Here are some of the main trails worth exploring to discover some utterly original and little-known places.
Le vie di Dante – Ravenna/Florence (380 km)
Dante’s Routes are a network of trails between Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany that scale the Apennines and take hikers on a constant discovery of centuries-old buildings, medieval castles, picturesque villages and mesmerizing scenery. Commemorating seven centuries since the death of the Supreme Poet and winding their way through 36 municipalities, the routes connect Florence, Dante’s birthplace and Ravenna, his final resting place.
Via degli Dei – Bologna/ Florence (130 km)
The Way of the Gods is a 130-kilometre route that’s perfect for beginners and expert hikers alike. Delving into the untouched nature and unparalleled history (complete with relics of the Etruscans and Romans) of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, the hiking trail stretches between the cities of Florence and Bologna.
Cammino di San Francesco – La Verna/ Florence (101 km)
St. Francis’ Way unfurls from the Basilica of Santa Croce in central Florence to the La Verna Sanctuary in the verdant forests of the Arezzo country-side. Walking in the footsteps of the patron saint of Italy, this unique trail is a spiritual experience, interwoven with flavours and hidden haunts, skirting the textile town of Bibbiena and the Santa Maria del Sasso Sanctuary.
Anello del Rinascimento – Around Florence (70 km)
Take the Renaissance Loop in a perfect circle around Florence to marvel at monasteries, castles and other memorable monuments. The eight legs that make up the loop make it accessible to all on foot or by mountain bike. Traditionally beginning and ending at Calenzano Castle, scenic sections include Santa Brigida to Pontassieve and Impruneta to La Certosa.
Sentiero degli Etruschi – Volterra/Fiesole (90 km)
The Etruscan Trail heads east from Volterra, passing by the Montereggi archaeological park, the burial sites of Boschetti and Montefortini, as well as several archaeological museums. Winding its way through Florence’s historic centre, including the National Archaeological Museum in piazza Santissima Annunziata, the trail ends in Fiesole.
Firenze The Walking City – Around Florence (97 km)
Florence has always been a walking city, revealing its secrets to those who slow down and look around them. From the banks of the River Arno to Bellosguardo, Castello, Galluzzo, Mensola and the hills behind Piazzale Michelangelo, Firenze The Walking City is an app that sums up seven routes that delve into the historical, scenic and environmental heritage of this renowned honeypot.
The territories making up the Ambito Firenze e Area Fiorentina have a list of maps and walks
