24 Trips to Explore in 2024See the List
Duration
8 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

Adult$1390USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: TFC

Trip highlights


  • Exploring the magnificent Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa with the leaning tower and Cathedral
  • Discovering Lucca, with its imposing city walls and a riddle of narrow streets and Vinci, the charming medieval town where Leonardo da Vinci was born
  • Cycling along quiet country roads, cycle paths and tree lined avenues
  • Indulging in delicious Tuscan culinary specialties
  • Staying in charming agriturismos and hotels, perfect for families

There are no steep Tuscan hills on this beautifully designed self guided cycle taking in some of Tuscany's most famous towns. Pedal effortlessly along the meandering Arno river cycle paths that take you from one classic Tuscan city to the next. From the leaning tower of Pisa to the elegant Piazza Anfiteatro in Lucca and the famous Duomo of Florence, there are no shortage of sites to engage the whole family. Delve further into the countryside to visit lesser known corners such as Calci, where a famous Natural History Museum is housed and Vinci, where Leonardo da Vinci was born. Cycle through a quintessential Tuscan landscape, taste the many local specialties and stay in three comfortable family run hotels generally with swimming pools and gardens, perfect for relaxing after the cycling day is over.

Trip Grading

introductory to moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Arrive at your hotel in San Giuliano Terme, located 3.5 km from Pisa centre and settle in to your comfortable 3* hotel with swimming pool. If you arrive early, take a relaxing stroll through the narrow streets of this charming city. Promenade past the pastel houses lining the banks of the Arno River.

Meals:  Nil

Your rental bike will be delivered at 9am this morning, fitted to your specifications. Begin your day cycling through the inspiring countryside between Pisa and the mountain of Monte Serra, stopping for a visit to the grandiose Certosa of Calci monastery. It was founded in 1366 and houses a renowned Natural History Museum. The second part of the day is spent in Pisa, visiting its many outstanding monuments. (+90m/ -90m)

Meals:  B

Today’s ride is very scenic and nearly all flat. The route follows the Serchio River to reach the charming town of Lucca. Once in Lucca, take your time to visit the wonderful city centre, ride along the imposing tree-lined perimeter walls and explore its splendid gardens, majestic bell tower and impressive Piazza Anfiteatro, a 2nd century Roman amphitheatre. (+80m/262ft -80m/262ft)

Meals:  B

Today you cycle upstream along the Serchio River cycle path that takes you to the Lucchese foothills where there are many beautiful and famous palaces and gardens to be visited. Stop to admire the monumental gardens of Villa Reale and Villa Grabau, with their luxurious and extraordinary vegetation, before heading back towards town. (+170m or 450m/ -170m or 450m)

Meals:  B

Today you with your bikes and luggage will be transferred to Altopascio (9:30am) where you start the ride through the Padule of Fucecchio nature reserve. This is one of the largest inland wetlands of Europe, and depending on the time of year the area will be wet or dry. Marvel at the delightful all-encompassing greenness and spot some migratory birds - enjoying a well-deserved rest on their way south why not leave the road and head into the vegetation. The day's ride ends at a farm in the outskirts of Vinci, the village where the famous inventor and artist Leonardo da Vinci came from. (+250m or 270m/ -250m or 270m)

Meals:  B

Gain an insight into the genius of Leonardo as you explore his birthplace and the two remarkable, child friendly and hands–on museums dedicated to his inventions. Admire his original designs and inventions and ride up to the house where he was born, for some spectacular views and quintessential Tuscan scenery. (+175m or 450m/ -175 or 450m)

Meals:  B

Today you can cycle (or take the bus or a private transfer) to Empoli train station (around 15km) from where a 30 minute train ride takes you into downtown Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. Spend the day strolling its wonderful streets and admiring the innumerable wonders before returning to Empoli in the afternoon and cycling / bus or transfer back to your accommodation in Vinci. note: transport today is not included and is to be paid locally.

Meals:  B

After breakfast you will be driven to Empoli railway station, from where you can take the train to Florence or Pisa.

Meals:  B


Inclusions

  • 7 breakfasts - breakfasts are continental in style consisting of pastries/bread, coffee, tea and juice and depending on the hotel may also include cheese, meats and spreads, eggs, fruit and cereal
  • 7 nights in 3 star hotels or Agriturismos on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • 21 speed rental bike with one rear pannier, helmet, phone holder, repair kit, padlock and bike computer (one per room booked) - baby seats, childrens bikes, trailers, trail-a-bikes available on request (e-bikes available - supplement applies)
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps and route book
  • Luggage transfer (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 60 x 50 x 40 cm per person). Supplement applies for excess
  • Emergency hotline
  • Private transfer with bikes from Lucca to Altopascio on day 5
  • Private transfer with luggage on day 8 to Empoli train station

  • Arrival transfer on day 1 to the first hotel just outside Pisa and onward transport from Empoli Train station on day 8
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance
  • Entrance Fees
  • Guide - this is a self guided cycle trip
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Hotel taxes - allow EUR12.5 per person - these are payable directly to the hotel
  • Excess luggage
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Additional rear pannier - supplement applies - please request at the time of booking (note: panniers are not provided for childrens bikes)
  • Items of a personal nature

Bike information


Grading

introductory to moderate  

The trip is graded introductory to moderate with daily ascents between 100—300m. The planned cycles follow mostly well asphalted country roads and secondary roads. There are some dirt-road cycle paths around Pisa and Lucca. There are some small hills on the way to Vinci. Near larger towns, the roads have more traffic. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. We recommend some practice cycles with your children before you go, including in low traffic areas. It is important that everyone is comfortable cycling on roads.


Departure dates

Daily from 1 Mar to 30 Nov

Notes

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
Note:
High season is from 24 Jun to 31 Aug, Mid season is from 27 Apr to 23 Jun,1 to 30 Sep and 1 Oct to 4 Nov, supplement applies

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

Adult$1390USD

Child$590USD** See below for further details.

Options & Supplements*
    *Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

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