Your Itinerary
Stage 3: Pavia to Fidenza
Walk the authentic Via Francigena on your own pace
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This tour along the Via Francigena takes you on a historic pilgrimage route from Pavia to Fidenza, retracing the steps of medieval travelers who sought spiritual fulfillment in Rome. As you journey across the Po River by ferry, you’ll encounter the rich cultural heritage of Pavia’s medieval center and enjoy the serene agricultural plains of the region. The route offers captivating historical sites like the Cistercian Abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba and Fidenza’s magnificent cathedral. Along the way, indulge in Emilia’s renowned cuisine, sampling delicacies like Prosciutto di Parma, culatello di Zibello, and Parmigiano Reggiano, making this a deeply cultural and culinary experience.
This tour represents Part 3 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
Apr-Oct
Activity
Walking
Walking
Duration
6 days
6 days
Difficulty
Hard (4/5)
Hard (4/5)
Type
Self-guided, Private
Self-guided, Private
Accommodation
BnB’s
BnB’s
From €474
Got any questions?
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: Pavia to Fidenza
Walk along the Via Francigena: Retrace the footsteps of medieval pilgrims who journeyed to Rome in search of spiritual fulfillment.
Cross the Po River: Traverse this iconic waterway by small ferry, just as early pilgrims did during their historic journeys.
Explore Pavia’s medieval center: Discover the rich layers of Roman and Longobard heritage alongside its extraordinary religious buildings.
Indulge in Italian gastronomy: Savor regional specialties like Prosciutto di Parma, culatello di Zibello, and Parmigiano Reggiano while passing through Emilia’s renowned culinary 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 Arrive in Pavia
Arrive individually in Pavia, a medieval town filled with artistic treasures. Discover Roman marvels, admire the sculpted altar of the Basilica di San Pietro, and wander beneath medieval towers. Embrace Pavia’s youthful spirit in Piazza della Vittoria, a lively spot for evening aperitifs.
- Distance: None
- Meals: None
- Overnight Location: Hotel in Pavia
Day two Walk from Pavia to Belgioioso, Train Back to Pavia
Today’s route takes you across the flood plain of basso Pavese, passing flood terraces and reaching Santa Cristina, named after an ancient abbey. Discover the simple beauty of the Chiesa di San Giacomo with frescoes dedicated to Saint James, then return by train to Pavia.
- Distance: 16km
- Meals: Breakfast
- Overnight Location: Hotel in Pavia
Day three Transfer from Pavia to Orio Litta, Walk to Piacenza
A short transfer from Pavia brings you to Orio Litta, where you start walking. Cross the Transitum Padi, the historic ford of Sigerico, by ferry into Emilia Romagna. Walk along provincial roads and cycle paths to reach Piacenza, where you’ll enjoy local charcuterie and the splendid basilica.
- Distance: 22km
- Meals: Breakfast
- Overnight Location: Hotel in Piacenza
Day four Walk from Piacenza to Fiorenzuola
Begin along the Via Emilia, then move onto country roads towards Fiorenzuola. Explore San Fiorenzo Church and the Oratory of Caravaggio. If needed, shorten this long stage with short public transport rides.
- Distance: 32 km
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Overnight Location: Hotel in Fiorenzuola
Day five Walk from Fiorenzuola to Fidenza
Enjoy a flat route to Fidenza, ending at Piazza del Duomo. Visit the Cistercian Abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba along the way and take a moment in its cloisters before continuing. Learn the folk story of the ciribiciaccola, the abbey’s tower, as you explore Fidenza.
- Distance: 23 km
- Meals: Breakfast
- Overnight Location: Hotel in Fidenza
Day six Departure from Fidenza
Your trip concludes in Fidenza after breakfast.
- 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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Dates and prices:
Optional Extras:
- Physical Documents (1 copy per booking) - €35 EUR
- Extra Night in Pavia or Fidenza (Single Room)) - €95 EUR
- Extra Night in Pavia or Fidenza (Double Room) - €130 EUR
- Extra Night in Pavia or Fidenza (Triple Room) - €165 EUR
Prices below are per person
Date
Solo guest
Two Single Rooms
Double room
Triple room
Apr 1, 2025 to Jun 30, 2025
€1003 EUR
€798 EUR
€614 EUR
€494 EUR
Jul 1, 2025 to Aug 30, 2025
€958 EUR
€753 EUR
€591 EUR
€474 EUR
Aug 31, 2025 to Oct 31, 2025
€1003 EUR
€798 EUR
€614 EUR
€494 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 3 to Day 5 (1 piece per person, up to 20kg). On Day 3, you will be transferred from Pavia to Orio Litta.
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: Pavia to Fidenza
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 Excelsior in Pavia offers elegant rooms with parquet floors and LCD TVs, located steps from the train station and a short walk from the city center.
Euro Hotel in Piacenza offers comfortable accommodations with air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant, conveniently located near the city center and train station.
Agriturismo Battibue in Fiorenzuola d’Arda offers cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi and an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine, ideal for a countryside retreat.
Frequently asked question
How hard is the Via Francigena: Pavia to Fidenza Tour?
We rate this tour as a 4 / 5. This tour is moderately challenging, with daily walking distances ranging from 16 to 32 km. It involves walking on mostly flat terrain, with some longer stages. While physical fitness is recommended, certain sections can be shortened using public transport if needed.
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: Pavia to Fidenza 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 Pavia to start this tour?
The nearest airport is Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), located about 65 km from Pavia. You can take a train or shuttle from the airport to reach Pavia.
Is the Via Francigena: Pavia to Fidenza 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: Pavia to Fidenza Tour end?
The tour ends in Fidenza
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:
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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.