May is a popular time to walk the Tuscan stages, with warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and longer daylight hours. The weather is more consistent, and rain becomes less frequent. Tourist crowds increase, but the trails remain uncrowded, and it’s easy to walk without bumping into another pilgrim.
In May, pilgrims can expect more pleasant weather, with daily temperatures ranging from 9ºC to 18.2ºC. Rain is less frequent, and forest trails are well-formed and in good condition.
Dress in layers to accommodate varying weather conditions, with long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and a jacket for cooler days, early mornings, and evenings. The forest walks will be cooler than the valley towns.
Bring short-sleeved shirts, shorts, and clothing suitable for warmer days.
Walking in May is generally safe, with favorable weather conditions and well-formed trails. Be prepared for occasional rain and slippery sections of the trail.
In May, the number of pilgrims increases, averaging 10-15 per stage per day. Trails are still uncrowded, and it’s easy to walk without bumping into another pilgrim.
All six stages have open accommodations.
Book your accommodations in Florence advance, as Tuscany is moving closer to its high season and prices increase and availability decreases. Consider booking Pontassieve accommodations in advance, as there can be a crunch on available lodging. Other stages can be booked the day before arriving.
Public transportation is available for all stages, including buses in the Casentinesi forests serving Camaldoli and La Verna Monasteries.
May is a fantastic time to visit Florence, with pleasant weather and blooming flowers. The city becomes more crowded with tourists, and prices for flights, hotels, and car rentals increase. Make sure to book all arrangements as far in advance as possible.
Visitors can expect pleasant weather and a more vibrant atmosphere in May. Florence’s famous Iris Garden is open to the public for 19 days, showcasing 1,500 varieties of colorful irises in full bloom. Be prepared for larger crowds at popular venues, and book museums, restaurants, and activities well in advance.
May is an ideal time to walk through the Foreste Casentinesi National Park, with lush greenery and blooming flowers. The trails are generally dry and in good condition, and wildlife is more active. Visitors may spot deer, wild boar, and various bird species. Additionally, several monasteries, including Camaldoli and La Verna, offer unique cultural experiences for pilgrims.
May is the season for cherries, apricots, and zucchini flowers. Be sure to try local dishes featuring these seasonal ingredients.
After completing the Tuscan stages, pilgrims walking the remaining 22-25 days will pass through towns such as Pieve Santo Stefano, Sansepolcro, and Assisi. In these areas, expect warm temperatures and occasional rainfall. May is a particularly pleasant time to walk through Umbria, as the region is known for its lush, green countryside and charming medieval towns. Take advantage of local events, such as Calendimaggio in Assisi, to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.
As you move further south, temperatures continue to rise, and the landscape will change from mountainous terrain to rolling hills and eventually to the cityscapes of Rome and Vatican City. In this stretch, the climate becomes warmer and drier, with the possibility of hot days as pilgrims approach Rome. Be prepared for increased tourist activity in Rome, especially around popular sites such as the Vatican and Colosseum.
May is an ideal month for pilgrims to walk the Via di Francesco in Tuscany, as the weather is pleasant, flowers are in bloom, and trails are uncrowded. Keep these considerations in mind while planning your journey:
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An opportunity for pilgrims, seekers, and adventurers to take an inward journey alongside the spirit of St Francis.
A Toscana, non-religious non-profit to share the discovery and preservation of Franciscan tradition, Nature, and Art.
Disclosure: We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links on this site if you decide to purchase linked items, helping us to maintain our trails and provide services to our community of pilgrims. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
By entering your email, you get the Quick Start emails, free Pilgrim Essentials Kit, and more resources, and agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
An opportunity for pilgrims, seekers, and adventurers to take an inward journey alongside the spirit of St Francis.
A Toscana, non-religious non-profit to share the discovery and preservation of Franciscan tradition, Nature, and Art.
Disclosure: We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links on this site if you decide to purchase linked items, helping us to maintain our trails and provide services to our community of pilgrims. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
