From CAD 3,300
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Explore the rolling hills and olive groves of Tuscany on this eight-day cycling adventure from Florence to Pisa. Cycle through small, traditional villages backdropped by mountain views in Barga, then ride the pulsing streets of Pisa to the famed lopsided tower. Visit one of the oldest bakeries in Italy, operating since 1885, for a taste of their delicious biscotti (and maybe an espresso, too) and soak up some of the stunning views of Garfagnana – Tuscany's mountainous escape – with a bike ride through the town. With stops in Vinci and Lucca, too, you’re bound to fall in love with provincial Italy (even more than you were before).
Highlights
- Pedal through the rolling green hills and vineyards of Tuscany, stopping to sample the local cuisine and indulging in a glass (or two) of vino along the way.
- From Lucca's tree-lined city walls, you’ll follow the gentle Serchio River on your bike to the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa – take the classic shot in front of the tower or hunt down the best local cafe and people-watch.
- Retrace the steps of Leonardo da Vinci around his home city, Vinci. Surrounded by olive groves, your cycle will take you past Casa Natale di Leonardo then returns you to the village where you can explore at your own pace.
- Stay in picturesque Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, where you’ll spend your day cycling up and down the valleys, maybe stopping at the famous Fronte della Rocca for one of their cakes and coffees that have been enjoyed since 1885.
- Get away from tourist crowds and experience the authentic Italy – on two wheels and two feet, you’ll have the best chance to connect with locals, ride through rural areas you otherwise wouldn’t visit and have the insights from a local leader who knows all the best spots.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3279
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Bicycle (e-bike option available,subject to availability),Support vehicle,Local bus
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: ZMXT
Starts: Florence, Italy
Finishes: Pisa, Italy
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7), Lunch (2),Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3300 (CAD 412 /day)
Itinerary
Buongiorno! Welcome to Italy. Your adventure begins in Florence with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. The trip spends very little time in Florence, so it’s strongly recommended that you arrive a few days early if you want to see all that this amazing city' has to offer. If you do arrive early, maybe take a stroll around the historic Florence cathedral or visit Uffizi gallery, Ponte Vecchio and the Piazzale Michelangelo. After your meeting tonight, perhaps head out with your new group and local leader and hunt down the best slice of pizza, your favourite Italian wine or a plate of bistecca alla Fiorentina (grilled Italian steak cooked on the bone).
Optional Activities:
- Florence - Uffizi Gallery (25 EUR)
- Florence - Accademia (20 EUR)
- Florence - Medici Chapels (17 EUR)
- Florence - Bargello Museum (16 EUR)
- Florence - Baptistry, Museo Opera del Duomo, Giotto Bell Tower and Brunelleschi Dome (30 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast this morning, you’ll head out for your bike fitting and then take a short test ride. After, take a private transfer with your bikes to nearby Signa, where your Tuscan cycling adventure officially begins. Follow the Arno River out of Florence and ride the mostly flat small roads and trails to Empoli. Pass by the Church of Sant'Andrea before turning north towards the Tuscan hills and the town of Vinci – the birthplace of legendary Leonardo da Vinci. Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, the climbs are relatively gentle. When you arrive in Vinci, ride past Casa Natale di Leonardo then return to the village to check into your hotel. This afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace – maybe visit Museo Leonardiano, the home to a collection of machines and models devoted to Leonardo da Vinci.
Included Activities:
- Signa to Vinci Guided & Vehicle Supported Cycling
Optional Activities:
- Vinci - Museo Leonardiano Birthplace of Leonardo Combo Ticket (11 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning after breakfast you’ll take a private transfer to the Province of Lucca. From here, you’ll cycle to the medieval hilltop town of Barga, climbing gradually along the banks of the Serchio River and up the valley to Borgo a Mozzano. Your leader will reveal the legend of the beautiful Devil’s Bridge when you arrive. Continue the gentle climb until the last two kilometres, when the road towards Barga becomes steep. For those not wanting to do the last climb, the support vehicle is always there to assist you. Those willing to conquer the hill will be rewarded with incredible views of the imposing Pania della Croce Mountain towering above the landscape. Tonight, why not relax after a big day's ride with a traditional Tuscan dinner.
Included Activities:
- Lucca to Barga Guided & Vehicle Supported Cycling
- Devil’s Bridge visit
Optional Activities:
- Barga - Dinner (25 EUR)
- Barga - Fondazione Pascoli - Free
- Barga - Cathedral - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Start the day with a pleasant downhill ride to the valley floor, following the winding road through the small local villages. You’ll climb, then descend into the next valley to the 13th century town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana. Situated at the confluence of the Serchio and the Turrite Secca Rivers, this is a great place to sit back and tuck into a refreshing gelato or maybe visit the famous Fronte della Rocca – this historic cake and chocolate-maker has been around since 1885 and they’re also known for their excellent coffee! This afternoon, head out again for your second ride, stopping in one of the villages along the way for a picnic lunch of authentic Italian dishes. Remount your bike for the final climb up to the imposing Verrucole Castle in San Romano – a medieval fortress with spectacular views over Garfagnana. Enjoy a freewheeling descent back to the hotel and the ambience of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana.
Included Activities:
- Garfagnana - Picnic
- Barga to Garfagnana Guided & Vehicle Supported Cycling
Optional Activities:
- Castelnuovo di Garfagnana - Cathedral - Free
- Castelnuovo di Garfagnana - Fortezza dell'Este - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today there will be a change of pace, starting with a climb up the Apuan Alps in the support vehicle. Stop at the long abandoned white marble quarry of Henraux to view the same marble seams that Michelangelo used in creating many of his masterpieces. Mount up and ride the short distance to the top of the mountain range before starting the long and winding ride downhill to the popular seaside resort of Viareggio. From here, head along the flat seafront roads to the famous Tuscan walled city of Lucca. When you arrive, circle the ancient city ramparts by bike and stop to enjoy an afternoon picnic on the walls. Tonight, you’re free to explore the city – maybe end the day at a local bar with a glass of Prosecco.
Included Activities:
- Lucca - Picnic
- Garfagnana to Lucca Guided & Vehicle Supported Cycling
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day off the bike in Lucca. Take the opportunity to see all the sights this city has to offer – maybe wander the former Roman amphitheatre off Via Fillungo and visit the medieval houses now standing in its place. Grab a seat at one of the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro's many outdoor cafes and watch the world go by with a coffee or stop by Foro Square and see the San Michele church, which was built over the top of an ancient Roman forum. If you’re looking for the best spots to eat, your local leader will always have the best recommendations!
Optional Activities:
- Lucca - Cathedral of San Martino & Ilaria del Carretto Tomb (3 EUR)
- Lucca - Palazzo Pfanner House & Gardens (6 EUR)
- Lucca - Puccini concert (20 EUR)
- Lucca - Guinigi Tower Climb (6 EUR)
- Torre delle Ore Climb (4 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave Lucca by bike this morning and follow the flat leafy bike paths downstream along the banks of the Serchio River to Pisa – home to the legendary leaning tower. After cycling through Pisa's frenetic streets and taking your classic Pisa photo, maybe take some time to wander the shopping streets here or indulge in an aperitif at one of Pisa’s many cafes and bars. Later, maybe head out for a final dinner with your group and indulge in an Italian feast one last time.
Included Activities:
- Lucca to Pisa Guided & Vehicle Supported Cycling
Optional Activities:
- Pisa - Leaning Tower of Pisa (27 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned after breakfast today and your adventure comes to an end. You're free to leave at any time after check out. If you'd like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Dennis - Traveled, October 2023
Great ride great guides great food great trip??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/14/2023
Chloe - Traveled, September 2023
Overall a great trip, due in large part to the leader (Andrea) and support driver (Dav). There are some parts of the route that I would strongly recommend Intrepid change to ensure a higher level of safety - I was very grateful for the efforts of the guide and driver to ensure our safety during these instances (the route is out of their hands). Some of the hotel options could be improved as well. Overall, biking through such a beautiful part of Italy and visiting the small countryside towns was an unforgettable experience. Thanks Andrea and Dav!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2023
Patricia - Traveled, September 2023
I’m not a great blogger so there’d be others who’d do a better job than me.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2023
Cameron - Traveled, September 2023
Excellent trip through Tuscany experiencing the mountains, villages & sea. Surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. Great way to see Italy in a different way with great people and a great support crew including Andrea our guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2023
Zachary - Traveled, September 2023
Cycle Tuscany was everything I expected from Intrepid. Walter and Alice were terrific trip leaders, the itinerary was interesting and the group was fun. I've already booked my next trip in 2024.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Tiffany - Traveled, August 2023
This trip exceeded my expectations. I had not expected to enjoy it so much because the weather that week was ridiculously hot. But Intrepid made an adjustment to the itinerary to take us to the beach for one night, and Walter (our driver) was always available to fill up our water bottles, pour water on our necks, and provide encouragement. Too, our group gelled quite well and we managed to make our own fun on the rides. If you are considering the trip, just book it and go. You will have a wonderful time!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/04/2023
