Via Francigena: Orvieto to Rome
Via Francigena: Orvieto to Rome
$1420
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey along Stage 8 of the Via Francigena from Orvieto to Rome, traversing Italy's stunning landscapes and historic towns. This self-guided walking tour takes you through the picturesque towns of Orvieto, Viterbo, and Rome, with highlights including Lake Bolsena, ancient Etruscan villages, and the Roman amphitheatre in the Regional Park of Sutri. Enjoy the charm of small, family-run accommodations and savor delicious regional specialties. The sense of achievement as you enter Rome and reach St. Peter's Cathedral is unparalleled. With a digital information pack, luggage transfer, and emergency support, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Orvieto (Or Acquapendente)
Location: Orvieto
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Today you will need to make your own way to the first hotel in Orvieto. Orvieto is a beautiful town sitting atop a tufaceous cliff in the middle of the Umbrian countryside. There are many interesting sites to visit including the impressive Cathedral or Duomo, a work of architecture and religious harmony considered to be among the most important in Italy. The medieval town centre is well-preserved and the underground city set deep in the tufa (volcanic rock) can be visited with a guide. The multitude of secret passageways and tunnels will remind you of the vast history of this town. Enjoy dinner and a glass of the local great wine in one of the many restaurants in town.
*Alternatively if you are continuing on from the previous section from Siena you may walk from Acquapendente, where the Southern Tuscany section finishes. ...more ...less
Day 2 : Descend To Bolsena (5Hr)
Location: Bolsena
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
If you're starting in Orvieto the walk begins at the Duomo and crosses the whole old town. You'll soon enter the countryside and pass a recently discovered Etruscan necropolis. Some trails are on quiet asphalted roads and will bring you to the other side of an ancient crater with exceptional panoramic views over the Bolsena Lake.
If you're starting in Acquapendente you'll walk across a plain to reach the village of San Lorenzo Nuovo, which is located on the edge of the ancient crater, before continuing on a gradual descent to Bolsena.
Whatever your starting point, your destination for today is the charming old town of Bolsena on the banks of the beautiful lake of volcanic origin. Bolsena is known for the miracle of Corpus Domini.
Distance: 16km/10mi, ascent: 535m/1755ft, descent: 526m/1725ft.
The walk from Acquapendente is 22.8km/14.25mi, Ascent: 220m/721ft, Descent: 290m/951ft and will take between 7-8hr
Day 3 : Walk Along The Crest Of Hills To Montefiascone (5Hrs)
Location: Montefiascone
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will walk from Bolsena, following along the crest of the hills surrounding the eastern part of the lake. You'll walk along parts of the ancient Roman Via Cassia. This afternoon you will arrive in Montefiascone, a lovely village in a prominent location with great panoramic views over the lake, the surrounding plain and the Cimini Mountains. The Fortress of the Popes in Montefiascone is well-worth a visit. Overnight in Montefiascone.
Distance: 18km/11.2mi, ascent: 603m/1978ft, descent: 329m/1080ft
Day 4 : Continue To Viterbo (6Hrs)
Location: Viterbo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
The route to Viterbo today is along the plain that divides the Bolsena Lake from the Cimini Mountains. You'll be able to see the outline of the hills as you walk, as they border the whole territory. There are no residental areas along the route today but there are some old drinking fountains. When you arrive in Viterbo this afternoon you can take some time to visit the charming old town.
Distance: 18km/11mi, ascent: 174m/571ft, descent: 430m/1410ft.
Day 5 : Through Etruscan Countryside To Vetralla (8Hrs)
Location: Vetralla
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The medieval walls, the seven entrances to the old town, the churches and the aristocratic palaces of Viterbo are must-sees before setting out today. There are no villages along today's standard route, as you walk through the countryside and forests and pass an Etruscan underground tomb. By choosing to walk the official, more challenging route through the forest and along the slopes of the Cimini Mountains, you will pass by the village of San Martino al Cimino. Reach the gates of Vetralla, where you can visit the ruins of the Pieve of Saint Marie di Forcassi, a typical example of the architecture of the area. Dinner and overnight in Vetralla.
Distance: 21km/13mi, ascent: 548m/1798ft, descent: 548m/1798ft.
Day 6 : Walk To Sutri Via The Tiny Village Of Capranica (7Hrs)
Location: Sutri
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The walk today is quite long so we recommend leaving early. From Vetralla you'll walk along the volcano side of a crater which was once occupied by Lake Vico. You'll continue through Etruscan countryside until you reach the tiny village of Capranica. From here you descend to a tuff gorge, following the stream. This track is very striking, but can be difficult in places depending on the water level. Finally you'll arrive in Sutri where you can enjoy a nice dinner in your choice of restaurant in town.
Distance: 24km/14.9mi, ascent: 376m/1233ft. descent: 383m/1256ft
Day 7 : Walk Across Fields To Monterosi And On To Campagnano Di Roma (7Hrs)
Location: Campagnano di Roma
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The first section of the walk today takes you across fields until you reach the picturesque village of Monterosi and the Monte Gelato waterfalls. You can stop for a rest here or even swim on a warm day. Continue walking along a panoramic trail that leads to Campagnano di Roma. It is possible to shorten the walk by taking a bus or with a morning transfer to Monterosi (taxi must be pre-arranged). Distance: 24km/14.9mi, ascent: 279m/915ft, descent: 302m/991ft
Day 8 : Follow Country Trails To La Giustiniana (8Hrs)
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you'll walk through the Roman countryside, walking on mainly flat dirt roads or country trails. There are a few hills towards the end of the day. Continue to La Giustiniana where you will stay overnight. Option to shorten by taking the bus from La Storta. (Subject to availability overnight may be at Isola Farnese, 5km less walking today, 5km more tomorrow).Distance: 27km/16.9mi, ascent: 451m/1480ft, descent: 636m/2087ft.
