place.” This quiet village is perfect for a mid-day pause.
Then the ride becomes even more magical: a mix of white roads and paved stretches leads you into the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The landscape is pure poetry — gentle hills, vineyards, cypress-lined ridges, and stone farmhouses that seem painted into the scenery.
At San Quirico d’Orcia, your reward awaits. Admire the portal of the Collegiata, where Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles meet in a fascinating fusion. Then unwind in the tranquil beauty of the Horti Leonini, a stunning Renaissance garden from the 15th century, hidden among perfectly manicured hedges.

54 km of villages, thermal waters, and ancient spirituality
Your journey continues through the enchanting Val d’Orcia, surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and postcard-perfect scenery. Just outside San Quirico, take a break at the timeless hamlet of Vignoni Alto. A few minutes downhill, you’ll reach Bagno Vignoni, where thermal water gently steams from the central square’s ancient basin. If you feel like it, enjoy a moment of relaxation in the warm, healing waters — ideal to recharge body and soul.
The road then leads you through peaceful Tuscan countryside, slowly guiding you toward Lazio. Reaching Acquapendente, the first town on the Via Francigena in Lazio, marks a powerful shift in the atmosphere: the air is thick with history and silent reverence.
Don’t miss the Romanesque crypt of the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre, one of the most spiritual places along the route. Legend has it that stones stained with the blood of Christ are kept here. The beautifully carved capitals, the rhythm of arches, and the soft light create an intimate, moving atmosphere that speaks to every traveler’s heart.

52 km of breathtaking views, ancient flavours, and thermal rest
The day begins as you leave behind the fortress of Acquapendente, and with it, the spiritual echoes of the day before. You ride along the ancient Via Cassia, through open landscapes where the silhouette of Mount Amiata rises in the distance, surrounded by olive groves and woodlands.
Soon, you’ll catch your first glimpses of Lake Bolsena, a blue gem nestled in the hills. Then comes Montefiascone, a town rich in beauty, history, and flavour. Here you can walk on the original Roman paving stones of the Via Cassia, worn smooth by centuries of pilgrims on their way to Rome. Climb the Pilgrim’s Tower for a sweeping view over the lake and the surrounding countryside.
Before continuing, treat yourself to a glass of the famous Est! Est!! Est!!!, a legendary white wine born right here. And if your legs need a break, stop at the Bagnaccio hot springs, where the warm waters and peaceful setting are the perfect recharge.
Your arrival in Viterbo is like stepping into the past. Wander through the Pilgrim’s Quarter, visit the Palace of the Popes, and find a moment of stillness in the cloister of Santa Maria Nuova. End your day with a local delicacy: the crunchy, golden frittellacce viterbesi.

This stage leads you deep into the heart of the Lazio countryside, through peaceful landscapes, traces of Etruscan history, and hidden oases. Leaving Viterbo behind, the route takes you to Vetralla, a charming town rooted in ancient Etruscan territory, surrounded by olive groves and tradition.
As you ride through gentle hills, you’ll reach one of the most magical spots of the journey: the Monte Gelato waterfalls. Cool, shaded, and immersed in green, this is the perfect place to stop. Dip your feet in the water and let nature do its work — it’s a moment of true refreshment.
Back in the saddle, a scenic road guides you toward Campagnano di Roma, where peace awaits in the Venturi Park. At its center stands a centuries-old yew tree, locally known as the “Tree of Death”, a majestic and mysterious presence that locals have respected for generations.
Rest in the shade, listen to the silence, and enjoy the feeling of a day filled with nature, culture, and discovery.

41 km to the Eternal City, through nature, history, and the final reward
This final stage has a special flavour: today, you reach Rome, the Eternal City, longed for by pilgrims and travellers for centuries.
Leaving Campagnano, the route winds through the Veio Natural Park, a quiet green escape leading to the Valley of Sorbo. Along the way, stop at the Sanctuary of Madonna del Sorbo, surrounded by peaceful hills and history.
In Formello, one of the last historic towns before entering Rome, take a moment to explore the medieval centre. And don’t miss a stop at Pizzangrillo: grab a slice of their perfectly baked pizza and try one of their delicious supplì — the energy boost you didn’t know you needed!
Back on the road, ride through the quiet Lazio countryside, amazed that Rome is just around the corner.
Soon you’ll join the Tiber cycle path, a safe and scenic route leading you right into the heart of the city. And then it happens: after all the climbs, emotions, and kilometres… you arrive in St. Peter’s Square.
Time for a photo, a breath, a smile. You made it. Celebrate the moment with a plate of amatriciana, some crisp puntarelle with anchovies, and a maritozzo with whipped cream. Every great journey deserves a delicious ending.

The journey along the Via Francigena ends here, but Rome deserves at least a couple of days to be truly savoured. Speaking as a fellow cyclist: discovering Rome by bike is the best way to capture its soul.
Thanks to the growing network of cycle paths, getting around is easy and safe — and pedalling through the city gives you a unique perspective that most tourists never experience.
If you’re looking for something unforgettable, I highly recommend a ride along the Appian Way. It’s like stepping back in time: you’ll cycle beneath ancient pines, past Roman ruins and open landscapes that have inspired travellers from all over the world for centuries.
Sure, Rome has its flaws — but for me, it remains the most beautiful city in the world. And once you’ve experienced it this way, I’m sure you’ll agree.
Rome is ready to amaze you, and I’m here to make sure every detail of your journey lives up to your expectations — right up to the last pedal stroke.