David - Traveled, September 2023
The Cycle Tuscany trip was awesome and Ali was the best guide I could imagine. We have a small group so could be very flexible and easily get into restaurants and other touristy places. A great mix of exercise, eating, socializing and seeing some amazing places. Well organized and a lot of fun. My first group tour with Intrepid, but definitely not my last!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2023
Charles - Traveled, September 2022
Cycle Tuscany was a wonderful experience for us. The tour leader and driver were personable and took great care to see that we enjoyed a safe and interesting trip. It as challenging but reasonable for us (ages 74 and 72). We especially enjoyed the comaraderie of the other cyclists.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/17/2022
Charles - Traveled, September 2022
Our Cycle Tuscany tour with Intrepid was excellent in every way. It was described accurately. The tour leader and driver were personable, attentive and quite competent. Equipment and accommodations were excellent. And we really enjoyed meeting and riding with others on the tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2022
Ronn - Traveled, September 2022
Intrepid's Tuscany Cycling Trip is an incredible adventure, full of daily surprises, wonderful meals and scenic cycling. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2022
Fiona - Traveled, September 2022
My cycling trip in a Tuscany was brilliant. Was lucky to strike an amazing group of people, a fantastic tor leader Walter and our driver Davor. Together they made our trip fun, safe and authentic. Would recommend to anyone.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2022
Katherine - Traveled, September 2022
If you’re someone who is interested in travel but may not have time (or friends who are interested in traveling) this is the company for you. You will cram in as much as possible, feel so welcome and meet some new friends, and feel safe. Traveling with Intrepid is fun, not stressful. Intrepid covers all age groups. I met likeminded people and felt I could just be myself and laugh.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2022
Paola - Traveled, September 2022
Traveling with Intrepid has been an amazing experience. I will recommend booking any trip with this company. The Tuscan cycling tour was overall one of the best trips I´ve had in my whole life.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2022
Cynthia - Traveled, July 2023
This is a fabulous cycling vacation for those who want to experience small towns and wonderful cities in Tuscany. Florence, Pisa and Lucca are great. The small towns such as Vinci and Barga really stood out. They had a lot of local flavor with not many tourists. The bike riding is easy, which keeps the group together. There is plenty of time to enjoy the towns and wine as well. Very well organized, good bikes and van transport. The leaders Ali and Walter were the best! I highly recommend this tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/11/2023
Barry - Traveled, June 2023
As a returning customer of intrepid travel my expectations were higher. While the itinerary and equipment was good. Leadership was somewhat robotic and insincere. Although the support person was communicative enthusiastic and very hard working. Accommodation was average to poor. Paid single supplement had to share on the last night. Found my own accommodation at my expense. Breakfasts were mostly inadequate and embarrassing. Was really looking forward to this trip as my past experiences with intrepid have been excellent and memorable. I sense that this is not the norm with intrepid. As I have recommended intrepid travel to many of my friends and acquaintances who has had positive experiences. Some friends are currently booked upcoming intrepid travel tours. I am confident that their experience will be a memorable one like I have had in previous years.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/30/2023
Rachele - Traveled, June 2023
What a trip! If your on the fence do it! The itinerary gives you a flavour of what’s to come but it doesn’t give away all of the gems and hidden treasures. Ali and Walter brought Tuscany to life and there’s no one else I would have wanted to explore Tuscany with
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/16/2023
Andrea Dawn - Traveled, May 2023
Highly recommend Intrepid cycle trip of Tuscany. Excellent equipment provided and our driver, Davor and our guide,Saf were awesome. An excellent adventure!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/04/2023
Dan - Traveled, May 2023
Cycling the hills of Tuscany with wildflowers lining the roads, breaking for capuccino or gelato, accompained by delightful people and charming guides, what could be better?
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/19/2023
Gloria - Traveled, September 2022
The Cycle Tuscany tour was an epic experience with fantastic tour leaders in Walter and Davor yielding us an amazing cycle journey. They worked well together to make sure we enjoyed the riding, classic cuisine, wines and experiences so authentic to Tuscany!!! Don’t miss this ride!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/15/2022
David - Traveled, September 2022
We loved this trip and made lots of new friends amongst our fellow travellers. The itinerary was very good with the variety of beautiful scenery and terrain. The equipment was a good standard, and our tour leader and support driver were absolutely superb - great company and always looking after us along the way. We would definitely recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2022
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