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Stage 5: Pontremoli to Lucca

Walk the authentic Via Francigena on your own pace
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Take a walk on an 8-day self-guided journey along the Via Francigena, from Pontremoli to Lucca, exploring a blend of nature, culture, history, and spirituality. This varied trek through Tuscany starts in the mystical Lunigiana region, famous for its ancient Stele Statues, before leading you to the sandy shores of Versilia. Along the way, you’ll pass through Pietrasanta, a haven for artists, and continue to Lucca, where Renaissance walls and charming streets await. This route combines lush countryside, medieval villages, coastal trails, and the artistic heritage of Tuscany, offering an unforgettable adventure through one of Europe’s historic pilgrimage paths.

This tour represents Part 5 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:
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Italy, Europe

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Happiness Promise

5 (5 reviews)

Season
Apr-Oct

Activity
Walking
Duration
8 days
Difficulty
Hard (4/5)
Type
Self-guided, Private
Accommodation
BnB’s and Hotels
From €634
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Hard
We rate this tour as a 4/5. This tour is fairly challenging due to varied terrain, daily distances, and occasional elevation gains.
Trip highlights
Highlights for Via Francigena: Pontremoli to Lucca
Uncover the mystery of Stele Statues at the Pontremoli Museum, marking the beginning of your journey through Lunigiana.
Walk the sandy coastline of Versilia, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim and the open sea as part of your trail experience.
Experience the art scene in Pietrasanta, known as the Italian Athens, filled with marble sculptures and vibrant artists’ workshops.
Take in the grandeur of Lucca’s Renaissance walls, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city’s rich history .
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Travellers love the Via Francigena
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Sylvia

Stage 1: Saint Bernard Pass to Ivrea

“Walking the first stage of the Via Francigena on my own this summer was honestly one of the best adventures of my life!”

Andrew & Jaime

Stage 8: Montefiascone to Rome

“We absolutely fell in love with the Italian countryside, and the walk into Rome was an unforgettable experience.”

Davide

Stage 4: Fidenza to Pontremoli

“Crossing the Apennines and looking out across the terrain ahead was a surreal feeling. I can’t wait to plan my next walk along the Via Francigena.”

Day by day itinerary

Day one Arrival in Pontremoli
Pontremoli, located in the heart of Lunigiana, is a town of sandstone tower-houses, ancient stele statues, and literary charm. Explore its open-air museum and try the local herb pie to begin your journey on a flavorful note.
  • Distance: None
  • Meals: None
  • Overnight Location: Hotel in Pontremoli
Walk through a scenic mix of lush countryside and medieval villages. Highlights include the tower-houses of Ponticello, the hospice of San Jacopo at Filattiera, and the ancient Pieve di Sorano, home to Celtic stele statues. Pass through Villafranca, a medieval village with castle ruins and panoramic views.
  • Distance: 15 km
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Overnight Location: Hotel in Mocrone
From Villafranca, traverse dense forests, Roman roads, and the cycle path along the old railway toward Terrarossa Castle. Explore Aulla’s Abbey of San Caprasio and the medieval walls of Fortezza della Brunella, savoring local focaccia with charcuterie and cheese.
  • Distance: 17.5 km
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Overnight Location: Hotel in Aulla
Trek along rewarding paths with the first sea views, passing through lush countryside and medieval villages. Visit the ruins of La Brina Castle and the Baroque Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Sarzana. Wander Sarzana’s charming squares and taste the local “torta scema.”
  • Distance: 17 km
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Overnight Location: Hotel in Sarzana
Follow flat paths tracing ancient pilgrims’ footsteps from the Roman port of Luni. Visit the archaeological site with its amphitheater and Neptune mosaic before continuing along coastal paths with views of the sea and Apuan Alps.
  • Distance: 18/27 km
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Overnight Location: Hotel in Massa
Arrive in Pietrasanta, with its vibrant old town and stunning Duomo. Enjoy its art galleries before continuing to Camaiore, with its ancient Badia di San Pietro. Indulge in a rice-based chocolate cake, a delicious end to the day’s efforts.
  • Distance: 20/25 km
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Overnight Location: Hotel in Camaiore
The route meanders over Lucca’s hills before descending to the Contesola valley and crossing the Serchio River. Enter Lucca’s Renaissance walls and explore its old town center, including San Frediano’s façade, the Guinigi Tower, and local shops in the circular piazza.
  • Distance: 23/25 km
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Overnight Location: Hotel in Lucca
Bid farewell to Lucca after breakfast as your adventure concludes.
  • Distance: None
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Overnight Location: None

Why book with My Via Francigena

Self-guided Specialists

Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.

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Packed with Inclusions

We take care of accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - so you can focus on making memories.

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Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.

Reviews

5

5

5 (5 reviews)

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Incredibly scenic

This was my first long-distance walk in Italy, and I couldn’t have chosen a better one. The route from Pontremoli to Lucca was incredibly scenic—rolling hills, olive groves, ancient villages—and each day felt like stepping deeper into Tuscany’s heart. The best part was arriving in Lucca and walking the city walls at sunset.

Milly

Adventure and Comfort

This walking tour really stood out as one of our favorites. The accommodations were charming, the route was well-marked, and the luggage transfers went off without a hitch! Walking the Via Francigena gave us a deeper appreciation for Italy’s quiet corners.

Lucas and Sandra

Carefree

As someone traveling solo, I like to enjoy my independence (although I love having the safety net that comes with great planning!). The GPS app was easy to follow, and each stop had its own personality. I met some lovely people along the way and had time for real reflection. Ending in Lucca felt like a reward in itself. What a beautiful city!

