The classic last stage of the Via Francigena into Siena, from the walled hamlet of Monteriggioni across countryside to Porta Camollia, the traditional pilgrim entrance to the city.
The stage between Monteriggioni and Siena is described by several operators as about 20 to 21 km. The walk heads south through the abandoned village of Cerbaia, passes the castles of Chiocciola and Villa, follows the Pian del Lago riverbed and crosses the Renai woods before reaching Porta Camollia. One source calls it short and easy but notes the lack of water and refreshment stops, and estimates about 4.5 hours. Most walkers should allow five to six hours with breaks.
The route is part of the Via Francigena, the medieval pilgrim way from Canterbury to Rome, and is waymarked. Supplies should be bought in Monteriggioni before departure. The stage ends where pilgrims have traditionally entered Siena, with the city centre about 1.5 km further.
Spring and autumn are best. Summer afternoons are hot and exposed, and winter paths can be muddy.
| Distance | About 20-21 km one way |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 5-6 hours walking (one source estimates 4.5 hours) |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Trailhead | Start by regional bus from Siena to Monteriggioni (check current lines and times on at-bus.it) or by taxi; walk back to Siena on foot, finishing at Porta Camollia. |
| Best season | March-June and September-November |
| Address | Start: Piazza Roma, 53035 Monteriggioni SI; finish: Porta Camollia, 53100 Siena SI, Italy |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Between Monteriggioni and Siena, northwest of the city
- Trail type
- Point to point, waymarked pilgrim route
- Terrain
- Country lanes, white gravel tracks and woodland paths marked with Via Francigena signs.
What to bring
Walking shoes, 1.5-2 litres of water, hat, sun protection, snacks; a light rain layer.
Location
Start: Piazza Roma, 53035 Monteriggioni SI; finish: Porta Camollia, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
43.3917, 11.2217 View on map
Highlights
- Walled medieval village of Monteriggioni at the start
- Abandoned village of Cerbaia and the castles of Chiocciola and Villa
- Pian del Lago riverbed and the Renai woods
- Arrival through Porta Camollia, the pilgrim gate of Siena
Tips for visiting
- Fill water bottles in Monteriggioni: there are few water or refreshment stops on the stage.
- Start by 8AM in summer; much of the route is exposed.
- Use the official Via Francigena waymarks and an offline map, since junctions are not always clearly signed.
- Finish at Porta Camollia and continue along Via Camollia to Piazza del Campo (about 1.5 km).
When to visit
Spring (April-May) and autumn (late September-October); avoid midday in July and August.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair-accessible; the route is long and partly on rough tracks.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Monteriggioni to Siena stage?
About 20-21 km, taking roughly 5-6 hours with breaks.
Is there water on the route?
Water and refreshment stops are scarce; carry enough from Monteriggioni.
Where does the walk end?
At Porta Camollia, the traditional pilgrim entrance to Siena.