Via Francigena, from Terracina to Rome
LazioDifficulty path:Highlights
Each stop along the way tells a piece of Italy’s historical and cultural tradition, from ancient abbeys and medieval castles to characteristic villages.
Nature is ever-present: plains, rivers, and hills offer stunning views, all accompanied by the calm of villages nestled in enchanting landscapes. The connection between history and nature makes this trip a unique experience, culminating in the heart of Rome, where the past and present intertwine in a distinctive way.
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Visit legendary places imbued with spirituality and myths;
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Explore temples, churches, and Roman remains;
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Stroll through villages rich in history and tradition;
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A spiritual journey that offers moments of reflection;
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Places in which millennia of history merge with the present.
Program
Terracina
Welcome to Terracina, a city rooted in the legend of Ulysses. Discover its extraordinary architectural heritage, from the majestic Temple of Jupiter Anxur to the Cathedral of San Cesareo, famous for its Cosmatesque floor, and the Church of Purgatory, a baroque-Spanish jewel. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the typical dishes, a perfect fusion of sea and land flavors.
From Terracina to Fossanova
21km, +44m, -26m
Crossing green countryside, bordered by trees that almost hide the landscape, you will reach the Abbey of Fossanova, one of the masterpieces of Gothic-Cistercian art in Italy. The mystical atmosphere of the place is further enhanced by the infirmary room, where Saint Thomas Aquinas spent his last days, dedicating himself to prayer. His simple empty tomb is still preserved inside the church.
From Fossanova to Sezze
21km, +171m, -445m
Continuing through the Pontine Plain, the route winds along the Ufente River, surrounded by nature trails. You will arrive at Sezze, an ancient village that, according to legend, was founded by Hercules. Located on a hill at the foot of Mount Semprevisa, Sezze will surprise you with its characteristic architecture and breathtaking views.
From Sezze to Sermoneta
11km, +307m, -241m
The journey continues through hills covered in Mediterranean scrub, until reaching Sermoneta, a fascinating medieval village. Here you can walk along the city walls, built between the 15th and 16th centuries, offering a spectacular view that stretches from the Roman Castles to the Pontine Islands.
From Sermoneta to Cori
19km, +524m, -695m
After leaving Sermoneta, the climb will take you to Norma, where you can visit the ancient Abbey of Valvisciolo, immersed in an almost legendary atmosphere. From there, a scenic trail will lead you to Cori, a village that holds architectural treasures such as the Temple of Hercules and the monumental complex of Sant'Oliva, as well as the Augustinian convent with its charming cloister.
From Cori to Velletri
19km, +288m, -216m
The journey proceeds with a descent through hills covered with olive woods, leading to the hamlet of Giulianello, a corner of unspoiled nature that will captivate you. A short uphill stretch will then take you to Velletri, a city famous for its breathtaking landscapes, which also enchanted the German poet Goethe.
From Velletri to Castel Gandolfo
22km, +445m, -553m
Take the trails of the Alban Hills, through forests offering panoramic views of the lake. A gentle descent will take you to the picturesque village of Nemi, known since ancient times as a sacred place, thanks to the Temple of Diana Nemorensis. Continuing, you will pass through Albano Laziale, which holds important Roman remains, such as the tomb of the Horatii and Curiatii and the Baths of Caracalla, before reaching Castel Gandolfo, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
From Castel Gandolfo to Roma
27km, +434, -18m
The journey culminates with an exciting final leg: the route follows the ancient Appian Way, passing by extraordinary Roman monuments. You will arrive at the church of Domine Quo Vadis, passing through the Catacombs of San Callisto, and finally cross the Eternal City, where this unforgettable journey comes to an end.
Goodbye, Roma!
Immerse yourself in the majesty of Italy's capital, where every street and square tells centuries of history and culture. The final day of the journey invites you to get lost in its vibrant neighborhoods, where tradition and modernity blend into a unique experience. A conclusion that celebrates the timeless soul and beauty of Rome.
After breakfast, end of services.
Tour programme variations
Due to organizational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during the holiday.
Along the way you may find temporary deviations (for example road works) which cannot be foreseen; in this case each walker can decide autonomously how to deal with these stretches.
What's included
Our offer includes
- 8 nights with breakfast in double room
- Luggage transportation
- Pilgrim's Credential
- Tailor made travel App (maps, tracks, route notes)
- Phone assistance 08:00-20:00
Not included
- Transfer IN and Transfer OUT
- Other meals and drinks
- Entrance fees and tips
- Hotel tourist taxes
- Insurance and what's not listed as “Included”
Departures and prices
Supplements per person
Other Information
This trekking tour along the Via Francigena from Terracina to Roma is suitable for anyone with excellent walking training. The length of a walking day ranges from a minimum of 11 to a maximum of 27 km, with altitude differences and routes of medium difficulty and travel times between 3 and 6 hours.
The excursions mostly wind along dirt paths, including in wooded areas and country roads, with some rare but essential passages on busy roads.
It is advisable to bring comfortable shoes suitable for trekking, trekking poles, hat, water, sunscreen, swimsuit and raincoat in case of rain.
This tour offers accommodation in farmhouses, central B&B and selected 3* hotel.
All rooms are ensuite.
- 1 night in Terracina
- 1 night in Fossanova
- 1 night in Sezze
- 1 night in Sermoneta
- 1 night in Cori
- 1 night in Velletri
- 1 night in Castel Gandolfo
- 1 night in Roma
8 breakfasts included.
→ We will take care of your luggage while you are walking.
For the whole duration of your tour, you can contact our assistance numbers.
A few days before departure you will receive by email the Service List with instructions for using the Travel App.
Upon your arrival, ask at reception for the infopack with:
Upon your arrival, ask at reception for the infopack with:
- updated Service List;
- Pilgrim's Credential;
- Luggage Labels.
Getting there
Terracina is easily accessible by train, car, and plane.
BY TRAIN. The Terracina Centro railway station is currently not in service, so it is recommended to take trains running along the Rome Termini – Naples Centrale line and get off at either Piverno/Fossanova or Monte San Biagio/Terracina Mare stations. From both stations, direct buses to Terracina are available. For updates on stop cancellations or additions, delays, route changes, and many other useful details for Trenitalia travelers, please check viaggiatreno.
BY PLANE. The nearest airport is Rome Fiumicino (FCO), well connected with international flights. From there, you can take a train to Rome Termini and continue as described above.
Visit the Roma Fiumicino for more detailed information.
BY CAR. For those arriving from Rome, take the SS148 Pontina towards Latina and continue on to Terracina. Alternatively, from the A1 Rome–Naples motorway, take the exit for Frosinone and follow the signs to Latina/Terracina.
From Naples, take the A1 motorway to Cassino or Frosinone, then continue towards Terracina. Alternatively, the SS7 Appia and the Via Flacca offer a scenic route along the coast.
Google.maps.com can be helpful.
→ If you prefer to travel in total comfort, you can book a private transfer on the days of arrival and departure.