Information for pilgrims: for safety reasons, the bridge just before the arrival in the city of Pavia has been removed and will be restored shortly. In the meantime, we suggest the alternative route, which is quicker, but for which great care must be taken as it proceeds on carriageable roads: download here

 The first section of the route to the confluence with the Ticino includes the beautiful countryside of Pavia, which is crossed by several canals

and dotted with farmhouses and trees. There is a lovely crossing through the Ticino Park along the E1 trail which overlaps the Via Francigena with views of the river, dense woods and a variety of fauna, creating evocative scenery. Outside populated areas there is no water or food supply, rest-stops and two restaurants can be found along the Ticino.