Sicily - Magna Via Francigena

4.6Based on

Carbon neutral

8 daysDuration

Private TourPrivate experience, no group joining

15 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Challenging

Demands good physical fitness and stamina for more intense or extended activities.

Starts

Palermo, Italy

Ends

Sicily, Italy

Highlights

Following in the footsteps of pilgrims from centuries ago

Discovering the rugged beauty of inland Sicily and the enthusiasm, hospitality and pride of the Sicilians

Visiting the charming towns of Prizzi, Racalmuto and Sutera

Feasting on local culinary delights and tasting superb Sicilian wines

Staying in comfortable and welcoming hotels and charming B&Bs

The artistic melting pot of Palermo and the magnificence of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

Itinerary

Experience the ancient pilgrimage trails of Sicily's Camino. Travel by foot along the 'regie trazzere' or ancient road from Palermo and the Tyrrhenian Sea in the north to Agrigento on the southern Mediterranean coast to discover the rugged beauty of inland Sicily with its archaeological treasures and friendly locals who have been welcoming pilgrims for centuries. The Magna Via Francigena was officially re-opened in 2017 in celebration of its rich historical legacy as a trade route connecting Africa and the Middle East to Europe. It runs through ancient landscapes to extraordinary villages clinging to the cliffs and some suprisingly green hills among lakes and rolling mountains. However what is striking about the Magna Via Francigena is the influence of those who occupied the land over the years, from the Greeks and Romans, to the people of Byzantium and the Moors, and the legacies they left behind in the form of mozaics and other ancient relics, traditions and culinary influences. On arrival in Agrigento, dip your toes into the sea, receive your Testamonium at the cathedral and revel in the satisfaction of having walked across Sicily.

day 1 - Arrive Palermo

Arrive in Palermo and check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore the city's range of historical attractions, ancient buildings, and dramatic coastlines. We can assist with pre-trip accommodation if you'd like to fully discover this intriguing city.

day 2 - Walk to Corleone through a landscape of rocky gorges and shepherds fields (6hrs)

After breakfast a private transfer (at 9am, approx. 1 hr) takes you to Santa Cristina di Gela to commence walking. Setting out on foot you will start climbing along the “antica trazzera” (old route) towards the Santuario Maria S.S. del Rosario di Tagliavia. According to legend, in 1800 a rock with the sacred image of Mary was found by two shepherds, and in the same place while they were digging to build a fence for their animals they discovered a miraculous spring of water that healed King Ferdinado I di Borbone. The sanctuary was erected in 1841 and is a must-stop. Continue towards the peaks of Argentaria and Pizzo Nicolosi at the Gorges del Drago, and on to Corleone, sadly infamous for the Mafia, where you stay overnight. Enjoy the town's Spanish baroque influence or visit the Cidma museum, which recounts the history of the Cosa Nostra (allow an hour). Another interesting spot is the waterfall “delle due rocche”, 10 mins out of town.

Distance: 26km/16mi, Ascent: 520m/1706ft. Descent: 720m/2362ft.

Surf/Unsurf 33/67%

Option to shorten: on request to the taxi driver this morning you can be dropped off at Sant'Agata (walk 7km less) if you wish to spend more time in Corleone. Alternatively you can have a longer walk, starting from Piana degli Albanesi (walk 5km extra).

Meals:Breakfast

day 3 - Pass by waterfalls, vineyards and orchards enroute to medieval Prizzi (5hrs)

Today is a beautiful hike. The path will lead you through vineyards and open fields and past dry stone Masserie (country farms) where you may encounter a farmer who'll want you to try their freshly made ricotta! From the lake of Prizzi a steady climb takes you into town. Time to grab a cannolo with pistachio and candied orange!

Distance: 20.6km/13.8mi, Ascent +885m/2904ft, descent -466m/1529ft

Surf/Unsurf 44/56%

Meals:Breakfast

day 4 - Through a surprisingly green landscape to Castronovo di Sicilia, transfer to Cammarata (5hrs)

A large part of today’s walk is inside the peaceful Carcaci Natural reserve, home to numerous species of birds of prey and a beautiful piece of forest to discover. Through the trees you can see the abandoned village of Carcaci. Its old world charm remains, along with the unaltered symmetry of its cross-layout, rural structures and small stone church. In the last part inside the Bosco Comuni (Comuni forest) there are the typical “pagliai” farmers. On arrival at Castronovo there is a transfer (at 4pm, approx 25 mins) to your overnight accommodation, an agristurismo in Cammarata. Dinner is included tonight.

Distance: 24.5km/15.3mi, Ascent +602m/1975ft, descent -894m/2933ft,

Surf/Unsurf 36/64%

Meals:Breakfast and Dinner

day 5 - Walk in the shadow of Mount Cammarata (1600m) to Sutera (4.5hrs)

Start your walk along the railway then gradually uphill to Acquaviva Platani. The Platani Valley is in front of you, and in the distance the charming villages of Mussomeli and Sutera, today's destination. The last part of the path to Sutera is along a stunning ridge. In Sutera, enjoy exploring the maze of alleys and chalk houses of the Rabato neighbourhood, founded by the Arabs around 860, and visit the rich ethnographic museum.

