Via Francigena: Pavia to Fidenza

6 days

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Walk the authentic Via Francigena on your own pace

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:

Via Francigena 1: St Bernard Pass to Ivrea
Via Francigena 2: Ivrea to Pavia
Via Francigena 4: Fidenza to Pontremoli
Via Francigena 5: Pontremoli to Lucca
Via Francigena 6: Lucca to Siena
Via Francigena 7: Siena to Montefiascone
Via Francigena 8: Montefiascone to Rome

Prices

From $525USD

6 days

Difficulty

Self-Guided

BnB’s

No Booking or Credit Card Fees
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Is this tour for me?

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.

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Itinerary
Dates & Prices
Accommodation
Included
FAQ
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Via Francigena: Pavia to Fidenza Tour Itinerary

Day 1 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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Pavia
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Pavia
Distance: 16 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Piacenza
Distance: 22 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Fiorenzuola
Distance: 32 km
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 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.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Fidenza
Distance: 23 km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Departure from Fidenza

Your trip concludes in Fidenza after breakfast.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast

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Via Francigena: Pavia to Fidenza Tour Price and Dates

The departure is available on any day of the week. Prices below are per person:

Departure on August 1^st – June 30^th, 2025:

Solo traveller: $1,095 USD
Single room (group of 2+): $875 USD
Sharing a double/twin room: $675 USD
Sharing a triple room: $525 USD

Departure on July 1^st – August 30^th, 2025:

Solo traveller: $1,050 USD
Single room (group of 2+): $825 USD
Sharing a double/twin room: $650 USD
Sharing a triple room: $525 USD

Departure on August 31^st – October 31^st, 2025:

Solo traveller: $1,095 USD
Single room (group of 2+): $875 USD
Sharing a double/twin room: $675 USD
Sharing a triple room: $525 USD

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Accommodation on Via Francigena: Pavia to Fidenza Tour

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.

Hotels on Standard Tour

Night 1-2

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Hotel Excelsior in Pavia ★★★

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.

Night 3

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Euro Hotel in Piacenza ★★★

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.

Night 4

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Agriturismo Battibue in Fiorenzuola

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.

Night 5

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Hotel Astoria in Fidenza

Hotel Astoria in Fidenza offers central accommodations with an on-site restaurant, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

What’s Included in the Via Francigena: Pavia to Fidenza Tour?

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Via Francigena: Pavia to Fidenza

How hard is the Via Francigena: Pavia to Fidenza Tour?

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.

S-Cape Italy

S-Cape Travel is a boutique tour operator focused on sharing the best walking, cycling, cultural and food & wine tours in Europe. Book one of their self-guided tours to live La Dolce Vita for a week or two, as you walk or cycle around Europe, enjoying incredible views and amazing food and wine.

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