
Via Julia Augusta
Walk in the footsteps of Romans on the Via Julia Augusta, an ancient highway offering stunning coastal views and rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Via Julia Augusta
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk in the footsteps of Romans on the Via Julia Augusta, an ancient highway offering stunning coastal views and rich history.
"Experience history and breathtaking scenery on this ancient Roman road!"

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking on ancient stones and trails. Prioritize comfort for a better experience!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry plenty of water as facilities can be sparse.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Trophy of Augustus
La Turbie
A monumental arch celebrating Emperor Augustus's victory over Alpine tribes. A true testament to Roman engineering.

Albenga to Alassio Coastal Path
Liguria, Italy
Walk along the ancient Roman road with breathtaking sea views. Perfect for a scenic hike or bike ride.

Ancient Roman Road Segments
Various locations along the route
Experience history firsthand by walking on preserved sections of this ancient Roman highway.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Footwear & Fitness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking on ancient stones and trails. Prioritize comfort for a better experience!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry plenty of water as facilities can be sparse.
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The Via Julia Augusta is extensive. Decide which sections you want to explore beforehand.
🚴 E-Bike Tours Available
Consider an e-bike tour for a fun and efficient way to cover more ground.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking on ancient stones and trails. Prioritize comfort for a better experience!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry plenty of water as facilities can be sparse.
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The Via Julia Augusta is extensive. Decide which sections you want to explore beforehand.
🚴 E-Bike Tours Available
Consider an e-bike tour for a fun and efficient way to cover more ground.
📸 Capture the Views
The coastal sections offer stunning photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Via Julia Augusta for its unique blend of ancient history and stunning natural beauty, especially along the Ligurian coast. The opportunity to walk or cycle on preserved Roman roads is a major draw, offering a tangible connection to the past. Some find certain sections challenging, and facilities can be sparse, so preparation is key.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Via Julia Augusta stretches across a significant area. Popular access points include towns like Albenga, Alassio, Ventimiglia in Italy, and Menton in France. Many visitors start their journey from these coastal towns, often using them as bases for exploring different segments of the road.
Public transport options vary depending on the specific section you wish to visit. Coastal towns are generally well-connected by train and bus. From these towns, you might need local buses or taxis to reach trailheads.
While the ancient road itself is largely pedestrian, there are often parallel roads or routes that allow for driving to nearby access points. Parking availability can vary, so it's advisable to research parking options for your chosen starting point.
Yes, guided tours are available, especially for specific sections like the coastal path between Albenga and Alassio. E-bike tours are also a popular option for covering more ground.
Many travelers recommend starting in Albenga or Alassio for the scenic coastal sections. For those interested in Roman history, the Trophy of Augustus in La Turbie is a significant landmark.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For most sections of the Via Julia Augusta, especially the open-air ancient road segments and coastal paths, there is no entry fee. It's a public historical route.
While the road itself is free to access, certain archaeological sites or museums associated with the Via Julia Augusta might have admission fees. The Trophy of Augustus in La Turbie, for instance, may have associated costs for its visitor center.
As an ancient road, the Via Julia Augusta is generally accessible at all times. However, if you plan to visit any associated visitor centers or museums, it's best to check their specific opening hours.
Since most of the Via Julia Augusta is free to access, advance booking is typically not required. If you are booking a guided tour or visiting a specific attraction, then advance booking might be necessary.
Generally, there are no major restrictions. However, always be respectful of the historical site, stay on marked paths, and avoid disturbing any ruins.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Many visitors enjoy hiking or cycling along the preserved sections. The coastal path from Albenga to Alassio is particularly popular for its scenic beauty and historical significance.
The time required depends on the section and your pace. A leisurely walk along a few kilometers can take a couple of hours, while longer treks might take half a day or more.
Facilities can be limited, especially on more remote sections. It's advisable to use restrooms in nearby towns before you start and carry sufficient water and snacks.
Yes, certain flatter and more accessible sections can be enjoyable for families. The coastal paths offer beautiful views and a sense of adventure.
You'll encounter remnants of Roman engineering, ancient road surfaces, and potentially archaeological sites like the Trophy of Augustus, offering a glimpse into Roman life and military history.
📸 📸 Photography
The coastal sections, particularly between Albenga and Alassio, offer stunning sea views and ancient ruins that make for incredible photographs. The Trophy of Augustus in La Turbie is also a very photogenic landmark.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, creating a warm, golden glow and softer shadows. This also helps avoid harsh midday sun.
Drone regulations vary by region and country. It's essential to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over historical sites or protected areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and ancient structures. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Absolutely! The preserved Roman paving stones are a key feature and make for excellent close-up shots, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for segments near towns like Albenga or Alassio where access is easier and there are amenities nearby. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider making it a half-day excursion to keep young ones engaged. The Trophy of Augustus in La Turbie also offers a visually impressive historical site that might capture children's attention.
🚶 Hikers and Trekkers
Research specific trail maps and difficulty levels for segments you wish to explore. The combination of ancient history, varied terrain, and stunning coastal or inland views makes it a rewarding experience for those who enjoy a good hike.
🚴 Cyclists and E-Bike Enthusiasts
Focus on routes that are bike-friendly, often found parallel to the ancient road or on well-maintained paths. The coastal routes are particularly popular for cycling due to their scenic beauty and relatively smooth terrain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Via Julia Augusta
Construction involved significant engineering feats, including paving, bridge building, and tunnel excavation, to overcome the challenging Ligurian terrain. Sections of the original Roman paving stones and structures can still be seen today, offering a tangible connection to this ancient past. The road's strategic importance is underscored by monuments like the Trophy of Augustus in La Turbie, erected to commemorate the pacification of the Alpine regions.
Today, the Via Julia Augusta is not just a historical artifact but also a popular route for hikers, cyclists, and history enthusiasts. Exploring its various segments allows visitors to walk in the footsteps of Romans and appreciate the enduring legacy of their infrastructure.
Exploring the Ligurian Coast
This part of the route is often described as a beautiful walk with ancient history. It's accessible enough for a leisurely stroll but also offers enough terrain to feel like a genuine exploration. The proximity to charming coastal towns like Albenga and Alassio makes it easy to combine a historical walk with a visit to local attractions, restaurants, and beaches.
Travelers often recommend this segment for its accessibility and the rewarding combination of coastal scenery and Roman heritage. It's a perfect example of how the Via Julia Augusta continues to offer engaging experiences for modern-day explorers.
Cycling the Via Julia Augusta
Cyclists can experience the ancient road's path, often finding routes that parallel or incorporate sections of the original Roman construction. The coastal stretches provide a particularly enjoyable ride, with stunning vistas of the Mediterranean Sea.
When planning a cycling trip, it's advisable to research specific routes suitable for bikes, as some ancient segments might be too rugged or narrow. However, the overall network offers a fantastic way to explore the region's history and natural beauty.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit