Self-Guided Alps to Milan Lombardy Bike tour
This exceptional journey leads you by bike from Switzerland into Italy, descending from the majestic Alps to vibrant Milano, with the enchanting landscapes of Lake Como along the way. From Tirano, you follow the Sentiero Valtellina, a scenic cycling path that winds through the valley toward Colico, offering stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
One of the highlights of the route is a memorable boat journey across the lake to Bellagio, the celebrated “pearl of Lake Como,” where you can slow down, relax, and soak in its timeless charm before continuing on to Lecco. From Lecco, the route follows the gentle course of the Adda River, leading you toward Vaprio d’Adda, set on the border between the provinces of Milan and Bergamo.
Leaving the river behind, the journey continues along the historic Martesana Canal cycle path, passing impressive early hydroelectric power plants that once played a key role in supplying electricity to Milan. Attributed in part to the genius of Leonardo da Vinci, this canal guides you toward the city through an unexpectedly pastoral landscape. As Milano draws nearer, the scenery reveals a harmonious blend of countryside and city life, with traditional farmhouses, elegant villas, old rural homes, small villages, and cultivated land framing the final approach to this dynamic metropolis.
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Tirano
Milano
easy
44 km / 27 mi
4
Min. 2, Max. 12
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Highlights

Bernina Express & Alpine Scenery
Experience one of Europe’s most scenic train journeys aboard the iconic Bernina Express, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, mountain passes, and alpine landscapes between St. Moritz and Tirano.

Lake Como & Bellagio Charm
Cycle along the shores of Lake Como and enjoy a relaxing boat ride to Bellagio, the “Pearl of the Lake,” known for its romantic streets, elegant villas, and timeless Italian atmosphere.

From Nature to Milan’s Heritage
Follow peaceful riverbanks and historic canals from Lecco to Milan, passing countryside villages, historic power stations, and landscapes shaped by Leonardo da Vinci’s engineering genius.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Tirano | Hotel Centrale (4-star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Tirano | Hotel centrale (4-star) | B | ||
| DAY 3 | Colico | Hotel Villa Colico | B | 76 km / 47 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Colico | Hotel Villa Colico | B | 24 km / 15 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Lecco | Hotel Alberi | B | ||
| DAY 6 | Trezzo sull’Adda | Villa Appiani (4-star) | B | 36 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Milano | Hotel IH Gioia (4-star) | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Tirano
Arrive individually in Tirano on Friday if you are traveling aboard the iconic Bernina Red Train. Nestled close to the Swiss border, Tirano marks the final stop of the legendary Bernina Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most scenic rail journeys.
Enjoy your free time exploring this charming town at a relaxed pace. Wander through narrow streets steeped in history, where traces of the past emerge in the remains of the ancient Sforza walls in the old town. Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Tirano, the only basilica in the region, and admire the elegant Art Nouveau buildings that add a refined character to the townscape.
Indulge in the flavors of the region by sampling local cuisine and wines. The dramatic terraced vineyards not only frame the valley with stunning views but also produce distinctive wines that pair beautifully with Valtellina’s specialties such as bresaola, the renowned air-dried beef, or pizzoccheri, traditional buckwheat tagliatelle that reflect the soul of local gastronomy.

Day 2: Tirano
Today is filled with wonder and memorable moments as you travel aboard the famous Bernina Red Train. This extraordinary panoramic journey takes you from Tirano to the elegant alpine town of St. Moritz, with a return trip in the evening. Along the way, you enjoy ever-changing scenery of majestic mountains, deep valleys, alpine lakes, and breathtaking views of the Alps.
The train reaches its highest point at Ospizio Bernina, at an altitude of 2,253 meters. The railway line from Thusis to Tirano is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional engineering and spectacular natural landscapes.

Day 3: Colico
On Sunday, your cycling adventure begins with a pleasant and easy ride. The route follows a gentle downhill path along the Adda River, offering a smooth start to the journey. Riding on the Sentiero Valtellina, you pass near the village of Teglio before arriving in Sondrio, the provincial capital.
The first cycling stage ends in Morbegno, a town known for its charming historic center. Walk through narrow streets lined with elegant old buildings and delicate wrought iron balconies. Visit the Church of St. John the Baptist, a baroque collegiate church built in 1680, and admire the Ganda Bridge, the only stone bridge crossing the Adda River.
Nearby flows the Bitto stream, which gives its name to the renowned Bitto DOP cheese, a key ingredient in the traditional Valtellina dish, pizzoccheri.

Day 4: Colico
Depending on your fitness level, choose the cycling route that best suits your pace and interests to explore the beautiful surroundings of Colico. Ride through the nearby hills to visit the historic Fort of Montecchio, considered the best preserved First World War fortress in Europe, or continue to the Fort of Fuentes, an impressive Spanish military structure dating back to the 17th century.
Alternatively, enjoy a relaxed ride along the lakeside promenade, try one of the many water sports available in the area, or simply unwind on the sunny shores of the lake. Another appealing option is cycling north toward Lake Mezzola, located 13 km away, or extending the ride to the charming town of Chiavenna at 34 km.
For the return journey, you may cycle back along the same route, which becomes slightly downhill, or opt for a comfortable train ride.

Day 5: Lecco
Today is a relaxed day without cycling, dedicated entirely to discovering Lake Como by boat and on foot. In the morning, you take a boat across the lake to reach Bellagio, often called the pearl of Lake Como. Enjoy free time to stroll through the village, stop for a meal or a drink, and admire the beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains.
In the late afternoon, you take another boat to reach Lecco, the town where writer Alessandro Manzoni set I Promessi Sposi. Set against a backdrop of impressive mountain peaks, including the Grigne and Resegone, Lecco still preserves elements of its fortified past in the historic center. Notable sights include the Azzone Visconti Bridge, the Teatro della Società, and the Church of St. Nicholas, whose tall bell tower points toward the harbor.

Day 6: Trezzo sull’Adda
Today’s ride begins on a scenic cycling path that gently descends along the Adda River. As you pedal, the landscape gradually shifts from natural river scenery to remarkable examples of human engineering, including impressive hydroelectric power plants.
Along the route, you will encounter traces of Leonardo da Vinci’s genius, visible in the canal locks and the ferry system he designed. The surrounding scenery is also believed to have inspired him while painting La Gioconda.

Day 7: Milano
On your final cycling day, follow the renowned Martesana cycle path, which runs alongside a historic navigation canal designed by Leonardo da Vinci and completed in 1496. This pleasant route is rich in cultural and historical landmarks, including elegant noble villas such as Villa Melzi in Vaprio, Villa Aitelli in Inzago, and Villa Serbelloni in Gorgonzola, along with many others. Along the way, you will also pass old mills, churches, and former industrial buildings that tell the story of the region’s past.
As you continue riding, the landscape gradually leads you into the vibrant city of Milano, where you will spend the night. We recommend extending your stay to fully experience the city’s energy, architectural beauty, and exceptional artistic heritage.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, your memorable journey through the heart of Lombardy comes to an end. You depart with lingering memories of Alps and Milano. Until next time, Ciao and Arrivederci.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Hotel centrale (4-star)
A refined 4-star hotel in the heart of Tirano’s historic centre, set in a charming, restored building where elegant rooms and warm hospitality create a memorable stay in Valtellina.

Hotel Villa Colico
The elegantly furnished rooms feature air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms, and guests can enjoy a varied continental breakfast each morning with easy access to Lake Como and nearby attractions.

Hotel Alberi
A family-run hotel in the heart of Lecco, offering bright and comfortable rooms. Guests benefit from breakfast service, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and an excellent location near the lakeside, ferry terminal, and historic center.

Villa Appiani (4-star)
A charming historic villa offering refined rooms in a peaceful countryside setting. Facilities include a renowned on-site restaurant, breakfast service, free Wi-Fi, garden areas, and easy access to cycling routes along the Adda River.

Hotel IH Gioia (4-star)
A modern city hotel featuring spacious, soundproofed rooms and contemporary design. Services include breakfast, bar and bistro, free Wi-Fi, parking facilities, and convenient public transport connections to Milan’s main attractions.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

Trekking Bike (Unisex) or similar
Included in your trip price

Trekking E-Bike or similar
Included in your trip price
What to Expect
We want you to have a fantastic experience on your tour, so we aim to be upfront about what to expect along the way. Here are key details to keep in mind:
Please note that due to the Bernina Red Train from St. Moritz, this tour can only depart on Fridays.
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
The tour begins in Tirano, which is easily accessible by public transport. Travelers can reach Tirano by train via Milan, with frequent connections from Milano Centrale to Tirano through Sondrio. Tirano is also the final stop of the famous Bernina Red Train coming from Switzerland, making it a convenient arrival point for travelers coming from St. Moritz or other Swiss cities.
The nearest international airports are Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN), and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY). From all airports, regular trains and buses connect to Milan city center, where onward train services to Tirano are available. Taxis are readily available at all airports and major train stations for private transfers.
Departure
The tour ends in Milano, one of Italy’s main transportation hubs. Milano offers excellent train connections to all major Italian cities and international destinations. Milano Centrale railway station provides high-speed and regional services, while Milano Porta Garibaldi and Milano Cadorna offer additional connections.
For air travel, Milano is served by Malpensa, Linate, and Bergamo airports, all reachable from the city center by train, shuttle bus, or taxi. We recommend allowing sufficient time for airport transfers, especially during peak hours.
Public transportation in Milano is efficient and easy to use, with metro, tram, and bus services connecting hotels, stations, and airports smoothly.
Weather
The weather along this journey changes gently as you travel from Alpine valleys to sparkling lakes and finally to the vibrant city of Milan. For most of the year, conditions are pleasant and inviting, making the route enjoyable in many seasons.
Late spring and early autumn are especially lovely, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and comfortable days that are ideal for cycling and relaxed sightseeing.
From May to June and again in September, daytime temperatures usually sit between 18 and 25°C, with fresh mornings in the mountains and warmer afternoons by the lakes.
April and October bring softer light and beautiful scenery, with cooler temperatures around 12 to 20°C and the occasional refreshing rain.
July and August are brighter and warmer, reaching 25 to 32°C in Milan and the lower valleys, while higher elevations stay cooler and may see brief afternoon thunderstorms.
In winter months from November to March, the Alpine areas become colder and quieter, with temperatures often between 0 and 10°C, snowfall at higher altitudes, and shorter daylight hours. While less suitable for cycling, this season adds a peaceful charm to the mountains and lakes.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Best
October
Good
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
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