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Stage 4: Fidenza to Pontremoli
Walk the authentic Via Francigena on your own pace
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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:
Season
Apr-Oct
Activity
Walking
Walking
Duration
7 days
7 days
Difficulty
Moderate (3/5)
Type
Self-guided, Private
Self-guided, Private
Accommodation
BnB’s and Hotels
BnB’s and Hotels
From €533
Got any questions?
Moderate
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.
Trip highlights
Highlights for Via Francigena: Fidenza to Pontremoli
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.
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Trip map
Travellers love the Via Francigena
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 Fidenza
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.
- Distance: None
- Meals: Breakfast
- Overnight Location: BnB in Fidenza
Day two Walk from Fidenza to Medesano; transfer to Sant’Andrea Bagni
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.
- Distance: 22km
- Meals: Breakfast
- Overnight Location: BnB in Sant’Andrea Bagni
Day three Transfer from Sant’Andrea Bagni to Medesano, then walk to Bardone
After a transfer to Medesano, continue through the Parma hills to Fornovo, where you can visit the cathedral’s impressive bas-reliefs. Continue on to Bardone, where you’ll spend the night in a cozy BnB. Option to shorten the walk by starting from Fornovo di Taro.
- Distance: 22km
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Overnight Location: BnB in Bardone
Day four Walk from Bardone to Berceto
Enjoy a challenging but beautiful leg as you pass through Terenzo and its ancient churches. Ascend to Casola Castle and then journey through conifer woods to Cassio, following paths once trodden by pilgrims. The final 10 km is along secondary roads to reach Berceto, a charming village where you can sample local dishes like mushroom-based delicacies and pattona, a chestnut flour cake.
- Distance: 21km
- Meals: Breakfast
- Overnight Location: BnB in Berceto
Day five Walk from Berceto to Previdè, then transfer to Pontremoli
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.
- Distance: 18km
- Meals: Breakfast
- Overnight Location: BnB in Pontremoli
Day six Transfer from Pontremoli to Previdè, then walk from Previdè to Pontremoli
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.
- Distance: 10 km
- Meals: Breakfast
- Overnight Location: BnB in Pontremoli
Day seven Departure from Pontremoli
Your journey ends after breakfast, with optional extra nights or transfers available upon request.
- 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.
Packed with Inclusions
We take care of accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
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Reviews
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4.83 (6 reviews)
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Dates and prices:
Optional Extras:
- Physical Documents (1 copy per booking) - €35 EUR
- Extra Night in Fidenza or Pontremoli (Single Room) - €75 EUR
- Extra Night in Fidenza or Pontremoli (Double Room) - €90 EUR
- Extra Night in Fidenza or Pontremoli (Triple Room) - €120 EUR
Prices below are per person
Date
Solo guest
Two Single Rooms
Double room
Triple room
Apr 1, 2025 to Oct 31, 2025
€1049 EUR
€786 EUR
€664 EUR
€533 EUR
*Pay in US, Canadian, Australian Dollars, Euro, or British Pounds.
What’s included
Meals
6 breakfasts and 1 dinner are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 6 nights are included.
Transportation during the tour
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).
Also included
- Digital information kit and app
- Taxes
- Via Francigena Guide
- 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: Fidenza to Pontremoli
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.
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.
Hotel Astoria in Fidenza offers central accommodations with an on-site restaurant, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Hotel Salus in Sant’Andrea Bagni offers simple accommodations with an on-site restaurant and easy access to local thermal spas.
B&B Antico Palazzo del Pellegrino in Bardone offers cozy accommodations with free Wi-Fi, bicycle storage, and proximity to the Via Francigena trail.
B&B La Casa dei Nonni in Berceto offers rustic accommodations with comfortable rooms, a welcoming host, and a highly praised breakfast, conveniently located in the town center.
Frequently asked question
How hard is the Via Francigena: Fidenza to Pontremoli Tour?
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.
I’ve never been on a self-guided trip! How does it work?
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.
Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Via Francigena: Fidenza to Pontremoli Tour?
6 breakfasts and 1 dinner are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your travel insurance.
How do I get to Fidenza to start this tour?
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.
Is the Via Francigena: Fidenza to Pontremoli Tour in English?
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.
Where does the Via Francigena: Fidenza to Pontremoli Tour end?
Tour ends in Pontremoli.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Italy?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Italy?
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
It’s easy to see why your next 10Adventures experience will be the trip of a lifetime:
We're Canadian
Book with a Canadian company whose mission is to help you travel the world.
Luggage transfers
Take a load off, with optional or included luggage transfers. Check inclusions for further details.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 6 nights are included.
Meals
Don’t worry about meals. 6 breakfasts and 1 dinner 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.