The Via Francigena

• Popularity: In comparison to the Camino to Santiago, which attracts thousands of pilgrims each year, walking the Via Francigena is a different experience with uncrowded paths that are off the beaten track. The Via Francigena will have you walking through interesting landscapes and historic villages, ideal for those looking for a peaceful walking experience. The Camino to Santiago has more of a social aspect as you are more likely to meet fellow walkers on a daily basis.
  
  
• Waymarking: Where the Camino de Santiago has yellow arrows and scallop shells as the marking along the route, the Via Francigena uses red and white stripes as well as the Francigena pilgrim, or a combination of both. The Via Francigena is reasonably well waymarked, although it can at times be more difficult to find. The waymarking is still a work in progress and it has improved since the resurgence in popularity. With our route notes and GPX tracks, we can ensure that you will not have any problems finding your way. 
  
  
• Road walking: Some of the original paths of the Via Francigena are now roads, varying from quiet country roads to fairly busy ones. Where possible we have improved the experience so you may either only follow these roads for a short time or divert from the traditional route to enjoy a more relaxed walk. The Camino de Santiago is much the same and also includes road walking, although to a smaller degree in comparison.

Italy’s capital is one of the most romantic cities, it is vibrant, filled with ruins and European art, and has many welcoming restaurants. We would recommend spending some extra time getting to know this world-class city and here are some reasons why!

Visit its ancient icons such as the Colosseum – the symbol of Rome and the biggest amphitheater that was ever built, the Pantheon which now serves as a church but used to be a temple and the Roman Forum.

Admire its artistic heritage which is certainly not hard to find when strolling through the city. Masterpieces include sculptures by Michelangelo, paintings by Caravaggio, frescoes by Raphael, and fountains like the Trevi Fountain with its sparkling waters filled with coins! If you only have time to visit one art gallery, make it Galleria Borghese as it has one of the most impressive private art collections.

Discover the Vatican, the world’s smallest city-state and headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and St. Peter’s Square can not be missed. The pope holds Papal Audiences most Wednesdays and recites the Angelus prayer on Sundays at noon.

Watch the world go by on one of Rome’s lively piazzas while enjoying a refreshing aperitivo. The cobblestoned streets of Travestere are filled with trattorias, bars, and terraces where you can listen to local musicians. Piazza Navona with a fountain by Benini is a popular square among the locals. Soak up la dolce vita in one of the romantic outdoor settings of refined restaurants or head for a truly authentic meal to a local pizzeria.