Cycling around Tuscany is a dream. The stunning landscape makes for some of the best cycling vibes in Italy.
And we’re not talking Tour De France style cycling. We’re talking about the type of cycling where you can enjoy your surroundings and take it all in. You can’t come to Tuscany and rush things – it’s not the Italian way of doing things.
Below, we’ll explore some of the most beautiful cycling routes in Tuscany for all abilities.
Cycling Through Tuscany: A Dream for Every Cyclist
Cycling through Tuscany lets you experience everything that’s good about it. Mouthwatering cuisine from small, family-run restaurants and not the tourist traps of main cities, breathtaking views, rich history and culture, and unrivaled nature.
Your day could start out with a wonderful cappuccino in a quaint piazza before cycling past the renowned ancient exteriors of dominating castles and finishing up your day with a lovely glass of wine from Chianti. Because of Tuscany’s varied/complex landscape, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned biker, it leaves everyone with an unforgettable experience no matter what.
Beginners: Easy Routes with Stunning Views
You don’t need to be an expert cyclist to do some of these routes. For beginners, here are two of the best routes:
The Val d’Orcia Loop
One of the most scenic portions of Tuscany is the Val d’Orcia. It’s known for its distinct cypress-tree-lined road and valleys with rolling hills. This particular route is relatively easy with the start and end situated within Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its classic Renaissance buildings.
The journey is just under 25 km in total. Not bad for beginners and ideal for a relaxed bike ride over a half-day (or full-day for people wanting to go ultra slow) period.
- Highlights: You must visit the San Quirico d’Orcia, a charming medieval town. Don’t forget to sample the local Pecorino cheese! The foothills are not too steep, making them perfect for a laid-back, yet breathtaking experience.
- Why You’ll Love It: The serene countryside combined with subdued farmland and vineyards provides an authentic Tuscan vibe without dealing with harsh vertical climbs. It truly is a beginner route.
The Lucca Walls Circuit
Lucca is delightful with its Renaissance architecture. With a well-maintained main area, centered by 4 km of trees, the town is perfect for a family trip. And it just so happens there are some excellent beginner biking routes and bike rental options in the town.
- Highlights: The trees in the town center make for a beautiful bike ride. You’ll see a nice view of the historical center of Lucca and the mountains in the background. Remember to stop and enjoy the narrow roads and the gorgeous piazzas – Piazza San Michele and Piazza dell’Anfiteatro are two of the most popular.
- Why You’ll Love It: This loop is ideal for those who want to combine a little bit of cycling with a lot of chances to discover and explore a lovely Tuscan town.
Intermediate: Rolling Hills and Classic Tuscan Landscapes
For anyone who wants a bit more of a challenge, Tuscany’s countryside has the routes you’re looking for. Two of the best include:
Cycling Through Tuscany: The Chianti Wine Route
Chianti is as famous as Tuscany is, and what better way to visit the renowned wine regions than by bicycle? Strada del Vino, or the wine road, is a scenic route in the district of Chianti that circles over 60 kilometers within the heart of this region.
- Highlights: You will begin your journey at Greve In Chianti and pass through Vigneti, Uliveti, and picturesque towns like Panzano and Radda in Chianti. Don’t forget to visit local wineries for wine-tasting experiences and enjoy a meal in a classic trattoria.
- Why You’ll Love It: The route blends rolling hills and wide steep climbs. It’s definitely not an easy route, but there are plenty of stop-off options. And you can’t complain when there’s the chance for wine tasting!
The Crete Senesi Challenge
The almost lunar landscape of Crete Senesi, which sits to the south of Siena, is famed for its unique features. You get to see the real rugged beauty of Tuscany with this route. Not for amateurs, the entire route spans over 50km and does include challenging hilly terrain. Still, the scenery is absolutely worth it.
- Highlights: The cycle begins at Asciano and includes clay hill formation and aged abbeys. Visit the stunning and picturesque monastery Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, encircled by towering cypress trees.
- Why You’ll Love It: The barren hills and the dramatic nature of the Crete Senesi show you a different yet beautiful region of Tuscany.
Advanced: Tough Climbs and Epic Descents
More advanced cyclists can attempt more advanced routes that feature astonishing views. Here are two of our favorite but more advanced routes:
The Monte Amiata Ascent
The highest peak in southern Tuscany, Monte Amiata, has a dormant volcano around its peak. One of the toughest rides in this region, the ascent is long and borders on strenuous, but the panoramic view at the top is nothing short of magical.
- Route Details: The total distance that needs to be covered, starting from Castel del Piano to the top of the mountain, is around 30 kilometers. Within that is a 1,200m elevation gain. You couldn’t do this as a beginner.
- Highlights: Both sides of the road have marvelously scenic views of the countryside filled with nature, stunning chestnut, and the dramatic landscape of the mountains. You’ve also got the Tyrrhenian Sea glistening at the summit.
- Why You’ll Love It: Cyclists with higher fitness levels will love the beauty of Monte Amiata. Anyone else will hate it. Still, it’s a sense of accomplishment to make it to the top.
The L’Eroica Route
The route covers a longer distance and definitely needs more energy. Spanning about 135 kilometers and starting at and ending at Gaiole in Chianti, it is part of the vintage bicycle race and the bicycle road race. This is more of a holiday in itself, you need a few days to tackle this route.
- Highlights: Steep cliffs and gravel roads drenched with pristine beauty and brimming with vineyards are something you’ll never forget. It’s infamous for being challenging yet having the most breathtaking, awe-inspiring scenery that keeps you wanting more.
- Why You’ll Love It: The L’Eroica route is ideal for advanced cyclists, but nobody else. You also need to plan in advance to get the most out of the route. The views you get are worth the planning!
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Ride
Here are some ideas that will help you with your journey:
- Plan Your Route: Go over the route information beforehand and know everything there’s to know about it. You don’t have to worry as much with the beginner routes, but you do with the advanced routes.
- Stay Hydrated: The sun in Tuscany can be unbearable in the summer and definitely hotter than people realize. Always keep a substantial amount of water and try to cool down underneath a shady area. And don’t forget your SPF 50+!
- Bring a Map or GPS: Always have GPS and always know your route. Once you get into the remote mountains, the signal isn’t always guaranteed. The more challenging routes are remote, so you need to know where you’re going.
- Respect Local Traffic: Most roads around Tuscany have low traffic, but you are likely to see motor vehicles, especially around towns and villages. Stay within the boundaries and be more careful when cycling on steep or windy roads.
End Your Day in Luxury
Picture this: you’ve just spent a glorious day cycling around Tuscany, and all that’s left is to unwind at your premium villa.
At Kinglike Concierge, we offer stunning villas across Tuscany for the most premium vacation experience. Are you looking for the serene vibes of the countryside or a beautiful villa close to the cycling routes? We have all the options you’re looking for.
Explore our Corfu top-pick villas today to find your dream villa in Corfu.
If you’re traveling with your family, see our recent Tuscany for Families: Kid-Friendly Activities and Attractions blog post for family-friendly fun. Or, if you want to feast on the most mouthwatering local flavors, we’ve picked out our favorites in our Tuscany’s Culinary Delights: Top Traditional Dishes to Try article. Or, for a more relaxing break, read our best beaches and coastal towns in Tuscany to start planning that magical beach escape.