Italy is a wonderful destination for cycling holidays featuring vast and varied landscapes. From Puglia’s flat coastal terrains to the Dolomites’ challenging mountain passes, there are routes for every cyclist to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a family getaway cycling through historic towns, or you’re up for some challenging mountain passes, Italy really does have has it all.
We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 Italian destinations to help you plan an unforgettable cycling holiday. Stretching from the country’s northernmost regions to its southern coastlines, this guide will take you on a journey through the best cycling routes in Italy.
Top Destinations for Cycling Holidays in Italy
Lake Garda
Lake Garda epitomises Northern Italian beauty with its peaceful mountain ambience. The region offers scenic routes with varied terrains, including flat stretches and more challenging climbs, as well as cultural pit stops in charming towns.
Cycle along stunning lakeside paths which offer panoramic views of Lake Garda, and admire the magnificent mountains that surround it. Featuring over 200 kilometres of trails varying in difficulty and length, Lake Garda offers cycling opportunities for all levels. The Strada della Forra is particularly popular, famed for its dramatic clifftop tunnels.
Explore quaint towns that line the lake to blend a little culture into your cycling holiday. Sirmione, Limone sul Garda, Malcesine and Bardolino are especially beautiful, with picturesque historic centres, Medieval architecture, and many opportunities for sampling local wines and authentic Italian cuisine.
Puglia
Puglia stretches along the southeast coast of Italy and features broad plains and low-lying hills. With both coastal and countryside routes, Puglia is perfect for cycling tours in Italy with a leisurely pace and tranquil scenery.
The natural beauty of Puglia is breathtaking, featuring rolling green hills and expansive vineyards. The roads here are often quiet and the pace of life is slow, providing a relaxed cycling experience amid stunning landscapes. With 800 km of coastline, the longest stretch in mainland Italy, you can take a dip in turquoise seas and relax on sandy beaches.
There are many historic villages found along Puglia’s cycling routes. Discover the mediaeval streets of Alberobello, home to UNESCO-listed Trulli houses, explore the coastal town of Otranto with its castle, or take a pit stop in Cisternino to soak up the charming ambience of the old town.
Tuscany
Tuscany is a region in central Italy famed for its undulating hills and picturesque vineyards. Blending natural beauty with historical richness, Tuscany offers some of the most scenic cycling routes in the world.
The Chianti area, home of the hilltop town of Gaiole in Chianti and the birthplace of the Eroica bike race, is a region of low lying mountains, undulating hills, olive groves and picturesque vineyards. South of Siena, the ‘strade bianche‘ (gravel roads) of Crete Senesi and Val d’Orcia transport you to a landscape of sweeping rolling of hills, wheat fields and elegant ranks of cypress trees.
Mediaeval towns like Siena, Montalcino and San Gimignano are especially enchanting and provide the perfect place for respite after challenging climbs. You also get a chance to enjoy the top-notch red wines produced in the area, like the famed Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino.
You can explore Southern Tuscany, where the Maremma Uccellina Natural Park offers top biking routes and trails in the region. After an arduous day, visiting a hot springs is the perfect way to unwind. Soak your muscles in the geothermal baths of Saturnia and savour the serene countryside atmosphere before you hit the road again.
The Dolomites
If you’re seeking a challenge, then the mountainous landscapes of the Dolomites are the perfect cycling destination. Known for its steep climbs and breathtaking panoramic views, Italy’s alpine regions are a hardcore cyclist’s paradise.
Venture to passes like Pordoi or Giau for dramatic clifftop trails. Not for the faint-hearted, these routes are difficult, but the expansive mountain vistas are a worthy reward. If you’re searching for unique bike holiday ideas, braving a Dolomite adventure should be on your cycle bucket list.
Many high-profile cycling events are hosted in the Dolomites every year, attracting professionals from across the globe. Maratona dles Dolomites covers 138 kilometres and begins in the scenic ski village of Arabba – a challenging climb for those willing to pedal to the metal!
Lombardy
Lombardy is a beautiful region in northern Italy and is home to a long-standing cycling culture. Featuring varied terrains, from scenic lakeside routes to mountainous pathways, Lombardy has something for every age and ability.
Lake Como and Lake Maggiore offer some of the most beautiful trails for those seeking a tranquil riding experience. Admire the lush greenery and breathe in the fresh lakeside air. For more challenging climbs, venture to Stelvio Pass which will take you on a winding journey through magnificent mountains.
The Giro di Lombardia is one of the most famous cycling races in the world and adventure seekers can push themselves to complete the winding 255-kilometre route. If speed racing isn’t for you, there are many family-friendly routes to enjoy. Explore the cities of Milan and Bergamo where you can take pit stops at local restaurants and soak in the historic atmospheres.
In brief
Embarking on a cycling holiday is a unique way to experience Italy’s natural beauty and cultural riches. From the high-speed races of Lombardy to the serene trails of Lake Garda, Italy offers something for cyclists of every age and ability.
From breathtaking mountain passes or peaceful Tuscan hills, you can be sure to find a route that suits you in Italy’s diverse Mediterranean landscapes.
Be sure to include these vibrant and varied destinations in your cycling travel itinerary. So, gear up and prepare to ride into the adventure of a lifetime!
READ ALSO:
* Best Destinations in Italy for Family Walking Holidays
* Top Places for Hiking in Tuscany
