Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-Guided Baroque Sicily Road Bike Tour
This cycling adventure through Sicily blends culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes into one unforgettable journey. Starting in Caltagirone, famous for its ceramics, the route takes you through rolling hills, dramatic canyons, and charming baroque towns. You’ll ride past mosaics in Piazza Armerina, the ancient streets of Palazzolo Acreide, and the jewel-like Ragusa Ibla. Modica’s chocolate, Scicli’s baroque charm, and the wild coastline near Isola delle Correnti add even more flavor to the ride.
Stops at fishing villages like Marzamemi and the bird sanctuary of Vendicari bring a taste of Sicily’s coastal life. The trip ends in Siracusa, where Ortigia’s ancient history and Mediterranean atmosphere leave a lasting impression. With daily rides ranging from gentle to challenging, this itinerary is perfect for travelers who love to combine cycling with exploration, food, and heritage. Each day promises fresh scenery, authentic culture, and a true taste of southern Sicily.
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Caltagirone
Siracusa
moderate to challenging
86 km / 54 mi
5
Min. 2, Max. 12
Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport (CTA)
Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport (CTA)
Highlights

Discover Sicily’s Baroque Treasures
Ride through UNESCO-listed towns like Ragusa Ibla, Modica, Scicli, Noto, and Palazzolo Acreide. Each stop reveals ornate churches, golden stone facades, and timeless piazzas that showcase the island’s baroque soul.

Roman Mosaics of Piazza Armerina
Pause your ride to explore the Villa del Casale, home to extraordinary multicolored Roman mosaics. This site offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Sicily’s ancient past.

Historic Finale in Siracusa
End your journey in Siracusa’s Ortigia Island, where Greek ruins, baroque squares, and seaside promenades celebrate over 3,000 years of history.

Coastal Villages and Nature Reserves
Visit the fishing village of Marzamemi and the bird-rich Vendicari Reserve, blending authentic Sicilian life with pristine nature along the coastline.
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 | Caltagirone | La Pilozza Infiorata | |||
| DAY 2 | Caltagirone | La Pilozza Infiorata | B | 96 km / 60 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Palazzolo Acreide | Hotel Feudo Bauly (4 star) | B | 101 km / 63 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Modica | Ferro Hotel (4 star) | B | 61 km / 38 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Noto | Grand Hotel Sofia (4 star) | B | 107 km / 66 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Siracusa | Ortigia Boutique Palace | B | 66 km / 41 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Siracusa | Ortigia Boutique Palace | B | ||
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Caltagirone
Arrive in Caltagirone, a town famous for its colorful ceramics and baroque charm. Settle into your hotel, pick up your route materials, and get an introduction to the cycling adventure ahead. Stroll through the old streets, admire hand-painted tiles that decorate staircases, and enjoy a relaxed evening meal. This is the perfect chance to soak in Sicilian atmosphere before the riding begins.
Take time to prepare your bike and gear, meet fellow travelers if you wish, and let the anticipation build for the journey across valleys, canyons, and timeless towns that showcase the heart of southern Sicily.

Day 2: Caltagirone
Start the day pedaling along quiet country roads surrounded by rolling hills. The route leads to Piazza Armerina, home to the world-famous Villa del Casale. Step inside to marvel at intricate Roman mosaics that bring ancient life vividly to light. After exploring, continue cycling through scenic countryside back to Caltagirone.
The ride combines cultural highlights with invigorating stretches of road that keep legs turning and spirits high. Finish the day by relaxing in town, perhaps with a taste of local food and wine. The combination of history, art, and cycling makes this stage a memorable introduction to Sicily.
Elevation gain: 1527m/ 5010ft


Day 3: Palazzolo Acreide
Ride into landscapes that mix deep valleys and rugged canyons with sunlit plateaus. Pass through Vizzini, once the backdrop for Giovanni Verga’s novels, and feel the rhythm of Sicilian village life. Continue toward the Valle dell’Anapo, an impressive canyon ringed by charming villages like Ferla and Cassaro.
The terrain undulates constantly, offering a challenge that rewards with sweeping views and authentic countryside atmosphere. Reach Palazzolo Acreide, a baroque town rich in history, and settle in for the evening. This stage blends natural beauty, literary connections, and a touch of adventure, making it both demanding and deeply rewarding.
Elevation gain: 1620m/ 5315ft


Day 4: Modica
Begin the day exploring Palazzolo Acreide’s historic center before heading into the Monti Iblei. The ride takes you through a patchwork of rugged hills, dry stone walls, and pockets of green valleys that define this unique landscape. The route is shorter, leaving ample time to enjoy stops along the way.
One highlight is Ragusa Ibla, a jewel of baroque architecture with atmospheric lanes and elegant piazzas. Continue on to Modica, where chocolate traditions and warm hospitality welcome you. The day balances cycling effort with cultural exploration, offering a rich taste of Sicily’s charm in both scenery and flavor.
Elevation gain: 822m/ 2697ft


Day 5: Noto
Set out with a gentle downhill ride through a striking canyon before reaching Scicli, a baroque town alive with character. Cycle on to the southern tip of Sicily, where the Isola delle Correnti marks the meeting of the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas. Pass through Portopalo di Capo Passero, the island’s southernmost town, and the fishing village of Marzamemi with its lively waterfront.
Ride past the Vendicari nature reserve, home to rare birds and pristine coastal scenery. End the day in Noto, renowned as the crown jewel of Sicilian baroque, and relax in its golden-stone streets glowing at sunset.
Elevation gain: 741m/ 2431ft


