Biking in Italy: Exploring green routes and cultural treasures across the country

24.12.2024 - 09:59 / euronews.com / Leonardo Da-Vinci

Fair weather, great infrastructure, and breathtaking routes along both the Mediterranean coastline and rugged countryside make Italy one of the most popular cycling destinations in Europe.

As well as scenic landscapes, Italy offers its two-wheeled travellers no end of heritage, gastronomy and culture upon its green cycling networks, passing through some of Italy’s most beloved villages, towns and cities en route.

From the rugged Dolomites in the north to the sun-soaked coastal trails of Sicily, Italy offers adventures for all riders, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a leisure pedaller. Below we chart some tried and tested bike routes across the country, for an unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of Italy.

Our first stop is in Tuscany, a region perfect for two-wheeled adventures of all levels. Newcomers to the sport can bliss out on tranquil Arno River paths from Pisa to Florence, passing rolling vineyards and olive groves, pausing to savour the region’s renowned wines and artisanal cheese, for full immersion in Tuscany’s idyllic countryside.

An alternative route from Pisa runs through Lucca, where hillier terrain and a keen cycling community await. A popular base for many pro cyclists, Lucca is the gateway to long climbs in the Apuan Alps and Central Apennine but it also offers rolling hill routes towards quaint Tuscan towns such as Vinci, birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci.

Cyclists in search of the best Tuscan views can head through the UNESCO-listed Orcia Valley, moving south to soak up the atmosphere of Chianti with its heritage vineyards and rolling farmland. Enchanting old towns such as Arezzo line the route from Florence and into Umbria, tempting riders into the so-called “Green Heart of Italy”.

Once in Umbria, switch into low gear to discover hilltop towns like Assisi and Perugia. On picture-perfect cobblestone streets, uncover medieval castles, saintly stories and specialty cuisine, such as Perugia’s world-famous artisanal chocolate.

Elsewhere in Umbria, a unique ride will take you to the Marmore Waterfalls near Terni, one of the tallest man-made waterfalls in Europe. This awe-inspiring site adds a refreshing natural highlight to the central Italian cycling experience.

Flat, scenic and ideal for leisurely rides, the Po Valley extends some 650 kilometres through northern Italy, connecting some of Italy’s most celebrated food capitals, including Parma and Bologna, to the romantic waterways of Venice.

This northern route is perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to try local delicacies like parmesan cheese, prosciutto di Parma and aged balsamic vinegar.

Along the way, explore historic cities like Ferrara, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its Renaissance