HomeTrailsChemin de Compostelle, Basel -Laufen vs Via Francigena

Chemin de Compostelle, Basel -Laufen vs Via Francigena

A side-by-side look at distance, elevation, difficulty and the best time to hike each — so you can pick the right route.

Units
Chemin de Compostelle, Basel -Laufen Via Francigena
Distance 16 mi25 km 126 mi203 km
Elevation gain 1,276 ft389 m 11,070 ft3,374 m
Typical duration 2 days 9 days
Difficulty
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network International International
Country Switzerland Switzerland
Best time to hike Best months: February, April, October Best from June to August
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

Chemin de Compostelle, Basel -Laufen vs Via Francigena: which should you hike?

At 126 mi203 km, Via Francigena is the longer route — roughly 111 mi178 km more than Chemin de Compostelle, Basel -Laufen (16 mi25 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, Chemin de Compostelle, Basel -Laufen is the gentler pick. Check the elevation and best-season rows above, then open each route for the full guide and a free GPX download.