Distance: 15km/9.4mi, Ascent +650m/2133ft, descent -700m/2297ft

Surf/Unsurf 53/47%

Meals:Breakfast

day 6 - Descend to the river Gallo d'oro, (a tributary of the Platani), and continue to Racalmuto (5-6hrs)

Departing Sutera, descend to the Gallo d'oro river, a tributary of the Platani, which you ford and climb on the other side to Milena. Here the path goes up the hills that surrounds the village and gives you a panoramic overview of all the valleys nearby. Racalmuto, your destination today, is the hometown of the famous writer Leonardo Sciascia.

Distance: 21km/13mi, Ascent +660m/2165ft, descent -830m/2723ft

Surf/Unsurf 46/54%

*If there has been recent rain, it may not be possible to ford the river in which case you should take the winter variant or book a taxi transfer to avoid the river crossing.

Distance: 27km/16.7mi (ascent +885m/2903ft, descent -1030m/3379ft)

Meals:Breakfast

day 7 - Walk to the Baroque village of Aragona, train or optional transfer to Agrigento (3hrs)

On your walk today you will pass through several charming villages such as Grotte and Comitini, where the pace is slow and you'll find some fabulous arancini (fried rice balls filled with eg ragu or spinach and ham). The Baroque village of Aragona is below you with the sea just beyond. Descend to Aragona and take the train to Agrigento (payable locally) where your pilgrimage ends. Be sure to explore the old town and the Valley of the Temples.

*An optional transfer is available Aragona to Agrigento - must be pre-booked and pre-paid, please ask our consultants.

Distance 11.5km/7.2mi, Ascent +225m/738ft, descent -332m/1089ft

Surf/Unsurf 61/39%

Meals:Breakfast

day 8 - Trip concludes

Trip concludes after breakfast. We can assist with booking an extra night in Agrigento, please ask for our rates.

Meals:Breakfast

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

7 nights in 3 star hotels, B&B's and Agriturismo on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (hotel taxes extra, payable locally - allow €5-10pp)

Meals

7 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Transport

Transfer from Palermo to Santa Cristina Gela on day 2 and Castronovo to Cammarata on day 4

Others

Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps and route bookLuggage transfer (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 65 x 40 x 30 cm per person). Supplement applies for excessCredenziale - pilgrim's passportEmergency hotline and SMS alert

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Sicily - Magna Via Francigena

4.6

based on 14 reviews

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Other Practical Information

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 49+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 814 customer reviews from

Anonymous

Very quick to book. Nicely detailed daily intinerary. Thank you

2 hours ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to Sicily - Magna Via Francigena that you might like.

Walking the Amalfi Coast

4.7(428 reviews)

The Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs and pastel villages are yours to discover on the “Walking the Amalfi Coast” tour, an eight-day trekking adventure starting and ending in Bomerano. Designed for experienced travelers, this moderate-level trip features expertly guided walks through storied towns like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi itself. Follow ancient paths across hillsides, explore the haunting remains of Pompeii, and ascend Mount Vesuvius for sweeping views over the Bay of Naples. The highlight is the legendary Path of the Gods, hailed as one of the world’s greatest coastal walks. Enjoy the warm hospitality of a family-run hotel in the quiet village of Bomerano, away from crowded tourist spots. All accommodations, meals, and transport are included, ensuring a relaxed and immersive experience. The main activity is trekking, supported by decades of local expertise. A special feature of the tour is the combination of iconic walks and authentic Italian hospitality, making it a standout for lovers of both nature and culture. For a trip that blends Italy’s best scenery, history, and cuisine, this Amalfi Coast adventure is hard to beat.

8 days

Walking in Tuscany

4.9(226 reviews)

Few know that northern Tuscany’s Garfagnana is a hidden gem for hikers, boasting dramatic mountain trails and wild national parks. The "Walking in Tuscany" tour invites experienced travelers to discover this lesser-known side of Italy over 8 days of moderate trekking. Set out from Lucca and journey through scenic Braccicorti, Casone, and beyond, returning each night to a welcoming stone farmhouse at the foot of the Apennines. Traditional hospitality and authentic cuisine await after days filled with panoramic hikes. A free day enables exploration of Lucca, Florence, Pisa, or even the Cinque Terre. For those seeking extra challenge, select departures offer tougher treks and a night in a mountain refuge. All accommodations, meals, and transport are included, ensuring a relaxed yet enriching experience. The USP: an intimate trekking escape in Tuscany’s rugged north, where genuine Italian culture and unspoiled nature go hand in hand.

