Via degli Dei

Route overview

The Via degli Dei, or Way of the Gods, is a long-distance trail of approximately 130 kilometres from Bologna to Florence through the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. The route follows ancient drove roads, Roman pavements, and Etruscan paths across the watershed between the Po valley and the Arno valley, linking two of Italy's most culturally significant cities. The trail crosses the Apennine ridge through beech and chestnut forest, rolling farmland, and the sandstone badlands of the Firenzuola area. It passes through medieval villages including Monzuno, Monghidoro, and San Piero a Sieve, and follows sections of the ancient Roman road the Via Flaminia Militare. The name “Via degli Dei” refers to the mountain passes named after Roman and Etruscan divinities. The route is well waymarked and increasingly popular with Italian and international walkers. It is a good introduction to Italian long-distance walking, with moderate daily distances, regular accommodation, and excellent food in the hill towns.

A popular trail from Bologna to Florence through the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, linking ancient Roman roads, Etruscan ruins, and medieval villages across the watershed of northern Italy.

Trail facts

Country

Italy

Region

Northern Apennines

Distance

c. 130 km

Typical duration

5–6 days

Difficulty

Moderate

Elevation gain

c. 4,500 m cumulative

Best season

April–October

Trail type

Hill and forest trail

Safety context

Some forest sections are muddy after rain. The ridge can be exposed to wind. Road walking through villages requires care with traffic.

The trail is gaining popularity and some accommodation books up at weekends. Some road walking connects the forest and hill sections. The route is well marked but signs can be sparse in forest areas.

Highlights

Bologna porticoes and towers Monzuno and the Apennine ridge Passo della Futa and the Gothic Line Badia a Settimo abbey Fiesole Etruscan ruins Florence Duomo finish Tuscan-Emilian hill villages Chestnut and beech forests

Why find a buddy

A cultural and scenic trail between two great Italian cities through Apennine villages and forests — an ideal social walk to share the hill towns, the history and the Tuscan food.

Primary source

Open the primary route source.

Explore and prepare

Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.