Venice to Pisa Cycling Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Chioggia

Arrive in Chioggia and the Venetian Lagoon, where the adventure begins. Meet at the hotel in central Chioggia for bicycle fittings and a briefing on the route ahead. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the town center, exploring its picturesque canals, bridges, and vibrant pedestrian streets. If you arrive early, we’ll recommend a scenic ride along one of the nearby islands in the lagoon.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Chioggia
Distance: optional ride of 17 km (11 miles), or cycle as much as you desire today
Meals: N/A

Day 2 Po River Delta

Today, you’ll leave the Venetian Lagoon behind and head toward the Po River Delta. Enjoy cycling along tranquil levee roads, with opportunities for birdwatching along the way. Stop by a local grocery store or café to pick up supplies for a picnic lunch. If you’re up for more cycling, you can take an extra loop into the delta in the afternoon. Tonight, you’ll rest and unwind at a charming country farm bed and breakfast.
Overnight Location: Agriturismo in Ariano Nel Polesine
Distance: 58km, 235m / 771ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Cycle to Comacchio

Today’s destination is Comacchio, a charming lagoon town that was once more powerful than Venice during the 700s and 800s. Explore its fascinating museum, which displays a Roman boat and its cargo, excavated from one of the town’s canals. Built on 13 islands, Comacchio is now landlocked but still surrounded by the Po River and freshwater wetlands, offering a unique and scenic experience.
Overnight Location: B&B in Comacchio
Distance: 74km, 199m / 652ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Bike to Ravenna

Today, you’ll cycle through the stunning wetlands of the Valley of Comacchio as you make your way to Ravenna, the final capital of the Western Roman Empire. This historic city is home to more early Christian mosaics than anywhere else in Western Europe. In the afternoon, take a stroll to Dante’s Tomb and marvel at the breathtaking mosaics of San Vitale, Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia—all just a short walk from your hotel.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ravenna
Distance: 63km (39 miles), 202m / 662ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Ravenna to Faenza

As you leave Ravenna, you have the option to visit the stunning Byzantine masterpiece of Sant’Apollinare in Classe. Ride through scenic plains and lush fruit plantations before reaching Faenza, a vibrant regional market center famous for its exquisite hand-decorated ceramics. Your accommodation for the night is a beautifully restored convent near the central square, where you can soak in the lively atmosphere filled with cyclists of all ages. Be sure to explore the International Ceramics Museum and visit local artisan studios to admire the town’s world-renowned colorful pottery.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Faenza
Distance: 52km, 158m / 518ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Over the Apennines

Today, you’ll journey into the stunning Apennine Mountains, starting with a visit to the charming medieval village of Brisighella. Take a break to explore its colorful streets and grab some snacks before tackling the climb ahead. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, you have the option to take the train over the mountains instead. For those cycling, enjoy the ever-changing scenery as you ascend from the plains into the rugged mountain landscape. Just before the most challenging part of the climb, a conveniently located train station offers another chance to hop on and save your energy. Your destination for the night is Ronta, a peaceful mountain town where you can breathe in the crisp, fresh air. Tonight, enjoy a well-earned dinner, included with your stay.
Overnight Location: Night in Mountain Lodge
Distance: 64km, 1,286m/ 4,219ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 Experience Florence

Start your day with a gentle climb to Vetta le Croci, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views before enjoying a thrilling descent into the historic Etruscan city of Fiesole. From here, take in a stunning panoramic view of Florence as it rises majestically from the valley floor. Then, glide effortlessly down into the heart of Florence on your bike. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore this magnificent Renaissance capital at your own pace.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Florence
Distance: 41km, 444m/ 1,4456ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Florence Rest Day

Spend the day immersing yourself in the wonders of Florence, a city rich in art, history, and breathtaking architecture. Climb Giotto’s Tower for a panoramic view of the city and the iconic Duomo, or explore world-renowned masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery or the Accademia. Stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio, where you’ll be treated to a striking view of the Arno River and Florence’s timeless beauty.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Florence
Distance: N/A
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 Cycle to Vinci

After breakfast, set out from Florence and follow the picturesque Arno River valley, cycling through the stunning Italian countryside. A climb over Mount Albano awaits, but the breathtaking views make it well worth the effort. Your destination is Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci. Here, you can explore the house where the legendary artist and inventor was born and visit a fascinating museum showcasing scale models of his ingenious creations.
Overnight Location: Agriturismo in Vinci
Distance: 42km (26 miles), 601m/ 1,971ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 Through Tuscany to Lucca

Today, climb the stairway to the Medici Villa in Cerreto Guidi for a breathtaking panoramic view before continuing your ride west to the charming city of Lucca, where you’ll stay for the next two nights. Once a thriving Roman settlement and one of medieval Italy’s most prosperous city-states, Lucca still radiates its historic charm. Wander through its quaint streets lined with small shops and sidewalk cafés, or take in the beauty of the impressive 17th-century walls that encircle the city.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Lucca
Distance: 60km (37 miles), 466m/ 1,528ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 Loop ride to Pisa

On your final day of cycling, pedal your way to the iconic city of Pisa, where you’ll have the chance to visit the world-famous Leaning Tower and the breathtaking Piazza dei Miracoli, a truly unforgettable experience to arrive here by bike! Along the way, ride past the serene Lake Massaciuccoli, the inspiration behind many of Puccini’s operas. After taking in the sights of Pisa, return to Lucca for an evening “passeggiata” along its charming pedestrian streets or get lost in its maze of historic alleys and lively piazzas.

Today, you have three cycling options: ride to Pisa and return by train with your bike, embark on a longer loop through the rolling Tuscan hills, vineyards, and stately villas, or take on the ultimate challenge, an out-and-back ride to the Tuscan coast, where you can dip your toes into the shimmering Tyrrhenian Sea.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Lucca
Distance: Varies based on the selected route.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 Departure

After enjoying a buffet breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to embrace the role of a tourist once again. We hope you’ve had an unforgettable cycling adventure with us! Thank you for joining, and “buon viaggio”!
Overnight Location: N/A
Distance: N/A
Meals: Breakfast