Via Francigena: Rome to Terracina

Welcome to the Eternal City. Your journey begins in the heart of Christian history — St. Peter’s Square, where pilgrims from across Europe conclude their journey. Before you set off, take a celebratory photo in front of the grand Basilica and indulge in some Roman classics: abbacchio (roast lamb), sharp pecorino romano, and a sweet maritozzo con la panna — a cream-filled Roman pastry that’s hard to forget. Buon cammino!

You’ll leave the city through Porta San Sebastiano and join the timeworn paving stones of the Via Appia Antica, one of Rome’s oldest roads. This iconic stretch leads you past striking ruins, including the tombs of Geta and Priscilla and the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella. After about 10 km (6mi), the route veers toward the hilltop town of Castel Gandolfo, summer retreat of the Popes, overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Albano. 24km/15mi, +520m/1720ft, -75m, 49% paved, 51% unpaved

Today begins on a quiet walking and cycle path leading to Albano Laziale, where the trail enters a wooded area flanking Lake Albano. You’ll pass through Nemi, known for its lake and forested charm, then continue along an easy country road. Veering left to Clivo Formello, you’ll walk through peaceful woodland toward Velletri. From here, a short transfer brings you to Cori, an ancient village with deep cultural roots and panoramic views. 21km/13mi, +550m/1,804ft, -650m/2,132ft, 45% paved, 55% unpaved

The day starts with a steep uphill on a dirt track before easing onto a quiet country road. You’ll enter the flanks of the Monti Lepini, an area rich with archaeological sites and natural beauty. Make time for a short detour to Norba, a Roman ghost town with hilltop ruins. From Norma, descend and climb again to reach Sermoneta, a beautifully preserved medieval village tucked into the hillside. 19km/12mi, +570m/1,870ft, -725m/2,379ft, 56% paved, 44% unpaved

Departing Sermoneta’s cobbled alleys, your path crosses sunflower-dotted fields and passes grazing cattle in the rural Latium landscape. As you near Sezze, enjoy expansive views over the plains below, stretching all the way to the Circeo Promontory, long associated with Homer’s enchantress Circe. 11km/7mi, +350m/1,148ft, -285m/935ft, 18% paved, 82% unpaved

Walk along a dirt track beneath the slopes of the Lepini Mountains, surrounded by open farmland and wide views across the Latina plains toward the Tyrrhenian Sea. Passing Colle Rotondo and Ceriara, you’ll follow a peaceful canal path into Priverno, then continue another 6km (4mi) to reach the stunning Fossanova Abbey. This 12th-century Cistercian masterpiece is one of the oldest Gothic structures in Italy. After time to explore, a short transfer takes you to the coastal town of Terracina, where you can reflect on your journey. 21km/13mi, +240m/787ft, -520m/1,706ft, 65% paved, 35% unpaved

Your trip concludes after breakfast. Please ask for our rates if you would like to book extra nights here or in Rome.