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Via Francigena: Rome to Terracina

Ancient tomb along the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) near Rome | Kate Baker

The route of the Via Appia as it makes its way from Rome

View of the Basilica of St Peters in Rome | Kate Baker

Surrounded by lush woodland, Lake Nemi is a serene volcanic crater lake steeped in mythology and Roman history

The ancient ruins of Norba, a 4th-century BC Roman outpost

A masterpiece of early Gothic architecture, Fossanova Abbey dates back to the 12th century

Ancient tomb along the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) near Rome | Kate Baker

The route of the Via Appia as it makes its way from Rome

View of the Basilica of St Peters in Rome | Kate Baker

Surrounded by lush woodland, Lake Nemi is a serene volcanic crater lake steeped in mythology and Roman history

The ancient ruins of Norba, a 4th-century BC Roman outpost

A masterpiece of early Gothic architecture, Fossanova Abbey dates back to the 12th century

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Duration

7 days

Activities

self guided walk

Accommodation

6 nights in 3 star hotels and B&Bs.

Meals

6 Breakfasts

Price

$1590USD

Overview

Trip Code: FRZ

Trip highlights

Follow Europe's oldest road, the Via Appia (Appian Way) along the southern stage of the Via Francigena in Italy
Visiting the ancient towns and cities such as Norba and Sermoneta and Rome
Exploring the spectacular landscapes and fascinating countryside of southern Lazio
Walking through historical sites
Staying in small, comfortable, family-run accommodations and sampling delicious regional culinary specialities
The sense of achievement from leaving Rome to reaching the sea

Follow the path of countless pilgrims, merchants, and seekers as you walk the southern section of the Via Francigena, from Rome to the coastal town of Terracina. This stretch of the trail traces a cultural artery that has linked northern Europe with the heart of Italy since the early centuries of Christianity. First mapped in 990 AD by Archbishop Sigeric on his return journey from Rome, the route guided medieval pilgrims to the Eternal City and beyond, toward ports bound for Jerusalem. Officially extended south in 2017, the Via Francigena of the South offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience — one that reveals the raw beauty and rich traditions of southern Lazio. Along the way, you'll walk sections of the ancient Via Appia (Appian Way), explore pre-Roman ruins and medieval villages like Norba and Sermoneta, and discover archaeological treasures from Etruscan necropolises to Roman amphitheaters. With sweeping views, delicious regional cuisine, and warm family-run accommodations, this walk is a deep dive into Italy’s living history — one that rewards the curious and experienced walker alike.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Day 1
Arrive Rome

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!

Meals: Nil

Day 2
Begin southern stage along the Appia Antica to Castel Gandolfo (6hrs)

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

Meals: B

Day 3
Hike forest paths and lakeside villages to reach Velletri, transfer to Cori (5hrs)

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

Meals: B

Day 4
Through Roman ruins and olive groves to Sermoneta (5hrs)

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

Meals: B

Day 5
Continue past sunflower fields to the hilltop town of Sezze (3hrs)

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

Meals: B

Day 6
Walk to the 12th-Century Fossanova Abbey, transfer to Terracina (4hrs)

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

Meals: B

Day 7
Trip concludes Terracina

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

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

6 breakfasts: breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, tea, coffee & juices
6 nights in 3 star hotels and B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (hotel taxes extra, payable locally - allow approx €13 in total per person)
Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps plus an electronic route book
Luggage transfer (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 65 x 40 x 30 cm per person). Supplement applies for excess
Emergency hotline and SMS alert
Pilgrim Passport

What's not included

Travel to Rome and from Terracina
Meals not listed as included, drinks
Travel insurance - mandatory
Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday
A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
Transfers not listed as included
Excess luggage
Entrance fees
Tourist Tax - allow approximately EUR13 per person total - payable directly to the hotel
Items of a personal nature

Grading

moderate

GRADE 3 - Daily walks that are along paths that are well defined and clearly marked. There are not many changes to the height walked each day. Some walks are long but can be shortened if requested in advance. The whole itinerary is well-marked by the official signs of the Via Francigena. Some short sections will be on roads with light to medium traffic (heavy in Rome). A good level of fitness is required and prior experience is advisable. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, and jogging, three to four times a week for three months prior to your departure.

Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct

Notes

High Season

DN1

High season is from 25 Apr to 30 Jun and 1 Aug to 30 Sep - Supplement applies

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1590USD

Options & Supplements*

Single supplementUSD$350
Solo traveller supplementUSD$860

*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love.