A self-guided ride along the Via Francigena from Parma to Siena traces a classic Italian cross-section: gastronomy in Parma, steady climbs over the Apennines, a short flirtation with the coast, then the rolling cadence of Tuscany. Daily distances of 41–74 km on mostly country roads suit cyclists comfortable with hilly to mountainous terrain. The route moves through medieval hamlets and pilgrim landmarks—ancient parish churches, the Abbey of San Caprasio’s finds, the Romanesque calm of Strove and Abbadia a Isola—before the silhouettes of Lucca’s walls, San Gimignano’s towers, and Monteriggioni’s ringed castle lead toward Siena.
Arrive Parma
D2
A demanding cycle to Berceto past ancient churches
D1
Continue to Aulla, crossing the Appennines
D1
Cycle in green countryside past medieval villages en route to Massa
D1
Cycle along the sea, then over Tuscan hills to Lucca
D1
Cross the river Arno to San Miniato
D1
Continue through splendid scenery to San Gimignano
D1
Cycle the Tuscan hills and through charming ancient towns to Siena
Trip concludes Siena
B&B