Via Francigena Cycling from Siena to Rome

The starting point of your Via Francigena cycling tour to Rome is Siena, a city filled with medieval architecture and interesting places to explore. Spend the day climbing the Torre del Mangia for a birds-eye view of the city, or settle in at the Piazza del Campo for a dinner of pici all’aglione for dinner, where you can look over the lit-up Palazzo Pubblico while you dine.

Start the day with a ride through the Val d’Arbia, which has unforgettable views all the way to Lucignano, where you can stop for a cappuccino before continuing on. Admire the imposing Grancia di Cuna, a fortified farm that grew into the republic of Siena, before continuing into the Vall dell’Ombrone. Soon, you’ll arrive in Buonconvento. Pause for lunch (perhaps with a glass of local wine) before riding on through the Val d’Orcia, where the views are sublime. Rows of vineyards and cypress trees welcome you into San Quirico, where the enchanting architecture might inspire an evening walk before settling down at the 15th-century garden of Horti Leonini.

The second day of your cycling trip to Rome continues through the splendid Val d’Orcia before reaching Bagno Vignoni. The thermal pools here are perfect to rest your legs in before jumping back on the bike before the more challenging ride up to Radicofani. The elevation pays off when it comes to the views! Stop by the Pieve di San Pietro, a 13th-century chapel and the most sacred building in the region.

Start the day by riding through Via Cassia, one of the most spectacular sections of the Via Francigena. The rolling hills lead up to Monte Amiata, which is definitely worth a photo stop. Take a moment to walk along the crypt beneath the Basilica del Santo Sepolcro, where tradition says stones bathed in the blood of Christ were kept. Hop back on the bike to cruise to Lake Bolsena, where you’ll descend down into the volcanic crater to the town. Olive trees and meadows surround you, and there are plenty of great restaurants to relax for the evening.

Start the next leg of your cycling trip to Rome by riding through the woods and olive groves that skirt Lake Bolsena. When you arrive in Montefiascone, make sure to taste some of the local olive oil on fresh bread before climbing up to Rocca, which has enchanting views. Then, pop into a local wine bar for a taste of the region’s best. If you’re in the mood to be spoiled, the spas of Bagnaccio are the perfect place for a little R&R before you hop back on the bike. When you get to Viterbo, where the historic Palazzo dei Papi is the perfect view for dinner and dessert.

Today, your Via Francigena cycling tour takes you through the heart of Etrurian territory to the lush countryside where Sutri lies. This little town is packed with things to see. Start with the Roman amphitheater, where the custodian will make sure you sign the guestbook before leaving. The church of Santa Maria del Parto is a great next stop, with frescoed walls that depict pilgrims in prayer.

Today, cycle past the Mount Gelato waterfalls, which are the perfect spot for a morning dip. Then, you’ll ride into Venturi Park, which is full of nature and perfect to rest a bit. If you’re feeling bold, you can even rest under the 300-year-old Yew tree that the locals call the “Tree of Death.” Find someone and ask for the story! Finally, you’ll ride through the Veio Nature Park to get to Formello. The final ride is incredibly scenic and nature lovers will be in their element.

The last leg of your cycling journey on the Via Francigena leads to Rome! You’ll pass through the countryside of Lazio, which feels a hundred miles from the buzz of the city. Once on the River Tevere cycling path, you’ll whiz right into Rome and then to St. Peter Square in Vatican City, where your ride ends. Take a victory photo in front of the Basilica, and then settle in for dinner. Try the spring lamb, pecorino, and some maritozzo with cream. Relax and enjoy the view!

Savour a final breakfast in Rome before packing up to head home. Arrivederci!