Day 6: Siracusa
Pedal uphill toward San Corrado and the ruins of Noto Antica, perched on Monte Alveria. Pause at Cava Grande del Cassibile, a dramatic canyon with sheer walls dropping 300 meters, surrounded by archaeological traces of ancient life. The ride continues north through changing landscapes until you arrive in Siracusa. The city welcomes you with sea breezes and history at every corner.
Settle into your hotel and take a leisurely walk along the waterfront. The sense of reaching one of Sicily’s most storied destinations makes this day especially rewarding, blending natural drama with the anticipation of urban discovery.
Elevation gain: 705m/ 2313ft


Day 7: Siracusa
Spend the day discovering Ortigia, the island heart of Siracusa. Wander narrow alleys lined with elegant baroque buildings, pause at lively squares, and visit landmarks that reveal over 3,000 years of history. Greek temples, Roman ruins, and medieval churches all coexist within this compact jewel. Cafés and trattorias invite you to linger over Sicilian flavors as you take in the atmosphere.
The sea surrounds Ortigia, giving every walk a sense of openness and light. This is the perfect conclusion to your cycling journey, where history, culture, and coastal charm come together in one unforgettable destination.

Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, say farewell to Siracusa. Depending on your schedule, take one last stroll through the old town or savor a final espresso in a sunny piazza.
Whether you depart right away or extend your stay, the experiences from this cycling adventure remain vivid. The landscapes, flavors, and history of southeastern Sicily leave lasting impressions that stay long after the wheels stop turning, making this trip a story worth retelling.
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.

La Pilozza Infiorata
This charming 3-star B&B offers a warm, homely stay in the heart of Caltagirone, famous for its ceramics and baroque architecture. The rooms are simple yet comfortable, decorated with local touches that reflect the city’s artistic flair. Guests appreciate its welcoming hosts, central location, and authentic Sicilian breakfast. It’s a great base for exploring nearby historical sites while enjoying a personal, family-run atmosphere.

Hotel Feudo Bauly
Set in a former noble estate, Hotel Feudo Bauly is a 4-star retreat surrounded by natural beauty. Its rustic charm blends with modern amenities, offering comfortable rooms, a peaceful outdoor pool, and regional cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Perfect for relaxation, the property lies close to Palazzolo’s UNESCO-listed historic center. Guests value its serene countryside setting, history, and warm Sicilian hospitality.

Ferro Hotel
The modern 4-star Ferro Hotel combines sleek design with comfort, just steps away from Modica’s train station. Spacious rooms, stylish interiors, and thoughtful amenities make it a comfortable stay for travelers. Guests enjoy a hearty breakfast with Sicilian specialties and quick access to the city’s baroque landmarks. With attentive staff and a contemporary vibe, it’s an excellent choice for exploring Modica and its renowned chocolate tradition.

Grand Hotel Sofia
Grand Hotel Sofia, a 4-star property, offers spacious rooms and a large outdoor pool, making it a popular choice for travelers in Noto. Located close to the UNESCO-listed old town, it balances modern comforts with easy access to historic sights. Guests appreciate its generous breakfast buffet, quiet atmosphere, and welcoming service. The hotel provides a relaxed base to enjoy Noto’s baroque beauty.

Ortigia Boutique Palace
Ortigia Boutique Palace offers stylish 4-star apartments in the historic heart of Siracusa’s Ortigia district. The property blends historic architecture with contemporary interiors, providing spacious units with kitchens and elegant living spaces. Guests enjoy the independence of an apartment with the service of a boutique stay. Its prime location allows easy access to cultural landmarks, restaurants, and the sea. Perfect for longer stays or travelers seeking more privacy.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $350
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $100
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
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
E-bikes are available on many of our tours, but they are not guaranteed and remain subject to availability. Our local partners maintain a limited fleet, and certain frame sizes— especially for guests below 160 cm orabove 180 cm—may be limited.
We always do our best to secure your preferred bike type, but in some destinations availability is restricted. If your exact size is not available, we will inform you in advance and offer the best possible alternative.
To improve your chances of securing an e-bike, we recommend booking early and providing accurate height details.

BH Quartz Carbon Frame or similar
Included in your trip price

Bottecchia Aerospace Carbon Frame or similar
Included in your trip price
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour starts in Caltagirone, a charming Sicilian town known for its ceramics. The nearest airport is Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) located some 70kms or 1-hour drive by car. Taxis are available from the airport itself.
Bus service is also available from the airport. The bus leaves a few times a day and takes a little over an hour. This is usually the cheapest option to get to Caltagirone.
You can also take the train from Catania to reach Caltagirone. The train can take a little under 2 hours.
Departure
Your tour ends in Siracusa, after exploring the historic center and Ortigia. The nearest airport is also Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), about 65 km away.
There is an hourly bus service from Siracusa to the Catania airport. This is the cheapest option.
You can also take a train from Siracusa to the airport.
Direct taxis are available.
Weather
The best weather for cycling this Sicilian tour is in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the climate is mild and comfortable. Temperatures range between 18–25°C (64–77°F), perfect for long rides through the hills and coastal stretches. July and August are the hottest months, with highs of 30–35°C (86–95°F), which can make cycling challenging, especially inland. Winter months (December to February) are cooler, around 10–16°C (50–60°F), and some days can be rainy, though still possible for experienced cyclists. Overall, spring and autumn offer the best balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes.
January
Offseason
February
Mixed
March
Good
April
Best
May
Best
June
Best
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Best
October
Best
November
Good
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.
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.
Is proof of travel 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.
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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