Altopascio on the Via Francigena
Via Francigena · ostelli & pilgrim stays, accommodation, baggage transport & pilgrim guide
Everything you need for Altopascio on the Via Francigena: ostelli, gîtes and pilgrim stays, hotels and private rooms, where to eat, baggage transport between stages, what to see, weather and practical tips for pilgrims walking to Rome.
About this town
Altopascio is a small, historic town long associated with hospitality to pilgrims due to its medieval hospital and the Order of Saint James of Altopascio. It remains an important spiritual and logistical stop on the Francigena, with a compact center and pilgrim markers. The town provides simple services and a sense of medieval pilgrim tradition.
Where it's located
Set in the lower Serchio valley in Tuscany, on predominantly flat agricultural terrain between Lucca and Pisa.
Points of interest
- • Traditional pilgrim lodgings and waymarkers
- • Church of San Jacopo
- • Antico Ospedale dei Cavalieri del Tau (historic hospital)
- • Antico Ospedale dei Cavalieri del Tau
- • Ponte sul Serchio
Holy & Religious Sites
Chiesa di San Jacopo Maggiorechurch
Located in the heart of Altopascio, this church is historically significant for its association with the Knights of the Tau who provided hospitality to pilgrims along the Via Francigena.
Badia di Pozzeveriabbey
Situated just outside the town, this site was a vital Benedictine monastery that served as a resting point and infirmary for medieval travelers.
Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelochurch
This ancient church reflects the deep religious history of the surrounding hamlets and remains a stop for modern pilgrims exploring the rural path towards Lucca.
Pilgrim hostels (ostelli)
Traditional pilgrim hostels — not bookable on Booking.com. Call or email to reserve, or arrive early (first-come, first-served).
Magione of the Knights of Tau
donativo
per night
0Located in a municipal building, this traditional pilgrim stay offers simple accommodation with camp beds. Keys must be collected from the local library located above the town hall during their operating hours.
Piazza Garibaldi 10 / Piazza Ospitalieri 6, 55011 Altopascio
All year
First-come, first-served
Recommended restaurants
- • Osteria Altopascio — Tuscan classics and local olive oil specialties
- • Trattoria del Pellegrino — modest menu catering to walkers and locals
Frequently asked questions
What is the historical significance of Altopascio for medieval pilgrims?
Altopascio was historically famous for the Order of Saint James of Altopascio, which operated a medieval hospital dedicated to providing hospitality and care to travelers along the Via Francigena.
Which religious sites should I look for in the center of Altopascio?
In the town center, you will find the Church of San Jacopo, which is historically significant for its deep ties to the Knights of the Tau who once sheltered passing pilgrims.
Are there any historic sites to visit just outside the main town?
You can visit the Badia di Pozzeveri, a nearby Benedictine monastery that served as a vital infirmary and resting point for medieval travelers, and the ancient Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo.
What type of terrain can I expect when walking to or from Altopascio?
The town is situated in the lower Serchio valley, meaning the surrounding terrain is predominantly flat and agricultural as you travel between the cities of Lucca and Pisa.
Where can a pilgrim find a meal in Altopascio?
Pilgrims can dine at the Osteria Altopascio for traditional Tuscan classics and local olive oil, or visit the Trattoria del Pellegrino, which offers a modest menu suitable for walkers.
💼 Baggage Transport
Use our baggage transport service or contact a Via Francigena luggage transfer operator below →SloWays
Via Francigena — Lucca to Rome (€15–22 per bag per stage)
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