8 days

Highlights of the Dolomites

4.8(93 reviews)

Hiking enthusiasts seeking variety and scenery will relish the "Highlights of the Dolomites" tour, an 8-day trek through Italy’s most iconic mountains. Centered in Campitello di Fassa, this group trip offers daily routes among jagged limestone peaks, lush valleys, and fairytale villages, with options for both moderate and challenging activity levels to suit diverse abilities. Guided by expert mountain leaders, you’ll enjoy the flexibility to tailor your experience while benefiting from the camaraderie of a small group. Excellent transport links mean each day brings fresh terrain and stunning vistas, while evenings promise warm hospitality and authentic Italian feasts. The trip covers hotels, meals, and all local transport. The unique advantage? The ability to hike at your own pace on meticulously crafted routes, ensuring everyone savors the best of the Dolomites.

8 days

Puglia Coastal Walk

4.7(10 reviews)

Vivid blue seas, sun-baked orchards, and hidden coastal paths await you in Italy’s Puglia region. The Puglia Coastal Walk is an eight-day, easy-paced walking tour created for experienced travelers and seniors seeking gentle exploration and authentic local flavor. Starting in Otranto and winding toward Lecce, you’ll traverse ancient tratturi and scenic footpaths, discovering caves along the Cipolliane Path, coastal villages, spa towns, and traces of the ancient Messapians. Each day brings a new landscape, from open savannas to olive groves and lush forests. Highlights include a walk to Punta Palascia, Italy’s easternmost point, and the chance to explore Lecce’s stunning baroque architecture. A standout feature of this tour package is its focus on the region’s culinary delights: savor fresh seafood, sample local gelato, and enjoy evenings in handpicked accommodations where Puglian hospitality shines. The ever-changing scenery, easy walks, and immersive village experiences make this trip a feast for both the senses and the soul. For those eager to get off the beaten track and discover Italy’s authentic coastal charm, this walking tour is an unforgettable journey.

8 days

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

4.7(89 reviews)

Imagine strolling along cliffside paths with the Mediterranean sparkling below—this is the magic of the Amalfi Coast Walking – Agriturismo tour. Over 8 delightful days, experienced travelers are invited to discover Italy’s most picturesque coastline on a gently-paced walking holiday, beginning and ending in Naples. Wander ancient stone stairways, dramatic limestone paths, and scenic mule tracks connecting icons like Ravello, Positano, and the glamorous island of Capri. Experience the famed Walk of the Gods—one of Italy’s most breathtaking hikes—where every turn reveals postcard-worthy views. After each adventure, unwind at a rustic agriturismo, savoring organic wines and farm-to-table cuisine that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage. Optional day trips to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum add an extra layer of cultural discovery. The tour includes all accommodations, transport, and meals, ensuring a seamless Italian escape. This tour package’s unique selling point is the authentic rural hospitality—guests enjoy the warmth of family life and traditional cooking at the agriturismo, offering a truly immersive taste of local living. For those yearning for scenic walks, charming villages, and genuine Italian flavors, this trip is a perfect fit.

8 days

Tuscany Walking and Wine

4.7(9 reviews)

Experience the rolling hills and vineyard-dotted landscapes of Tuscany on the Tuscany Walking and Wine tour, an easy-paced 8-day journey created for travelers who appreciate the finer things in life. Starting in Pisa and ending in Florence, this walking tour blends scenic rambles with rich cultural encounters. Meander through Chianti’s renowned vineyards, explore the sun-drenched medieval towns of San Gimignano, Pienza, and Montalcino, and sample some of Italy’s most celebrated wines—Brunello and Chianti among them. Along ancient pilgrimage paths, you’ll savor local cuisine and fresh produce, refueling your spirit as well as your palate. The trip includes accommodations in carefully selected hotels, transport, and delicious meals, ensuring a seamless Italian experience. The unique selling point of this tour package is the harmonious combination of gentle hiking and gastronomic pleasure, offering access to Tuscany’s scenic beauty and culinary treasures. For those seeking an indulgent yet active escape, Tuscany Walking and Wine is the perfect getaway.

8 days

Classic Amalfi Coast - 8 Days

4.8(9 reviews)

Let the vibrant colors and dramatic landscapes of southern Italy’s coastline enchant you on the 'Classic Amalfi Coast – 8 Days' walking tour. This self-guided journey leads you through the iconic 'Footpath of the Gods,' connecting Amalfi, Praiano, Positano, and more—all set against the deep blue of the Mediterranean. Your days will be filled with moderate hiking through lemon groves, vineyards, and wildflower-dotted cliffs, punctuated by visits to historic monasteries, nature reserves, and ancient villages. The region’s storied past—from Greek settlements and Roman villas to medieval maritime power—is woven into every step. Savor gelati in charming piazzas and marvel at the golden light that bathes the coastline. The itinerary allows for flexibility, with options to extend your trip to include Sorrento, Pompeii, Capri, or the Sorrentine Peninsula. Comfortable accommodations, arranged meals, and comprehensive transport ensure a seamless experience. What makes this tour package truly special is its perfect pairing of natural and cultural treasures—ideal for travelers who want to experience the romantic allure and rich history of the Amalfi Coast at their own pace.

8 days

Keep Exploring Italy

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights