Tuscany is a great region for cyclists. Many cycling circuits have been created across the region and offer magnificent landscapes to admire. These tours are suitable for travelers of all skill levels and offer a unique and relaxing experience. Tuscany is ideal for this, with its great views, picturesque towns and pleasant climate. So, whether you're a beginner cyclist or a seasoned amateur, here's what you need to know to discover the Tuscany by bike.
What are the advantages of cycling in Tuscany?
There are many advantages to cycling in Tuscany. Tuscany is renowned for its hills and mountains, which means that cyclists will find a variety of landscapes to explore. What's more, the region is rich in historical heritage, with villas, fortresses and medieval towns making perfect stops on a cycling tour. The region's roads are generally well laid out, making it easy for cyclists to get around. However, don't hesitate to plan your itinerary in advance (with an app like Komoot, for example) to avoid truck-ridden stretches! Bicycle-friendly itineraries are available on such apps, reducing the risk of accidents.
What are the steps not to miss?
Perhaps the best-known tour in Tuscany is the one that begins and ends at Pisa. Along the way, you can make a stop in Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. You can visit emblematic monuments such as the Duomo and Giotto's Campanile, or stroll along the medieval streets. You can also discover Renaissance architecture, such as the Villa di Castello, a UNESCO world monument. From here you can continue to the Arno Valley, which offers wonderful views of the Tuscan countryside and its rolling hills. You can then visit the city of Pisa before continuing your journey to the cities of Lucca or La Spezia. Fans of more sporty hikes (there are hills :-)) can also visit the towns of Pistoia and Prato, which offer breathtaking views of the region's landscapes.
Where can I rent a bike in Tuscany?
If you want to explore the region by bike, you'll need a bicycle. If you're not a great sportsman, you might even be tempted by an electric bike. Fortunately, you'll find bike rental stores in almost every town in the region. These stores offer a wide range of bikes and services, such as detailed maps of the best routes and advice on the rules of the road. If you prefer, you can also rent a bike in advance online to guarantee availability.
Here is a small selection of bike rental companies in Tuscany, sorted by town:
Bike rental in Florence:
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- Florence By Bike – Via S. Zanobi, 54/r, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
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- Alinari Rental Bike, Via S. Zanobi, 40, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy (open daily, closed only on Sunday afternoons)
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- Tuscany Vespa Cycle and Bike Tour, Via Ghibellina, 133/red, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy (open daily)at
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- Per'S Bike Rides Florens, Via Uguccione della Faggiola, 31, 50126 Firenze FI, Italy
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- Bikeoftime, Via Carlo del Greco, 21r, 50141 Firenze FI, Italy
Bike rental in Pisa:
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- Smile&Ride, Via Pietro Mascagni, 13
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- pedaliamo, Piazza della Stazione, 9
In Pisa you will also find self-service bicycles (type Villo or Velib)
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- Bicycle post office for Bike Sharing, Largo Ippolito Nievo, 1
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- CicloPi 24 – CNR Praticelli, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi, 1
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- CicloPi 22 – Galleria Gerace, Galleria Giovan Battista Gerace
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- Ciclopi Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, Viale Antonio Gramsci
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- see more on the site Ciclopi…
What are the most beautiful ideas for bike tours in Tuscany?
1. A loop in Chianti: This tour is a loop that begins and ends in the charming medieval town of Greve en Chianti. You'll pass through the rich and varied countryside of Chianti Classico, with its vineyard-covered hills offering spectacular views of the Tuscan towns. The road is dotted with picturesque little towns and villages well worth exploring.
2. Along Lake Trasimeno: With its shimmering blue waters and wooded hills, Lake Trasimeno is one of Italy's most beautiful lakes. The road along its shores is dotted with charming towns and picturesque views. You'll pass by natural sites, national parks and small medieval towns.
3. Via Francigena Trail: The Via Francigena is an ancient medieval road that crosses Tuscany and offers an incredible cultural and historical experience. You'll pass through historic towns like San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and Volterra while enjoying magnificent views of the Tuscan countryside.
4. Monte Amiata Tour: Monte Amiata is a magnificent dormant volcano that sits in the heart of Tuscany. It offers cyclists a unique landscape with green forests, steep mountains and winding roads. You can also enjoy the small medieval towns and hot springs that border the volcano.
5. Maremma Tour: This scenic route begins and ends in Grosseto, and offers cyclists an incredible variety of natural landscapes. You will cross wheat fields, woods, vineyards, hills and beaches. You can also enjoy Tuscan towns such as Massa Marittima and Barbarossa.
Where can I stay during my cycling trip?
You'll find a variety of accommodation for your cycling trip, from bed and breakfasts to hotels and vacation rentals where cyclists are welcome. Vacation rentals are a particularly attractive option if you plan to stay longer in the area and radiate from this point. You can find rentals for all budgets and for all tastes, from luxury villas by the sea to rustic chalets in the mountains.