Best time of year to walk the Via di Francesco

The best time to walk the Via di Francesco (The Way of St. Francis) is from mid March to May. These months strike an ideal balance of comfortable temperatures, low chances of extreme weather, and beautiful scenery, making them perfect for a long-distance hike along this historic trail.

Why These Months Are the Best

March (Mid to Late):

Starting your journey in mid to late March offers the first signs of spring, with milder temperatures replacing the chill of winter. The trail is quieter, allowing for a tranquil and reflective experience. While occasional rain may occur, it is typically light and manageable, and the awakening landscapes are worth it.

April:

April is one of the most favorable months for walking the Via di Francesco. The weather is mild, offering pleasant walking conditions, with neither the cold of winter nor the heat of summer. The surrounding countryside is vibrant and lush, full of blooming flowers and fresh greenery. Rainfall becomes less frequent compared to earlier months, ensuring a more enjoyable hike overall.

May:

May brings slightly warmer weather, with longer daylight hours that allow for a relaxed pace and more time to explore each stop along the way. The days are comfortably warm without veering into the intensity of summer, and the risk of heavy rainfall or extreme conditions remains low. This period also offers some of the most stunning views, as the landscapes are fully in bloom.

Additional Considerations

Walking the Via di Francesco during these months allows you to enjoy the trail at its best while avoiding the intense heat of summer or the cold and wet conditions of winter. While May might attract a few more hikers as spring progresses, the trail is far from overcrowded compared to other well-known pilgrimage routes. For those seeking solitude and optimal weather, late March and April are particularly ideal.

Choosing this timeframe ensures you experience the Via di Francesco at its most vibrant, with a perfect blend of favorable weather and stunning scenery, enhancing every step of your journey.

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.

Want to leave some feedback?

Would you like me to add a new feature to the app? Or did you notice that something isn't working the way it should? Please Let me know!