Day 9 : Final Walk Into Rome (5Hrs)
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast you will set off on the final leg of your pilgrimage. You can choose to reach Rome either by public transport or on foot. Part of the walk today is through the Insugherata park, a beautiful natural reserve a short distance from the bustling city. As you approach the 'Eternal City' you can stop for a triumphant photograph at the Monte Mario Belvedere. From here you'll catch your first glimpse of the dome of St Peter's Basilica. You'll then make your final descent to reach the Piazza San Pietro, your ending point and that of many pilgrims through the centuries.
Distance: 18km/11.2mi, ascent: 360m/1181ft. descent: 450m/1476ft
Day 10 : Trip Concludes
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
The trip concludes in Rome, with arrangements ending after breakfast.
With much to do and see in Rome, it is well worth extending your stay so you can explore the city. We can book extra nights, please ask for our rates.
What's Included
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Accommodation
9 nights in 3 star hotels and agriturismo / B&Bs. -
9 breakfasts, 1 packed lunch, 1 dinner: Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad or pasta dish, followed by either a chicken, red meat or fish dish with s
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9 nights in 3 star hotels and agriturismo / B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (hotel taxes extra, payable locally - allow approx €22 in total per person)
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Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps plus an electronic route book
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Luggage transfer (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 60 x 50 x 40 cm per person). Supplement applies for excess
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Emergency hotline and SMS alert
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Pilgrim Passport
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Travel to Orvieto or Acquapendente and from Rome
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Meals not listed as included, drinks
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Travel insurance - mandatory
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Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday
What's Not Included
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Travel to and from Destinations
Travel to Orvieto or Acquapendente and from Rome.
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Meals Not Included
Meals not listed as included, drinks.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees.
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Guide
Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday.
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Solo Traveler Supplement
A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room.
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Excess Luggage
Excess luggage.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance.
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Tourist Tax
Tourist Tax - allow approximately EUR1-3.5 per person per day - payable directly to the hotel.
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Personal Items
Items of a personal nature.
Grading
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. As this section of the Via Francigena enters larger towns and cities than other stages, there are some sections that follow main roads with traffic. 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. ...more ...less
What You Carry
As the walks are fully supported you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements including wet weather gear, water bottle, lunch supplies, mobile phone and sun protection etc.
Mode of Transport
Travel to Orvieto or Acquapendente and from Rome is not included, allowing you the flexibility to choose your preferred mode of transport.
Accommodation
Enjoy 9 nights in 3-star hotels and agriturismo/B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities, offering a comfortable and authentic stay.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodations can I expect during the Via Francigena tour from Orvieto to Rome?
You will stay in 3-star hotels and agriturismo/B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities. Note that hotel taxes are extra and payable locally, with an allowance of €14-17 in total per person.
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What meals are included in the Via Francigena tour?
The tour includes 9 breakfasts, 2 packed lunches, and 2 dinners. Breakfasts are usually continental, inclusive of breads, tea, coffee, and juices. Dinners will consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad or pasta dish, followed by either a chicken, red meat, or fish dish. ...more ...less
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Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?
Yes, luggage transfer is provided with a maximum of 1 piece per person, weighing up to 20kg and with maximum dimensions of 60 x 50 x 40 cm. A supplement applies for excess luggage.
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What kind of support is available during the tour?
The tour provides an emergency hotline and SMS alert for support. Additionally, you will receive a digital information pack including a smartphone app with maps and an electronic route book.
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Is this a guided tour?
No, this is a self-guided walking holiday. You will not have a guide, but you will receive a digital information pack and support via an emergency hotline.
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What is the difficulty level of the Via Francigena tour?
The tour is graded as moderate (Grade 3). It involves walking along well-defined and clearly marked paths with some long walks that can be shortened if requested in advance. A good level of fitness is required, and prior experience is advisable.
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What should I carry during the walks?
As the walks are fully supported, you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements, including wet weather gear, a water bottle, lunch supplies, a mobile phone, and sun protection.
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Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, additional costs include meals not listed as included, drinks, entrance fees, a supplement for solo travelers or single rooms, excess luggage, travel insurance, and a tourist tax of approximately EUR1-3.5 per person per day, payable directly to the hotel.
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Can I extend my stay in Rome after the tour concludes?
Yes, it is well worth extending your stay in Rome to explore the city. Extra nights can be booked; please ask for rates.
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How fit do I have to be?
Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.
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What happens if something goes wrong?
On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.
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I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?
Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Via Francigena: Orvieto to Rome
10 Days Starting in Orvieto, Italy and ending in Rome, Italy
Visiting: Orvieto, Bolsena, Montefiascone, Viterbo, Vetralla, Sutri, Campagnano di Roma, Rome
Tour operator:
Tour code:
FR8
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History