Blog home / Italy by bike: Grab a slice of culture & history
Have you been planning a cycling break in Italy this year and it hasn’t happened yet? There still are possibilities to hop on your bike and go away. From the Prosecco vineyards to history-inspired itineraries in Sicily and Puglia, and active family cycling, here are a few options for cycling in Italy still this year…
Cycle In History-Inspired Sicily
A stunning cycle that concentrates on southeast Sicily. Starting at the hilltop town of Caltagirone, where you can climb its celebrated 142-step decorated ceramic staircase, over a week you will immerse in Sicily’s history, culture and unspoilt coastline, before the trip concludes in Syracuse, the birthplace of Archimedes. Previously under Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Norman, Swabian, Angevin and Spanish rule, the city is now home to a fascinating mix of people and outstanding monuments, some of which remain still in use, such as the Greek Theatre.
Cycle in history-inspired Sicily Cycle Sicily (8 days) departs March-October, except July
Downhill to Venice
Spend a week cycling in Italy on the quiet paths and backroads of the Veneto region that lead to the famous canal city of Venice. Take in the splendid cities of Trento and Vicenza, before heading to Verona. It is a classic Italian gem brimming with history, exquisite architecture and of course delicious food. Casa di Giulietta on Via Capello is said to be where Shakespeare got his inspiration for the famous balcony love scene, while Romeo’s house can be found on Via Arche Scaligere. From that point the route heads east through meadows and orchards to the town of Mestre, on the doorstep of Venice.
Take the backroads to Venice via Trento, Vicenza and Verona Backroads to Venice (8 days) departs March-October
Wine & Wheels in the Prosecco
This new centre-based cycle trip in the heart of Italy's romantic Veneto region allows for plenty of opportunities to sample the famous Prosecco sparkling wine from local vineyards. Staying at a historic hotel located in a picturesque setting just outside the provincial capital of Treviso, each day features a gentle cycling route, from following the Piave River Wine Route to exploring rail trails. This is cycling in Italy at its best!
From the base of your charming accommodation, explore Italy's Prosecco region Prosecco Wine Cycle (7 days, self-guided) departs April-October
Sardinia With the Kids
Sardinia is an island full of adventure for both young and old, with the intrigue of its own language, mouth-watering local flavours and idyllic beaches. This family friendly Italian cycling trip follows Sardinia’s southern coastline by bike. There is a range of cycle options for kids and adults available including bike seats, trailers and even electric bikes. Once you’re all set with your gear, cycle through small fishing villages, past Romanesque ruins and lagoons packed with pink flamingos. You will wander through Mediterranean vineyards and centuries-old olive groves and kids will love the spectacular views of dramatic cliffs. In between, relax on the Sardinia’s white sandy beaches!
Go on an adventure with your parents and children while cycling in Italy Sardinia Family Cycle Adventure (8 days) departs every Saturday year round
Gateway to the Orient by Bike
Fancy spending a couple of nights at a traditional ‘trullo’, with its typical conical roof? Puglia, Italy’s ‘heel’ and its gateway to the Orient, is a land forged in history, most famous for the village of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels lost in time. The houses in Matera are dug into the rock and the streets in some parts are located on the rooftops of other houses! Follow both the Adriatic and Ionian coasts and at the end of the trip cycle to Lecce, often referred to as the Florence of the south for its charming architecture.
A fantastic view over Matera Cycle Puglia (8 days, self guided) departs weekly on Saturdays until the end of October If you fancy any of these holidays where you go cycling in Italy, or like to get more information on the trips, you can download the trip notes on each trip’s page. Or you can get in touch with our team of travel experts in our London office. We look forward to assist you in planning your next cycling adventure to Italy!