Janice

Tuscan Tranquility at Its Best

This trip was everything I’d hoped for—gentle days walking through vineyards, hearty meals in small trattorias, and peaceful villages. The quiet sections through forest and farmland were my favourite. If you’re looking for a slower, more meaningful way to experience Italy, this is it.

Walkerman

Unforgettable adventure

The Via Francigena offers more than just beautiful landscapes. I felt connected to centuries of pilgrims and travellers. The route from Pontremoli to Lucca was filled with history, from medieval bridges to Romanesque churches. I really loved the authentic experience!

Judy T
Dates and prices:
Optional Extras:
  • Physical Documents (1 copy per booking) - €35 EUR
  • Extra Night in Pontremoli or Lucca (Single Room) - €95 EUR
  • Extra Night in Pontremoli or Lucca (Double Room) - €130 EUR
  • Extra Night in Pontremoli or Lucca (Triple Room) - €165 EUR

Prices below are per person

Date
Solo guest
Two Single Rooms
Double room
Triple room
Apr 1, 2025 to May 26, 2025

€1371 EUR

€1095 EUR

€848 EUR

€655 EUR

May 27, 2025 to Jun 26, 2025

€1440 EUR

€1164 EUR

€879 EUR

€666 EUR

Jun 27, 2025 to Jul 29, 2025

€1455 EUR

€1179 EUR

€895 EUR

€683 EUR

Jul 30, 2025 to Aug 31, 2025

€1490 EUR

€1214 EUR

€908 EUR

€695 EUR

Sep 1, 2025 to Oct 31, 2025

€1371 EUR

€1095 EUR

€828 EUR

€634 EUR

*Pay in US, Canadian, Australian Dollars, Euro, or British Pounds.

START YOUR BOOKING
What’s included
Meals
7 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights are included.
Transportation during the tour
Luggage transfer is included in your package from Day 2 to Day 7 (1 piece per person, up to 20 kg). Any other transfers are not included.
Also included
  • Digital information kit and app
  • Taxes
  • Via Francigena Guidebook
  • Via Francigena Pass
  • Not included
  • Guide services
  • Meals or transfers not mentioned as included
  • Entry fees to local objects
  • Optional Extras
  • Airport transfers
  • Single Room upgrades
Accommodation for Via Francigena: Pontremoli to Lucca

All accomodations are carefully selected because of their location, atmosphere and/or unique services. All rooms are en-suite.

Expect to stay in 3-star hotels, farmhouses and B&Bs with breakfasts where all rooms have private en-suite bathroom. In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement.

B&B Chiosi in Pontremoli
B&B Ai Chiosi in Pontremoli offers comfortable accommodations in a tranquil setting, featuring rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a garden, all within walking distance of the town center.
TripAdvisor reviews
Locanda Gavarini in Mocrone
Locanda Gavarini offers cozy, rustic accommodations with an on-site restaurant serving traditional Italian cuisine, set in a peaceful countryside location.
TripAdvisor reviews
Hotel Bed&Bike in Aulla
Hotel Bed&Bike in Aulla provides cyclist-friendly accommodations with modern amenities and bike storage, ideal for exploring the surrounding trails.
TripAdvisor reviews
B&B In Piazzetta in Sarzana
B&B In Piazzetta offers charming rooms in the historic center of Sarzana, providing easy access to local shops, cafes, and landmarks.
TripAdvisor reviews
B&B Il Cuore in Massa
B&B Il Cuore in Massa features elegantly decorated rooms with a welcoming atmosphere, located near the town’s cultural and historic sites.
TripAdvisor reviews
Hotel Locanda Le Monache in Camaiore
Hotel Locanda Le Monache in Camaiore provides comfortable, traditional rooms in a historic setting, perfect for exploring the quaint town and nearby coast.
TripAdvisor reviews
Hotel Rex in Lucca
Hotel Rex*** is 80 m from the main train station and 100 m from the ancient walls of Lucca. Rooms are quiet and well-finished with free Wi-Fi, air conditioned, telephone and fridge.
TripAdvisor reviews

Frequently asked question

How hard is the Via Francigena 5: Pontremoli to Lucca Tour?
We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. This itinerary is suitable for walkers with a reasonable level of fitness. The route features varied terrain with some longer daily distances and occasional elevation changes, primarily on well-marked paths, gravel roads, and some sections on asphalt. While some days can be shortened with transfers, participants should be prepared for a mix of flat and hilly walks.
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.

7 breakfasts 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.
The nearest international airports are Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport (about 1.5 hours away), Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (about 2 hours away), and Florence Peretola Airport (about 2.5 hours away).
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.
Mention where tour ends and how they’re getting to the airport with airport code mentioned.
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 travellers choose this tour

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Luggage transfers

Take a load off, with optional or included luggage transfers. Check inclusions for further details.

Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights are included.
Meals
Don’t worry about meals. 7 breakfasts are included.
Transfers

Check out the ‘What’s Included’ tab for more info on personal transfers during your tour.

Local Support

Travel stress-free knowing in-country local support is available by regular phone or WhatsApp to support you during your tour.

Payments Made Easy

Enjoy the flexibility and ease of staggered payments in your own currency using your choice of credit card.

Route Resources

Route notes, maps, and/or a trail app make navigation on this tour a breeze.

Park Entrance Fees

Included where possible! Check the ‘What’s Included’ tab for more info on park entrance fees during your tour.