Via Francigena Walking Tour

Guided by Carla Mackey

Enjoy walking through the heart of Tuscany on the ancient Via Francigena. The journey begins in the beautiful city of Lucca, whose intact medieval walls only begin to tell the story of Lucca's rich Renaissance history. Each day, with Carla as your guide, we will venture to another fascinating historical city, ending in the magnificent Siena, a city steeped in history and art, home of the famous paleo horse race and long-time Florentine rival.

Who is this for?

This six day walk is for anyone interested in sharing a walking journey with friends, new and old. The route is not technically difficult, but anyone interested in participating must be comfortable walking for 5 - 6 hours a day. There are no mountains, but there are plenty of hills. Most are short, but some are steep. The trails are mostly dirt paths, hard pack country roads and some sidewalks and asphalt roads. 

At a Glance

On the fist, you will arrive, settle into your hotel, and enjoy our welcome dinner.  On you will have the day to explore the incredible town of Lucca. On the third day, we start walking. Each day has a similar rhythm, with morning breakfast, start walking around 9:00, enjoy a picnic on the way, check into our charming hotels in mid afternoon, relax, have an Aperol spritz, dinner out and then a good night of sleep. Some may enjoy sketching and journaling as well. On the 9th day, you will be free to explore Siena, a city of abundant beauty and history. Later in the afternoon and evening, we will gather for a Traditional Tuscan Cooking class which will also be our farewell dinner.

Lucca is easily accessible by air from Pisa or Florence or by train. 

Your Guide

Carla Mackey loves all things Italian; the history, language, geography and, of course, cuisine. She speaks Italian and leads walking and art tours in Italy. She wrote a guidebook, “Via Francigena: A Tuscan Pilgrimage,” which covers the 260-mile section of the ancient Via Francigena from Lucca to Rome. 

Itinerary

May

14 - Arrive Lucca - Welcome Dinner

15 - Lucca - Free day

16 - Train to Altopascia, walk to San Miniato Alto, 29km

17 - Walk to Gambassi Terme, 24km

18 - Walk to San Gimignano, 13.5

19 - Walk to Colle Val d'Elsa, 12km

20 - Walk to Monteriggioni, 16km

21 - Walk to Siena, 20km

22 - Free time in the morning, cooking class + farewell dinner

23 - Arrivederci after breakfast

What's included

• Lodging (9 nights) - all the hotels are locally owned boutique style 

• All Breakfasts

• Four dinners - Lucca, Gambassi Terme, Monteriggioni and Siena

• Bag Transfer daily

• Carla will be your private walking guide. 

• 24/7 emergency support

• Occasional taxis (there are a couple places where it's better to taxi)

• All tips and gratuities

• Pilgrim Passport

• All transfers included (taxis and trains)

• All gratuities

What's not included

• Airfare

• All lunches and any dinners not mentioned above 

• All alcoholic beverages

• Incidentals

• Transportation to Lucca and from Siena

• Travel insurance

Price 

$4,250.

Deposit and Cancellation Policy

$500 deposit is due on November 1, 2025 and the remainder is due on February 1, 2026. Cancellations made before February 1, 2026 will receive their deposit back less $100. Cancellations made between February 1, 2026 and April 13, 2026 will receive 50% refund. Cancellations made after April 13 are not refundable.

For booking or any additional questions,

 please contact 

Carla Mackey at zainoverde100@gmail.com

ZainoeVerde.com