Pet-friendly routes and itineraries in Tuscany

The Via Francigena is one of Europe's best-known pilgrimage routes, stretching across Tuscany for nearly 400 km and connecting some of the region's most captivating places. Along the route, you’ll come across cities of art, parish churches, medieval villages and rural landscapes that make each stop different from the last. Many sections run along unpaved roads and trails surrounded by nature, offering ideal conditions for those who want to walk with their pets. Among the most iconic places along the route are San Miniato, with its historic center perched on a hill, Monteriggioni, famous for its medieval town walls, and the spectacular Val d’Orcia, where the route unfolds amidst cypress trees, hills and villages designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

For those traveling with their dog, some of the most picturesque places to stop are those between San Miniato and Gambassi Terme, featuring woods, trails and landscapes typical of the Tuscan hills, as well as the stretch that connects San Gimignano to Monteriggioni, surrounded by olive groves, cypress trees and iconic scenery. By preparing for the journey properly and choosing routes suited to your pet's needs, the Via Francigena can become an unforgettable experience to share with your four-legged friend.

Inspired by the great European pilgrimage itineraries, the Cammino di San Jacopo (Way of St. James) connects Florence to Livorno, taking you through the heart of Tuscany. The route unfolds amidst hills, rural areas and historic town centers, touching upon towns rich in history and traditions. Along the route, you’ll come across extremely interesting places like Prato, with its artistic and textile heritage, Pistoia, an important stop along the Way and home to the relics of St. James, and Pescia, the gateway to the Valdinievole area. The perfect blend of nature and cultural heritage makes this itinerary particularly appealing to those who want to enjoy a leisurely experience with their furry friend. The route stretches for a total of about 110 kilometers and offers several sections that are particularly suitable for those traveling with their dogs. Among these, there is the route between Prato and Pistoia, which winds along the foot of the Montalbano mountain range, through green areas and shaded stretches, and that between Pistoia and Pescia, which is hillier and passes through historic villages like Serravalle Pistoiese.

Less well-known than other major regional routes, the Etruscan Way allows visitors to rediscover ancient paths that once connected the areas inhabited by the Etruscans. The itinerary crosses a wide variety of settings, from the Padule di Fucecchio wetlands to the hills leading towards Vinci and the scenic views just before arriving in Fiesole, one of the symbolic places of ancient Etruria. The route unfolds through forests, country roads and agricultural landscapes, offering an experience particularly suited to those who love to explore areas off the beaten track, sharing the journey with their loyal four-legged friends. Among the most enchanting stretches are the trails that wind through the Cerbaie Hills and the Padule di Fucecchio wetlands, surrounded by nature and featuring large shaded areas, ideal during the warmer months. The trail along the Montalbano ridge, between Vinci, Mignana and Artimino is also very interesting. It winds through oak and chestnut woods, vineyards and olive groves, offering splendid views of the Tuscan landscape. Lastly, the Mensola Torrent and Settignano Loop, near Fiesole, allows you to end your journey with a pleasant stroll through the hills, surrounded by greenery and overlooking the city of Florence.

Before setting out, it is always advisable to check the characteristics of your chosen route, the availability of water along the way and any rules that may apply in the protected areas you will be crossing. It is also important to assess the length of each leg of the journey based on your pet’s abilities and plan for adequate breaks along the way. With the right preparation, a hike can become an unforgettable experience to share with your four-legged travel companion.