The best time to start walking the Via Francigena del Sud is in March, April, or September.
These months strike the right balance between comfortable daytime temperatures and manageable rainfall—ideal conditions for a long-distance walk through southern Italy. They avoid both the peak summer heat and the unpredictability of winter storms, offering the most pleasant experience for most walkers.
Spring is a beautiful time to walk this route. Southern Italy warms up early, so by March and April, daytime highs are generally mild—warm enough to be comfortable without being oppressive. Wildflowers are in bloom, the countryside is vibrant, and the tourist crowds haven’t yet arrived in full force. Rain is possible, but intense downpours are less likely than in the winter.
September offers similar benefits. The worst of the summer heat has passed, but you’ll still enjoy long days and warm (but not scorching) afternoons. The landscape tends to be drier and more golden than in spring, and while there’s a slightly higher chance of storms later in the month, conditions remain favorable for most of the route.
Whether you’re walking through Lazio’s olive groves or tracing the Adriatic coastline in Puglia, these months offer the clearest window for comfortable, heat- and rain-averse hiking.
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 Roma to Leuca, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.
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