Via Francigena Cycling from Aosta to Parma

Start your cycling tour of the Via Francigena in Aosta, a town nestled into an imposing mountain valley. The town is filled with remnants of the Romans, so peek through theatres, snap a photo of the Arch of Augustus, and revel in the peaceful atmosphere.

Start the day with a private transfer to the Saint Bernard Pass, which is surrounded by incredible mountain peaks. Here, Saint Bernard built the first pilgrim hospice in the area. Cycle down to Aosta with staggering views rushing past you the entire way, mountains giving way to orchards, woods, and charming alpine villages.

Today’s cycling trip along the Via Francigena follows a valley floor, where you’ll ride along with the running water of the River Dora. Castles and vineyards fly by, and you can take a moment to stop at the Saint Germain castle to admire its impressive tower where guards used to defend the De Mongioveto family. Make yourself comfortable in Verres, which has wonderful views.

You’ll start the morning riding through the Piedmont hills, from trails running through the dense forest to rolling fields. Stop in Ivrea to grab a coffee to sip while admiring the tower of Santo Stefano. Then, ride along to the impressive Serra of Ivrea and reach Roppolo, where you can rest your legs in a quaint B&B before finding a hearty Italian dinner to enjoy.

Ride into unique landscape today as you cross rice fields, which makes for an interesting and relaxed day of cycling. Stop by the Bosco della Participanza (Wood of Community) where the locals take care of all the trees together. Try the tasty local Panissa for dinner.

Start today’s portion of your cycling tour from Aosta to Parma with a ride along the Po River, where crossing along to the Ticino River marks your arrival in Lombardy. In this region during the Renaissance, Duque Ludovico Sforza ruled. He commissioned Leonardo da Vinci to design the town’s gorgeous central square, so make sure you spend some time admiring it. There are plenty of great terraces and patios to relax around it, so you can enjoy your dinner in this special spot.

Today, ride along the fresh green banks of the Ticino River and into the beautiful, dense natural area surrounding it. Keep an eye out for squirrels and other wildlife! We recommend sunbathing for a bit on the riverbanks if it’s a warm day out before riding to Certosa di Pavia, a stunning monastic complex built many years ago. Then, you’ll arrive in Pavia, one of the gems of the Via Francigena. The historic center is lovely for a walk, and you’ll be surrounded by lively university students as you enjoy a gelato or dine on one of the terraces.

This leg of your cycling tour of the Via Francigena crosses the flood plain of the basso Pavese, where the unique landscape is shaped by water. Bid Lombardy goodbye as you cross to Emilia Romagna, a province known for great food, wine, and hospitality. At dinner tonight, make sure to order plenty of charcuterie and local Gutturnio wine!

The final full day of your cycling trip to Parma is relaxed and flat. Make a stop in at Chiaravalle della Colomba, a Cistercian abbey with lovely carved wooden accents. Ride along the rolling Parma hills before finally making your arrival in Parma. This area boasts the largest number of PGI and PDO gastronomic products, which means you should definitely go all-out at dinner tonight!

Enjoy breakfast in Parma before the official end of your Via Francigena cycling tour. Rest your legs and travel safely home.