Siena to Viterbo: Via Francigena - Wine, Walk, and Soak,
October 25 - November 4, 2026

Overview

From the medieval alleys of Siena to the hilltop sanctuaries and thermal waters of Central Italy, the Siena-to-Viterbo pilgrimage combines walking, wine, history, and well-being. Though the official Via Francigena skirts parts of Val d’Orcia, our route intentionally includes its most enchanting corners — vineyards, cypress-lined roads, and hot springs — before entering Lazio and culminating in the “City of the Popes.”

You begin in Siena, one of Italy’s most perfectly preserved medieval cities, with its shell-shaped piazza and soaring Duomo. After a transfer to Monte Oliveto Maggiore (famed for its frescoes), you walk toward Buonconvento, entering the countryside of Val d’Arbia and then Val d’Orcia. Expect terraces of vineyards producing Brunello, gentle hills dotted with silvery olive groves, and stops in small towns like San Quirico d’Orcia and Bagno Vignoni. The latter, with its large central thermal basin, is a beloved pause for pilgrims, poets, and emperors alike.

From Bagno Vignoni you continue toward Bagni San Filippo and Abbadia San Salvatore, touching on lesser-visited slopes of Monte Amiata. In Abbadia you’ll sense ancient religious energy, and perhaps glimpse manuscripts and crypts that tie you to spiritual traditions.

Crossing into Lazio, you walk from Acquapendente toward Bolsena, glimpsing the volcanic crater lake and local legends of miracles. The path onward to Montefiascone reveals ancient stretches of the Via Cassia still paved after 2,000 years. 

Finally, the route leads you into Viterbo: a city steeped in papal history, medieval walls, aristocratic palaces, and cloisters of calm. By journey’s end you will have walked through Tuscany’s poetic terrains and Lazio’s storied hills, all framed by wine, springs, and the timeless quiet of pilgrimage.

Pilgrim Paths provides full support — transfers where needed, luggage transport, hand-picked lodgings, guide accompaniment, daily walking maps, and evening reflections. Whether your spirit seeks solace, cultural immersion, or a walking adventure, this Siena → Viterbo route is a deeply rewarding part of the longer Via Francigena experience.