Via Francigena: Fidenza to Pontremoli
Walk the authentic Via Francigena on your own pace
Lifetime Deposit
Self-Guided
Via Francigena: Fidenza to Pontremoli Overview
This tour explores a memorable stage of the historic Via Francigena, a route traveled by pilgrims for centuries on their way to Rome. Beginning in Fidenza, this journey takes you through the Apennines to Pontremoli, offering an immersive experience of nature, history, and spirituality. Along the way, highlights include the ancient Cathedral of San Donnino, with its inspiring bas-reliefs, the ascent to the Cisa Pass with sweeping views of the Lombardy Plain and Lunigiana, and the medieval Groppodalosio bridge. This section of the Via Francigena is a snapshot of the grand pilgrimage route that once connected people and cultures across Europe, capturing the spirit of devotion and adventure that defined medieval travel to the Eternal City.
This tour represents Part 4 in the Via Francigena route, offering a journey through Italy's scenic landscapes and historic sites; explore other sections below to complete your pilgrimage experience:
Trip highlights
Discover the ancient Cathedral of San Donnino in Fidenza, where intricate bas-reliefs tell stories that connect travelers to the rich history of the Via Francigena pilgrimage.
Experience a challenging yet rewarding climb over the Cisa Pass (Colle di Monte Bardone), offering expansive views over the Lombardy Plain and Lunigiana.
Walk across the historic Groppodalosio Bridge, a medieval one-arched structure nestled in nature, echoing the footsteps of ancient pilgrims.
Immerse yourself in the scenic Lunigiana landscape, with rolling hills and a deep cultural heritage that invite you to explore further into the region.
Day By Day Itinerary
Begin your journey in Fidenza, a town rich in art and culture. After admiring the bas-reliefs of pilgrims in the Duomo, explore the charming old town and celebrate the start of your trip with an aperitif in Piazza del Municipio.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Fidenza
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Start with a scenic walk across the hills, passing the historic Pieve di Cabriolo, dedicated to Archbishop Becket, and the ruins of Costamezzana Castle. Enjoy climbing the ridges before a short transfer to Sant’Andrea Bagni for the night.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Sant’Andrea Bagni
- Distance:
- 22 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Today you will be transferred from Sant’Andrea Bagni to Fornovo di Taro and will walk a beautiful stage to Cassio. Once in Cassio you will be transferred to Berceto (Please note you must call at least 1 hour in advance before arriving to Cassio).
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Berceto
- Distance:
- 22 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast, Dinner
Get a morning transfer from Berceto to Cassio and spend time enjoying this charming village, where you can sample local dishes like mushroom-based delicacies and pattona, a chestnut flour cake. Then start walking from Cassio to Berceto
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Berceto
- Distance:
- 21 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Begin the day with a climb from Cassio to the Cisa Pass, passing scenic views of Lunigiana and Mount Valdoria. Continue along mule tracks, country paths, and roads before descending to Previdè. From there, take a short transfer to Pontremoli.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Pontremoli
- Distance:
- 18 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast
A transfer brings you back to Previdè to begin your last leg, walking through villages like Groppadalosio with its medieval bridge, and Casalina with its unique stone houses and domed bell tower. End the day with a descent into Pontremoli, known for its bridges and stele statues, and enjoy an evening stroll through the old town’s illuminated streets.
- Overnight Location:
- BnB in Pontremoli
- Distance:
- 10 km
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Your journey ends after breakfast, with optional extra nights or transfers available upon request.
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Tour Map
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Inclusions
Included
- 6 breakfasts and 1 dinner are included.
- Accommodations for 6 nights are included.
- Luggage transfer is included in your package from Day 2 to Day 6 (1 piece per person, up to 20kg). Transfers on day 2, 3, 4 and 6 are included too (on fixed times of the day).
- Digital information kit and app
- Taxes
- Via Francigena Guide
- Via Francigena Pass
- Luggage Transfers
Not included
- Guide services
- Meals or transfers not mentioned as included
- Entry fees to local objects
Optional Extras
- Airport transfers
- Single Room upgrades
Reviews
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
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FAQ
We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. The terrain is relatively easy, with minimal elevation changes. Most of the itinerary follows paths and gravel roads, though some sections are on asphalted roads. Certain walks are fairly long but can be shortened if arranged in advance. The entire path is well-marked with official Via Francigena signs, including white-red markings and yellow signs featuring the Pilgrim symbol.
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel, since you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided with all the information you’ll need to follow the route each day and often have access to phone support or other kinds of assistance. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
6 breakfasts and 1 dinner are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your travel insurance.
Fidenza is easily accessible by train on the Milan-Bologna line, by car via the A1 Autostrada, and by regional buses. Nearby airports in Parma and Bologna also offer convenient options, with local transportation available for travel within the town.
This is a self-guided tour where guide services are not provided, however, you will be provided all the tour material in English, as well as helpline phone number.
Tour ends in Pontremoli.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Why book Via Francigena: Fidenza to Pontremoli with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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