The best cycling routes in Italy

Italy’s fantastic regions

Cycling in Italy never fails to impress thanks to the country’s extraordinary beauty throughout. The only downside to adventuring here on two wheels is that you might not know where to begin. 

If it’s jaw-dropping mountains you’re after, where you can climb to great heights and speed down exhilarating descents, the Italian Alps are paradise. With vast lakes, iconic cliff faces and verdant meadows, bike rides in Italy’s northern mountains are always spectacular. 

Perhaps it’s Tuscany that you dream of cycling through. If you’re not familiar with this utterly fantastic region, you’re in for a treat. Tuscany is home to rolling hills, jagged mountains and a seductive coastline. Rides here offer astounding views, historic villages and olive groves that unroll into the distance. 

For flatter cycle routes in Italy, head to Puglia on the Adriatic Sea. Pedal from seafood restaurant to seafood restaurant along the coastline and stop at Ostuni, a mesmerising city with an exquisite old town of whitewashed buildings and Mediterranean charm. 

La dolce vita on two wheels

Wherever the trails take you, you’ll never be far from all the tiny luxuries of being in Italy. Public drinking fountains are common throughout the country, making it easy to fill up on hot days. Each village and town will have bakeries and local cafes too, where you can get a panino and an espresso or, let’s face it, gelato. 

Italy has a lengthy history of cycling, in part thanks to the Giro d’Italia, a race past its hundredth year. You’ll see cyclists sporting every colour of jersey and find many long-distance cycle paths and local trails, many of which are traffic-free. 

Accommodation is available everywhere and there’s a vast range, from cheap hostels and campsites to luxurious hotels. Plenty of options to rest your feet and your wheels. 

Choosing a time of year

You can go on cycling adventures in Italy at any time of year but the true golden months are April to October. During this season, you’ll see the best of the country’s sunshine, fantastic flora and, in summer, enjoy warm seas at the end of a sweaty ride. 

For cooler bike rides during July and August, the northern mountains enjoy refreshing temperatures with glorious sunshine.