Italy is a beautiful place to explore by cycling and there are many excellent trips you can take all around the country. Here, we’ll share some of the best regions for cyclists and the most ideal paths to try for both beginners and those with lots of experience. From steep mountain climbs to gentle seaside pathways, everyone can find cycling holidays in Italy that will become treasured memories for years to come.
Cycling holidays in Italy: Liguria
With Genoa as its capital, the region of Liguria is considered by many to be a cyclist’s paradise, with excellent paths for both road cycling and mountain biking. Popular with tourists and locals alike, you can even cycle along the same tracks that the cyclists in the Giro d’Italia cycle. Many of the paths will provide stunning views of the Ligurian coast, while others will take you inland through rolling hills and countryside.
The Pista Ciclabile del Ponente Ligure
The Pista Ciclabile del Ponente Ligure, or Coastal Park of Ponente Ligure, in San Remo, is one of the oldest cycling paths in Europe, roughly 24 kilometres (15 miles) long. Sometimes referred to as the ‘Cycling Riviera’, the path runs along what used to be a railway line along the coast. The entire path is paved and the remaining railway tunnels are equipped with lights, so the path is a relatively easy one and there are multiple places to rent bikes along the way. However, as a few patches of the trail come right up to the sea, these parts can be difficult to cycle during strong weather.
Maremonti Cycle Path
Literally meaning ‘Sea Mountain’, the Maremonti Cycle Path connects the small towns of Bonassola, Levanto and Framura. The path covers roughly 4 kilometres (about 2.5 miles) and is a repurposed railway track, like the Pista Ciclabile. It is perfect for cyclists of all levels, as it was specifically designed for families and has street lighting as well as a pedestrian path, so you can take a break and walk if you need to. There’s plenty to see in each of the towns, including beautiful beaches, the small church of Madonnina della Punta atop a cliff in Bonassola and the historical lookout towers in Framura.
The Dolomites
The Dolomite Mountains in north-eastern Italy are much loved by winter sports enthusiasts from around the world, but in the warmer months, they’re perfect for cyclists. Picturesque views and fresh mountain air are the rewards for any cyclist who tries any of the many cycling paths found in and around the mountains. The Plose Single Trail is a short track that sits around 2,050 metres (roughly 6,725 feet) above sea level. Its steep curves are perfect for experienced mountain bikers looking for a challenge to tackle.
The Pustertal Cycle Path
The Pustertal Cycle Path is perfect for beginner cyclists and families, particularly as it runs very close to a train track; if anyone gets overexerted, it’s easy to make the rest of the trip or return by train. Being roughly 105 kilometres (about 65 miles), it takes around 6 or 7 hours to complete the trip, from Muhlback in South Tyrol, Italy, to Lienz, Austria. Take a break at one of the many historic heritage sights along the path, such as the fresco-filled Antonius Chapel, or soak in nature at Assling Deer Park, where native animals roam.
The Alpe Adria Trail
Connecting Italy and Austria, the entirety of the Alpe Adria Trail is around 725 kilometres (roughly 450 miles), taking riders from the sea and through the mountains. However far you choose to ride, this path is likely best for stronger cyclists – although the path is mostly gentle, there are a few steep climbs both ways and the climate in the area can get rainy, so paths may be wet. The best time to go is usually from late spring to early autumn. The area is rich in wildlife (some sections are nature reserves), so keep an eye out for marmots, bearded vultures, large butterflies and a wide variety of flora.
The Stelvio Pass
Roughly 50 kilometres (around 31 miles) long, any avid road cyclist is sure to want to put the Stelvio Pass on their cycling bucket list. Located 2,757 metres (around 9,045 feet) above sea level in the region of Lombardia, the pass is the second-highest paved mountain pass in the Italian Alps. The Stelvio Pass is definitely only suited to experienced cyclists, not just because of its long length and high climbs but also because, at such a high altitude, there is less oxygen, making it harder to breathe. The weather can also make the journey tougher, so the best time to go is usually between June and August.
Emilia-Romagna
Known for its medieval villages and beautiful beaches along the Adriatic coast, Emilia Romagna also boasts roughly 8,000 kilometres (roughly 4,970 miles) of cycling routes. The region is passionate about cycling, which can be seen in the number of bike cafes you’ll find along many routes. Many of these cafes will have places to charge an e-bike, if you’re riding one, while you stop and take a break. If you head to the lower Po Valley, you’ll see historic fortresses and palaces along the Po River, tall poplars, and lush vineyards.
The Ciclovia Del Sole
Roughly 50 kilometres (around 31 miles) long, the Ciclovia Del Sole will take you between Mirandola and Bologna, through the countryside, with many small towns and villages to stop at along the way.
The journey can be made in one day, but leaving yourself a few days will let you stop and experience the sights and villages. You can usually make the trip at any time of year, though late spring and early autumn are usually best, as summer in the region can get extremely hot. The path is excellent for beginner cyclists or those looking for a gentle ride, as there are only relatively minor altitude changes.
Lake Garda
Lake Garda’s elevated hanging cycle path is one of the most scenic cycling routes you’ll find in Italy. A short trip, roughly 3 kilometres (about 1.8 miles) in length, it places you at the border between the edge of Lake Garda and the beginning of the steep cliffs surrounding the lake. Opened in 2018, the path has quickly shot to the top of dream-ride lists of many cyclists due to its stunning views and well-designed route. The trip is great for beginner cyclists, as not only is it short but it has wide bridges and good lighting at night and in the early morning, plus there’s little elevation change.
The Ciclovia Adriatica
Connecting the cities of Trieste and Santa Maria di Leuca, the Ciclovia Adriatica covers the entirety of the Adriatic Coast. The path covers roughly 1,300 kilometres (around 807 miles), most of which is on smaller roads with minimal traffic or dedicated cycling paths; though, there are some sections on busier roads. Spring and early autumn tend to be the best times to make the trip, as both the heat and the traffic during the summer months can be overwhelming. If you intend to make the full journey from Trieste to Santa Maria di Leuca by bike, it will take upwards of two weeks. You can also make the trip partially by bike and partially by train.
Biking in Italy: tips
If you’re headed to Italy during the busier tourist months, July and August, you may need to be a little more diligent on the road, as there will be more drivers unfamiliar with the roads and the road rules. When cycling in summer, be prepared for the heat; make sure you have plenty of water and sun coverage. One final tip: Italy is a country with a rich history. As you’re planning your journeys, consider choosing older roads over newer ones, as they may lead you to hidden gems and unique experiences.
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