When to walk the Via di Francesco (Roma to La Verna)

On the Via di Francesco (Roma to La Verna), the most reliable start window is mid March to May, or late September to early October. These shoulder seasons keep the lowlands around Rome and Umbria pleasant and make the Apennine approach to La Verna cool but manageable—without the heavy heat of summer or the short, wet days of winter.

Spring brings green hills, wildflowers, and fresh air; early autumn offers clear views, harvest atmosphere, and steadier days. Showers can appear in both periods, so carry a light shell and plan for the odd wet morning.

Why these windows work

• Temperatures are kind to day-long walking, especially on the low, exposed stretches early in the route.
• The Apennine approach to La Verna can be chilly outside these windows; in spring/autumn it’s brisk but manageable.
• Showers do pass through, but you avoid the long summer heat and the short, wet days of winter.

Spring: mid–late March, April, May (best)

Expect a classic shoulder-season mix: bright spells, quick showers, and fresh mornings. Trails can be damp in March and April, but fields are lush and the sun has some strength. By May, days feel warm without being heavy, though short, sharp downpours still pop up. Layer up, keep a light shell handy, and your walking will be comfortable from the Rome outskirts to the sanctuary at La Verna.

Early autumn: late September to early October (best)

Warm, settled walking with clearer air and calmer trails. You’ll still find sunny heat in the valleys, but it’s far gentler than high summer. Nights start to cool—especially near La Verna—so a warmer layer helps. Rain returns later in October; in the first half it’s usually just passing fronts.

Summer: June to August (hot and exposed)

You’ll get long, bright days—but also strong heat on road and farm tracks leaving Roma and across the Umbrian valleys. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, and water management becomes the main challenge. If summer is your only option, start very early, take long midday breaks in shade, and book places with reliable water and air flow.

Late autumn: mid–late October and November (wetter, darker)

After early October, rain days stack up and daylight shortens. You can still have lovely quiet stages, but expect frequent wet spells, slippery woodland paths, and chilly evenings at higher points. Some pilgrim lodgings may reduce hours later in the season.

Winter: December to February (cold, rain, and occasional snow)

Lowlands see frequent rain and chilly wind; higher sections toward La Verna can see frost, ice, or snow. Trails get muddy, days are short, and some services close. It’s a peaceful time if you’re equipped for winter walking, but most hikers will enjoy the route more in spring or early autumn.

Early March (transitional)

Early March can still feel wintry: lively fronts, cold snaps, and soaked tracks. From mid-month onward, conditions improve quickly—this is the start of the spring sweet spot.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. For example, if you prefer walking in the cooler morning hours to avoid midday heat, you might prioritize dates with drier conditions. On the other hand, if you are more accustomed to colder climates, you may choose to avoid hotter periods - even if it means encountering more rain. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the trail.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from Rome to La Verna, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.