HomeTrailsVia Alpina Red R104 vs Via Francigena

Via Alpina Red R104 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.

Via Alpina Red R104 Via Francigena
Distance 20 km 197 km
Elevation gain 1,366 m 3,639 m
Typical duration
Difficulty
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network International International
Country Switzerland Switzerland
Best time to hike Best from June to August Best from June to August
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

Via Alpina Red R104 vs Via Francigena: which should you hike?

At 197 km, Via Francigena is the longer route — roughly 178 km more than Via Alpina Red R104 (20 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, Via Alpina Red R104 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.